The Starke County Commissioners will have a better idea of the scope of renovations to two county buildings after their meeting tonight. Representatives from architectural firm DLZ and contractor Skillman Corporation will share final design plans for the revamped courthouse and renovated former jail. They will also provide a breakdown of costs for the work.
Previously announced plans call for the prosecutor’s office to move from the basement of the old jail in downtown Knox across the street to the courthouse. Office space occupied by the clerk of the courts will also be revamped, and entrances will be streamlined in order to provide greater security. Electrical upgrades are also proposed for the building, along with exterior tuckpointing and repainting and sealing of the second and third floor windows.
The former jail will be turned into office space for Starke County Community Corrections, the probation department and Purdue Extension.
The cost of justice-related projects will be covered with funds from the county economic development income tax passed to pay for jail construction. Other improvements will be paid for out of the general county economic development income tax fund. Starke County Community Corrections has also pledged money toward the project.
Tonight’s Starke County Commissioners meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the annex building. Other agenda items include monthly reports from the EMS and highway departments.
