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Judge seeks $79,794 for courtroom cabling; council debates procurement route
Summary
Circuit Court Judge Julian Havens asked the council to approve $79,794 for cabling and raceways to fix chronic courtroom audio problems. Members voiced concern the contractor split costs into smaller invoices under $50,000 to avoid competitive-quote requirements; the council ultimately approved the appropriation with votes, while commissioners and legal counsel urged clearer procurement guidance going forward.
Judge Julian Havens told the council that ongoing audio issues are hindering jury trials and described a plan to install cabling, raceways and two large courtroom monitors. "We started a jury trial today, and all the problems ... are still there," Havens said, describing jurors who could not hear testimony and the need for a reliable system. He presented bids and explained the current proposal reduces overall cost from an earlier $150,000 estimate by removing items the county can afford to do differently.
Several council members questioned procurement mechanics after La Porte County project management provided a $79,794 packet and a subsequent split bid from Marquise Electric; Councilman Kiel said public-works rules bar dividing a single renovation into parts to avoid soliciting required quotes. Project manager Scott Cooley and bailiff Atlee Price defended the contractor's expertise and noted unknown concealed conditions in the 1894-era courtroom. The council approved the $79,794 appropriation from riverboat funds after motions and debate, and members recommended drafting a county procurement manual to reduce future uncertainty.
