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Supervisors debate courthouse security staffing; options include additional guard or civilian personnel
Summary
Board members and staff discussed courthouse security options, including adding a third or fourth guard, using civilian security, pulling deputies or training reserves; no final staffing decision was made but supervisors asked for further cost and staffing analysis.
Black Hawk County supervisors spent part of the March 4 meeting discussing courthouse security coverage and staffing options after commissioners and staff raised concerns about courtroom incidents and employee safety.
Supervisors and the facilities director reviewed current coverage patterns and said the courthouse has a panic-button system and two security officers on typical shifts. Facilities Director Rory (surname not given) said three on-site security personnel would permit periodic rounds and better coverage when staff take breaks; sheriff and facilities staff discussed the tradeoffs of having deputies roam the building versus a hardened front desk presence.
Supervisors discussed hiring options including sworn deputies, civilian guards, retirees or reserve officers. County staff cautioned that reserve officers require substantial training modules (over 100 hours) and that retired/reserve staffing carries certification and logistical requirements. Sheriff’s representatives and facilities staff said a fourth person would reduce gaps during lunches and shift changes but acknowledged budget and staffing constraints.
Board members agreed to review cash flows and capital budgets and to consider options at a future meeting; no binding staffing change was made during the session. Supervisors asked staff to gather more detailed cost and scheduling information and to return with a recommendation that balances employee safety, public access and fiscal constraints.
