Top OpenGov PLC Alternatives

WindoWare Inc. has created Permit-LV, a software solution designed to handle the management of building permits. This software is ideal for smaller municipalities that typically process between 200 and 5000 permits annually. By automating both inspection records and the permit approval process, Permit-LV helps to lower costs while enhancing operational efficiency. It simplifies the tracking of various permit types and streamlines their approval, enables the calculation of permit fees according to established fee schedules, and allows users to print or reprint permits as needed. Additionally, users can generate inspection tickets and print permits directly from the software, making it a comprehensive tool for permit management. With Permit-LV, localities can ensure a smoother workflow and improve overall service delivery in their permitting processes.

Oracle Aconex emerges as the leading cloud-based solution tailored for the construction sector, with more than 5 million active users engaged in various projects. This innovative platform equips modern construction firms, owners, project managers, and consultants with the tools needed to efficiently manage information and workflows across their projects, significantly boosting their prospects for success. Its vast selection of features includes document management, project control mechanisms, streamlined workflows, BIM management, safety and quality supervision, bid and tender management, alongside comprehensive insights and reporting functionalities. Furthermore, the Oracle Aconex platform is engineered for swift implementation and flexibility, adeptly meeting the changing needs of the construction industry. Consequently, it serves as a critical resource for any organization seeking to optimize its operations and elevate project results while adapting to new challenges in the field. Embracing such a robust platform not only fosters collaboration but also drives innovation within the construction landscape.

ClearForms is a comprehensive workflow management platform designed specifically for local government entities. By utilizing ClearForms, you can assist a greater number of constituents more efficiently while enhancing service accessibility and responsiveness. The software allows you to create tailored digital forms for various purposes such as permitting, licensing, service requests, and internal processes, all designed to meet the specific requirements of your community. Our cloud-based tools are intuitive and aim to boost compliance rates while minimizing the time spent on traditional paper forms and email communications. Formerly recognized as CityGrows, ClearForms continues to innovate in the realm of local government services. With our platform, local governments can streamline their operations and better meet the needs of their citizens.

Our comprehensive permitting software solution effectively oversees and monitors all facets related to building permits, from plan reviews to inspections. The integrated GIS functionality enables users to swiftly pinpoint all permits associated with a particular address or parcel. It allows for the calculation of complex permit fees, management of bonds, tracking of feedback, monitoring contractor statuses, and conducting inspections with ease. The software suite boasts a powerful inspections management system that promotes quick scheduling and completion of inspections related to building permits. Additionally, it supports the enforcement of inspection orders, applies reinspection fees, sends inspection reports via email, and allows for the customization of checklists. Inspectors gain the advantage of real-time access to vital data while in the field, which significantly boosts their productivity. Furthermore, it offers a platform for developers, contractors, and homeowners to submit their plans and applications for permits electronically. Not only does our software facilitate the electronic markup of submitted plans, but it also simplifies the management of corrections and resubmissions, ensuring a more efficient workflow for everyone involved in the permitting process. By integrating these features, this solution fosters improved communication and operational efficiency in managing permits, ultimately benefiting all stakeholders in the construction ecosystem.

Brightly SmartGov™ streamlines the processes of permitting and licensing through a user-friendly public portal that consolidates permit applications, public notices, and mapping resources. Additionally, it facilitates online payments and provides relevant information all in one accessible location. This browser-based solution empowers organizations to oversee planning, permitting, licensing, inspections, and code enforcement within a unified system. With its automated and mobile-enabled features, it enhances the accessibility of the system for both citizens and businesses. SmartGov, our cloud-based and mobile-optimized software, is designed to bolster revenue while effectively managing licensing, code enforcement, and various other functions. By leveraging this platform, you can seize new development opportunities, foster growth, and ensure a smooth experience for citizens, contractors, and businesses alike. Furthermore, the web-based portal enhances transparency and promotes self-service, ensuring compliance and effective code enforcement in the community. This holistic approach not only improves operational efficiency but also strengthens the relationship between local governments and their constituents.

