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Hernando Today

New Courthouse Security In Place On Monday

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By KYLE MARTIN

Published: May 31, 2008

BROOKSVILLE - Updated security at the downtown government center is expected to be completed on Monday.

Officials attempted to finish the process two weekends ago, but a snag in programming the elevators held up the overhaul.

With that glitch ironed out, though, bringing the system online should be completed by the time the doors open Monday morning at the usual time of 7:30 a.m.

Visitors to the government center will pass through metal detectors placed at the entrances to the main lobby. Those machines were previously stationed at the first, third and fourth floors.

Visitors are reminded to empty their pockets of keys, loose change and other metal items. Bags will be searched.

Employees are subject to the screening as well.

Getting around the government center will be a little different. As part of the plan to tighten security, the connecting walkway between the government center and historic courthouse will be blocked off just past the Traffic and Guardian Ad Litem offices.

Only one of the three elevators in use will be to the parking garage on the basement level. That's an allowance for people who need handicap access. The stairwells are also available.

Total cost for all of the revamping has topped $250,000. Advocates say it's a necessary expense because the government hosts any number of potentially volatile situations on a daily basis.

Reporter Kyle Martin can be reached at 352-544-5271 or kmartin@hernandotoday.com.

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