In a significant development, Hermiston has established itself as a key provider of information technology services, catering to over a dozen municipalities and organizations while generating nearly $1.4 million in annual gross revenue. This transformation began in 2022, when the city launched its own IT department, paving the way for expanded services and partnerships.
At the Hermiston City Council meeting on December 8, 2023, the council approved a resolution to extend IT services to the Umatilla Hospital District, marking the 15th agreement of its kind since the department’s inception. City Manager Byron Smith highlighted the department’s growing reputation, stating, “Our IT Department is doing a good job and word gets passed around.”
Establishment of an IT Department
Before 2022, Hermiston lacked an in-house IT team, relying instead on the InterMountain Educational Service District (IMESD) for technology support. However, when IMESD announced a tripling of its service rates, Smith recognized the need for Hermiston to develop its own department. This led to the hiring of six former IMESD employees and the establishment of contracts with neighboring municipalities for IT services.
The situation is relatively unique, as Hermiston is one of the few cities in Oregon providing IT services to external clients, alongside Keizer.
Expanding Clientele and Services
Hermiston’s IT department quickly broadened its reach in 2022, signing contracts with Morrow County, as well as the cities of Stanfield, Echo, and Umatilla, along with the Umatilla County Fire District No. 1. Since then, it has added nine more clients, demonstrating a robust demand for its services.
The annual hours dedicated to each client vary based on specific needs. For instance, Morrow County receives 2,704 hours of service annually, while the Umatilla Hospital District will receive 48 hours. The city typically charges $130 per hour for its services, with Morrow County being the largest client, contributing up to $334,214.40 per year.
Director of the IT Department, Jordan Standley, emphasized the importance of building strong client relationships. “Our team builds trust through reliable, customer-first support,” he noted. This commitment to service has not gone unnoticed; during the recent council meeting, City Councilor Jeff Kelso, who also serves as technology director for the Hermiston School District, praised the department’s efforts.
Furthermore, the League of Oregon Cities recognized the department’s innovative operations by awarding it the 2024 Award for Excellence. Mayor Doug Primmer remarked on the department’s growing reputation, affirming, “It’s obvious we’re the place to go for public service in the IT department.”
The Hermiston IT Department currently serves a diverse range of clients, including:
– City of Hermiston: 2,064 hours, $269,400
– Morrow County: 2,704 hours, $334,214.40
– City of Stanfield: 96 hours, $11,865.60
– Umatilla County Fire District No. 1: 416 hours, $51,417.60
– City of Umatilla: 2,080 hours, $257,088
– City of Pendleton: 1,248 hours, $163,650.24
– Oregon Trail Library District: 192 hours, $23,040
– Horizon Project Inc.: 936 hours, $119,162.16
– City of Milton-Freewater: 832 hours, $105,921.96
– City of Pilot Rock: 96 hours, $12,221.76
– Umatilla Rural Fire Protection District: 96 hours, $12,221.76
– City of Heppner: 96 hours, $11,865.60
– Umatilla Hospital District: 48 hours, $6,240
– City of Echo: As needed
– Port of Umatilla: As needed
As Hermiston’s IT department continues to grow, its success story serves as an example of how municipalities can effectively adapt to technological demands and foster collaborative relationships within their regions.
