Wichita County adopts security keyway policy and approves security change order with optional facial-recognition add-on

Wichita County Commissioners on Nov. 18 adopted a new security keyway policy and approved a change order for courthouse security that includes an optional facial-recognition storage add-on.

The court discussed policy language that centralizes master keys at suite level (with copies held in secured lockboxes), requires twice-yearly audits of keycards and physical keys, and sets disciplinary enforcement for improper access. Commissioners debated exceptions for authorized escorts and special events, and agreed the policy should be amended over time to address practical edge cases.

After a closed session held under Texas Government Code §551.089 to deliberate security devices, the court reopened and approved Digi Security Systems quote #020612 for $16,540.12 to add specified security elements to the courthouse. The vendor’s optional storage add-on for facial-recognition functionality was described as an additional $1,840.17; commissioners discussed but did not obligate purchase of the optional storage add-on at that time. The motion to approve the change order carried 5-0.

Commissioners said the security upgrades will provide better access control and electronic audit trails for building entry while retaining physical key safeguards as a backup. The court directed county IT and building maintenance to conduct the periodic audits and report findings to the county judge. The discussion noted practical procedures for contractors and vendors to check in with security and for handling special events and escorts.

The court’s actions leave open refinements to the policy for exception handling and enforcement details; staff were asked to return with any recommended amendments following implementation.