City in need of a tech tune-up

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March 9, 2010

By ANDY GOODELL The Oskaloosa Herald Tue Mar 09, 2010, 11:21 AM CST

OSKALOOSA — It’s just about time for an update.

The computer technology used by Oskaloosa city employees isn’t exactly where it needs to be, according to City Manager Michael Schrock Jr. He said not all of the city’s computers are networked and could use a better file backup system.

In the event of a fire or other disaster, keeping paperwork backed up somewhere else could prove critical, said Schrock. He also said there is a need for interdepartmental communication.

“This city is sorely lacking in a lot of areas when it comes to technology such as computers, telephones — how we connect and talk as an organization,” he said.

Oskaloosa Public Library Director Suzann Holland said the way in which each city department currently backs up its files is different. She added there is a disaster plan in place, but an updated backup method is needed.

Oskaloosa Public Works Director Akhilesh Pal said within his department some things are up to date, while others are not. He added, sharing files over a network and having more files backed up electronically would be beneficial.

“Right now some of our plans and things are paper only,” said Pal, who also noted sending and receiving e-mails at his office can be a challenge sometimes because of the older technology they presently work with.

Part of the city’s recently approved fiscal year budget includes spending up to $100,000 for computer technology improvements. However, Schrock said he doesn’t think it will take this much money to get the city’s computers up to par, saying this amount was chosen “just in case.” Schrock also noted that this expenditure, which will come up as a “general equipment” one, will come from a fund that totals more than $300,000, but has not had a detailed plan for how to spend it.

Holland said a comprehensive technology plan for the city is in the works.

Aside from improved communication between city employees, it is also important for the city to be up to date for the benefit of Oskaloosa residents, said Holland.

“It will be a benefit to the citizens because it will help with ways to communicate with their government,” explained Holland. “Now that governments are becoming more transparent, that is important.”

For now, the city is in an assessment phase of their technology improvement initiative, said Holland. Small technology expenditures will be made this summer, with a complete plan to be approved by the Oskaloosa City Council expected this coming fall. Holland said this plan is expected to be very detailed and will include a three to five year technology strategy for the city.

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Herald City Editor Andy Goodell can be reached at news2@oskyherald.com

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City in need of a tech tune-up

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