Algoma City Council goes over budget for APD computers

ALGOMA – The Algoma City Council approved Resolution 1227-2025 on May 5 in a 5-2 vote, authorizing the purchase of seven Toughbook computers for the city’s police department despite concerns about cost and funding sources.

The decision followed a detailed discussion about the necessity, funding and timing of the technology upgrade.

While the 2025 budget allocated $18,000 for the purchase of three or four Toughbooks, the quote presented to the council came in at $29,912 for seven units, significantly exceeding the initial budget by almost $12,000.

To cover the funding gap, council members agreed to draw from the Cable Equipment Reserves, $25,000 that had originally been earmarked for future squad car purchases.

This shift in allocation prompted concern from Treasurer Jamie Jackson, who voiced reservations about diverting funds intended for vehicle needs.

Debate centered around whether purchasing all seven devices at once was necessary.

Some council members questioned whether seven was a need or a want, suggesting that buying four this year and three the next could help spread out the financial burden.

City Administrator Matt Murphy supported a staggered purchasing schedule, favoring a rotation model over a single, large expense.

Police Chief David Allen addressed the council to clarify confusion stemming from a prior Finance and Personnel Committee meeting.

He questioned the current structure of the Algoma Police Department (APD) with the Kewaunee County Sheriff’s Department (KCSD), noting that while KCSD deputies each have their own Toughbooks and administrative support staff to handle reporting, Algoma officers are responsible for writing their own reports and conducting their own investigations.

All reports are then reviewed by Chief Allen.

He also emphasized the quote presented reflected only the bare minimum requirements and had been reviewed by the city’s IT firm, Quantum Technologies.

The need for updated equipment was further underscored by ongoing changes in law enforcement technology standards — particularly in light of a Criminal Investigations Bureau audit which is currently underway.

Chief Allen explained security standards have increased since the last audit, prompting further discussion with Quantum Technologies on the pros and cons of individual versus shared device use.

Following the debate, Alderperson Scott Meverden motioned to approve the purchase as quoted, seconded by Alderperson Amy Johnson.

The motion passed with five votes in favor and two against: John Ortlieb, Casey Buhr, Dawn Kidd, Amy Johnson and Scott Meverden voted yes, while Midge Swedberg and Wayne R. Schmidt voted no.

With the motion’s passed, the APD will move forward with acquiring the seven Toughbooks, marking a significant investment in department technology and officer efficiency.