Board approves $5.26 million Public Defender building GMP, moves forward with construction

The board authorized a GMP amendment and the construction‑manager‑at‑risk agreement for a new Public Defender office on the criminal courthouse superblock.

Public Defender Stacy Scott told commissioners the building will modernize office space and improve clients’ perception of public defense services. “This building is going to be a great benefit to the taxpayers in terms of efficiency of operation,” she said. Architect Billy Brane summarized a $5,259,682 project budget and a construction schedule that anticipates 271 construction days beginning late January and substantial completion near the end of 2016.

Designers emphasized energy‑efficiency features and a plan that could support future thermal energy systems if later funding is available. The two‑story building will add nearly 22,000 square feet and remove about 34 parking spaces from the existing lot during construction. Commissioners approved the GMP amendment and authorized execution of the related construction management agreements.

Next steps: staff will execute the GMP amendment with CPPI, finalize construction scheduling, and begin work per the planned January start date.