The document discusses the critical role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in government, highlighting its history, current applications, and future possibilities. GIS enables the mapping of various features and the integration of intelligent data to aid in decision-making for local governments, with the emphasis on local accuracy and relevance. It also explores the organizational and funding strategies necessary for successful GIS implementation and management within county departments.

1. The Power of GIS in GovernmentPast, Present, FutureMelissa ScottGreenbrier County GIS CoordinatorCCAWV Aug. 07, 2011

2. Geographic Information SystemsWhat is GIS & how exactly does it workGIS in WV (history and available resources)How GIS is being used by County DeptsHow GIS could be used by County Commission Organization of GIS at the County Level

3. Geographic Information SystemsDigital Mapping of “place” Features Linking Information to that “place” which Makes the Maps Intelligent and Searchable (Google map is GIS)Can be Searched by Location or by Information(For example find a property location on the map to see owner or search owner to find location on the map)Since pretty much everything in local government has a locational component ,GIS has become a crucial part of government processes

4. Mapping with GIS You can “map” any object (feature) that can be represented using Points Lines AreasEach feature type is created on a separate layer Layers can be Overlaid, this is the core of GISPointsLinesAreasImagery

5. LayersLayers are separate files of information that are overlaid to create the “whole picture” while still filing information separatelyIt’s like the old light table conceptRoadsParcelsUtilitiesLand UseZoning and EnvironmentalConsiderations

6. Biggest Benefit of Map Layers + Databases is “Intelligent Maps”Databases linked to each map layer gives the information intelligence

7. Intelligent Layers Can CommunicateQuery data on one layer to see how it relates to other layers This creates NEW data…and provides answers to problems

8. Local Maps versus Google MapsGIS and Google Maps Use Same TechnologyGoogle Maps are National Level DataWith County GIS Data is Collected, Updated, and Managed at the Local Level for Better Accuracy and Analysis Opportunities Accurate local level data can only be managed and updated by local agencies who know what is actually on the ground

9. Local GIS MapGoogle MapFocus is Navigation – Prepared for General Pop.Road NamesBusiness LocationsLand Features Focus is Local Gov. – Prepared for Local Pop.ZoningProperty BoundariesBuilding permit Locations

10. So, how do you get the data “in there”?The data you get out of a GIS system is only as good as the data you put into itImportant to have experienced & informed staff to prevent money/time lossKey word is Digitizing which means getting data from the ground or from paper into the computer

11. Locating FeaturesAerial photography (Planimetric)Location by reference to projected image Accurate within a few feetGovernments can use with restrictionsGPS (Global Positioning Systems)Location by latitude/longitudeSurvey Grade ±0.15 feet Cheaper GPS less accuracy ±15 feet

12. Linking Data to Map FeaturesLink tables or databases of information (Usually only available at a local government level)Hyper-link images building plans etc.

13. BUT…Everything Starts with Foundation (Base Map) Data When building maps you have to start with an accurate base on which you build other data

14. West Virginia Base Map Data2003 Statewide Addressing Project (WVSAMB) Created High Quality Base Map Data for every County Address Locations Were Mapped (to national standards) with this Base for Locating 911 Call Locations This project (although not perfect) provided the counties an invaluable resource for GIS

15. WVSAMB GIS Data As a part of assigning address other feature layers created were:ImageryRoads – line layerRailroads - line layerStructures – points & polygonsWater features – streams, rivers, lakes, ponds, etc.

16. Most WV data has been built or aligned with this data including parcels, and even Census Info

17. Available Imagery-2003 WVSAMB Orthophotographyleaf off-2009 NAIP USDA Orthophotography leaf on-Pictometry – WV Sheriff’s Association4” and/or 12” Includes Oblique

18. Some Local Governments Have Paid for their Own New Imagery

19. Other Data SourcesMany Government Agencies create data layers that are available to countiesThe WV GIS Technical Center has links to pretty much any data topic you can think of http://wvgis.wvu.edu/

20. But Why?Mapping YES!But what else could we do with this data?Increase EfficiencyAnalysis of information to help with your decision making and to validate policies change, spending, etc.Spatial InformationIt is estimated that 80% of all data has a spatial componentGIS helps you utilize the spatial component of data when making decisions Information is PowerGIS is also about finding patterns.

21. Lets you combine/consider data coming from different sources to make better decisions.

22. Answer the questions of location such as where, why, and how.

23. See patterns and trends that spreadsheets alone won’t portray.

24. Access data much more easilyPROJECT SITE FOR PROPOSED WIND ENERGY PROJECTAREA UNDER CONSIDERATION FOR EXTENTION OF EXISTING WATERLINESGIS INFORMATION CAN HELP ELECTED OFFICIALS MAKE MORE INFORMED DECISIONS BY COMBINING VARIOUS LOCAL DATASETS TO SHOW THE FULL PICTURE OF A PROJECT AREA

25. GIS CAN BE USED TO LOCATE PROPERTIES AND IDENTIFY OWNERS WITHIN A PARTICULAR DISTANCE OF ANOTHER MAP FEATURE SUCH AS PROPERTIES WITHIN 50’ OF THE FLOODPLAINANALYSIS MAPS HELP BOARDS & ORGANIZATIONS FIND INFORMATION AND SEE TRENDS SUCH AS LOCATION OF POTENTIALLY HISTORICIC STRUCTURESTHIS TECHNOLOGY CAN BE USED TO CREATE 3-D IMAGES OF LANDSCAPES

26. PARCEL INFORMATIONxREAL ESTATE APPRAISAL/ASSESSMENTZONINGADDRESSING & 911

27. Benefits of “Intelligent” DataDifferent “sets” of data can be combined and viewed in the same context for a visual impact

28. Allows layers of information to be used in conjunction with one another for analysis a

29. Data can answer questions, present results, and be used to help with decision making or to validate decisionsEducational Attainment (by census tract) with Magisterial District & Precincts Family Income (by census tract) with Magisterial District & Precincts

30. Visualize Statistics

31. Understand Issues

32. Answer QuestionsDarker = Increase Crime Income Is Low Income or Population a Bigger Crime Determinant?Population

33. GIS Funding & OrganizationCounty GIS Depts. are typically housed in 911 offices and Assessor’s Offices because of mapping mandates and funding streamsNeed shared funding/management (CC) in order for all departments to take full advantage of GIS

34. Some Organizational SolutionsDue to the change of focus an election can bring, a multi-departmental management solution is the safest bet. $$$One solution is to have a GIS Coordinator whose salary is split between the users – Assessor, 911, OES, Planning Dept, Clerk, County Commission A formal GIS board and GIS department with a separate budge is a higher level solution when cities and other entities want to be included (and contribute to the financial upkeep)

35. GIS is a Money SaverGIS can Provide Easier Access to Information Through the InternetAnalysis of County Trends Can Assist with Better Policies and More Sound Financial Decisions and Access to Grants etc.