Nassau audit identifies high-tech woes

The Nassau County comptroller has found major problems in the county's information technology department, including a long list of projects that are "seriously" behind schedule and shortcomings that leave the computer network vulnerable.

In an audit released Wednesday, Comptroller George Maragos called on the department to create a plan for replacing key staff members who leave or retire, so that computer systems continue to function.

"All services to the public can be affected, including public safety, should any major technology systems fail and not be quickly restored," Maragos said in a statement.

The comptroller also noted that with $191 million in projects behind schedule -- including a sheriff's department accounting system and a paperless check system in the treasurer's office -- the department should prioritize more effectively.

But in its response, the department noted that it has fewer people to turn the department around. The IT Department said it had 122 employees in 2009 and 2010, when the audit was conducted. Now, it has 92 employees.

Nassau County is facing a $310 million budget gap next year. Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano proposed this week to fill that by cutting services, including more than 700 jobs at the county.

The audit also called for tougher password requirements, such as requiring both numbers and letters when logging in.

"By not enforcing these password standards, the risk of unauthorized access to the county network increases," the audit said.