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Council authorizes $30,000 website redesign contract, staff details hosting options
Summary
The council authorized a contract with Black Cat Studios for a comprehensive website redesign and discussed hosting alternatives; motion carried 7–0.
Newcastle — The Newcastle City Council on June 17 authorized the city manager to execute a contract with Black Cat Studios (Jen Pack) for a comprehensive website redesign (Resolution 2025-1043).
Council discussion focused on the expected one-time design cost and ongoing hosting fees. Staff reported they reviewed multiple hosting vendors and recommended WP Engine as the hosting provider based on customer service and pricing comparisons; initial year promotions for some hosts were noted and long-term pricing varies. City staff presented an existing $5,000-per-year hosting cost from the prior contract as context.
Deputy Mayor LaCotea and other councilmembers asked about the time spent researching hosting and emphasized the need for full cost visibility before committing budget. Councilmember Quigg described his analytical approach to reviewing total cost of ownership (design plus hosting) and said the additional hosting information provided since the previous meeting influenced his willingness to proceed.
After discussion, a motion to authorize the city manager to execute the contract with Jen Pack / Black Cat Studios passed 7–0.
Background and next steps The contract funds a redesign intended to improve site navigation and make documents easier for residents to find. Staff said hosting costs will be placed in the city’s annual fee schedule to allow ongoing adjustments; the council asked that staff return with final hosting terms and any multi-year commitments before funds are expended.
