The city’s computers and other electronic equipment require replacement this year, with the projected expenses surpassing $1 million.
The Augusta Commission collectively approved on Tuesday the implementation of the city’s substitution strategy for devices such as computers, laptops, servers, printers, scanners, routers, VoIP phones, and related equipment.
The typical lifespan of this type of technology ranges from five to eight years, as stated by Reggie Horne, who serves as the interim chief information officer for Augusta. With advancements in information technology continually evolving, the associated hardware also needs updates accordingly.
Horne stated in a prepared remark, "The ongoing process includes the standardization of existing operating systems and Microsoft Office products across the company." He further noted, "Consequently, necessary software and hardware updates might have to be acquired for devices like computers and servers that aren’t slated for replacement yet."
The workforce of Augusta reportedly utilizes a minimum of 2,000 desktop computers; 500 laptops and tablets; 400 mobile data terminals; along with 1,500 radios, as stated in Horne’s prepped statements.
Extracting additional longevity from current technology is not advised.
Horne mentioned that it would "raise expenses for future budget replacements and impact various tech-related initiatives, projects, and standard operational procedures. Maintaining such outdated machinery might lead to unforeseeable consequences, decreased effectiveness in specific divisions, and heightened chances of system failures."
In May 2023, the ransomware gang known as BlackByte admitted to carrying out an attack that left the Richmond County Tax Commissioner’s office incapable of processing property taxes for multiple weeks.
The article initially appeared in the Augusta Chronicle. This is the anticipated expense for technological upgrades in Augusta City by the year 2025.