Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Payments Upgrade topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves $2,250 to equip treasurer's office with chip/tap credit-card machines
Summary
Treasurer requested three chip/tap-capable card terminals to reduce daily payment declines; the board approved $2,250 for three machines, asked staff to coordinate implementation, and noted concerns about budgeting amid ongoing amendment work.
The Board of Supervisors approved a $2,250 expenditure to buy three chip-and-tap credit-card terminals for the treasurer’s office to reduce frequent payment declines and speed collections during high-volume events.
Treasurer Miss Carlton explained existing swipe-only terminals require staff to manually key CVV and address information, causing multiple declines that create delays and occasional soft posts. She said the upgrade, included with the county's Edmunds payments software, would add chip and tap functionality and allow mobile use across stations.
"It also has a little microchip where you can insert the card if the tap doesn't work," she said, adding the three terminals cost $2,250 total. Board members welcomed the operational efficiency and noted revenue preservation at events such as rabies clinics, but several supervisors also cautioned about adding nonbudgeted items while FY26 amendments are unresolved. Staff suggested internal reallocation from office-supplies lines or interdepartmental transfers as a compromise if necessary.
The treasurer said she had a contract ready to sign and would coordinate with IT for installation; the board asked to be notified when terminals are live so the county can publicize the new payment option.
