APC backs GovWell permitting software; staff to seek budget approval

The Boone County Area Planning Commission voted unanimously Aug. 5 to endorse the selection committee's recommendation to pursue GovWell as the county's permitting platform so staff can include the request in next year's budget. Nick, the APC executive director, told the commission the recommended first-year cost is $42,000 for the software and $36,300 for implementation, which he included as a request in the 2027 budget.

Commission members raised questions about user licensing, AI features, and long-term costs before the vote. Jay Schaumburg and other members said the platform's ability to manage multiple ordinances and provide both staff and public views was a decisive benefit. "The initial cost for the software is 42,000 a year, and then the implementation is 36,300," Nick said, noting the vendor offers a one-year renewal with a 5% annual increase after 2028. The board asked staff to present the endorsed recommendation at county budget hearings for final funding determinations.

The motion to record the commission's support passed without objection. The commission additionally encouraged staff to demonstrate GovWell's demo site for interested stakeholders before final contract negotiation.