Explanation
BACKGROUND:
This ordinance authorizes an extension and increase of an existing contract for the ongoing development and hosting of the E-File/E-Pay processing system of the Income Tax Division by First Data Government Solutions. This legislation will extend the contract period through August 1, 2015 and provide funding for hosting of the application and any change orders arising during that period.
The Division of Income Tax has provided, through First Data Government Solutions (FDGS), e-file and e-pay capabilities. FDGS developed and hosts the Divisions application. Following the initial development and implementation of the basic application, the Division and FDGS have engaged in the development of ongoing upgrades to better serve taxpayers. FDGS's contract compliance number 59-2957887 expires on 10-24-2015.
Emergency action is being requested to allow the financial transaction to be posted in the city's accounting system as soon as possible and allow for uninterrupted service. Up to date financial posting promotes accurate accounting and financial management.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The funds for this modification are included in the Division of Income Tax budget for 2014 in the amount of $100,000.00.
Title
To authorize the City Auditor to modify and increase the current contract with First Data Government Solutions to provide for ongoing hosting and development services for the Income Tax E-File/E-Pay processing system through August 1, 2015; to authorize and direct the City Auditor to authorize the expenditure of $100,000.00; and to declare an emergency ($100,000.00).
Body
WHEREAS, a need exists in the daily operations of the Office of the Auditor, Income Tax Division that it is necessary to modify and increase the existing contract with First Data Government Solutions for the hosting and ongoing development of the E-File/E-Pay processing system to be paid through August 1, 2015, and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to provide for an amendment to the original agreement, as previously amended, to ensure uninterrupted and enhanced service to users, and
WHEREAS, an emergency exists in the usual daily operation of the Division of Income Tax, Office of the Auditor in that it is necessary to authorize the City Auditor to modify the contract with First Data Government Solutions by extending the term and increasing the contract amount by $100,000.00 to ensure continuous and enhanced E-File/E-Pay service for the preservation of the public health, peace, property, safety and welfare; now, therefore,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That the City Auditor be and is hereby authorized to modify the contract by extending the term and increasing the contract amount by $100,000.00 with First Data Government Solutions for the hosting and ongoing development of the e-File/E-Pay processing system through August 1, 2015.
SECTION 2. That the expenditure of $100,000.00 or so much thereof as may be necessary is hereby authorized from , General Fund 010, Auditor's Office/Income Tax Division 22-02, OCA Code 220202, Object Level Three 3348, to pay the cost thereof.
SECTION 3. That for the reasons stated in the preamble hereto, which is hereby made a part hereof, this ordinance is hereby declared to be an emergency measure and shall take effect and be in force from and after its passage and approval by the Mayor or ten days after passage if the Mayor neither approves nor vetoes the same.