Council approves about $564,000 for IT infrastructure at new administration building

The City of Republic on Tuesday approved a resolution authorizing expenditure for information-technology and related infrastructure needed to occupy the new administration building next to the current city offices. Michael Sali, the city IT manager, outlined three phases of work: an immediate move-in package including network equipment, wireless, door access, security cameras and conference-room setups (approx. $240,000); a deferrable 2026 package of scheduled PC replacements and lobby signage (approx. $23,000); and a bid-phase for a cellular booster and the audio/video system for the council chamber and conference space (together budgeted at about $300,000). Sali said some components rely on state contracts and others are currently out to bid; the total estimate for all three phases is about $564,000. Bob Ford, chief financial officer, told council the city previously set aside $5.5 million for the administration building construction and that the IT and furniture needs were not included in that construction budget. He said the general fund currently holds about $5.5 million in unrestricted cash that can cover the incremental IT and future furniture costs; staff will submit a formal budget amendment in August. Ford said personnel savings and steady revenue make the proposed spending manageable within current resources. Council discussed procurement thresholds: staff said that if components to be bid are below $300,000 they would not return to council for separate approval, and that the council's authorization of the total amount at the meeting would be the operating cap for staff. Council then adopted the resolution authorizing the work by unanimous vote. The resolution authorizes staff to proceed with procurement and the initial expenditures; specific contract awards and infrastructure permits will follow city procurement rules and be reported back as required.