County architects present public defender office renovation plans; timeline targets early 2025 construction

Architects from American StructurePoint walked commissioners through proposed plans to renovate the fourth-floor public defender office, showing renderings of a new reception window, a key‑fob secure entry, 10–18 offices depending on layout refinements, a conference room with new A/V hookups, a small kitchenette and secure IT closet.

"We're proposing to put a new reception window with a counter here ... we are proposing a new key fob entry door," architect Tyler Rice said while detailing the layout. He described neutral finishes (gray carpet tiles, LVT/LVP plank flooring in kitchens/bathrooms, white cabinetry) and retention of original wood trim where feasible.

Officials asked about secure areas for IT equipment and climate control; Rice said the IT room will have its own climate control system. Commissioners pressed for a timeline: Rice said drawings should be complete in December, with bidding and permits through December–January and construction estimated at roughly six months once started.

Public defender staff said the plan maximizes office privacy and storage while getting away from cramped shared-space conditions. "We're up to eight offices of attorney sharing on the space ... I'm just looking forward to a day when I can have everybody have their own private space," a public defender office representative said.

The presentation concluded with commissioners encouraging efficient design and requesting follow-up materials. The board did not vote on funding during the meeting; staff will return with cost estimates and contract/bid information for future consideration.