We focus on creating software designed specifically for the public sector, with the goal of improving efficiency, boosting resident satisfaction, and enhancing financial management through our secure and user-friendly solutions. Our web-based applications make processes like licensing, permitting, and code enforcement more accessible and intuitive for users. With FastTrackGov's property management software, all property-related information is easily gathered and available from any location, ensuring that vital data is always within reach. The permitting journey can often be intricate and tedious, even for experienced professionals; however, FastTrackGov's Construction Permitting solution simplifies each phase with automated workflows, making it easier to manage. Furthermore, by consolidating all property and land use information into a detailed database that integrates flawlessly with your Tax Assessor's office, your productivity in planning will see remarkable improvement. To further enhance your permitting workflow, you can utilize Contractor Connect for efficient online management of applications. This amalgamation of tools not only promotes teamwork but also significantly elevates the overall service experience for residents, illustrating our commitment to innovation in public sector software solutions. In this way, we strive to transform how local governments operate and engage with their communities.

Cloudpermit delivers software solutions tailored for community development to various agencies. We specialize in user-friendly online tools for tasks such as building permits, business licenses, planning and zoning, and code enforcement. Based in Reston, Virginia, our SaaS company has been operational for more than a decade, focused on providing accessible and efficient software solutions. Our cloud-based platform enhances the land management processes, benefiting government employees, development communities, and residents alike. By prioritizing usability, we aim to simplify complex regulatory tasks for all stakeholders involved.

The Edmunds Permitting and Enforcement Solution offers an efficient method for effectively managing the regulations of your jurisdiction. Tailored for a wide range of users such as inspectors, contractors, and community members, it includes a digitally connected platform that boosts both operational efficiency and communication. Users can create and oversee any kind of permit, ordinance, or violation without limitations, allowing for customization to meet specific requirements, with the ability to generate documents automatically and attach pertinent files to maintain comprehensive parcel histories. Furthermore, the solution integrates effortlessly with other Edmunds modules, which encompass finance, tax, utility services, online transactions, parcel data, and much more. It also incorporates mapping functions compatible with Google and various GIS tools. The system enables users to efficiently store, schedule, and manage inspector information through a user-friendly interface. In addition, the mobile application and self-service portal enhance convenience by allowing users to schedule and modify inspections from virtually anywhere. This all-encompassing solution not only streamlines operations but also fosters a culture of transparency and accountability in the field of permitting and enforcement, ultimately benefiting the entire community. Moreover, the comprehensive nature of the platform ensures that every stakeholder can participate actively in the regulatory process, enhancing overall civic engagement.

Business practices are undergoing significant transformation. The ability to engage online with citizens, business owners, and contractors has become crucial in today’s world. Explore how citizenserve can support you during this shift. Enjoy seamless, well-structured, and intelligently crafted solutions for managing licensing applications and their renewals. Imagine a scenario where all issues regarding code violations are promptly resolved, along with full mobile access for inspectors on the go. Enable online permit applications, processing, and payments for both citizens and contractors, allowing them to operate from any location. Streamline and enhance the processes related to application submissions, reviews, resubmissions, public notifications, and hearings. Automatically route online inquiries from citizens to the appropriate department or person, ensuring that every request receives the attention it deserves. By implementing these solutions, you can significantly boost efficiency and improve service delivery for your community. This forward-thinking strategy not only saves valuable time but also cultivates a more engaged and responsive atmosphere, ultimately benefiting all stakeholders involved. Take the first step towards transforming your operations today.

CityView offers a comprehensive software solution aimed at enhancing community development and managing municipal land effectively. This platform covers a wide array of functionalities, including land use planning, permitting, code enforcement, and licensing, which together create a completely paperless workflow that speeds up permit processing and case management while minimizing redundancy and maximizing efficiency. With its robust suite of tools for development, code enforcement, and regulatory services, CityView improves the entire operation. Notably, its extensive features, which consist of permitting, inspections, reviews, and online payment options for both citizens and contractors, are designed to save time, lower costs, and decrease errors, simultaneously promoting stronger community involvement. By automating and optimizing the processes for permit approval and issuance, CityView effectively removes the reliance on paper during plan reviews, leading to significant time and resource savings for contractors. This forward-thinking approach not only streamlines municipal functions but also significantly enhances the overall experience for both residents and businesses in the community, fostering a more collaborative environment. Additionally, the platform's ability to integrate feedback from users allows for continuous improvement, ensuring that it meets the ever-evolving needs of urban development.

