Q: How long should it take to load?
A: We make every effort to configure the map services for a balance of performance and content. Usually it should take less than 20 seconds to load the map. If you receive an error while loading, hold down the 'Ctrl' key on your keyboard and then click the refresh/reload button on your browser. This will force your browser to make a fresh request for the information from the server.
Q: To whom should I report any problems connecting to the mapping web sites?
A: For site related issues please contact us at gis@mcplan.org
Q: What browser can I use?
A: Currently the Online Mapping websites work well with Internet Explorer 7+ and Mozilla Firefox 1.5+. It may work well with other browsers but they have not been tested.
Q: Why is data not available for other surrounding Counties?
A: This web site only contains content for McLean county.
Q: Why do some layers go on and off automatically?
A: Layers are set to turn on and off at specific scales. This is referred to as scale dependency. For instance, parcels cannot be seen when looking at the county as a whole because the information would not be useful at this scale. To see what scale a layer is visible at, click on the graphic (circle with "x") just to the right of the layer name in the layer list.
Q: Why are some items in the 'Layer List' grayed out?
A: Not all layers are visible all the time and this is done for speed as well as for aesthetic purposes. If an item is grayed out then it is not visible at the present scale.
Q: Where can I get an explanation of all the symbols in the layer list?
A: The layer list symbols (i.e., checkbox, active layer symbol, or zoom to active layer star) can be found below the layers themselves. After clicking on the Layers tab, use the scroll bar on the right-side of the page to scroll down below the layers to read the explanation for each of the symbols.
Q: Why do the parcel lines not line up with the building footprints or aerial imagery?
A: The parcel data and other layers are acquired through McGIS partners. However, parcel lines in certain areas will not line up exactly with the aerial imagery because they are derived from two seperate data sources. Most of the building footprints in Bloomington/Normal were derived using stereo pairs from the 2006 orthophoto. Buildings footprints in the rural area were digitized in 2D from 1995,2001,and 2007 orthophotos.
Q: How often is the parcel information updated?
A: While every effort is made to ensure that the Assessor records are the most up-to-date, certain business processes can take several months for changes to be displayed on the web page.
Q: I entered a correct address but was not able to locate it (no records matched), why?
A: It is possible that you used a street prefix or suffix causing the search to return no records. The following general rules should help:
Q: I entered a correct PIN but was not able to locate it (no records matched), why?
A:The parcel linework may have included a recent lot split but the 'tax roll' has not yet been updated. In the case of condominium parcels, since condos are maintained as a separate layer, the current parcel search function will not be able to locate them. Try searching on the "parent" parcel instead. For example, parcel 21-12-106-000 is the "parent" parcel for condos 21-12-106-001 & 002. If in doubt then use a partial PIN, e.g. 21-12-106.
Q: How can I print a map?
A: When you are ready to print a map begin by using the Create PDF tab. The Create PDF interface will appear on the right-side of the screen and will allow you to choose the layout (portrait or landscape) and scale. You'll also be able to type in a map title and add any additional notes you may want to add to the map. After clicking on OK, an interface will appear on the right-side of the screen. Click on the open map link and your map will open in your browser. To print from the browser, click on File on the menu bar and print as you normally would from your browser.
Q: Can I print a large format map?
A: Yes! The New Government Intranet Web Application has print templates available for "A", "B", "C", "D", & "E" size in both Landscape and Portrait.
Q: How do I get information about a specific layer, i.e. last update, where it came from, accuracy, etc.
A: Metadata is available for all layers on the Online Mapping Websites. For the older version simply click on the layer name in the Layer List. In the New Government Intranet Web Application left click on the Layer Name to expand for a list of layer actions including the layer's Metadata.
Q: With whom should I report inconsistencies, errors or problems with spatial layers displayed on the screen?
A: Please contact us at gis@mcplan.org
Questions related to data content issues will be forwarded to the responsible entity.
Q:Is there help for using this system and/or recommended tips?
A: Of course you can use the Help or tutorial
Tutorial sections of the site.
Q: Can I download the actual GIS data or imagery onto my computer?
A: No. Currently the intranet mapping sites are for viewing and querying only.
Q: What is the difference between Computed Acres and Deeded Acres?
A: Deeded acres is the acreage recorded on the deed to a property, while computed acres is a value calculated by a computer when a parcel is digitally mapped. These values should be approximately the same, but it is not uncommon to find small discrepancies especially with older parcels.
Q: How do I determine an areas Flood Zone?
A: The FEMA Flood Zone data layer is available. To correctly interpret the zones we suggest reading the FEMA FAQ.
Q: The Recorder links do not work anymore
A: The Recorder's Office recently upgraded the index search software and you may need to reapply for a username and password HERE.
Q: How do I link to Bing Maps Bird's Eye View on the New Government Web Application?
A: This feature is available but it functions differently from the older mapping websites. An address selection must be made, then the report will include a link to Bing Maps Bird's Eye View.
Q: Your website shows my address incorrectly, who do I contact?
A: Please report any errors to gis@mcplan.org and we will notify the appropriate addressing authority.
Q: How do I determine the size of a lot or parcel?
A: The plat map viewer will show the lot and parcel dimensions. The New Public Web Application does not offer a separate plat theme; instead this is available as a layer that can be turned on.
Q: Can I create a mailing list based on parcels I select in the map?
A: Yes you may do this using the New Government Intranet Web Application. After making a selection left click on the selection results for Parcels and Mailing Labels or Mail Merge Labels will be available as an option.
Q: I've put alot of time adding text and graphics to my map and I do not want to lose them. Is there a way to save this?
A: Absolutely. There are several ways to do this. In the older map interface (Options "A","B", &"C") you can save your work as a project by opening the Red Toolbox and selecting the Save Session icon (looks like a floppy disk). In the New Government Web Application this is available under the Project menu. You may also save spatial Bookmarks to allow you to quickly return to your areas of interest..