3-1-1 hotline launches, but without some cell phone users

KCMO’s Action Center has initiated its 3-1-1 hotline, providing a single number to call for all non-emergency city services. You can now call 3-1-1 for anything from potholes to stray dogs to weeds. Other cities like Baltimore and New York City have great success using data mining of 311 systems to track things crime, dangerous buildings, etc. and deploy resources more efficiently to tackle those issues.

Unfortunately the launch of KC’s 311 system isn’t working for most mobile phone users. Cingular is having technical problems connecting its local subscribers to the new number, and the city is still negotiating with Verizon for service to its customers.

The Action Center’s alternative number is 816-513-1313 if you need to call from an unsupported mobile phone or from a landline outside the city limits.

• Action Center Web Site – www.kcmo.org/action
• 3-1-1 press release