Copyright cleveland.com
ELYRIA, Ohio – Lorain County is set to save more than $100,000 with a recently-approved consulting services contract that will replace Job and Family Service’s outdated and expensive phone system. The service agreement for the new system, which will be used by the Child Support Enforcement Agency, was approved unanimously by Lorain County Commissioners at their Oct. 24 meeting and is effective as of Nov. 1. Chris Cabot, Director of JFS, told commissioners during the meeting that the old system was going to require a $30,000 upgrade, a $100,000 software assurance for one year, a five-year subscription and a $30,000 annual fee—totaling $160,000 for just one year. “This new provider, who also works with the state, so the state supports it, is a $8,250 startup, a $3,000 equipment and a $22,000 annual fee for a $34,000 first year,” Cabot said. “So, we’re saving $130,000 just on the first year with this.” Praising the work done by CSEA Administrator Amy Price to secure the contract, Cabot emphasized that the new system not only delivers significant cost savings and the same features the department currently uses, but also provides updated technology, screen captures, call-back features and free training. “It’s a win-win in the advancements in the technology and in the cost savings,” Cabot said.
