Officials consider budgeting $75,000–$120,000 for new financial software; implementation estimated at 12–18 months

Meeting participants discussed budgeting for new financial/accounting software for the auditor and treasurer. "Do we want to budget some part of that so that if something comes available, we can begin moving?" Speaker 2, a staff member, asked while the group reviewed vendor quotes. Speaker 4, identified in the transcript as giving procurement timing, said, "Everyone that I've spoken to, it's 12 to 18 months before implementation. Like, if we were to make a decision in October, we might get lucky to start implementation." Staff reported preliminary vendor quotes with initial costs described as about $75,000 at the low end, $96,000 for a mid-range quote, and roughly $120,000 at the high end. Participants noted the implementation expense includes an upfront payment followed by ongoing costs. No formal procurement motion or contract award appears in the transcript. The discussion focused on whether to include a line item in the upcoming budget to reserve funds in case an opportunity to proceed arises. If the governing body chooses to budget for the project, staff indicated additional planning will be required to scope features, confirm vendor support and finalize timing.