Benton County recently implemented a new online platform with the intent of improving access to county code chapters, officials announced.
Called MuniCode, the platform allows users to search the entire county code database and county charter using keywords such as floodplain, accessory dwelling unit, solid waste management, food handlers license, vehicle camping and so on.
County code refers to the collection of laws, regulations and ordinances, including zoning, land use, building standards, public safety, health regulations and other local administrative procedures.
“This change is a great enhancement for our community as it provides increased accessibility and transparency and will be a time saver for community members,” Benton County Commissioner Nancy Wyse said through a press release.
The MuniCode platform comes with Google Translate built-in, enabling instant translation of the code into 200-plus languages. Following the initial implementation, MuniCode will display the history of code amendments over time. Users can choose to subscribe to be notified of code changes in sections of interest to them.
An additional feature, MuniDocs, is also now available. MuniDocs will house and organize various county documents and will also feature full searchability via the use of keywords.
Benton County’s code officially went live on the MuniCode platform earlier this month. It can be accessed via the Benton County Code webpage, County Development Code webpage or from the MuniCode Library by selecting the state of Oregon and Benton County from the list.
Officials said Benton County made the investment in MuniCode early this year as part of an initiative to enhance website functionality, increase the searchability of code language and display code amendments.
On the platform, users will no longer need to download individual code chapters in their search for information. Instead, users can search for terms from within the platform, identify the code section of interest, share a link directly to specific sections of the code, print, download, email, compare versions of the code over time, view recent ordinances and get technical support.
“Implementing the MuniCode platform is a significant step forward in making our county code more accessible and transparent to the public,” said Rick Crager, assistant county administrator. “We are proud to join thousands of other jurisdictions in using this innovative tool.”