BRADENTON – The Manatee County School Board voted on Tuesday to expand the district's agreement with Carlton, Fields, Jorden, Burt so that the law firm can help with theimplementation of its new ERP system. The complex business management software system is still incomplete, despite going live on July 1, more than a year behind schedule and more than $12 million over budget.

The district is paying $460 an hour to retain the firm for two lead shareholders, another $430 an hour for other shareholders, $330 an hour for associates, and $155 an hour for paralegals. A letter of engagement states that the Tampa-based firm cannot give specifics on the cost, amount of time or other services that will ultimately be required for it to complete the work. The firm will provide legal advice on the district's contract and ongoing negotiations with the vendor, Ciber Inc.

The problem-plagued ERP system had more than 60 defects as of last week, leading to multiple payroll and purchasing errors and delays in the first weeks of classes. The project, which saw a deputy superintendent suspended while the district investigated potential policy violations, is also being audited by the state.

ERP Folly Continues for School District

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