In a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the state of the city's IT department following an audit report presented by Michael Sherwood, the city's chief innovation and technology officer. The report highlighted alarming issues, including unaccounted assets, unapproved expenditures, and inaccurate reporting practices.
Committee members expressed disappointment over the lack of clear inventory management, particularly concerning hundreds of iPhones and laptops that could pose security risks. One committee member pointed out that the absence of tracking for items valued over $5,000 raises serious security concerns, referencing a high-profile incident where a casino was compromised through a similar device.
The audit revealed that approximately $2.1 million worth of items remain unaccounted for within the IT department's system, prompting questions about the effectiveness of current inventory practices. The committee emphasized the importance of robust security measures, especially given the substantial investments made in safeguarding the city's technology infrastructure.
Sherwood, along with his team, was present to address these issues and answer questions from the committee, as they seek to rectify the identified shortcomings and enhance the overall security and accountability of the city's IT assets.