New Castle County's budget hearing on May 15, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in the county's IT department, particularly in vendor engagement and cybersecurity measures. The meeting featured a presentation from the IT director, who reported a remarkable increase in vendor contracts, rising from 43 to 125. This expansion is expected to enhance service delivery and foster greater community engagement.

Councilman Hollins praised the IT director's efforts and acknowledged the positive impact of Helen Foster's work in connecting vendors with the county. This collaboration is seen as a vital step in ensuring that diverse businesses have opportunities to partner with local government.

Councilman Carter raised concerns about the need for additional resources to assess the county's technology needs, particularly in artificial intelligence. He emphasized the importance of conducting an external needs assessment to identify potential efficiencies and savings, suggesting that investing in this area could yield long-term benefits for the county.

Cybersecurity was another focal point of the discussion. The IT director addressed ongoing challenges in this area, noting that the department is actively working to enhance its defenses. Recent training provided by FEMA was highlighted as part of the county's commitment to staying ahead of emerging threats. The director underscored the importance of staff education in cybersecurity, recognizing that human error remains a significant vulnerability.

Overall, the meeting underscored New Castle County's proactive approach to improving its IT infrastructure and vendor relationships, with a clear focus on enhancing service delivery and safeguarding against cybersecurity threats. As the county moves forward, these initiatives are expected to play a crucial role in fostering a more efficient and secure operational environment.