The Washington County Board of Supervisors toured the third floor of the Washington Courthouse yesterday and discussed possible renovations with Judge Mike Mullins of the Iowa Court of Appeals. During the work session, the desire to increase security measures, such as electronic locking doors was expressed. One measure to increase security is to move the judge’s bench in the courtroom to the sit along the north wall and move the jury box to the west side of the room, so people in both areas would have quick access to exits should a crisis situation occur.

Also, Mullins explained the state is moving to an electronic document management system, so all court documents will be filed electronically across the state by the end of 2015. Any furniture would be funded by the state but the county would have to pay for any permanent fixtures. Mullins stated planning is in preliminary stages.