The Kings County Geographic Information System (GIS) Pilot Project, completed on September 28, 1999, has paved the way for other County Departments to make use of a multitude of map layers and data. The County's GIS was developed over a two year period under the cooperative effort of the Assessor's Office, Planning, Public Works and Information Services, and uses a computerized mapping software called "Arcview." Arcview works by overlaying multiple map layers, such as parcels, roads, districts, and boundaries, and then linking visual map features with related databases (i.e. Assessor's records, building permits, and Census data). A common network server is also used between the Departments and allows staff in one department to access map layers and data developed in other departments. Recognizing the value of this information sharing effort, three additional Departments are set to join the Kings County GIS Group in 2000. The contact person for your GIS needs is Greg Gatzka.