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Council tables $25,400 Plan & Building software appropriation pending contract details
Summary
The Steuben County Council tabled a $25,400 appropriation request from the Plan & Building Department to replace unsupported 1997 software, after IT and council members urged detailed contract scoping and review by the new Plan Director.
Paula Brown of the Plan and Building Department presented a $25,400 request to replace the department’s legacy 1997 permitting software, saying the current vendor is no longer in business and the system is unsupported. Brown told the council losing the system could mean loss of department data.
Two vendors provided bids: City Force and Paladin Data Systems (SMARTGOV). IT Director Tami Zigler told council she had reviewed the quotes and recommended Paladin/SMARTGOV, saying the vendor purchased the source key from the original supplier and can convert data faster. Frank Charlton, who had attended vendor webinars with Brown, also favored the SMARTGOV product as more user friendly.
Council members pressed for clarity on the contract scope and potential unknown costs. Jim Getz said the council needed to understand the contract and any contingent expenses before approving. Ken Shelton asked whether the new Plan Director had been consulted; Frank Charlton attempted to contact Clint Knauer but could not reach him. Dan Caruso moved to table the request to allow the Plan Director to review the purchase plan; Ken Shelton seconded and the motion carried with six ayes.
The council instructed staff to bring back more detailed contract information and a clear statement of any potential additional costs before reconsidering the appropriation.
