Boone County officials approve $45K funding for NeoGov while exploring software alternatives

During the Boone County Council Workshop held on January 30, 2025, significant discussions centered around the utilization and funding of various training and software tools, particularly focusing on the NEOGOV system and OSHA training programs. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of these resources, which have not been fully utilized despite substantial financial commitments.

One of the primary topics was the NEOGOV software, which the county has been paying for over the past three years, amounting to approximately $25,000 annually. However, it was revealed that the software has not been used effectively, raising questions about its relevance and the county's investment. Council members expressed the need for a thorough evaluation of the software's utility, with suggestions for forming a committee to explore alternative solutions that may offer better value for the county.

Additionally, the discussion included the costs associated with OSHA training. While the federal government provides OSHA training for free, the county has incurred expenses related to leadership training and other modules that have not seen significant participation. The council members debated the necessity of these expenditures, emphasizing the importance of aligning funding with actual usage to avoid unnecessary costs.

The conversation also touched on the need for a project manager to oversee various initiatives, with suggestions for adjusting the budget to accommodate this role. The council agreed to fund the NEOGOV system at a reduced level of $45,000 for the upcoming year while committing to a review of its effectiveness and exploring other options.

In conclusion, the Boone County Council's workshop underscored the importance of accountability in government spending, particularly regarding training and software tools. The decision to form a committee to assess these resources reflects a proactive approach to ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and that the county's needs are met effectively. The council plans to reconvene to discuss findings and make informed decisions by July 2025.