If I had to guess,

I’d say that not too many people in Hampton Roads have yet heard of Gov 2.0 or have much of a sense about what “open government” means beyond what they traditionally think of as the “Freedom of Information Act,” or FOIA.

Open government gang sign. (Pic | Joe Hall)

A quick search for “gov 2.0″ on three local news sites turned up zero (0) hits total. “Open government” returned some results, but they are all only about access to public records (which is certainly a huge part of open gov).

The truth is that open government and access to public records is about so much more than just watch-dogging the government (though it is certainly that, too). Open government also means open standards, open source, open planning, and open data. Functionally, Gov 2.0 has applications that can impact every aspect of government, public participation, civic engagement, and community building if we become open to learning about it. I’m talking public works, safety, transportation, planning, administration, economic development, community and cultural events and the like.

There’s a little bit better of a chance that readers are familiar with some of the tools used in Gov 2.0. SeeClickFix is a popular tool for reporting public works issues like potholes, graffiti, and broken street lamps through smart phone apps and other Web devices. Yes, there really is “an app for that.” Perhaps you are following local government through a social network like Twitter or Facebook. Even these are still just scratching the surface, however, a few examples of Gov 2.0 among many.

When I think about what this all means I think about how the Web impacts where we live. I think about how we can combine open government practices and the Web to improve “the practical business of government” (O’Reilly): civic life, city life, and our communities.

From an open city workshop. (Pic | Mac Male)

I want my city to become a smarter city; by tapping into its wealth of city data, by leveraging the talents of “civic hackers,” and by engaging citizens through the Web. There are a number of other ways in which, I believe, Gov 2.0 can contribute to that goal of becoming a smarter city.

If I’m right, then it’s important we strive toward a shared understanding of what is meant by  smarter cities. It’s even more important that we articulate what outcomes we expect from becoming smarter cities. How does Gov 2.0 lead to stronger communities? Better schools? Safer streets? Healthier economies? These are questions too important to attempt answering here. I will leave it on faith that reasonable people A) exist and B) will recognize the potential of smarter cities.

I think we in Hampton Roads have plenty to learn and benefit by seeking the answers to these kinds of questions, together. I am so committed to that proposition that I am organizing an event around it called CityCamp HRVA. If you also want to help build smarter cities in Hampton Roads then please join us for an info social next Thursday, March 10th at 6:30 PM: CityCamp+GovLoop Meetup. Take a look, also, at this UserVoice site where you can submit your ideas for topics.

Together we can build a smarter Hampton Roads.

Want to get involved? Join CityCampHRVA on Facebook.