BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2025 February 4, Tuesday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
editor@blairtoday.com – Facebook
In an effort to better serve Blair residents and improve access to city services, the City of Blair has implemented a new communications strategy that promises faster responses and clearer channels for citizen inquiries. The initiative centers on a newly established Public Safety & Communications Coordinator position, marking a significant step toward more efficient municipal communication.
Key changes include:
- Centralized Communication: All media inquiries now go through a single point of contact, ensuring consistent and timely responses to community concerns
- Enhanced Website Access: Multiple channels remain available for citizen engagement, with ongoing website improvements to increase user-friendliness
- Integrated Public Safety: The new coordinator role combines communications with emergency planning, creating a more cohesive approach to public safety
Jake Dunn, who also serves as 2nd Assistant Fire Chief for the Blair Volunteer Fire Department, has been appointed to this role. As coordinator, Dunn oversees all internal and external communications for the City, including press releases, social media updates, and media inquiries regarding city staff, incidents, and other matters of public interest.
“I oversee all internal and external communications for the City,” Dunn explained. “This includes preparing and distributing press releases and social media updates regarding closures, incidents, and other matters of public interest.”
The new system maintains multiple channels for citizen engagement while improving efficiency. “For citizens seeking to submit complaints, general inquiries, or public safety concerns, multiple avenues are available on the city’s website,” Dunn noted. These entries are actively monitored by members of City Hall to ensure timely responses, even in the event of staff absences.
Citizens maintain direct access to their representatives. “Citizens wishing to contact their City Council Representative can find email contact information on the respective Council Member’s page,” Dunn said. “Additionally, those interested in requesting to appear before the City Council and be placed on the agenda may do so through the designated section on the City Council page.”
Dunn emphasized the City’s commitment to accessibility: “…citizens may choose to contact me directly if they feel the need.” He also noted that the City is “actively working on revamping our website to make our site more user friendly.”
As Blair moves forward with this new approach to municipal communications, residents can expect more streamlined access to city services and information. The restructuring reflects the City’s commitment to responsive governance and improved citizen service – the same goals that inspired the change in the first place.
The Communications Department can be reached at (531) 209-4522 or via email at jdunn@blairnebraska.org. The City offices are located at 218 South 16th Street, Blair, NE 68008.
