Codington County approves chain-link fences at extension complex and courthouse generator enclosure

Codington County commissioners voted Tuesday to install chain-link fencing at two county properties: a roughly $3,640 replacement at the extension complex and a 10-foot galvanized chain-link fence at the courthouse to secure the generator and the east side of the building.

Facility manager Steve (last name not provided) told commissioners the extension-complex fence will replace the portion removed during construction and will include gates adapted from existing park gates. "There was a gate of a chain link fence gate, and that thing was always tough and always getting moving open in the wintertime," he said, and staff plans to install easier-to-operate gates using existing pipe.

The extension-complex quote was presented as $3,640. Commissioners moved and approved the item (motion by Commissioner Johnson; second by Commissioner Gable).

A second quote for a galvanized chain-link fence at the courthouse — described as 10 feet high to match the adjacent detention center fencing and to prevent climbing — was also approved (motion by Commissioner McElhaney; second by Commissioner Schwere/Schwier). Steve said the courthouse fence "will block off the generator, all the gas units and everything," and a gate will be added at the sidewalk crossing.

Commissioners discussed aesthetics and alternatives. One commissioner noted that an ornamental iron fence could cost about $15,000, and another suggested colored infill slats as a way to improve the chain-link appearance. No change to the selected galvanized chain-link option was made and both motions carried on voice votes.