County officials begin Microsoft 365 migration to enhance email and AI services

Hocking County officials are taking significant steps to enhance technology and communication services across the county, as discussed in the recent Hocking County Commissioners meeting held on February 20, 2025. A key focus of the meeting was the transition to Microsoft 365, which is set to begin in March. This migration aims to modernize the county's email and office software, with plans to ensure a consistent email nomenclature to improve communication efficiency among staff.

In addition to the software upgrade, the county is also addressing the need for improved internet and phone services. Officials expressed concerns about the lack of competition among service providers, particularly in areas dominated by Frontier and AT&T. The commissioners are considering a Request for Proposal (RFP) to consolidate phone services, which could lead to better pricing and service options for the county.

Another significant topic was the ongoing upgrade of county workstations to Windows 11, with plans to replace around 75 aging computers before the end of support for Windows 10. This proactive measure is aimed at maintaining security and functionality within county operations.

The meeting also highlighted the county's exploration of artificial intelligence (AI) applications. Officials are working on developing policies to guide the use of AI tools, particularly in departments like Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and the sheriff's office. The integration of AI into Microsoft 365 is expected to enhance productivity, but officials emphasized the importance of using these tools cautiously.

Furthermore, the county is benefiting from various cybersecurity services provided by federal agencies, which are crucial for protecting sensitive information. These services, including malicious domain blocking and network monitoring, are currently offered at no cost to the county, but there are concerns about potential budget cuts at the national level that could jeopardize these resources.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting reflect Hocking County's commitment to improving technology infrastructure and communication services, which are essential for effective governance and public service delivery. As these initiatives progress, residents can expect enhanced services and increased efficiency in county operations.