To keep it --- or to outsource it --- the decision to do away with the county's I-T department or to contract inline network integration of Longview.
Upshur county commissioners tabled the decision and will make the final decision at the end of the month.
"We will wait --- and review the contract and wait to take action on that contract before taking action on the personel" - County Commissioner Cole Hefner
Hefner says after benefits, car allowances, and salaries it costs the county over $80,000 a year to keep the 2 person staff. By contracting another company the cost would drop to $47,000.
"It's not just the money... The money is just an extra benefit. We are also needing to look at taking our county to the next level in technology" --- Cole Hefner
hefner says the contractors promise improved bandwidth and stronger anti-virus protection.
Not everyone agrees --- I-T Director Karmen Kelley says it's a mistake to let her department go. "they are thinking they will save 20-thousand but i don't see it --- this company only does the hardware side --- i feel like it's going to cost a whole lot of money and the tax payers will have to pay for it" --- Karmen Kelley, it director
Kelly says that would leave the county paying for software.
Not only does she believe it's a mistake -- but hates to see 35 years of her life taken away.
"I put 35 years of work for this county, not in it but for it! and this job means a lot to me"
But for commissioner hefner the choice is made..
"This isn't an easy decision to make and it isn't fun by any means, if the contract is satisfactory --- as far as i am concerned it is a done deal" - Commissioner Hefner.
Until the vote is taken -- two employees will have to wait to learn their future.
In Gilmer, Upshur County, I'm Kevin Boyce, KYTX CBS 19 News.
