Intro
EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 24-07
TO: MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATURE
CLERK OF THE LEGISLATURE
FROM: FRANK WHITE, JR.
JACKSON COUNTY EXECUTIVE
DATE: APRIL 2nd, 2024
RE: DECLARATION OF A STATE OF EMERGENCY IN JACKSON COUNTY DUE TO A POTENTIAL RANSOMWARE ATTACK
Title
WHEREAS, the secure operation of Jackson County’s information technology infrastructure is vital to the administration of county services and the welfare of our residents; and
WHEREAS, the Jackson County Information Technology Department has identified a cybersecurity incident with characteristics indicative of a ransomware attack, which has impacted numerous county systems that are essential to our residents; and
WHEREAS, the full scope and potential impact of the cybersecurity incident are being investigated and necessary measures are being undertaken to ascertain the details and remediate the effects of the incident; and
WHEREAS, the occurrence of this event requires a prompt and coordinated response that may necessitate the procurement of services and goods outside the normal procurement procedures as permitted in times of declared emergencies; and
WHEREAS, in compliance with the provisions of the Jackson County Code of Regulations, including but not limited to Code Section 1030.3 concerning Emergency Purchases, it is recognized that in this state of emergency, the usual requirements of competitive bidding are waived to allow for the immediate procurement of necessary resources; and
WHEREAS, purchases in excess of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) under these provisions will be duly reported to the County Legislature at its next regularly scheduled meeting; and
WHEREAS, the potential significant budgetary impact of this incident may require appropriations from the County’s emergency fund and, if these funds are found to be insufficient, the enactment of additional budgetary adjustments or cuts;
NOW, THEREFORE, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Jackson County Code of Regulations, and the powers vested in this office by the Home Rule Charter of Jackson County,
IT IS DIRECTED that all county staff are to take whatever steps are necessary to protect resident data, county assets, and continue essential services, thereby mitigating the impact of this potential ransomware attack.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the County Administrator is directed to evaluate the need for appropriations from the County’s emergency fund and, if necessary, identify additional financial adjustments to address the fiscal requirements imposed by this emergency. This Executive Order shall take immediate effect and remain in place until it is amended or rescinded by subsequent orders.
IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 2nd of April, 2024, and committed to ensuring the security and continuity of services essential to the residents of Jackson County.
Drafter
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Date Frank White, Jr., County Executive