Feeling lonely? Sign up for the city's CTY Connect calls and the phone will start ringing again.

As just one of many responsibilities, the Communications Department makes pre-recorded robocalls via CTY Connect to let residents know about emergencies, safety alerts, community events and road closures. These helpful calls will make sure you never miss the fireworks or get stuck behind a City road crew again. And for some, all those calls may make you feel like you've found a new friend.

In all seriousness though, a direct line from the City to residents to report criminal activity and other safety concerns (such as drinking water contamination) is something every resident should have. Sign up on their web page.

The department also manages the City's Educational Channel (Channel 15) and Government Channel (Channel 16), oversees the City's website content, handles city press relations and works to facilitate interdepartmental communication and major communications initiatives such as the City's 311 number.