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Martin County reviews $680,000 plan to create single public entry at Governmental Center
Summary
Architects recommended converting the Governmental Center to a single public entry with metal detectors and monitored access; estimated courtyard renovations would cost about $538,558 with another $141,875 for retrofits to Main Street and Social Services exits. No formal decision — study to inform budgeting.
The Martin County Board of Commissioners on April 10 reviewed a feasibility study recommending conversion of the Governmental Center to a single public entry to improve courthouse security and screening.
Anne Collier of Oakley Collier Architects presented the study and said the most feasible single-entry location would be the courtyard entrance. The plan would create a controlled entry with space for metal detectors and sheriff’s office monitoring, install exit-only doors with alarms at the Main Street and DSS entrances, and add accessible features such as additional handicapped parking and curb cuts. The firm estimated approximately $538,558 for courtyard renovations and $141,875 for required retrofits at the other entrances.
County Manager David Bone said the study grew from the county's 2019–23 Capital Improvement Plan, which included $250,000 for courthouse security in fiscal 2019–20. Sheriff Tim Manning told the board the upgrade is necessary to protect staff and the public and that his office would provide perimeter patrols; he noted the building was not designed originally for a single point of entry.
Commissioner Elmo “Butch” Lilley expressed concern about longer walks for older residents and asked that the design include accommodations for the county's aging population. Architect representatives acknowledged the need for more handicapped parking and other modifications to ensure ADA compliance.
No formal action was taken; commissioners said they will use the feasibility study and cost estimates during upcoming budget deliberations and directed staff to include the information in the CIP process.
The study and the sheriff’s operational input will be considered as the board finalizes decisions during the budget cycle.
