Commission OK's funds for office access security

Wahkiakum County offices may soon have significant security upgrades.

On Tuesday, county commissioners authorized sheriff's office personnel to proceed with purchase and installation of electronic door locks for offices in the courthouse and Elochoman Health and Human Services campus.

The locks are intended to allow employees to secure their offices in the event of an emergency.

Undersheriff Gary Howell and Health and Human Services Executive Director Chris Bischoff said some personnel need battery powered pendants that can activate the locks. Mental health therapists, Bischoff said, will often see clients in different rooms and in arrangements that would have the therapist separated from a fixed panic button.

Howell said staff will examine pendant alternatives, and he'll be able to make a recommendation on a preferred alternative in a week or two.

Commissioners authorized the group to proceed.

"We're way behind on this," said commissioner Blair Brady. " Our intent is to do what is required to make it safe."