What would honest Abe say?
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| Architect Mike Schneider shows a concept rendering for a renovation of the old courtroom. Joe Leicht photo |
It's so persistent, it usually gets a mention when local gradeschoolers tour the courthouse on Law Day.
But while no one knows for sure if Honest Abe ever argued here, it's a fact county officials are considering a $79,000 to $125,000 renovation of the old courtroom that would improve its utility while still preserving essential historical aspects of the building.Mike Schneider of Quadrant Design showed the county board a concept rendering of "a multi-media, conference, training facility as requested (by the board)."
If the county board approves the renovation, the first thing to change would be the seating.
The "church pews" that accommodate about 80 people would be replaced by a like number of upholstered, fold-up seats.
The room would be equipped for wireless networking, as well.
Schneider said some life/safety and Americans with Disabilities Act issues could be addressed in any renovation.
"The main doors (to the courtroom) swing inward when they should swing outward and there is a throw bolt, which is not a good idea," he said.
Schneider said the room does not have two ADA approved exits.
The renovation concept does not address security issues, which the county board has mentioned in recent meetings.