Municity stands out as the sole Code Enforcement and ePermitting software developed by the International Code Council (ICC), recognized as the premier authority on model codes, standards, and building safety worldwide. Specifically designed to cater to the needs of community development, this cloud-based platform equips users with versatile tools for managing applications, permits, and inspections, whether online or in the field, thereby optimizing unique procedural workflows. With Municity, users can efficiently monitor building, planning, and zoning activities while providing citizens with straightforward access to various processes. This cutting-edge solution not only automates numerous tasks and eliminates the need for paper files but also enhances mobile inspection capabilities, promoting both efficiency and adaptability in an ever-evolving technological landscape. Furthermore, the scalable architecture of Municity adapts to the growth of your community, delivering continuous upgrades and expert support to address changing needs. All essential information is readily available within Municity, ensuring that everything remains accurate and centralized. This means users can access vital data instantly, digitally, and with utmost convenience, making Municity an indispensable tool for modern community management. In addition to its robust features, Municity fosters a seamless connection between local authorities and their citizens, enhancing overall engagement and transparency.

Viva Civic delivers an all-encompassing online platform for managing permits and licenses, supporting users from the moment they submit their applications until the permits are officially issued. The platform also incorporates features such as online payment systems and mobile inspection tools. By adopting a fully paperless approach, organizations can eliminate the need for face-to-face interactions, enabling their teams to work seamlessly from remote locations. Renowned as the top software solution for permitting, licensing, inspections, and land management, Viva Civic ensures users have complete online access to vital services. Customers benefit from around-the-clock availability for permits, plan evaluations, approvals, inspections, and service requests, as well as the ease of making payments online. Teams are kept updated on their assignments and obligations through comprehensive dashboards, automated email alerts, and chronological activity logs. With Viva, sharing information becomes simple and accessible for all participants. This efficient methodology not only boosts productivity but also greatly enhances the overall experience for customers, allowing for quicker responses and improved satisfaction. Ultimately, Viva Civic is transforming the landscape of municipal services by making processes more transparent and user-friendly.

MazikCity operates as an all-encompassing platform for community development, enabling processes such as permitting, business licensing, code enforcement, and maintenance management. With seamless integration into Microsoft Dynamics 365, it offers a comprehensive perspective on urban operations. By automating and refining multiple workflows, this platform significantly boosts the efficiency of municipal management. As advancements in technology quicken and societal changes unfold, cities encounter new challenges that require innovative approaches. Local government officials are on the lookout for creative strategies to maximize public expenditure, protect sensitive information, and enhance service delivery while promoting stronger connections with their constituents. This transition towards contemporary solutions is vital for meeting the evolving demands of urban communities, ensuring that they remain responsive and resilient in the face of change. Ultimately, embracing these modern tools not only benefits city officials but also enriches the lives of residents.

Tackle the challenges of today’s society with our cutting-edge, cloud-based Land Management and Permitting Solutions. MaintStar’s Land Management Systems streamline the interactions between governmental bodies and the public, effectively eliminating barriers that may arise. You can easily automate vital tasks associated with Permitting, Planning & Zoning, Inspections, Licenses, and Code Enforcement. Our system boasts an open architecture, enabling seamless integration with a multitude of other platforms. By utilizing a centralized database, information can be shared effortlessly across various departments, thereby improving communication among agency offices and stakeholders. The synergy between MaintStar’s Land Management Software and its Enterprise Asset Management software creates a holistic solution. With a strong commitment to community safety, our guiding principle is “safety first.” To mitigate the dangers posed by inadequate construction practices, hazardous kitchen configurations, or faulty equipment, municipalities must comply with an extensive range of environmental, building design, and safety standards. By adopting these innovative solutions, cities can promote a safer, more efficient environment that benefits all residents, ultimately leading to improved quality of life for everyone involved. Furthermore, this proactive approach not only safeguards the community but also fosters trust between citizens and their local governments.

CityForce offers a comprehensive platform for managing and scheduling inspections and permits, allowing you to generate customized reports automatically and process payments effortlessly. For field inspections, the INSPECT mobile app enables users to take photos, make notes, and retrieve past inspection records using their smartphones or tablets. The IMPACT web application gathers all inspection data in the cloud, managing everything from zoning and permitting to building inspections and code enforcement effectively. Furthermore, the CONNECT online portal provides an all-in-one solution for fee collection, permit requests, and building inspection tracking, all within an easy-to-navigate web application. This cohesive suite of tools guarantees that all your regulatory requirements are met with efficiency and ease, streamlining your workflow significantly. As a result, you can focus more on your core activities while CityForce takes care of the administrative burdens.

