Commissioners authorize immediate security‑system work after doors were left unlocked

County facilities staff reported that the courthouse access control system, installed in 2012, has experienced recurring failures that left doors unlocked on at least one recent occasion. Staff presented a proposal from 5 Star Security for $3,865 to replace the server, door controllers and card readers for the building and to include a one‑year parts and labor warranty.

Commissioners discussed whether to delay the work to solicit additional bids or to act immediately because of the security risk. One commissioner argued the proposal was a necessary prompt fix after staff reported people walking the building when it should have been secured. Another commissioner urged caution, saying the county should not apply a temporary “band‑aid” and that staff should ensure the replacement integrates correctly with camera and other systems.

The board voted to approve 5 Star Security to perform the immediate work to remedy the situation; the motion passed with the majority of commissioners present while one commissioner opposed tabling and vocalized concern about long‑term integration and procurement process.

County staff said they would prioritize repair of the courthouse system, then evaluate the judicial center separately and report back on interoperability with cameras and enterprise systems.