Commissioners weigh small remodel to improve safety, service at driverlicense counter

Bonner County officials discussed a modest remodel of the driver27s license/customer service area to improve staff safety and customer flow. Sheriff's staff and building managers described repeated threats to staff and a configuration that leaves employees with limited escape routes from irate customers.

The proposed change would move a back wall and reconfigure cabinetry and counters to create an additional work area and a secure staff circulation path. The sheriff27s office argued the work is a safety issue and said employees face threats frequently; commissioners asked whether the county could instead station a deputy onsite, but staff explained dispatch and recorder functions and security needs make a physical redesign a preferred, longer-term solution.

Commissioners did not commit full funding but agreed to set $50,000 aside in contingency to begin planning and to ask the sheriff27s budget manager to identify possible transfers or available funds. Several commissioners cautioned that final costs were ballpark estimates and asked for a more detailed scope and contractor estimate before proceeding.

Why it matters: The remodel is framed as an employee-safety and service delivery upgrade rather than a major facilities project. Commissioners signaled willingness to proceed if a concrete plan and reliable cost estimate are provided and recommended using available departmental funds before increasing the overall budget.

Discussion vs. decision: Commissioners authorized setting aside up to $50,000 in contingency to begin planning and asked staff to return with detailed cost estimates and a phased plan; no construction contracts were approved.

Ending note: Staff will work with risk management and the sheriff27s office to develop a scope, collect contractor bids and return with an exact cost and timeline for final approval.