Local Officials launch Shared Apps mobile app for better community communication

Decatur County is set to enhance community communication with the launch of a new mobile app designed to keep residents informed in real-time. During a recent government meeting, officials introduced the "Shared Apps" mobile application, which aims to provide critical updates directly to users' phones.

The app's standout feature is its ability to send push notifications. This means that in the event of emergencies, such as accidents at key intersections, residents will receive immediate alerts. "If we have a bad wreck at Railroad 3 and 300 North, it'll push out a notification to your phone saying there's a wreck in this area," explained a county representative. This proactive approach is intended to eliminate the need for residents to rely on social media for urgent information.

In addition to emergency alerts, the app will serve as a comprehensive resource hub, listing various community services and information. Officials highlighted the potential to integrate Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) resources into the app, further enhancing its utility for residents.

As Decatur County moves forward with this initiative, the focus remains on fostering better communication and ensuring that residents are well-informed about local events and emergencies. The app is expected to roll out soon, promising to be a valuable tool for community engagement and safety.