The West Fargo City Commission on Dec. 15 approved a courtroom security remodel presented by Captain Derek Croft of the West Fargo Police Department. The scope includes a 36‑inch front wall, centered 42‑inch batwing doors, a 46‑inch side partition and an additional 20 inches of glass atop partitions to prevent contact with court staff, plus creation of a traditional testimonial box.

Captain Croft presented vendor renderings and said the work is intended to improve safety in the courtroom, noting a roughly 30% increase in cases over the past three to four years and frequent overflow on court days. "The price we're looking at for this is $44,213.53," Croft said, identifying the vendor as Dackville Company and citing previous successful work with the department.

City Administrator Dustin Scott recommended amending the police department remodel budget to fund the work from the capital improvement sales tax. Commissioners moved and seconded approval of the remodel and the motion carried by voice vote.

Staff said the remodel is designed not to interfere with the building HVAC systems and that the work will provide a more traditional courtroom layout and increased staff protection.