Nicholas County Executive Summary

Front of Courthouse

The Nicholas County courthouse was built in 1898 and is on the historic register. The exterior walls and the foundation are of cut stone. The walls are in good condition. One area of the roof is pitched, while the other part is relatively flat. There were no reports of leaks; however, some ponding was evident on a section of flat roof. The roof was replaced in ’91, with repairs in ‘96. The jail roof was replaced in ’96. The roof was coated in 2000.

The windows are a combination of old and new window types. The remainder of the old windows are scheduled to be replaced in 2002. In keeping with the historic nature of the courthouse, we recommend that all the windows be replaced with historic replica sashes.

To meet ADA compatibility requirements, the accessible restrooms need upgraded, specifically with larger turning radii, grab bars, and insulated sink lines. The building has elevator access. The witness stand and judge’s bench should be fitted with a lift for accessibility.

The courthouse has a fire alarm system with strobe lights, but does not have a sprinkler system. We recommend installing a sprinkler system in the building.

Water located in the building indicates that the foundation needs to be waterproofed. The electrical and HVAC systems appear to be adequate to serve the building.

To improve security, we recommend equipping the facility with an entry-level screening using walk a through metal detector and an X-ray machine. The metal detector from courtroom can be used. An X-ray machine is needed. We recommend installing emergency lighting in the courtroom, judge’s chambers and county commission hearing room.

There was mold present on the basement ceiling. We recommend that the basement and HVAC system be cleaned of mold.

The McClung Annex is located, across the street from the Main Courthouse, on Church Street. It is a three-story brick building with a basement. The annex, constructed in 1979, and is a 16,000 square feet facility. The annex is in good condition. Work needs done to make the building ADA compliant; specifically, upgrading the restrooms, installing lever handles on doors, installing ADA signage, and building a ramp to the magistrate’s bench.

The McClung Annex also needs pickets installed at 4” on center on the stairwells. The HVAC system should be cleaned of mold. To improve security, we recommend the installation of a CCTV system, entrance metal detector and x-ray machine, and card locks on the other doors to prevent access.

Annex 2 is in good condition. We recommend that the second floor windows be replaced, fire alarms and strobes be installed in the restrooms, a fire alarm system added to the building, an extra handrail be installed, a security system similar to the ones mentioned above be implemented, and the electrical system be updated with covered boxes and new light fixtures.

To meet space requirements (the courthouse has run out of records storage room), we recommend constructing a 5,000 square feet addition for records storage.

Total cost estimate: $1,041,840.

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