Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2025-195 authorizing the City Manager to execute the Amended and Restated Interlocal Cooperation Agreement for Mutual Aid for Information Technology Services with the City of Allen and other participating local governments; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Innovation and Technology Department
BACKGROUND:
The City’s ability to deliver public services depends heavily on functioning technology systems. In the event of a cyberattack, natural disaster, or other emergency, a City’s IT department may not have enough staff or resources to quickly restore critical systems.
To help address this risk, the City of Allen and several North Texas cities developed an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) that allows participating local governments to request mutual aid for IT support. This includes access to staff expertise, computer equipment, and temporary technical support during an emergency.
DISCUSSION:
By joining this agreement, Farmers Branch can request assistance from other participating cities in the event of a cyber incident or disaster impacting local IT systems. Likewise, Farmers Branch may provide support to another city if resources are available and doing so does not interfere with City operations.
The agreement creates a regional network of support for information technology emergencies. Key features include:
• Mutual aid support - Cities can request temporary IT staff, equipment, or expertise from other participants when local resources are not enough.
• Flexibility - No city is required to provide aid; assistance is voluntary and based on available resources.
• Cost responsibility - The city requesting help is responsible for covering overtime, travel, or equipment costs for responding staff.
• Insurance and liability - Each city remains responsible for its own employees and actions; no city assumes liability for another.
• Term - The agreement renews automatically each year but can be ended by any participant with 30 days’ notice.
By participating, Farmers Branch gains access to additional resources during a crisis while also contributing to regional preparedness. This agreement enhances the City’s ability to maintain essential technology services and quickly recover from emergencies.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no upfront cost to participate. The City would only incur expenses if it requests assistance.
DISTRICT:
Citywide
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
1. I move to approve Resolution No. 2025-195 as presented.
2. I move to approve Resolution No. 2025-195 with modifications.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Resolution No. 2025-195 including ILA Agreement