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County commission looks at judicial center plan

Staff reporter

Marion County Commission got its first glimpse of a county judicial center concept Monday when Dan Hall of BG Consultants presented a preliminary plan.

The design was made based on the square footage, 52,000 sq. ft., from a study and design plan, previously presented to the commission.

If the commission were to approve this particular design, the building would be two stories — one floor at grade or ground level and a second floor below ground level.

The detention center would be in the lower level with offices and courtroom on the main level.

Primary concerns were appropriate locations for the county attorney's office and sheriff's office and the number of employees required to operate the facility.

Karen Selznik of the county attorney's office and Sheriff Lee Becker both expressed concerns about witnesses and victims being observed by suspects.

Hall said the number of employees for the operation probably would not be known until the facility was up and running.

However, the minimum number of employees was discussed.

Hall said there would be an employee at the master controls at all times. Roving deputies would be required to do cell checks and for prisoner intake. Inmates could assist with janitorial services, chores such as washing of clothing and bed linens, and other maintenance duties.

Cameras also would assist employees by monitoring the entire facility — indoors and out — from the master control area. All cells also could be monitored with cameras.

The design indicated 16 maximum security cells for those prisoners who would be in cells for 23 hours per day, 24-bed dormitory for male inmates, and a "flex" room which could hold up to eight female inmates, juveniles, or other types of prisoners. Space could be allowed for future development of an additional male dorm which would increase the capacity from 48 to 72 beds.

Becker said having the designated areas for specific types of prisoners will allow his department to classify prisoners.

Discussion also was heard regarding the location of the facility in Marion Industrial Park.

The commission had visited existing buildings in Florence and Hillsboro but determined a new building was more feasible than trying to convert a building.

Hall said an exterior fence would be around the perimeter of the facility to hold prisoners in case the building had to be evacuated because of fire or some other disaster.

Commissioner Randy Dallke asked if it was feasible not to include a courtroom, court services, and dispatch in the plan. Commission Chairman Dan Holub said the commission needs to put one option on the ballot.

"We can build now or build later," Holub said, referring to future security requirements in the court room.

Hall said he will meet with Eighth Judicial Chief Judge Michael Powers Nov. 1 to discuss the layout. Hall will return to a future commission meeting to further discuss options.

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