08-14-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commission Minutes--August 14, 2006 3104 Mr. Vanyo asked about the industry standard on information technology expenses for governmental entities in relation to available revenues. He suggested this be used as a baseline to see if the county is within the range. He said the sole purpose of this department is to keep current with technology and he feels the county is working toward this goal. MOTION, passed Mr. Vanyo moved and Mr. Wagner seconded to approve the 2007 preliminary budget for Information Technology. Discussion: Mr. Wagner said if the appropriate tools are given to employees, this saves the county money by making employees more efficient. Mr. Pawluk feels technological issues are important and requested the Information Technology Department serve as a resource to the Social Services Department to help them achieve a paperless filing system. At the call for the question and on roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously. 5. RED RIVER VALLEY FAIR ASSOCIATION John Pitz, Manager, and Kyle Anderson, President of the Red River Valley Fair Association, were present. Mr. Pitz said their request of $110,660 reflects a 6% increase compared to last year's budget of $104,400. He said the funds received from the county pay for premiums, liability insurance, trophies and ribbons. Mr. Pawluk asked how the public benefits from county funding to the fair association. Mr. Pitz said 80% to 85% of participation in fair events and exhibits is contributed locally and he feels the fair provides show case events at a reasonable price for most citizens to be able to attend. Mrs. Sorum has seen much improvement in the organization's leadership in the last six months and commended Mr. Pitz and Mr. Anderson for their work. MOTION, failed Mrs. Sorum moved and Mr. Wagner seconded to approve the 2007 preliminary budget for the Red River Valley Fair Association in the amount of $110,660. Discussion: Mr. Wagner serves on a volunteer board for the fair and is not on the governing board. He referred to an Attorney General's opinion from 1995 and said according to the opinion, he is permitted to vote on fair board issues. He questioned the level of accountability and procedures that are now in place for their finances. Mr. Pitz said staff double check balances when counting cash and ticket sales and ticket costs are being analyzed. Mr. Vanyo commended Mr. Pitz and Mr. Anderson for a successful year, but feels approving an increase to their budget after last year's controversy opens the commission to criticism; he supports funding the fair the same as last year at $104,400. Mr. Pawluk asked about the county paying special assessments for the fair and Mr. Montplaisir said this is separate from their budget request.