08-13-2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commission Minutes-August 13, 2007 3250 The proposed 2008 budget includes the replacement of 103 desktop computers, 18 laptops for the sheriff's department, 10 laser printers and 35 computer monitors. Mr. Schmaltz stated additional employees will be needed in the IT department as server applications become more complex and the county continues to grow. He is not asking for any at this time; however, wanted to make the board aware of future requests. Mr. Vanyo commended the department for their conservative user cost of $2,500 per user. Mr. Schmaltz reported there have been issues with the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) as some equipment failure is occurring during generator transfers. Mrs. Johnson responded that the UPS carries the load perfectly when there is a complete power loss. The UPS does not recognize the transfer from electrical to generator power as there is not a soft switch on the Courthouse equipment. The boxcar generator does not have the capacity to have a soft switch and the only remedy for the issue is a new building to house the generator. She also stated that the Courthouse generator works 100% of the time when it is needed and the buildings and grounds staff work closely with IT staff during load transfers. Mr. Schmaltz stated the City of West Fargo uses the county AS400 and their usage charge will be increased. The AS400 will be upgraded to increase storage as well as the use of documents in the system and allow the installation of a new tax system. Mr. Bennett questioned why there is a need to replace equipment when it is still usable. Mr. Schmaltz replied it is less expensive to be on a replacement program as repairs are very costly. It is important to stay ahead of software changes. Mr. Vanyo explained a replacement plan is necessary as technical support becomes greater as equipment ages. Ms. Anderson reported on GIS requests. She stated the county no longer will contract with the City of Fargo for GIS needs. The county has a GIS technician capable of updating and drawing the parcels. Cass County will participate in an aerial imaging project and cost share with MetroCOG in 2008. Ms. Anderson distributed a map outlining an area near and in the metro area in which imagery will be changed from 12 inch to 6 inch. This will allow much greater detail in imaging the immediate metro area. An estimate of $84,000 was received for the aerial project; however, $100,000 was included in the budget to allow for inflation. This imagery is significant as it is used in highway design as well as detailing rural areas. Mr. Montplaisir stated the imagery is useful in finding parcels and rural homes that may have been missed in the tax valuation process. MOTION, passed Mr. Vanyo moved and Mr. Bennett seconded to reduce the $100,000 GIS imagery budget to $90,000 and to approve the 2008 preliminary budget for IT as presented in the budget information provided the board. On roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously. 6. WEED CONTROL Stan Wolf, Weed Control Director, and Ken Hagen, Vice Chairman of the Cass County Weed Board, were present. Mr. Wolf explained his budget request is slightly higher for 2008 due to increased cost of chemicals, a 5% increase for contract spraying, and a pay grade change for the weed control officer.