Board Minutes

November 7, 2005
Special Session

A special meeting of the Bladen County Board of Commissioners was held at 5:00 p.m. in Room B8 of the Courthouse. The purpose of the Special Meeting was to discuss Courthouse Security Issues. The following members were present:

Chairman Taylor called the meeting to order and County Manager Greg Martin provided opening remarks. Mr. Martin advised that Courthouse Security Issues were discussed during the ’05 budget process. He further advised that letters were received from several sources regarding threats and that the letters had been forwarded to the Board of Commissioners. Mr. Martin indicated that the Sheriff has additional information to provide to the Board during the Special Meeting.

Register of Deeds Charity Lewis was present and provided information regarding a threat she received recently. She also requested the installation of metal detectors in the Courthouse.

Safety Director Robert Mazur discussed the safety plan that was developed by the Safety Committee in 2002 and advised that according to OSHA, the County must provide a safe working environment. Mr. Mazur discussed the installation of a glass shield at the tax office counter that will be completed in the near future. He also discussed other safety matters and concerns as well.

Sheriff Bunn advised that in order to prevent problems, the Courthouse must be locked down. Sheriff Bunn discussed the fact that most work place violence is committed by employees or recently exited employees. Discussion was held regarding installation of metal detectors. Sheriff Bunn recommended two active scan points, at the back entrance and the main front door entrance. He advised that both side doors open to a stairwell and that card sweepers could be used at the side doors. Sheriff Bunn referred to modified budget information included in the agenda packet that totals $139,700.

Commissioner Larry Smith arrived.

Discussion was held by the Board of Commissioners regarding security planning for all County departments or a phase-in of all departments. Discussion was also held regarding the inconvenience to tax paying citizens if there are designated entrances to the courthouse with metal detectors.

Sheriff Bunn was asked to prepare another cost estimate regarding the use of contract guards and the development of a plan for securing other county buildings as well. The Sheriff was asked to respond by the January 9, 2006 Board meeting.