The recent Board of County Commissioners meeting highlighted significant updates regarding the new Justice Building in Kootenai County, which has been operational for about six to eight weeks. County staff reported a generally positive experience, with minor adjustments being made to address typical issues that arise when settling into a new facility.

Among the adjustments, staff noted some sticking doors and a few plumbing flush valves that required repair. Fortunately, the contractor and warranty companies have been responsive, ensuring these issues are resolved quickly. The county is currently finalizing the budget for the project, which has taken longer than expected due to delays in federal wage reporting. However, there is good news on the financial front, as some allowances from the project budget were not fully utilized, meaning additional funds will be returned to the county.

In terms of accessibility and functionality, the county is working on enhancing signage within the building. Feedback indicated that visitors were having difficulty locating Courtrooms 15 and 17, prompting the installation of clearer directional signs. Additionally, ADA-compliant signage is being added to the front doors, along with operational hours.

Safety measures are also being addressed, particularly concerning an emergency exit that was not clearly defined in the original plans. The county is ensuring that this exit will have a delayed egress feature, which will require users to hold the crash bar for 15 seconds before it opens, thereby preventing unauthorized use.

Lastly, judges have requested the installation of peepholes in their courtroom entrances. This addition will allow them to check if a courtroom is occupied before entering, enhancing security and efficiency in the court process.

These updates reflect the county's commitment to improving the functionality and safety of the Justice Building, ensuring it meets the needs of both staff and the public. As the county continues to finalize the budget and address remaining issues, residents can expect a fully operational facility that supports the community's judicial needs.