BIGGS, CA (MPG) - New City Administrator Nicolas Gauthier is wasting no time putting his stamp on City Hall, moving the city forward on necessary upgrades, employee programs and Biggs’ ongoing responsibilities as a public power city.

One of the most immediate actions came with the council’s unanimous authorization on Feb. 10 to replace three aging City Hall computers that no longer support required Windows security updates.

According to the city’s IT contractor, the outdated machines were unable to receive patches, leaving the network vulnerable to malware, ransomware and unauthorized access, Gauthier said. Two of the computers serve office staff while the third is the city administrator’s workstation, all necessary to protect sensitive city data and maintain continuity of municipal operations. Biggs operates with a small administrative staff and relies on secure, up-to-date systems to manage billing, utility accounts and regulatory reporting. The council approved spending $3,985 on the new equipment and will keep the existing administrator’s Windows 10 unit as a backup if needed.

Gauthier also recommended the council extend the City Employee Safety Recognition Program, which rewards departments that maintain safe work practices and avoid preventable injuries. The program provides quarterly recognition, including a certificate and a group lunch for the department meeting its safety goals. Gauthier said the incentive helps reinforce consistent safety standards across departments and supports a culture of accountability at minimal cost to the city. After brief discussion, the council approved the extension on a 4-1 vote, with supporters noting the program’s role in reducing workplace incidents and encouraging positive reinforcement rather than penalties.

While the cost of the safety program is minimal, Councilmember Angelica Sanchez dissented, saying she preferred to wait until the city is certain it has a balanced budget.

Also at the Feb. 10 meeting, the council unanimously appointed Gauthier as Biggs’ representative on several Northern California Power Agency committees. The designations place him on committees overseeing facilities and pooling, the Lodi Energy Center, legislative and regulatory affairs and utility operations, ensuring Biggs maintains full participation in regional power planning and policy discussions.

Gauthier told the council he plans to continue reviewing internal systems and bring forward additional recommendations as he evaluates city operations and long-term needs.