Rhodes recounts ups, downs of 2011

"It transferred tax collection from the Treasurers Office to the Assessors Office for more efficiency," he said. "The net result of this reorganization was estimated to be over $175,000. More reductions and changes are on the horizon, while together, we will continue to search for additional revenue sources."

Rhodes said Information Research, the IT Department, is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the county’s computer software, personal computers, and countywide computer network. And it is as well responsible for purchasing all computer equipment for all county departments.

"It recycled near 200 computers and servers this past year," Rhodes said. "It has saved Curry County $30,000 in server replacement costs to date. Regarding the VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) Phone system, IT: 1) worked out programming efficiencies, 2) created over $50,000 in savings over prior year on the analog system, and 3) transitioned to a new service provider saving an additional $15,000 per year. In short, IT implemented paperless meetings using reclaimed laptops."

The formidable challenges they have faced

"In spite of all of the formidable challenges they have faced, the various departments of the county have performed remarkably then this past year," Rhodes said. "They have found ways of reducing expenditures, finding new revenue, and becoming more efficient, while all in all serving the public at a high-level."

"The purpose of this committee is to identify and to explore all viable revenue and expenditure opportunities to achieve fiscal solvency and stability for Curry County government now and hereafter," Rhodes said. "This group of 23 individuals has been regularly meeting and will be presenting recommendations to the board in the nearly future. Following the recommendations, the board will implement a plan of action to address the financial crisis."

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