The Carroll County Fiscal Court voted to adopt a resolution enabling the county to move forward with Phase 2 of a courthouse renovation project, a step project managers said will allow final contract execution and mobilization.

Stuart Schotten of Senate Facility Partners described the work as full roof and deck replacement, enclosure and cosmetic upgrades to the clock tower, new double-pane windows, improved door security with keypad access and repairs to cladding and flashing. "We're very excited to be here today to get the approval to move forward," Schotten said, urging court approval to finalize the contract prepared by the county attorney.

The project team told commissioners they planned to seek roughly $1,000,000 in tax credits to help finance the work — described on the record as an approximately $850,000 historic tax credit plus a $150,000 investment tax credit. The presenter said those credits are expected to significantly reduce net county cost.

Court discussion touched on door security (some members opposed full glass doors on public buildings) and logistics for keeping the courthouse functioning during construction. Project staff said construction would begin in January with scaffolding and close coordination to minimize disruption; they said the project aims to be substantially complete by late fall of the next year.

A resolution to proceed with contract completion and phase advancement was moved and seconded; the record shows vocal "ayes" and the motion was closed as approved.

The court did not detail the full contract text on the floor; the county attorney was reported to have completed an amended contract with minor changes and to circulate it to the court for signature.