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Ceres to switch city website to government domain; residents press for better app and broader notice
Summary
City IT announced a website redesign and a move to a .gov domain to comply with AB 1637. Residents used the update to press the council for improved communications, citing problems with the MyCeres app and recommending mailed notices, text alerts and newsletter options.
The city’s information technology manager told the council on Feb. 10 that Ceres will launch a redesigned website in the coming weeks and change the city’s online domain to a government address to comply with AB 1637.
IT manager John Frederick said the redesign aims to simplify navigation, improve mobile usability and make social links more visible. He said existing bookmarks and email addresses will continue to work after the transition.
Public commenters used the presentation to press staff and council for broader outreach tools. Dave Pratt and other residents complained the MyCeres mobile app is hard to use, gives incorrect addresses when users upload photos and does not allow citizens to delete completed reports from their devices. John Warren urged the city to coordinate with local social‑media community pages and to consider multi‑channel outreach because not all residents use Facebook or email.
Council later directed staff to explore additional notice options beyond the legal minimum for property‑owner mailings, including mailed newsletters in utility bills, text‑messaging alerts and expanded email subscription options. Staff said they will compile options, pros and cons, and cost estimates for future council consideration; the referral does not authorize new spending.
The city also noted the MyCeres reporting app is a separate platform from the website; IT staff said they will record the public’s complaints and follow up with potential fixes or improvements.
