County Adds Staff To Continue Computer System Upgrade

In an attempt to upgrade antiquated computer systems in the County, El Paso County Commissioners Court approved creating five new positions to help implement the Odyssey project.

According to staff, the project which is already underway, is saving the County money but they need more staff to continue making upgrades.

The five new positions will cost the County $86,964 for the remainder of the year. The amount works into the budget according to the County auditor, but the County will need to make plans for nearly $250,000 for the next fiscal year as they are expected to last between 24 and 36 more months as computer systems are upgraded.

The positions, however, could last longer.

“I do think these could be regular, or long-term,” said County Auditor Wallace Hargrove, pointing out several other computer systems need work and that the new hires could potentially be blended into the county’s regular IT department.

County Commissioner Sergio Lewis discussed the hiring during Monday’s meeting, pointing out that research from the County revealed that El Paso County has fewer IT personnel than some counties which are smaller in size and population.