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<br /> <br /> STAFF REPORT <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />TO: Mayor Keis and Members of the City Council <br /> <br />FROM: Heidi Heller, City Clerk/HR Manager <br /> <br />DATE: December 14, 2022 <br /> <br />RE: Purchase of OpenGov Software <br /> <br /> <br />ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED <br />Approve the purchase of OpenGov software for permits, licensing, code enforcement and <br />planning services. <br /> <br />BACKGROUND <br />The City has been looking for software platforms that allow residents and contractors to perform <br />common tasks such as building permits, contractor licenses, business licenses online as well as <br />through mobile devices used by staff. Originally staff had purchased Permitworks, but the <br />vendor has not followed through with the implementation. Staff again began looking for options <br />that could offer permits and all types of licensing, along with code enforcement and planning <br />tracking. <br /> <br />After reviewing available options, the City has identified a software platform, OpenGov, that <br />meets all of our identified needs. The OpenGov Citizen Services module also includes at no <br />additional cost, a Reporting and Transparency module to allow the City to share data with the <br />public. It allows residents to pay for permits or licenses securely online and track the status of <br />their requests, as well as engage with the City staff responsible for each process. <br /> <br />OpenGov is a cloud-based service, and OpenGov maintains the platform for software updates <br />and security fixes. The City of Vadnais Heights began using OpenGov in 2021 and has very <br />happy. The City Clerk and Customer Services Specialist went to Vadnais Heights City Hall to <br />be shown the software and talk with staff, and were impressed with OpenGov. <br /> <br />FINANCIAL IMPACT <br />A 5-year contract and pricing has been submitted by OpenGov. Prior to receiving pricing, <br />$30,000 was added in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to purchase this software. At the <br />November 16 City Council meeting, staff requested additional funds be added to the CIP. The <br />City Council approved adding an additional $23,625 to the 2023-2032 Capital Improvement Plan <br />to cover the 2023 purchase cost. The annual subscription fee will then be in the operating levy <br />beginning in 2024. <br />