Board approves purchase of service department computers; members note prior tabling and tariff concerns

On May 5 the Norton Board of Control voted 4-0 to award the purchase of computers for the city service department to BPI Information Systems in an amount not to exceed $16,658 as described on the agenda. During discussion, council members said they had trimmed the original request from a larger list to four machines aligned with specific needs: a laptop for a mechanic, one for the service director, one assumed for Vivian (a named staff member), and one for a shared 'union room' workstation for staff to check email and training materials.

A council member noted the item had been tabled previously and that the legislation in the packet might still list an older figure; another member said the item was not on the current legislation and would require reintroduction if necessary. Staff referenced potential tariff concerns that had been raised earlier but said they did not expect those to delay ordering this purchase.

When the motion was made, the figure recited in the discussion was $16,006.58 for the purchase; the record therefore contains two close but different numbers (agenda: $16,658 vs. motion: $16,006.58). The board voted by roll call and the four present members — DeHartbert, Harbert, Lowry and Keener — voted yes. Council members said they reduced the request by approximately $10,000 from earlier versions and expected to reuse some older computers for minimal tasks.

Staff did not cite a purchasing code or ordinance during the discussion. The record indicates staff follow-up is needed to ensure the correct figure and any necessary legislative steps are reflected in official procurement paperwork.