The Oro Valley Town Court is undergoing a significant expansion aimed at modernizing its facilities and meeting current security and operational needs. This project focuses on adding more space to the existing court facilities. The expansion is essential as the court handles a wide range of responsibilities, including processing misdemeanors, civic traffic cases, and issuing marriage licenses. As part of the proposed remodeling, the town council will consider adding a “sally port” to the project during tonight’s meeting.
Yes. A "Sally Port"does enhance the transport of prisoners to court but...
A sally port is a secured entryway used primarily in court buildings, prisons, and other high-security environments to ensure the controlled movement of individuals. In the context of the Oro Valley Town Court, the sally port would facilitate the safe transfer of detainees from transport vehicles directly into holding cells or the court itself, minimizing risks during these transitions. This controlled environment helps prevent escape attempts and ensures the safety of court personnel and the public. In many court facilities, sally ports serve as a key security feature, allowing for secure and isolated transport while maintaining the integrity of court proceedings.
It’s our understanding from Oro Valley Magistrate Court Judge Hazel that the town court primarily processes misdemeanors. Those charged are not violent criminals that need restraint. Most appear on their own.
Has this changed? We know, for instance, that the current county district attorney reduces felonies to misdemeanors, referring these cases back to municipal court. But are these referrals involving “hard cases” or dangerous inmates? Typically, a sally port ia a necessity when a court regularly handles cases involving individuals who pose a significant security risk. It allows for the safe and controlled transfer of detainees, minimizing public exposure and ensuring security during transport. Given that this feature is usually critical for high-risk situations, we have yet to hear why, at this late stage of the project development, adding a sally port has become such a pressing need—or whether Judge Hazel now believes the town court truly requires one.
And... it costs a lot
Town staff proposes that the current projects projected "surplus" could provide some funding for adding a Sally Port but an added $400K will be needed. The current budget for the court expansion is approximately $3.1 million, with $2.2 million already committed to construction, furnishings, and technology. With the project anticipated to come in under budget by nearly $600,000, town staff believe there is an opportunity to allocate these funds for the sally port. However, that won't be enough to cover the total guestimated cost of $1million.
Town Council to decide on additional funding tonight
Tonight, the town council will decide whether to approve the additional $400,000 needed to proceed with this addition. Staff have recommended soliciting multiple bids to ensure the best value for the project while maintaining the necessary security standards. This decision is crucial, as it will determine whether the court can fully meet the evolving security demands of modern judicial facilities while staying within the community’s budgetary constraints.
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