HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Plans to renovate the front entrance to the Reno County Courthouse was again discussed at Tuesday’s Reno County Commission meeting.
County Administrator Gary Meagher showed an architectural drawing now that the commission is considering that entrance instead of building a whole new one. But, Sheriff Randy Henderson says the plans as presented will not be allow enough room even if they get rid of the first floor men’s bathroom and a nearby closet. He says they need a certain amount of space for the equipment used for people to be scanned through to enter the courthouse.
So now, they’re considering moving the first floor court clerks office and using that space. That didn’t sit well with Pam Moses Chief Clerk of the District Court who was present at the meeting. But, with four county departments moving to the old jail annex soon, that would allow for room on that floor to move that office.
The commission instructed Meagher to look into what it would take to use that space. Commissioner Brad Dillon noting that they would work to try to make everyone happy. He says they just need to keep working on it.
The sheriff also had concerns over the adding ramps to the front of the building saying it would be a mess when the weather gets icy. But, Meagher suggested that they will add coils which would melt the ice making it usable for those needing to use it.
The commission will continue to discuss the issues surrounding the making of the courthouse secure. We’ll keep you updated.