Court approves architect to design secure, climate‑controlled election equipment storage

County officials told the Fiscal Court they need a dedicated, climate‑controlled storage building for election equipment such as poll pads and voting machines. The clerk’s office described operational difficulties with existing scattered storage and limited basement Wi‑Fi and requested DS2 Architects prepare designs and bids for a 20-by-40 structure behind the sheriff’s office.

Speakers cited statutory requirements for secure, separate, climate‑controlled storage with 24‑hour camera surveillance and restricted access for keys. The proposed plan includes climate control to protect machines and charging/outlet capacity to stage multiple machines during election preparation.

Court members discussed alternative locations and design approaches (roof extension, shared-wall options), potential impacts on other office tenants such as child‑support staff, and timing to avoid interfering with election schedules. The presenter suggested an August target next year for completion so equipment could be staged for the 2026 cycle.

The court moved and unanimously approved hiring DS2 Architects to lead design and bidding; the architect will return with cost estimates and bids for the commissioners to select a contractor.