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Council delays website redesign after debate over $30,000 contract and hosting costs
Summary
The Newcastle City Council declined to approve a $30,000 contract for a website redesign after members split over uncertain ongoing hosting costs; staff said the redesign would move the city off a proprietary platform and that hosting can be chosen after the build.
The Newcastle City Council voted 4-3 on June 3 against approving a $30,000 contract to redesign the city website, after several council members said they needed clearer information about ongoing hosting costs and contract terms.
City Clerk (presenter) told the council, “Tonight before you is a ... resolution to approve a contract with Black Cat Studios” to build a new WordPress site intended to replace the city’s current proprietary system. The proposal from Black Cat Studios (designer Jen Pack) included a recommended third‑party hosting plan priced at roughly $240 the first year and $360 per year thereafter.
Council members said they supported a modern, easier‑to‑navigate site but…
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