Sheriff Dean told the Lawrence County Commission that testing of all locking mechanisms at the new Public Safety & Services Center is expected to begin imminently and that the testing phase is likely to take about five weeks.

The sheriff said county employees and one guest each are invited to a tour of the facility; the first such tour was scheduled for the following evening at 5:30 p.m. He described the start of lock testing as a sign that construction is nearing completion.

Sheriff Dean also reported that jail population numbers were low at the time of the meeting and that the department was finishing sentences for some inmates and preparing lists for upcoming service of sentences.

Why it matters: The testing of security systems is a key step in bringing the new facility into operation. Tours give county staff first-hand knowledge of facility layout and systems before occupancy and operations transition.

What was said (direct quote): Sheriff Dean: "This process alone is estimated to take about 5 weeks." He also confirmed tours were scheduled and invited county employees to sign the list for the tour.

Next steps: Security-system testing to proceed, staff tours to take place, and the sheriff's office will continue to update commissioners about timelines and operational readiness.