Easley council reviews police IT upgrade request after cybersecurity concerns; recurring cost estimated

The Easley City Council took first reading of Ordinance 2025-12 on Sept. 8, a fiscal-year amendment to authorize IT equipment purchases for the police department and address documented security shortcomings.

Police and IT staff described aging systems and said upgrades are needed to improve IT security. An IT/department representative told the council the initial implementation includes contracting to migrate data and that, after initial expenses, the annual recurring cost is expected to be about $122,349.84. Staff said portions of those costs could be reimbursed through established 911/telecom reimbursement programs but cautioned the amount and timing of reimbursements are determined by the commission and are not guaranteed.

The question of whether to rely on a county system or operate in-house arose after staff recounted a county cybersecurity incident that had not been publicly shared with Easley. "There was an incident with Pickens County that wasn't put publicly," an IT/police representative said, adding that because systems are tied together it should have been shared and that unknown disclosures create liability. Council members asked whether residents would pay more, whether the city had examined cross-budget savings, and what contingency plans would apply if reimbursements do not materialize.

Police leadership said moving more functions in-house and improving security was their preferred path; the chief praised IT staff and emphasized that the changes were intended to reduce risk. The first reading took place and council asked for further cost justification and options for coverage or internal reallocation before any final vote on the budget amendment.