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600 East Third Street
Mishawaka, IN 46544
Phone (574) 258-1783
Fax (574) 968-2309
Email Information Technology
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The foundation of GIS implementation is the development of a common
electronic base map containing high-resolution aerial photography
and data layers showing the geographical location of infrastructure
and related information. This base map is being done for the entire
county. Examples of base mapping data layers include road centerlines,
road edges, railroads, hydrology (includes rivers, streams, and
ponds), and parcel boundaries. The base map will continue to go
through updates as changes are made such as new construction, roads,
and subdivisions.
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Each participant then creates their own GIS data layers that line
up in the same coordinate system as the base map. Some examples
are school district boundaries, taxing districts, city limits, neighborhood
boundaries, service territories, electric poles, and hydrants.
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GIS allows the participants to not only accurately place infrastructure
onto electronic maps, but also associate relevant data with the
graphic elements on the electronic map. Complex applications can
then be done using data in GIS format. Customized maps can be created
and plotted out or displayed by a projector showing selected base
mapping and selected GIS data layers. For example, a map could be
drawn showing roads, parking lots, parcels, rivers and streams,
railroads, and all hydrants in a given area such as within the city
limits. Different types of hydrants could then be given different
colors or types of symbols on a map.
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The city of Mishawaka is now starting to realize the potential
of GIS by creating new data layers and combining them with base
mapping provided by the countywide GIS group. New applications are
being performed and the GIS data format is working its way into
the day-to-day workflows of city departments. Studies have shown
that at least 80 percent of all information tracked by a municipality
has some geographical significance. GIS has the functionality to
maintain and use this information using the latest computer technology.
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IT is in the process of implementing the Permits Plus program
for tracking of permits, contractor licenses, and other activities.
Two departments are already using the program in live mode: the
Code Enforcement and City Planning Departments. Two other departments
will be going live soon: the Engineering and Building Departments.
Others will start using the program over time, including the Controllers
and Parks departments. This program will enhance these departments'
ability to maintain accurate records as well as improve coordination
between departments. Eventually the GIS and Permits Plus programs
will have an interface that will allow for data transfers between
the applications.
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Director
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Tim Calderone
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Network Administrator
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Web Developer
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Computer Technician
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Patrick Stokes
Brian Billingsley
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GIS Coordinator
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Jack Walker
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