Curious Columbus explains how to find public information on local government processes

The Ledger-Enquirer asked readers to ask us what questions they have about Columbus that we can answer through our Curious Columbus series .

One reader, Cynthia Frey, wanted a tool empowering residents to learn more about governmental, educational and sporting entities on their own. This question gave us an opportunity to show how local reporters find a lot of public information, which the public can use too.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll take a look at what public information is available to help Columbus residents find resources and answers to the questions beginning with the Columbus Consolidated Government.

Citizens looking for more resources and knowledge about the government can always start with the 311 Citizen Services website . An app for the service is available on both Google Play and the App Store.

311 is a tool residents can use to request a service, register a complaint or offer suggestions. Columbus residents may use the website or call 311 (or 706-653-4000) to submit a request.

There is a 24-hour call center, or people can speak to a citizen service representative from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. People can also email a request to citizensservices@columbusga.org .

Submitting and tracking requests isn’t the only useful tool on the 311 website. Along the top of the website are a number of important links.

The first is a way for residents to sign up to receive emergency alerts from the city as part of the Emergency Alert Program.

After signing up, residents can be alerted about emergencies and other critical information in a variety of situations including severe weather, unexpected road closure, missing persons and evacuations.

Other important links include a directory for city departments, job opportunities and visitor information.

Another useful tool on the 311 website is the Knowledge Base. After clicking “Submit Request” on the desktop website, residents can then find the tool by clicking on the menu icon in the top right corner.

On the 311 app, the Knowledge Base link is available on the home screen.

This tool provides answers to common questions and concerns. The first screen in the Knowledge Base has links to short informational articles that have been recently updated.

If someone is searching for specific information, they can use the search bar to find a topic or browse categories.

Knowledge Base includes information and resources on a variety of categories including recycling, urban forestry and housing or neighborhood issues.