Court forms courthouse security committee and approves camera upgrade plan amid historic-preservation constraints

Tyler County’s commissioners approved forming a five-person courthouse security committee and resumed a previously tabled discussion about adding exterior cameras and lighting to the courthouse.

The court said the Office of Court Administration requested a courthouse security plan. Proposed committee members included Anthony Ross, Chief Hallway, the presiding commissioner, Mr. Bis Connor and County Clerk Janet Brown as records keeper. The court noted the sheriff and the chief would help the committee finalize rules. The presiding officer said the committee will draft a plan and coordinate with law enforcement to finalize protocols.

On cameras and lighting, the court agreed to add poles and LED lights and discussed placement without attaching equipment to the historic courthouse façade. An Energy representative, Christy Brown, confirmed the utility would install a pole and LED lighting in the courthouse rear. Investigator Calhoun was also consulted regarding where cameras would be most effective. A commissioner emphasized the evidentiary value of footage, noting the county needs proof to defend against negligence claims: "we don't have any proof on our end that it wasn't our negligence," the speaker said, framing a reason for improved exterior coverage.

The motions to form the security committee and to move forward with the camera upgrade discussion were approved by voice vote. The court also agreed to consult the county historical commission before mounting equipment that could affect the courthouse exterior.