FORT WALTON BEACH — The Okaloosa County School Board voted to go into negotiations for a new technology contract with L3 Communications.
The unanimous vote came after an hour of public comment and board discussion that touched on issues including costs, quality of service, the inherent advantage L3 has as the current technology supplier and the role of technology in the district.
The issue will come before the board again before a contract is signed.
Monday’s vote followed months of debate, which started after the second ranked company, Edcovation, raised questions about the selection committee’s process.
“We really appreciate everybody’s concerns,” chairman Rodney Walker said at the end of the discussion. “I can assure you from the board members here and the superintendent, we’re sincere in wanting what’s best for the students.”
If the district and L3 reach an agreement, the proposed contract will come before the board for a vote. If it’s rejected, the district will enter into negotiations with Edcovation.
If no agreement is reached, the process starts over.
For Edcovation, Monday’s vote was a disappointment.
“We gave them everything they requested and we were told we were qualified to do the job,” said Bob Schmidt, who oversees one of the companies in the joint venture. “I feel like we were slighted.”
As at last Thursday’s workshop and again Monday night, district officials and some board members said they had concerns about the finances of Edcovation.
Board members said they couldn’t find fault with the committee that recommended L3 over Edcovation but said they’d like to see changes with the district’s approach to receiving proposals.
“There are a number of things here I’m definitely not happy with,” said board member Dewey Destin.
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Katie Tammen at 850-315-4440 or ktammen@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @KatieTnwfdn.