The City of Anacortes City Council convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss a significant contract for enterprise resource planning (ERP) software and implementation services. The council reviewed a proposal to engage Tyler Technologies Inc. for a total of $941,697, which includes both one-time implementation fees and annual software licensing costs.

City staff detailed the extensive process leading to this decision, which began with a request for proposals (RFP) issued in February 2025. After receiving eight responses, the city conducted thorough evaluations, including presentations and demonstrations from potential vendors. A consultant was hired to assist in developing the RFP requirements, ensuring a comprehensive approach to selecting the best software solution.

The contract encompasses three phases of implementation: financial management, utility billing, and human resources/payroll. The first phase is set to commence in July 2025, with subsequent phases rolling out in January and July of 2026, respectively. The council noted that the project had been delayed, resulting in savings of over $80,000 for the current budget year.

During discussions, council members expressed confidence in the new software's potential to improve efficiency across city departments, especially given past challenges with software deployments. The new system is expected to reduce maintenance burdens compared to the current on-premises software, allowing staff to focus on more strategic tasks.

The council unanimously approved the motion to authorize the mayor to sign the contract with Tyler Technologies, marking a pivotal step in modernizing the city's operational capabilities. This decision reflects a commitment to enhancing service delivery and operational efficiency for the City of Anacortes.