Olmsted Bd Approves Weapons Screening Program

Work is expected to begin later this year on a weapons screening program that will impact the majority of the Olmsted County portion of the Government Center.

 The County Board today gave unanimous support to a plan that will add a tower to the east side of the building where the main entrance is located.  The tower will include two elevators that will serve the 2nd - 6th floors.   It will also include the new weapons screening program, which will be located on the second floor.  It will be similar to what is in use at airports with a walk-through metal detector and a bag checking machine.   Visitors who want access to all floors above the first level will be required to be screened.  The first floor will not be affected by the new program.  Cost estimates are in the $5 ½ - $7 million range.  Staff hopes work can begin in October and be completed in ten months.