GovWell serves as a comprehensive tool for municipal and county governments of all sizes, aiming to improve operational efficiency, modernize services for citizens, and enhance transparency within the community. Users can conveniently annotate documents and make updates to their projects directly in their web browsers, thus eliminating the need to switch applications. Ensuring that existing workflows remain intact is a priority, and GovWell can be tailored to accommodate nearly any governmental process. By streamlining repetitive tasks, it allows users to reclaim essential time throughout their day. The platform supports the automation of numerous functions, reduces dependence on paper documentation, and offers accessibility from any device, making tasks such as obtaining permits and licenses, scheduling inspections, and monitoring statuses remarkably simple. Community members will surely appreciate the intuitive designs provided by GovWell. Each component of the platform seamlessly integrates with others, enabling users to begin with a single feature and expand their use as necessary. This method not only accelerates turnaround times but also helps to eliminate redundant paperwork, thereby fostering community growth more effectively. Additionally, the solution simplifies the development process while enhancing staff workflows, ensuring that both case management and inspection tracking contribute to a safe, appealing environment for residents. Ultimately, GovWell equips local governments with the tools needed to operate with greater efficiency and responsiveness, paving the way for improved civic engagement and satisfaction. By adopting such a versatile platform, local administrations can better meet the evolving needs of their constituents.

Government Simplified - Designed for citizens, employees, and elected representatives, GOGov serves millions daily across over 200 local government entities. The platform features tools for managing Citizen Requests, sending Citizen Notifications, and facilitating Online Permitting processes. For further details, check out GOGovApps.com. Additionally, GOGov aims to enhance civic engagement and streamline communication between the government and its constituents.

Clariti offers exceptional software for permitting and licensing that is trusted by government entities at state and local levels across North America, significantly improving the efficiency and speed of their processes and approvals. By streamlining and automating operations, organizations can lower expenses, meet application criteria, comply with regulations, and achieve remarkable results that enhance overall performance. Furthermore, this cutting-edge solution allows users to prioritize strategic projects, freeing them from the burden of routine administrative duties, ultimately fostering a more productive work environment. Embracing such technology positions organizations to adapt more readily to changing needs and challenges.

The Accela Civic Platform acts as a strong backbone for our range of Civic Applications and additional solutions aimed at helping governments improve citizen services while meeting the needs of growing communities. It integrates shared technologies and functionalities within a Software as a Service (SaaS) structure, addressing the varied demands of government agencies, from expansive state entities to smaller local departments. This platform provides agencies with the critical resources required to support business operations for citizens, simplify the permit application workflow, and manage inspections effectively. Moreover, it is designed to be flexible and scalable, allowing for continuous innovation without the necessity of significant new technology expenditures. The platform enables the automation of both simple and complex tasks that span multiple departments and diverse process elements. In addition, our sophisticated workflow engine adeptly assigns responsibilities to users, oversees service level agreements, directs approvals and procedural steps, and guarantees that all activities are carried out seamlessly and punctually. Ultimately, this all-encompassing solution not only boosts agency efficiency but also significantly enhances the overall experience for citizens, fostering a more engaged and responsive community. With its comprehensive capabilities, the platform positions agencies to adapt to future challenges and opportunities effectively.

Obtaining a building permit has become remarkably straightforward. In the past, our company struggled with various costly permit software that made the process cumbersome and lengthy. However, PermitWorks has effectively addressed this challenge. Its user-friendly interface not only enhances efficiency but also adds an element of enjoyment to the process. Additionally, it offers a plethora of valuable features at a price that is easy on the budget, making it an excellent choice for our needs. With PermitWorks, we can now issue permits faster than ever before, streamlining our workflow significantly.

CityReporter is an adaptable and mobile-friendly inspection management system tailored to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of inspections for government entities. Deployed across numerous cities in North America, it provides a modular structure, enabling users to select and pay for only the necessary features they need. The system covers a wide range of inspection modules, including those for permits and construction, parks and playgrounds, sports fields and tracks, facility and building inspections, fire prevention, road and highway evaluations, and workplace safety assessments. Furthermore, it boasts a work orders module and CityReplicator, which allows for offline content storage, enhancing user flexibility and accessibility. This wide-ranging functionality makes CityReporter an indispensable tool for municipalities aiming to refine their inspection workflows. Ultimately, its design supports a more streamlined approach to managing various inspection tasks and improves overall service delivery in local governance.

