Mesa County commissioners have greenlit a nearly $1.7 million IT maintenance budget for 2025, emphasizing robust cybersecurity and essential digital tools.

A Snapshot of the IT Budget

During Tuesday morning’s meeting, commissioners laid out plans for next year’s IT maintenance. The approved budget reflects a modest increase from last year, aligning with typical annual growth in county IT expenses.

Key details include:

• Total Budget: Just under $1.7 million.
• Primary Focus: Core software tools and enhanced security measures.
• Growth Trend: A steady 5-7% yearly increase in IT spending.

“This year’s budget aligns closely with what we’ve seen in prior years,” noted Lhana Jordan, Mesa County’s IT director.

Breaking Down the Numbers

The IT budget covers 12 separate contracts, supporting everything from operational software to critical cybersecurity infrastructure. Among the top line items:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Allocated $270 million.
• Google Apps Services: Allocated $295 million.

The massive figures, though seemingly unusual, underscore the high costs associated with licensing and maintaining enterprise-grade software systems.

Cybersecurity Takes Center Stage

As technology advances, so do the risks. Cybersecurity remains a priority for the county. Jordan highlighted the balance between fiscal responsibility and the need for robust digital defenses.

“We aspire to have the highest level of security within our budget,” Jordan said, explaining the challenges of striking the right balance.

Despite the budget constraints, Mesa County strives to keep its systems secure, recognizing the evolving threats to public institutions.

IT Budget Growth in Perspective

The incremental increase in the budget reflects broader trends in IT spending.

• 2024 Budget: Approximately $1.5 million.
• 2023 Budget: Slightly below $1.5 million.

Jordan explained, “This is approximately where it normally is. We generally see anywhere between a 5 to 7% increase each year.”

This stability demonstrates the county’s commitment to maintaining a reliable and secure IT infrastructure, even as costs climb.

Why IT Maintenance Matters

The approval of this budget ensures continuity for critical services across Mesa County. From administrative operations to public services, the IT department’s work underpins nearly every aspect of local governance.

Looking ahead, investments in technology will likely continue to grow, driven by increased demands for efficiency, security, and innovation in public service delivery.