2005 Annual Report

The IT Department is responsible for selecting, implementing, maintaining, supporting and updating all things technology related within the Town, including Pubic Safety, Public Works and all of the Town Departments, including the School Department. 

Our efforts spill well beyond the bounds of computers and servers.  Thanks to the technology revolution the IT Department has morphed from a computer department to a technology department.  Our responsibilities now include copiers, fax machines, security systems, video systems, phone systems, websites, GIS and more.  These responsibilities will continue to grow.

One of the biggest developments this year has been the startup of our new fiber optic network replacing our overloaded cable based WAN. The East Longmeadow network consists of a Microsoft NT enterprise servicing all Town and School buildings as well as several pump stations. It remains one of the largest and most advanced enterprise networks in Massachusetts for a municipality of its size. All desktop clients share 10 mbps fiber Internet access, Exchange e-mail and direct access to appropriate functional services. The last two buildings to go on this fiber network (Meadowbrook and Mountainview) will be in Spring 2006.

During 2005, the East Longmeadow computer system attained a size of 27 servers and approximately 1300 clients. Software packages to run accounting, assessor, payroll, police/fire, school, tax and utility billing were maintained and upgraded. Key servers and clients have been upgraded to more powerful hardware to reflect their mission critical role. The public safety phone system has been upgraded with equipment donated by the LPVEC.

Other highlights for the year 2005 include continuing detailed systems documentation, implementing policies and procedures, and development of strategic, security and data storage plans.

Respectfully submitted,
John Somsen
IT Director