The McLeod County Law Enforcement Center additions and renovations began in 2013 as a courthouse security project that sought to improve safety, security, and accessibility to the existing historic courthouse and attached law enforcement center (LEC) and jail. We developed solutions that modernized public entry through this planning project, allowing for a single point of entry for the public through a security checkpoint. The public had access to the Sheriff’s Department, Court Administration, Planning and Zoning, and County Administration from this central location.
Another layer of security in the facility was a thoughtful renovation of the jail that increased bed capacity by 18 beds and created a secure access corridor from the jail to the courtroom for first appearances and in-custody trials. Other notable improvements included adding additional program space, kitchen space and booking space for the jail, and a separate entry/exit for jail release and video visiting.
This separation keeps the release function and visiting activities separate from other public functions allowing for a level of dignity for persons being released from jail or for families visiting someone in custody.