LEWISTON — The public will get a chance to test drive a new joint Lewiston-Auburn permitting and fee software this week at the Androscoggin Business to Business Trade Show.

Representatives from Lewiston and Auburn will have adjoining booths at the show and a shared computer running EnerGov Solution’s  software’s suite of applications.

“It should just have the basics so people can get a feel of what it will be like,” said Laurie Smith, Auburn’s assistant city manager. The trade show is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 10, in the Androscoggin Bank Colisee.

The Twin Cities are hoping to begin using the software suite in the planning, permitting and land use departments near the end the month. Company representatives are currently training staffers on how to use the programs. It’s the first phase of a project that will eventually let citizens apply for permits, pay fees and take care of other city business on their computers.

Smith said the cities would have demonstration versions of the software tied to city tax map and geographic databases. They’ll also show examples of EnerGov’s citizen interface currently being used in other cities. Company officials are expected to begin work on that part of the program later this summer, and it could be ready for use in October.

Lewiston and Auburn began working on adopting a shared software system last fall. They agreed to purchase EnerGov’s suite of six software modules designed especially for community government.

The suite includes modules that keep track of development projects working through the city review process, monitor building permits, track building inspections and automatically calculate fees and keep track of special licenses, including liquor licenses and special amusement permits.

Another module lets residents and contractors take care of many city government functions over the Internet, including applying for permits, checking the status of development projects and scheduling inspections.

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