County task force will recommend security screening options including removable railings

Scott, a county staff member who presented the security update, told the committee the task force convened Dec. 2 and will meet again Jan. 13 before reporting to the public safety committee and the county board. "They did meet on December 2 to look at security," he said.

Staff outlined two main approaches: keep screening limited to the justice center or install a central railing and stanchions so all visitors enter through a single security line. Scott described the rail as made in roughly "8 foot sections" that would bolt to the floor and be removable if a future board chose to change the approach.

Supervisors pressed staff to narrow a problem statement so the task force can focus on objectives such as preserving constitutional freedoms, protecting the justice center, or improving employee safety. Supervisor Gallitz emphasized staff-safety concerns, saying the committee isn't "just talking about the safety of the public coming in here. We are also talking about the safety ... of the employees here." Scott and others said the task force and public safety committee will consider staffing, operational hours and the public's access needs before making a recommendation.

Supervisor Schwab said the public safety committee's Nov. 19 meeting was productive and constitutional officers at that meeting expressed a strong preference for security at the East Entrance. Staff said timeline expectations allow a recommendation to reach the county board by spring if task force and committee work proceeds on the proposed schedule.

The committee did not take a formal vote; staff urged members and the public to engage with the public safety process as the task force continues.