Suffolk communications on IT contract questioned

Suffolk information technology officials are pressing for a contract that would let them standardize county computer systems. But despite testimony to county lawmakers that no contract was signed, documents show that the county sent a letter to Dell Corp. saying it is "our intention" to agree to a nearly $4.9 million deal for a five-year software package, and signed order forms.

But the March 29 letter from county information technology commissioner Donald Rodgers said the communication did not constitute a contract and is not "legally binding or enforceable."

County Legis. John Kennedy (R-Nesconset) called Rodgers' testimony before lawmakers last month "misleading," and said Rogers should have explained the full extent of communications with the company. Deputy County Executive Jon Schneider said Rodgers "misled no one." -- Rick Brand