Department of Information & Technology (IT)

  The Department of Information & Technology (IT) is responsible for providing the City of Macon government with proactive leadership in citywide Information, Communications, and Telecommunications technologies. The mission and vision of the City of Macon IT department establishes a clear and consistent approach to implementing and maintaining the information and communications technology infrastructure in support of the city’s present environment and future direction. The primary responsibilities incorporate providing and maintaining the city’s complex data and communications network infrastructures, enterprise applications; and in ensuring the security of the city’s information and data processes. IT works collaboratively with city leadership and all city departments to ensure that the city is supported by appropriate levels of information technology services, and coordinates with departments on a variety of plans for meeting their present and future technology needs. Reporting to the Honorable Mayor Robert Reichert, and under the direction of Information & Technology Officer, Tom C. Tourand, - IT oversees the day-to-day operations of these vital technologies for city government.

  The City of Macon IT department deploys centralized and decentralized information technology, communications, and telecommunications staffs that maintain and deliver the city’s services respective to these technologies. IT must strategically balance the citywide infrastructure and technology needs with the individual priorities and concerns of our Mayor, CAO, and all city departments. Additionally, IT proactively apprises city management, departments, and staff of changing technologies. These new technologies can potentially be beneficial and prudent technological advancements for possible deployment within city departments towards enhancing technology throughout the city.

  The following items are just a few examples of the strategic operations of IT:

Worldwide Web Presence – The city’s award winning website is one example of the mission for IT to best serve it’s citizens. The primary goal for the City Website is to provide residents and customers with a flexible website that allows for easy and convenient access to information concerning city departments and the services each provide, as well as offering a quick resource for direct linkage to many important regional agencies.

E-911 Center – The Communications division of IT is responsible for providing and maintaining the technologies for the regional Emergency 9-1-1 center. Additionally, IT Communications division provides and maintains all City/County Fire Department, City Police vehicles/ police officers, and Emergency Ambulance Service mobile radio units; as well as the regional 800 MHz radio transmission towers.

Cable Channel 14 – IT controls and maintains the equipment and content for all programming transmitted to the citizens of Macon daily on our 24-hour City Government Channel 14. Live broadcasting of important City government activities such as City Council meetings, as well as continuously updated events and daily GA Job bulletins are just some of the programming provided to the citizens and region on this venue.

Telephone System Implementation – IT is currently rolling out a new telephone system that, upon completion, will include new telephone units for a majority of the city departments. Effectively managing the new telephone initiative will reduce the city’s telecommunications expenses and enhance the resources for City of Macon’s staff.