Residents press county over event-center access; commission to consider keypad locks and signage

At the April 21 meeting, resident Jenna Bruce told the Carter County Commission she found the event center used and left messy on multiple occasions after she had cleaned the facility. Bruce said she discovered mud on the floor and trash in cans and that the incident repeated on days when she knew the center had no scheduled events.

Bruce said she had given the sheriff's office a copy of the month's schedule so deputies could check for unauthorized users, and she described past confusion after the building was rekeyed that left some residents with permanent key access. Commissioners and staff discussed affordable smart-lock options that integrate with a phone app and WiFi keypad scheduling (staff cited devices around $79), the need to preserve panic-bar and fire-code functionality, and legal/ethical concerns about indoor surveillance and signage if cameras were to be used.

Commissioners agreed the county should pursue a technical solution that balances community access with protection of paying customers. Bruce was asked to research models and costs and consult county maintenance staff (Bob/Carl) about installation constraints and code compliance; she will return with a formal proposal for the board to consider.

What was said - Jenna Bruce: "There was mud on the floor and trash in all of the trash cans... I just didn't know somebody else had gone in." (paraphrase adapted from public comment) - County staff: Described three unlocking methods for certain locks: key, keypad and WiFi-controlled scheduling; noted some doors have panic bars and code constraints.

Next steps: Bruce will prepare a written proposal with recommended lock/camera options and estimated costs; county staff will check door hardware, code requirements and whether deadbolts or electronic access can be safely added without compromising emergency egress.