Executive Summary
The
The windows are wooden framed and are in poor condition. The paint is peeling, the windows are single paned, and there is missing caulk and rotting sills. We recommend replacing the windows with historic profiles. We also recommend replacing the wooden entrance doors with secure alarmed steel doors.
The building does not have a fire alarm or sprinkler system; we recommend installing both. The courtroom should also be modified to allow for a second means of egress.
There are sewer gas problems in the courthouse basement during dry conditions because the drains do not have traps. We recommend reconstructing the basement plumbing to eliminate this problem.
The building has a CCTV system and five security personnel. We recommend providing a secure access point to the building with: X-ray machine; Card access system; Ballistic material for benches; Duress alarms as needed; Security system; Existing metal detector.
The wiring in the building has cloth insulation. We recommend upgrading the electrical system with new wiring, additional service, new lighting, and more receptacles. The emergency generator should also be repaired to supply the buildings with power as needed.
To meet accessibility requirements, we recommend the following tasks be completed: Reconstruct the ramp to the front of the building to meet the ADA requirements for slope and handrails; Provide the accessible parking to meet ADA requirements; Install an accessible bathroom; Install new signage in building, Install lever handles on all interior doors; Install a lift in the courtroom; Install an automatic opener on the accessible door; Install an elevator for access to all floors.
A new boiler has been installed in the past ten years and is in good condition and adequate for the building. The air conditioning is handled by various units. We recommend insulating the pipes for the heating system and installing a central air conditioning system.
The jail
was built in 1902 and is on the historic register. The jail needs the stonework cleaned and
re-pointed. The jail should be renovated
for office and storage space when the regional jail system is completed. During the renovation, a sprinkler system, an
enclosed stair tower, and exit lights should be installed. The windows should be replaced with historic
profiles. The building should meet
The Magistrate/Prosecuting Attorney office building was completed in 1925. The foundation should be repaired and the basement water problems corrected. The brick needs to be cleaned and re-pointed. The roof needs replaced along with the flashing and the gutters. The wooden entrance doors need to be replaced.
Fire alarm
and sprinkler systems should be installed.
The building needs exit signs and emergency lighting. The building has little security. The security measures above should be
followed. A safe appears to be
overloading part of the floor. The safe
should be removed and the floors repaired.
To meet
The total cost for renovations of the Magistrate building is nearly $400,000. This building is not worth this much. The county should abandon this building and build a new annex to house the magistrate and prosecuting attorney on the courthouse complex.
We recommend building a 10,000 square feet annex to provide additional storage and office space. Total cost: $3,601,560.