We've finally emerged from the labs—sorry for the slowdown on posts—and are extremely proud to introduce our latest project: the Chattanooga Campaign Cash Maps. 
How Do the Cash Maps Work? The maps are a mashup of Google Maps and a database we created to house the finance data released by the Hamilton County Election Commission. Believe it or not, the most time-consuming part of the project was data entry. Each candidate in the mayoral and city council elections has their own map. Browse the map (red pins represent zip code, blue pins individual addresses) or use the search form to look up specific donors. You can also toggle on and off a set of map overlays which display the Chattanooga city limits and city council district lines. Why Did Chattarati Create the Cash Maps? The practical implications are obvious: it's easier than ever to access public data about local campaign finance. Instead of digging through pages and pages of scanned PDFs, you can browse the map or search by name and address. The cash maps also serve a symbolic purpose, as we strive to broaden our community's interest in local politics and the importance of openness in government. We the people deserve a meaningful transparency. Furthermore, we have the will and the technology required to create it. Citizens (and) Journalists Everyday citizens are not the only ones encouraged to take advantage of the interactive cash maps. We encourage our friends in the media to use the tool, as well. Our only request is that you appropriately cite Chattarati and link to http://cashmap.chattarati.com
Comments (6)
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David Morton
John Hawbaker
Kevin on Jan. 22, 2009
This is awesome guys! It's more than just the cash maps - it shows how technology can be used to inform the public. If you keep this type of innovation going, Chattarati has an unlimited ceiling!
David Morton on Jan. 22, 2009
Also, I'd like to point out that Hawbaker added a feature in the sidebar today for users to submit local stories from around the web for others to read (Main Page - Community Powered News). Add your own 'cause we're always interested in what you're reading.
And good job, John!
Stephen42 on Jan. 26, 2009
Way to go Chattarati. This is the kind of information every citizen should read and be made aware of. With this tool we can see just where the candidates' interests really lie. I hope this sets an example for other communities as well. I'm going to post the link on my site & I hope everyone else does as well.
Vince on Jan. 30, 2009
This is a great tool... glad to see someone thinks thinks important information should be made public without having to submit a request to the Election Office.
Great work!
Kordax on Feb. 21, 2009
These maps do not work or else my browser doesn't work ....
Wes Rehberg on Feb. 27, 2009
Brilliant piece of citizen journalism!