Holt County launches text messaging service

A new messaging system will keep Holt County residents abreast of up-to-date information.

Holt County treasurer Shelly Ross told supervisors, last Thursday, that TextMyGov™ alerts were set to launch during the third week of November.

County residents may receive a text notification from 91896.

"This will be a legitimate text from Holt County," Ross said.

Residents who do not receive an initial text message may choose to opt in by texting HCALERTS to 91896. After placing the text, users will be asked to reply to the confirmation with "Yes" to receive notifications.

Types of information users may receive include road closures, upcoming deadlines, registered voter information and other items that may be relevant.

Residents may opt out of the service by texting STOP.

Ross said the county "piggybacked off Lincoln County" and its implementation of the messaging system.

"It's inevitable," Ross said. "Schools and other agencies use texting."

The goal of implementing the system is twofold. Ross said it will save the county money since less mail will be sent.Secondly, county officials hope the service will save time.

Ross said in upcoming months, the service will segue into Phase II. One feature will include an information chatbot, which will be able to answer questions.

"If more information is needed, then it will open an email dialogue between a county office and the resident," Ross said.

Another feature will allow residents to upload photos and report issues to local government offices. For instance, if a bridge is out, a picture may uploaded to alert officials.

"Hopefully, this will alleviate issues," Ross said.

Eventually, the text service will be able to target certain areas.

"If water is covering 508 Road south of Ewing, it will alert residents in the area," Ross said.

"We're trying to reach the majority of residents," Ross said. "The more we use it, the better we'll get."