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County discusses fire-rated roll-downs and security at treasurer's office window; no final decision
Summary
Winnebago County supervisors and staff discussed installing a fire-rated roll-down curtain and reconfiguring the treasurer's office window/glass to balance fire safety, security and customer communication. Staff will obtain further cost and specification details and reconvene before making permanent changes.
Supervisors and treasurer's office staff discussed options to address fire-safety and security concerns at the treasurer's counter window, reviewing estimates for a roll-down fire curtain (a 3-hour fire-rated steel coil) and alternatives such as tempered or thicker glass panels and modified pass-through openings.
Staff showed board members a sample estimate for an exterior-mounted painted steel fire curtain with motorized operation and tie-in to the building's fire alarm. Board and staff debated whether adding an interior bullet-resistant glass wall would achieve security goals while preserving the ability of staff and customers to hear each other and pass documents.
Treasurer's office staff said current plexiglass dividers are damaging counters and impede customer workflow; supervisors said large top-and-bottom openings in a full glass solution would reduce its fire and security value and would require heavy glass or structural channels to maintain rigidity. Staff raised concerns about whether a roll-down curtain would be compatible with the existing wooden door and intermediate glass, and whether the door itself is a rated fire door when closed.
Supervisors asked the architect to confirm whether a fire door is required under current codes for the configuration and directed staff to get updated written estimates, glass specifications and lockability/operation details for the roll-down door. They also asked staff to visit the treasurer's and clerk's windows (at different courthouse locations) to compare installed systems.
Ending: The board deferred a decision. Staff will get firm estimates, confirmation from the architect on code requirements, and follow up with a site visit; the item will return to the board for a subsequent decision.
