County to spend $192,000 on IT
Staff writer
Replacing hourly billing, Marion County commissioners approved a $192,000 one-year contract Monday with Great Plains Computers and Networking to support county information technology.
Lloyd Davies of Great Plains said the fixed annual retainer would simplify budgeting and encourage departments to request help before problems escalate.
System planning and broader technical support would for the first time be included. The agreement covers services and monitoring. Computers and other equipment will continue to be purchased separately.
Commissioners also approved submission of a $75,494 grant application by the health department focusing on reducing chronic disease, immunizations, and public emergency preparedness.
Health Department director Krista Schneider said the grant would support a coordinator position and the Safe Kids program, which distributes safety equipment such as bicycle helmets and life jackets.
Commissioners also approved tuition assistance agreements for ambulance employees Connor Hebert and Christina Phelan as they pursue paramedic certification. The county will cover tuition in exchange for the employees agreeing to work for the county for two years after completing training. If they leave early, they would have to repay the county.
Commissioners also approved purchase of a $1,387.33 computer for an employee in the county administrator’s office. The office’s current computer is about four years old, County Administrator Tina Spencer said.