Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sheriff asks for new courthouse security measures and staff IDs; board approves boiler bid
Summary
The sheriff recommended replacing two courthouse boilers (Hattersley bid, $159,175), moving confinement officers into court security after additional training, and instituting photo ID lanyards to speed security checks; the board approved the boiler bid and agreed to pursue ID policy options and further legal research on search authority.
The Adams County sheriff told commissioners the county needed new courthouse security measures and recommended staffing and facility changes to reduce risk.
On facilities, the sheriff said Hattersley submitted the only qualified bid to replace two boilers for $159,175, including pad work and a warranty; the sheriff recommended approval and said the vendor expected parts and could complete major work within about 30 days. Commissioners moved and seconded to accept the bid.
On security, the sheriff outlined a plan to shift three confinement officers into court security, with additional training and weapons/taser qualifications required before they assume courthouse security duties. He also said the county has procured new wands and planned mirror tinting for front glass to improve screening while preserving the security officer’s sight lines.
The sheriff asked the commission to consider issuing county photo ID lanyards that could double as door fobs so employees who carry IDs would bypass daily security checks; he proposed a policy that staff who fail to carry an ID would be subject to screening. HR cautioned the board to balance efficiency against privacy and implementation concerns, and commissioners asked staff to draft an approach for full-time employees.
The sheriff also discussed legal options for search authority inside courthouses, noting judges’ standing orders now prohibit weapons in courtrooms and that expanding search requirements may require judicial orders, local ordinances or a combination. He said special deputies assigned to courthouse security have authority only on courthouse grounds and are not certified to serve as patrol officers outside that area.
Why it matters: Commissioners approved the boiler contract and directed staff to explore an employee ID program and confirm legal authority for expanded screening/search procedures. The sheriff said changes aim to improve safety while minimizing disruption to daily court and public activity.
The board did not adopt a final ID policy at the meeting and asked the sheriff and HR to return with proposed implementation steps and cost estimates.
