Notification system keeps Agoura connected

Agoura Hills has joined the ranks of its hightech neighboring cities with the launch of a mass notification service called "Connect-CTY," an acronym for city.

The system allows city officials to use a variety of methods to convey information to residents, said Louis Celaya, assistant to the city manager.

Besides relaying messages via traditional landline telephones, residents will be able to register to receive city alerts through emails and on cellphones, including text messages.

"The system's primary use will be for emergency or other urgent notifications," Celaya said. "There may be occasions where a community message will be sent; however, we would like to limit these messages to ensure the effectiveness of the system."

Agoura Hills City Manager Greg Ramirez will soon send a test message to residents encouraging them to sign up or update existing information.

The Connect-CTY system will enhance existing emergency communication methods and allows the city "to immediately reach out to our residents directly with important messages and information," Ramirez told The Acorn.

Residents can have up to three phone numbers, two email addresses and one text messaging number per household in the database.

The city of Calabasas started the same system two years ago. Calabasas City Manager Tony Coroalles said officials have used the system to notify residents during emergencies, including local fires, but also used it to inform the public about road closures during the city's Fourth of July fireworks. Public service announcements are also relayed through the Calabasas system. For instance, residents have been alerted to the city's drive-through flu clinic and also received messages encouraging people to volunteer in the local sheriff's program, he said.

The Agoura Hills City Council approved the service in October 2008, Celaya said. The cost to operate Connect-CTY is based on the number of households. The $15,000 annual cost in Agoura Hills includes unlimited access and support services. In Calabasas the yearly expenditure is $24,000.

"I am truly appreciative of the City Council's approval of the system, as it demonstrates their proactive and consistent concern for the safety of our residents," Ramirez said.

Besides Agoura Hills and Calabasas, the cities of Westlake Village, Hidden Hills and Malibu use the same service, Celaya said.

After the introductory test message is launched, residents may sign up for the ConnectCTY service at www.ci.agourahills.ca.us.