Q: What does GIS stand for?
A: Geographic Information System.
Q: What is GIS?
A: GIS is a system of computer hardware, software, and people that can assemble, store, manipulate, analyze, and display geographic data. Geographic data is any information that has a specific location. For example: roads, buildings, political boundaries, property lines, natural resources, etc. With GIS it is possible to combine many layers of data from different sources and analyze the relationships between the data layers. The results of the analysis can then be displayed as a map or report to assist in decision making. For more information visit the US Geological Survey GIS Summary at: http://erg.usgs.gov/isb/pubs/gis_poster/
Q: How is GIS used on Nantucket?
A: GIS is used as a resource to assist in decision making for a number of departments within the Town government. GIS data and products are also available to the public as well as outside agencies.
Q: Can anyone order a map?
A: Yes. Most of our data is available to the public on our interactive WebGIS site: http://host.appgeo.com/nantucketma/ , and printable versions are available. The GIS department can also create larger format maps.
Q: How do I order a map?
A: You can visit the Assessor's office in the Town Hall (16 Broad St Nantucket, MA 02554) or call them at (508) 228-7211.
Q: How much does a map cost?
A: Map price is determined by the size. Please see our Fee schedule for more details.
Q: When were the aerial photos taken?
A: The last set of photos was taken in April of 2003. A new set of photos has been taken and will be available in the Fall/Winter of 2007
Q: How up to date is the Assessor's information listed for each parcel?
A: The GIS Department tries to keep to a three (3) month schedule in updating the various data layers and Assessor's information (February, May, August, and November).
Q: Why does it look like my house is partially on my neighbor's property?
A: The parcel lines represent the GIS department's effort to recreate the parcel lines recorded at the assessor's office. There are areas of the island where this data is less accurate than others. The GIS department is working to fix these areas and to increase the accuracy of all of its data. Please keep in mind that the parcel lines in the GIS are NOT the legal representation of your property.
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