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Commissioners debate courthouse security, consider talking to judge and sheriff
Summary
Chair Bill Sexton questioned the value of contracted courthouse guards and suggested reallocating security funds to the sheriff’s department; County Manager Curtis Potter said he would discuss security and mask mandates with Judge Sermons and the sheriff, while Commissioner Julius Walker urged caution about reducing courthouse security.
Washington County commissioners debated courthouse security and building assignments at the May 24 budget work session.
Chair Bill Sexton said he believes contracted courthouse guards are a poor use of funds and suggested reallocating resources to the Sheriff’s Department to provide security on court days or otherwise. "I feel the Security Service is a waste of money," Sexton said during the meeting, arguing a county deputy might better use funds.
County Manager Curtis Potter said he would prefer to include the Sheriff in conversations and planned to speak with Judge Sermons about courthouse security and mask mandates. Commissioner Julius Walker, Jr. pushed back for caution, saying modern courthouse risks justify having security present.
Potter also outlined planned office moves tied to facility needs: EMS phones and internet were just installed in the Strader Building; staff moves are planned so that the Commissioners’ Room can serve as an emergency operations center while Planning & Safety will move to Strader during airport facility work.
No formal change to courthouse security policy or funding was made; Potter said he would follow up with the judge and sheriff and report back to the board.
