Courthouse security was a topic of discussion at the Greene County board of supervisors’ meeting Monday as sheriff Steve Haupert reported on a three day seminar he attended last week on that subject.
He reported that between 20 and 25 percent of the courthouses nationwide are considered “secure.”
Haupert said it would be “a major undertaking” to make the 1917 courthouse secure. In Greene County, tightening security would mean changing the north and south entrances to exit-only doors. The east entrance, which is handicap accessible, would be the only available entrance. A metal detector and/or X-ray machine would be located there, and the entrance would be staffed by a deputy at all times.
Haupert estimated a first year equipment cost of about $50,000, with another $70,000 to $80,000 each year for personnel.
Haupert added that he attends the supervisors’ meetings partly because he’s interested in the county’s business, but also as a security measure.
“It’s a shame our country’s that way,” supervisor Tom Contner said.
The topic of security was discussed several years ago, and panic buttons were placed in every office, including the clerk of court office. Staff can alert the law enforcement center of danger with just a push of a button. Also, deputies are present on court days as needed or requested.
Monday’s conversation was for information only; the supervisors have no immediate plans to add more security at this time.
