03/09/1998 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • COUNCIL MINUTES MARCH 9, 1998 Council Member Neal asked about the current status of the Citizens Advisory Group. Mayor Sullivan indicated that Council would review this matter with members of the Group at an upcoming work session. Mr. Lindblad added that, in response to Council requests, a chairman and vice chairman were appointed, and by-laws were drafted. Mr. Tesch pointed out that copies of the report presented at this meeting are available to citizens. Council Member Neal moved to accept the Citizens Advisory Group 1997 report, as presented. Council Member Dahl seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. FINANCE DEPARTMENT REPORT, MARY VASKE Consideration of Purchasing New Accounting Software - Ms. Vaske explained that in 1994 the Finance Department purchased FundWorks software through Tautges, Redpath for the City's accounting programs. Since that time the developer of this software has encountered difficulty in continuing support. Therefore, two proposals for replacement software were obtained and, according to Ms. Vaske, PACE software from Computer Management Systems, Inc. (CMS) would best meet the needs of Lino Lakes. Ms. Vaske indicated that it would be desirable to make the change to CMS software prior to the end of 1998 to allow for creation of the chart of accounts, establish payroll records, etc. Support costs with the current software are $21,000 annually. The cost for PACE software support beginning in 1999 would be $5,500, which represents a considerable savings to the City. In contrast to Tautges, CMS' user base is in excess of 300 clients. In addition to software, updated hardware is required. The current server is in need of repair and/or replacement. In summary the City would purchase a server and four work stations, as well as switch to Windows NT in place of Novell. Ms. Vaske pointed out that this new equipment would be moved to the new City Hall facility upon occupancy. The total cost for the replacement hardware would be approximately $25,000. Funding for this purchase would come from the General and Utility funds. Ms. Vaske explained that in 1997 investment earnings were $48,000 more than budgeted in the General Fund, and $30,000 more in the Water and Sewer Funds, for a total excess of $78,000. According to Ms. Vaske, the purchase can be designated from these excesses in 1997, with 50% from the General Fund, 25% from the Water Fund, and 25% from the Sewer Fund. Ms. Vaske added that the new software will bring the City current with reporting requirements, and will include free government updates. Council Member Lyden asked about the projected life span for the proposed PACE software. Ms. Vaske explained that there should be no need to replace this software.