New computer system approved for City offices

Sharon Drahn
Contributing Writer

Dave Hoth of A&D Computer Ranch of Postville was present at Monday’s meeting of the Clermont City Council to explain the new computer system being proposed for the City offices. He explained that his bid includes installation, service and transfer of all data. 

City Clerk Jenean Niedert noted that she has always been very pleased with Hoth's service, saying that he has always responded very quickly when a problem arises and has been helpful in keeping the current system, which is 11 years old, up and running. 

She added that he is also available to answer questions and help with technical issues as needed. Councilmember Bill Ashby questioned the cost of the system, saying a similar system could be bought for several hundred dollars less at Best Buy. The remaining members of the council, however, felt it was important to buy locally, knowing that immediate service was available in the event the system should go down. 

After casting a unanimous ballot to purchase the computer and printer from A&D Computer Ranch at an approximate cost of $1279, it was noted that the system will be delivered and billed sometime after the beginning of the new fiscal year.

The computer system for the police department was put on hold until Chief Ryan Evans can be present at a meeting to discuss exactly what is needed.

Marty Barnes, chairman of the American Legion Auxiliary Post 375 Poppy Campaign, was present to ask permission to distribute poppies throughout the community May 9-27. 

The women, she explained, will be wearing red, white and blue along with either a poppy or flag pin. All money collected goes directly to veterans in the state of Iowa.

Mayor Rodney Wagner and Councilmembers Jim Matt, Bruce Lehmann and Bill Ashby will be attending a Small-City Workshop in West Union from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 20. The cost is $35 per attendee, which can be refunded up to a week prior to the meeting in the event a conflict arises.

The Clermont Fire Department requested that any money remaining in its budget at the end of the fiscal year be put into a CD and earmarked for “turn-out” gear. The council accepted the request, and a formal resolution designating the funds will be presented at the next regular meeting of the council.

Final adjustments were made concerning the budget amendment for the 2012-13 fiscal year. It was noted that the final amendment must be approved at the Monday, May 6, meeting and be published in the following issue of the Elgin Echo.