The Garden City Village Board of Trustees recently discussed the 2024-25 budget, with Village Administrator Ralph V. Suozzi highlighting changes in the Administration budget and the collaboration with the Library to upgrade its IT infrastructure.
During the budget work session, Suozzi detailed the cost centers within the Administration Budget, including expenses for the Board of Trustees, Village Justice, Administrative and Village Clerk’s Office, Personnel/HR, and IT services. The overall Administration budget decreased by 4% to $2.115 million, with savings achieved by reducing reliance on third-party IT consultants.
One notable change was the addition of an Info Tech Aide II to work alongside the village’s senior IT Specialist, Ryan Sheehan. This new hire will provide coverage during business hours and assist with the village’s IT needs, including working with the library staff.
Suozzi also discussed the migration of the library’s network infrastructure to align with modernization efforts in the village. The budget includes funding for IT support at the library, with the goal of enhancing network security and integration with the Nassau Library System.
Additionally, the Administration budget includes capital projects such as the renovation of the Village Hall Computer Room and the purchase of new file servers. Suozzi emphasized the importance of maintaining digital records and outlined plans for future projects, including a Digital Scanning initiative in FY 2025-26.
Overall, the budget discussions highlighted the village’s commitment to upgrading IT infrastructure, improving network security, and enhancing digital record-keeping practices. The collaboration between the Administration and the Library demonstrates a strategic approach to resource sharing and cost management.