Griggs County hears update on courthouse camera, door and audio upgrades; cost estimates rise amid tariff concerns

County IT and facilities staff updated the Griggs County Commission on March 24 about planned upgrades to courthouse door access, cameras and the audio/video system used for meetings and public streaming.

Staff reported a revised cost estimate of about $186,406 for the door access and camera system and said the larger project is tied to a courtroom grant with reporting and completion expectations. Staff estimated a net cost after grant or discounts would be roughly $146,000. They warned that supply‑chain uncertainty and potential tariffs could increase material costs and suggested locking prices by signing contracts earlier if the commission chooses to proceed.

The county’s IT vendor also reported that the new recording and microphone equipment has arrived and installation work on wiring, microphones and video displays is expected to begin the following week; staff plan to perform a system cutover and testing after a regular meeting so the new equipment is ready for the next session. Staff said repurposed equipment will be used where possible to reduce cost.

Commissioners discussed timing and requested the item be added to the next meeting agenda for a full commission review. Staff suggested they could place the IT contract on the next special meeting if commissioners prefer an earlier decision; the commission agreed to consider the contract at the upcoming meeting so a full commission can review the updated bids and timeline.

Staff cited the court grant’s six‑month reporting window as a factor in scheduling but noted extensions are possible if needed. No final contract award was made at the March 24 meeting.

The county will bring updated contract documents and pricing to the next meeting for commission review and possible approval.