Scott County to apply for government security funding

BENTON, Mo. -- Scott County will apply for funding to beef up courthouse security.

State grant funding for counties available from the Circuit Court Budget Committee through the Office of State Court Administrator was brought to the attention of commissioners by David A. Dolan, circuit judge for the 33rd Judicial Court, according to County Developer Joel Evans. If approved, the grant will reimburse the county for up to $15,000 for security improvements.

Dolan met with county commissioners, Sheriff Rick Walter and Evans during the regular county commission meeting Tuesday to discuss items which could enhance court security.

A courthouse security audit was conducted several years ago, according to Presiding Commissioner Jamie Burger. "Some of those things have been addressed," he said.

Burger asked Dolan what his priorities would be related to court security.

Dolan said getting a walk-through metal detector is the top priority for Scott County.

"It's something we don't have available," Dolan said. "And it's recommended in our security review so it should be covered."

As walk-through metal detectors are portable, it would be used "wherever we need it," Dolan said.

Available through a state bid, a walk-through metal detector should cost no more than $4,000, according Evans.

Dolan advised security recommendations indicate another top priority is adding a back door to the courtroom which only has a single doorway.

As for other items, Burger said he would like to see the courthouse locks upgraded to an electronic passkey system.

"I just like the idea of getting rid of all those excess keys out there," he said. "I think security locks on exterior doors are wise."

Dolan noted an electronic passkey lock system would be a benefit for those entering at times other than regular business hours but wouldn't really apply during business hours.

Officials also discussed a few other ideas for improving security during business hours such as making the courthouse's side doors exit only/emergency doors and monitoring the lobby area to note all entries.

Walter suggested security cameras. Burger suggested security cameras could possibly be purchased using crime restitution funds, however. "Thursday we'll discuss priorities and put together a budget for the application," Evans said. "We'll see what the total estimate costs are," Burger said.