Churchill County’s data processing department oversees the technology systems and infrastructure used across county offices, including computers, servers, software, website management, and network systems.
During the February budget hearing, Joe Sanford explained that many of the department’s budget increases are due to routine software contract increases, as well as costs related to website maintenance and ongoing Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance efforts. Some of those expenses are connected to software purchased last year that will now require continued annual funding.
Sanford explained that while $252,000 had originally been budgeted for computers and printers during the 2024‑25 fiscal year, only about $53,000 was ultimately spent. According to Sanford, some purchases were delayed to help with the transition to Windows 11 and to avoid buying equipment that would immediately require upgrades. However, those delays also meant some county computers were in service longer than intended. The proposed budget now includes approximately $180,000 to bring county computers up to a five‑year replacement schedule, representing an increase of about $86,000 over the current year’s budget.
Sanford also recommended increasing the repairs and maintenance line item from $1,000 to $20,000, noting that the county had already spent roughly $18,000 this year replacing a critical firewall system. He explained that major technology failures, like server outages, can cost around $8,000 per replacement. Commissioners also discussed ensuring the budget could cover essential systems used by departments, including the Sheriff’s Office and E911 services. Sanford noted that while some specialized systems have separate funding sources, the repairs and maintenance budget is meant to help cover unexpected failures across most county offices.
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