Sheriff warns courthouse elevator is obsolete; council backs up to $100,000 for repairs

Sheriff Kelly informed the council that the courthouse elevator has stopped working and is obsolete, creating logistical and ADA access concerns for the facility.

Kelly estimated repair costs between $90,000 and $95,000 and told the council that elevator failure complicates movement of equipment and access to the basement meeting room. "It's obsolete... we were told about $92,000," Kelly said, noting the wide impact on the sheriff's office operations.

The chair recommended the council record a consensus to back repairs and allow the commissioners flexibility to act on bids. Councilors approved a motion to support repairs not to exceed $100,000 to give commissioners authority to sign contracts quickly; the motion carried 5–0.

Commissioners will receive quotes and the council expects to provide financial support from county funds (jail cash balance or other appropriate lines) to proceed as needed.