DeKalb County officials are set to continue their partnership with Carahsoft Technology Corp. for essential software services, as the ERPS Committee discussed a contract extension for OpenGov software during their recent meeting. This software is crucial for the county's permits unit, which manages the vetting and issuance of various permits, including alcohol licenses and late-night establishment permits.

The proposed contract, which will run through September 30, 2026, has a budget not to exceed $61,094.45. Chief representatives highlighted the importance of this software in streamlining operations within the permits unit, ensuring efficient processing of applications.

However, the discussion also revealed concerns about the county's reliance on multiple contracts with Carahsoft. Committee members questioned whether a package deal could be negotiated, given the extensive use of the vendor's services. Procurement officials acknowledged the need for a comprehensive review of their contracts, suggesting that it may be time for DeKalb County to explore its own procurement options rather than relying solely on statewide contracts.

The conversation underscored the county's commitment to maximizing value from its vendor relationships while ensuring that they are not inadvertently supporting businesses at the expense of potential cost savings. As the county moves forward, officials are expected to engage in further discussions about optimizing their procurement strategies to better serve the community.