Our innovative online platform designed for permits and inspections is not only user-friendly but also easy to adopt. By leveraging the power of the internet, this system optimizes procedures at the municipal level, improving efficiency and generating added revenue through convenience fees from permit applicants. Users are excited to engage with this platform, as they are willing to pay a small fee in exchange for the significant time and monetary savings it provides, eliminating the need for trips to town hall, reducing fuel costs, and avoiding long waiting times. Our goal is to help you offer an economical service that meets the needs of your community, creating a win-win situation for every party involved. Moreover, the ease of use provided by this platform promotes higher levels of satisfaction among residents, reinforcing a positive relationship between the city and its citizens. In this way, we not only address current demands but also pave the way for future enhancements in public service delivery.

PSD CityWide Permits serves as a centralized platform for storing all relevant information associated with building permits, encompassing digital blueprints, payment information, applicant details, and specifics about the property itself. Inspectors benefit from personalized task lists, allowing them to monitor violation histories, access important property documents, and review outcomes from previous inspections. Users can efficiently gather data regarding property ownership, including addresses, roll numbers, assessed values, PIN numbers, zoning classifications, square footage, and current land use. They also have the ability to oversee various permit-related fees, such as development charges and refundable costs. The system enhances user experience by enabling the search for existing properties and applicants, whether they are property owners, builders, contractors, or designers, while providing crucial information about the project's status, application date, permit category, anticipated timeline for permit issuance, construction type, and a comparison of intended versus current use. Additionally, users can swiftly access essential financial data concerning permit fees and development charges, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the permitting process. By consolidating all these functionalities, this platform significantly enhances the management of building permits. Ultimately, this leads to a more streamlined and organized workflow within the permitting landscape.

ePropertyPlus provides a cloud-based solution tailored for the management of real estate portfolios, operating as a "software-as-a-service" platform. This innovative tool allows users to oversee a range of properties and their categories throughout the entire lifecycle of real estate assets. Key features include customizable dashboards, an instant marketing website, online application forms, document templates, and automated document creation. Furthermore, it offers functionalities for tracking field services, a built-in API, a mobile application that works on both iOS and Android, GIS mapping, and flexible workflows and automation processes. By utilizing these workflows and notifications, organizations can greatly enhance real-time collaboration and optimize communication. The automation of critical business operations not only reduces the time needed for managing property data but also improves the overall response times with essential stakeholders. With ePropertyPlus, organizations are empowered to adopt a more effective and structured strategy for property management, ultimately leading to better decision-making and increased productivity. This comprehensive platform stands out as a vital tool for any organization looking to elevate their real estate management practices.

The Municipal Geographic Management System acts as a comprehensive tool for planning, permitting, and licensing, which greatly boosts productivity, efficiency, and the ability to respond to community requirements. Property owners can easily submit their permit applications through an online platform, allowing your team to receive and manage these requests immediately, thus simplifying the review and inspection procedures. Tasks that once took several weeks can now be completed with just a few clicks of a button. Various municipal departments, including community development, building, planning and zoning, code enforcement, and engineering, will find this permitting and code enforcement solution exceptionally beneficial. By focusing on the parcel rather than on separate departments, we remove the need for individual modules or software, making it easy for you to handle all outstanding applications, restrictions, conditions, or violations with minimal effort. Additionally, this integrated approach encourages enhanced collaboration among departments, ultimately leading to improved service delivery for residents and a more harmonious community. As a result, the overall effectiveness of municipal operations is significantly increased, paving the way for a more organized and responsive local government.

