Waite Park Discusses Financial Bids For City Hall Security Upgrades

WAITE PARK -- Safety concerns has lead to Waite Park staff looking at making some security upgrades inside city hall.

During tonight's (Monday) work session the council went over bids on the proposed project.

Waite Park City Administrator Shaunna Johnson says with the recent scares other cities have faced, they felt this upgrade was needed.

"It's an issue I think we are all facing at some point and as we are making improvements to our facility security is something we really need to take a hard look at," says Johnson.

The proposed upgrade would include reconstruction of the front lobby to provide more counter and work space, and have bullet proof windows looking into the administrative office–similar to the reception desks at police departments.

After further discussion the council felt the upgrades were in the best interest of city hall and the protection of the staff.

The total cost to the lobby upgrades will be about $126,000.

Johnson says this is just phase one of the upgrades. She says they will also take a closer look at safety upgrades to the council chambers.

"A lot of our staff have their backs towards the door and it's not really and open environment for people who want to attend a meeting. So we will look at ways to try and enhance and create a safer and more welcoming place for people to come," says Johnson.

The item will be put on the August 3rd city council agenda, where it should be approved.