City Council Reviews Civic Plus and Granicus for New Website Solutions

The Walnut Grove City Council convened on July 31, 2025, to discuss the potential redesign of the city’s website, focusing on proposals from two leading companies in municipal website management: Civic Plus and Granicus. The meeting highlighted the need for a more user-friendly and efficient online platform to better serve the community, particularly for residents who commute and require online access to city services.

The discussion began with an overview of the two proposals. Civic Plus was noted for its widespread use among municipalities, including nearby cities like Monroe and Athens. The company offers a standard implementation fee of $850, with an annual subscription cost of $4,664. Granicus, on the other hand, presented a significantly higher one-time fee of $27,000 for implementation and training. Council members expressed concerns about the cost-effectiveness of Granicus, suggesting that Civic Plus might better suit the city’s current needs.

Key features discussed included the ability to facilitate online bill payments, scheduling for community facilities, and integration with existing software for utilities and business licenses. Both companies were confirmed to have the capability to accommodate these functions, which are essential for improving administrative efficiency and enhancing citizen engagement.

Council members emphasized the importance of a website that is not only functional but also compliant with accessibility standards. Civic Plus was praised for its user-friendly design, allowing city staff to manage updates without extensive technical knowledge. The council also discussed the potential for integrating social media updates directly onto the website, which would streamline communication with residents.

As the meeting progressed, members raised questions about the long-term implications of each proposal, particularly regarding ongoing support and the ability to adapt to future needs. The consensus leaned towards Civic Plus due to its lower cost and proven track record with similar municipalities.

In conclusion, the council agreed to further evaluate the proposals, with plans to gather additional information on other potential vendors before making a final decision. The meeting underscored the city’s commitment to enhancing its online presence and improving service delivery for its residents.