Bottom Line

Douglas County commissioners will consider hiring a contractor to install fire-suppression sprinklers in the county courthouse.

Commissioners would approve the hiring of Conley Sprinkler Inc., the lower of two bidders on the project, for $159,000.

The sprinklers would be installed with respect for the integrity of the courthouse, which is listed as a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places.

Only the courthouse’s attic currently is equipped with fire sprinklers.

Background

County officials say they need a sprinkler system to protect property and improve safety in the building in case of fire.

The sprinklers would be installed in conjunction with an overall renovation of the courthouse, which won’t begin for at least another six weeks.

Previously, the sprinklers were to be included in the contract for the overall renovation. But when bids came back too high  the original bid for sprinklers was about $260,000  commissioners agreed to seek a contractor on their own.

Other business

 Recognize Kim Thompson-Flick as 2000-2001 Douglas County First Responder of the Year.

 Consider approval of right-of-way contracts, including those for Douglas County Route 442 and Stull Road.

 Consider approval of a home-rule resolution providing for the temporary prohibition of the issuance of building permits for construction or placement of dwellings and mobile homes on certain tracts.

 Discuss the possibility of creating Marion Township Fire District.