In addition to commission President Barbara King, Vice-President Don Mason and Commissioner Bob Gorby, those elected officials present were Family Court Judge John Hicks, Sheriff James Hoskins, Circuit Clerk Sharon Dulaney, Prosecuting Attorney Tim Haught, and Magistrate Tom Shepherd.
Lantz told the group a grant application is being sent to the Courthouse Security Improvement Authority for upgrades to the camera and keypad security system. Lantz says the firm of ADT Securities of Pittsburgh will handle the project since they were the installers of the original security system in the courthouse.
Specifically, Lantz said the funds would be used for cameras to record activity in the courthouse.
The images will be preserved on a disc and will be accessible on a secure site to law enforcement.
Also, hand wand metal detectors will be purchased, as well as new entrance security systems which will be installed at the magistrates’ offices and at the courthouse judges’ rooms. Lantz and Sheriff’s Deputy Randy Adams will be instructed in the use and maintenance of all new equipment. Lantz explained that training will be part of the grant award.
Sheriff Hoskins said he hoped to be notified of an $8,000 amount of funds that would also be applied to the security systems upgrade. Lantz said the addition of new doors to the sheriff’s offices was a possibility.
The grant request is for $55,000 and will be reviewed in April, awarded in May, with upgrades to begin with a projected completion date of June or July of this year. Lantz predicts the grant should be awarded with no complications or changes in schedule.
The commission meets each Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. in the commission building between the courthouse and post office. All meetings are open to the public.