The Town of Newtown last week announced the launch of a new online system for permits for Newtown Building Department, powered by GovWell. The platform supports Newtown's ongoing efforts to make services more efficient, transparent, and responsive for community members and contractors.

GovWell is an AI operating system transforming how governments serve communities, starting with local agencies. GovWell replaces legacy software for municipalities and counties, empowering public servants to streamline services and cut processing time for permits and licenses by up to 95%, according to a release issued August 25.

GovWell serves local governments in over 30 states, powering mission-critical services that millions of residents rely on. GovWell is headquartered in New York City. More than half its team has a background in public service, also according to the press release.

Locally, the new system will provide a single place to apply for building permits, submit plans, schedule inspections, make payments, and track application statuses online. By bringing these steps together in one platform, the Town aims to reduce delays, improve visibility into the review process, and make it easier for applicants to understand next steps.

The new platform will be available as of September 1 to residents, contractors, and business owners at app.govwell.com/newtown-ct.

First Selectman Bruce Walczak touted the integration of the GovWell system as a brand new and even easier way to access several of the services provided by Newtown’s Building Department.

“It will be saving people a lot of time,” Walczak said. “Many of the most utilized Building Department services that used to require one or more trips to the Municipal Center can now be completed with a few clicks, or spending just a few minutes on their mobile device.”

Before launching the new system, the Town relied on a combination of manual processes and electronic platforms, which efficiently supported users submitting materials, tracking progress, or receiving timely updates.

Local officials believe the adoption and launch of the online GovWell platform will significantly improve the process for any resident or visitor engaging with the Building Department.

Users will be able to submit materials, track applications, and access information related to building permits in one place. Local staff and GovWell will continue to support users as they get started. Town officials said while the system is changing, Newtown’s policies, review standards, and service expectations will remain the same. Building Department staff will continue to review submissions and provide support just like they do today.

Learn more at govwell.com.