In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a phased approach to relocating the IT department and constructing a secure courtroom, addressing the pressing needs of the county's judicial system. The proposal outlines two initial phases: the first involves relocating the IT department to a currently vacant juvenile detention area, while the second focuses on building a secure courtroom in the same location.

The timeline for the first phase is estimated at 9 to 10 months, with costs yet to be determined. The second phase, which has already engaged an architect, is projected to cost between $1.2 million and $1.4 million, with a build-out time of approximately four months, excluding a two-month demolition period.

Commissioners expressed concerns about the potential backlog in the court system, particularly if the courtroom is not completed before the new jail opens in April. Some suggested that both projects should proceed simultaneously to avoid delays in processing inmates. However, this would require a temporary relocation of the IT department for about six months.

Discussions highlighted the need for a secure courtroom to prevent interactions between defendants and victims, a concern raised by the state's attorney, who emphasized the urgency of the situation given the current overcrowding in court hearings.

While some commissioners supported the phased approach, others questioned the logic of placing the IT department in the proposed location, suggesting that it may not be the most efficient use of space. The debate underscored the complexities of balancing immediate needs with long-term planning for the county's facilities.

As the meeting concluded, officials sought clarity on the direction to take, with a consensus emerging around the necessity of moving forward with both projects to ensure the judicial system can effectively manage the anticipated increase in cases following the jail expansion.