New timekeeping system on hold

Approval to buy a time-keeping system for the county’s bus mechanics was postponed Monday after questions were raised about cost.

Orange County Transportation Authority board members said they wanted more information about the purchase of a $457,280 system by Massachusetts-based Kronos Inc., which included $125,000 for software.

Kronos was the top bidder to replace an outdated system that clocks in about 300 mechanics and technicians.

In other business, county Supervisor Chris Norby was named OCTA chairman, replacing Orange Mayor Carolyn Cavecche. Peter Buffa, a former mayor of Costa Mesa, who represents the public, is vice chairman.

-- David Reyes