PermitSoft has introduced powerful web-based software solutions aimed at improving the operational effectiveness of local governments. Our extensive range of services includes permitting, licensing, inspections, and work orders, providing essential tools that boost productivity and simplify administrative tasks. The software applications created by PermitSoft are built on dependable technology, which makes them among the most advanced systems available, while also ensuring top-notch security, seamless compatibility, and ease of use for all users. One of our standout offerings, PermitCity Enterprise, includes an all-encompassing array of features, whereas PermitCity ONE offers a user-friendly entry-level option that allows for significant growth as user needs evolve. PermitSoft is committed to ongoing innovation, persistently incorporating new technologies that enhance our offerings and guarantee their effectiveness in meeting future demands. As we move forward, our dedication to progress will ensure that we remain a leader in the realm of municipal software solutions, continually adapting to the ever-changing landscape of local governance.

PermitTrax provides an all-encompassing software solution designed to track permits and optimize the permitting workflow, ultimately improving services for today's citizens. Although Bitco Software holds the second position in the market and is frequently eclipsed by competitors claiming dominance, it distinguishes itself with distinctive offerings customized for permitting, licensing, code enforcement, and diverse tracking needs—all available at an impressive value. The PermitTrax platform is user-friendly, accessible as a web-based service, and can be utilized in a SaaS (Software as a Service) format or as an On-Premise installation. At Bitco Software, we take great pride in our forward-thinking methods! Our PermitTrax suite is a cohesive package featuring specialized tools designed for municipal agencies tasked with managing permits, licenses, projects, code enforcement activities, and other essential functions, offered as a complete application with no extra module costs. Our dedication to cost-effectiveness and usability guarantees that municipal agencies can function smoothly without any surprise fees, ensuring their operations remain efficient and transparent. By prioritizing these values, we empower agencies to focus on their core responsibilities without the burden of unnecessary expenses.

GOV BUILT PLATFORM: Shaping Tomorrow's Government Today. This cutting-edge software for permits and licenses is crafted for the future generation. By engaging with government personnel, citizens, and contractors, we have created a premier platform that fosters a more effective government. Enjoy the ease of securely submitting building permits, applications, and license requests through an online system that saves precious time. Our automated workflow and approval processes not only simplify communication but also reclaim hundreds of hours annually for agencies, entrepreneurs, and citizens alike. With our flexible form builder, users can seamlessly submit requests for licenses, including those for contractors, businesses, and mobile food vendors, all online. This platform improves tracking, renewal, and user interaction via a straightforward web interface, enhancing transparency and operational efficiency. In addition, it features a powerful interface for generating custom reports, dashboards, and ESRI Maps, enabling users to create and share engaging, data-rich reports in formats such as PDF and CSV. Enhanced data management features empower government agencies to make well-informed decisions, leading to improved services for the community, while fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and responsiveness.

CD-Plus is our flagship solution designed for community development management, having been in use by various agencies throughout the United States since it was launched in 1982. This bespoke, address-focused software includes vital components such as permitting and inspections, code enforcement, business tax and occupational licensing, development reviews, and growth management. With a wide array of integrations available for financial systems, GIS, document imaging, online plan reviews, mobile applications, and telephone/IVR systems, we proudly partner with numerous vendors to ensure our clients achieve optimal functionality and efficiency in their systems. Perconti Data Systems, Inc. provides software solutions across diverse markets and sectors nationwide. Below, you'll find a compilation of our primary products along with concise descriptions; additional details can be accessed by clicking the respective product links. Our commitment to continually improving our offerings reflects our dedication to addressing the changing demands of our customers and enhancing their operational capabilities. We believe that innovation is key to staying ahead in the competitive landscape of community development.

Our premium Enterprise Permitting & Licensing software significantly improves essential government operations by automating, integrating, and streamlining processes ranging from planning and permitting to managing assets and addressing citizen inquiries. This all-encompassing solution addresses multiple facets, including enterprise workflows, management tasks, inspections, compliance enforcement, and electronic reviews of plans, ensuring that all required activities are effectively managed. By leveraging a unified platform, it greatly enhances efficiency and communication, leading to increased productivity and collaboration across different departments, thereby closing the divide between field operations and office work while fostering better citizen interaction and reducing errors. Furthermore, the integration of Esri® GIS technology allows users to visualize real-time data through spatial analysis, supporting more informed decision-making grounded in factual information. The ability to connect and disseminate this crucial information allows agencies to tailor data access to their individual requirements, promoting smooth communication even from remote areas. Ultimately, this software revolutionizes agency operations, rendering processes more efficient and agile to meet the evolving needs of the community. In doing so, it ensures that government services are not only more effective but also more transparent and accountable to the public.