Medford to add single public entrance, metal detector and bag checks at city hall starting April 21

Medford city staff announced Wednesday that the city will introduce enhanced security at City Hall starting Monday, April 21, including designating a single public entrance at the southeast corner of the building and screening visitors.

A staff presenter told council the southeast entrance—off the parking lot between the annex and City Hall and closest to the police department—will be the city’s designated public entry. Visitors will walk through a metal detector; those with bags can choose to have the bag checked, return it to their vehicle, or use an indoor bag check station. The city has contracted a private security firm to provide coverage during regular business hours and for after-hours meetings such as council sessions.

The presenter said the three remaining entrances will be restricted to staff and cardholders. The presenter described the change as a response to “a few issues and concerns the last several months” but did not provide further incident details during the council meeting.

Timing and operations: Staff said the new protocol begins Monday, April 21, and that the security entrance will be on the southeast side of the building near the police department. Councilors asked which door would be used; staff confirmed the location and described bag-check options. The city also notes the measure applies to in-person visitors and to after-hours public meetings.

(Reporting based on staff remarks to the Medford City Council on April 16.)