Commissioners Review Computer Needs

The Cheyenne County Courthouse is becoming increasingly computerized.

Admittedly, some of it is a response to safety protocols related to the coronavirus.

Court proceedings have become increasingly virtual in response to distancing requirements. Inmates could have visits by video conferencing and department websites are adding more features to their pages, allowing customers to do business from home.

However, regardless the reason, technology, as with most things mechanical, eventually needs to be upgraded or fixed. When a computer system fails, it can be at the most inconvenient moment.

“I wonder if the time has come for a part-time or full-time internet technology (IT) person,” Commissioner Phil Sanders said.

He said his concern includes the safety of the system. He said a regional school district's computer system was hacked recently, costing the district thousands.

“We need to be secure,” he said.

Cheyenne County Sheriff Adam Frerichs spoke up, reminding the commissioners he came before the board almost a year ago. He said he has nothing against the current provider, but the county needs someone who is ready when a problem occurs.

Fiber optics was discussed as an option. Fiber optics is a more secure system, according to the March 1 discussion.

“That would be the selling point right there,” Sanders said.

County Assessor Mel Keller said the discussion is justified after her a computer in her office went down.

Deputy Ron Kissler said he is working on redundancies for the sheriff's office and courts.

The remaining question is if the county needs a full-time or part-time person, or is there a way to share resources with another agency in the community. If the county designates a specific IT position, the position would likely be funded by other departments trimming their budgets to provide funds for a new position. The commissioners did not have an answer for funding a proposed IT position, or make a decision on an IT position.

In other business, met with Lacey Vach regarding a proposed barrel racing event for Night of Hope. The event, hosted by the Fair Royalty, will be run as a barrel race event during the fair. The proposed date is July 24, just prior to the Open Horse Show. She asked for use of the arena and possibly the PA system, and lighting. Entries will start at 5:30 p.m. and exhibits start at 6 p.m. Vach said the event has the support of the fair board.

The event would be held on the north side of the arena. The commissioners approved the request 3-0.

The commissioners also met as the Board of Equalization regarding a Tax List Correction for Homestead Exemption for William McGowan.

Returning as the board of commissioners, the board was updated on activities in the assessor's office, met with County Highway Superintendent Doug Hart regarding purchase of a tractor and backhoe and held an executive session to discuss personnel.