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The Geographic Information System (GIS) provides City staff
with a valuable tool for information analysis, automated mapping,
and data storage. The GIS can perform numerous analytical
operations to support decision-making processes as well as
create, edit, and display maps. This capability assists decision-makers
as they allocate resources, evaluate alternatives and costs,
and provide improved customer service to residents of the
city.
The core of the GIS is the layered
mapping, with the ability to turn on and off layers of information
such as lot lines, zoning boundaries, fire hydrants, water
lines, and pathways. Many of these items are linked to databases,
aerial photography, scanned photographs, and planning documents,
which gives the user access to a wealth of information about
these mapped features right at his or her computer.
The GIS is useful
to answer such questions as:
- Where is something? (Where is Sunwood
Court?)
- What exists here? (What is the zoning
at this location?)
- What is the relation between location A and B?
(What is the distance between the library and the Adult
Community Center?)
- What if? (What will be the effect on
drainage if we widen this road?)
- What has changed since? (What was the
condition of this tree grove before this development?)
- Show me _____ (the properties within
200 feet of McVey Avenue that are zoned commercial).
Maps
are available for purchase at City Hall. Maps can also be custom-made to fit your particular need. A number of maps are also available on-line.
For more information, contact Roger
Shepherd, GIS Technician, by e-mail
or at 503.697.7423. |
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