Council approves road funds and cybersecurity | News | #hacking | #cybersecurity | #infosec | #comptia | #pentest | #ransomware

The council approved a three-year agreement with Cowbell MDR to monitor and protect city systems. According to the resolution, Cowbell MDR “is a fully managed detection and response service that provides continuous monitoring, threat detection and response across endpoint, identity and cloud applications.” The service will cost $66,000 per year and includes a “$25,000 breach response fund” to help address future incidents.

Following the January attack, Mayor Bobby Sanchez said the city responded quickly and is working closely with state and federal partners, law enforcement and an outside cybersecurity expert to investigate the incident and restore systems safely and securely.

The council also approved funding for the city’s annual road paving program. About $2 million in state aid, along with additional city funds, will be used to repair and repave roads this summer. Contracts were awarded to Tilcon Inc. and Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming for materials, milling and paving work.

City officials said roadwork is based on a pavement rating system that helps determine which streets are repaired each year.

In addition, the council passed a resolution recognizing Earth Day, to be observed Wednesday. The resolution highlights the city’s ongoing efforts to protect the environment and promote sustainability.

The measure, introduced by Ward 3 Alderwoman Candyce Scott, seeks to promote conservation, energy efficiency and the study of the use of clean energy sources” in municipal government and throughout the community. It also notes steps the city has taken, including the use of solar energy at city facilities and updates to zoning rules to address environmental concerns.

The resolution also encourages partnerships among businesses, schools and community groups to raise awareness about protecting natural resources and preserving parks and open spaces.