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Gage County officials cite safety concerns over courthouse protesters; jail inspection passes
Summary
Sheriff's office reported an annual jail inspection passed and raised safety concerns about protesters encroaching on the west lawn and sidewalk; commissioners discussed existing practice to ask protesters to remain on the sidewalk and noted enforcement and safety considerations.
The Gage County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 15 heard a report from law enforcement that the county jail passed its annual inspection and that deputies confronted protesters on the courthouse west lawn over the weekend.
A law enforcement representative said roughly a dozen protesters had occupied the west lawn and positioned a table near the west doors, creating what deputies described as a safety risk for drivers at a nearby busy intersection. The officer said deputies warned the group and told them to remain on the sidewalk; the board discussed whether to issue a public reminder that demonstrations should remain on the sidewalk rather than on the lawn.
"We're just concerned about the safety of our public," one speaker said, noting that large vehicles pass the intersection and that motorists sometimes slow to read signs, increasing the risk of an accident. The speaker suggested directing demonstrators to areas that still allow visibility but reduce traffic hazards.
A county official noted the county has historically required demonstrators to stay on the sidewalk and said the sheriff had warned the group. The board did not adopt a new formal policy at the meeting but discussed emphasizing the existing guidance and continuing to monitor the courthouse grounds for safety issues.
Separately, the sheriff reported that the county jail passed its annual inspection during the last review.
No formal action was recorded on the protest matter at the Oct. 15 meeting; the jail inspection result was presented as an informational report that the board accepted during committee reports.
