The city of Jefferson recently had its official rollout of a new mass texting service that would send notifications when needed.

City Administrator Scott Peterson shares his thoughts on how the initial text from the city’s new service with TextMyGov went on August 24th.

“The rollout went very smooth and I think we’ve been pretty happy with the way that the rollout went. So I would tell you that we sent out this mass text and we had about 2,100 cell phone numbers of people who would’ve received this text. We did get a couple hundred (200) back that would choose to opt out. But that still leaves 1,900 cell phone numbers alrighty to go that can be just an extremely efficient way to communicate with the public.” 

Peterson points out that individuals who sign up can receive emergency information, street closures, water main breaks, and other needed general city information via a text message. Anyone who would like to sign up can text the words “JEFFERSON IA” to 91896. Peterson adds people can opt out at any time they wish.