Financial software for the village might see an upgrade in its systems in the cost of $88,900 that will provide utility customers with online billing options.

The Village Board's Finance Committee voted  Monday night to replace its Banyon Data financial software to Madison-based CIVIC Systems this year.

The software will be used for accounts payable, cash receipting, general ledger, village payroll and Excel spreadsheets.

One improvement offered by the new software is a new look to the village's utility bills. Resident will no longer receive small pieces of paper as bills, but 8 1/2x11 pages with more detailed information.

The new software will allow transactions to be uploaded into the billing and accounting software, which will then allow customers to look up bills online. It may also allow the village to e-mail bills to customers.

In 2009, external auditors recommended the village upgrade its Banyon Data financial software, which has been in place since 1999. Village Clerk-Treasurer Kathryn F. Kasza shopped around and settled on the CIVIC system as a cost-effective replacement.

Kasza reviewed other communities throughout the state and found only two communities in Milwaukee County - Hales Corner and Whitefish Bay - that plan to continue using Banyon Data. Others have upgraded or intend to, she said.

The village has received quotes from two other companies, but found the CIVIC Systems was "best-suited and lowest cost" in ongoing maintenance/support, according to a report presented to the Finance Committee and Village Board. 

"The new software will help in improving the processes in the Clerk-Treasurer's Office in regards to the time used to process transactions," Kasza wrote in the report.

The Finance Committee's recommendation will be presented to the Village Board on Feb. 1.