Madison Eyeing Security Upgrades to Key Buildings

Madison officials are looking at enhanced security upgrades to its existing municipal buildings including Youth and Family Service, the Senior Center, town offices and the Police Department, according to meeting minutes from the Board of Police Commissioners.

Below is a summary of the discussion concerning enhanced security initiatives and costs to the town.

On behalf of the town building security, the Board of Selectmen and Mr. Hale asked that the police do a “needs assessment” on the critical infrastructure of buildings that house town offices, Probate, Youth and Family Services and the Senior Center.

We are looking into adding cameras, magnetic locks for sensitive areas and ID cards for employees allowing access in particular areas. In no way is this closed government; these are security measures, meeting minutes state.

We are looking for $150,000 in the non-recurring fund based over 3 years. Bill McMinn got a state bid for cost analysis on improvements; IT also did a state bid – similar to the schools – outer door access.

The Police Department is looking for an additional fence on the back of the building for sensitive areas.

Youth and Family Services and the Senior Center require door strikers and a camera so they can see entrance doors for after-hours access.

The total is $150,000: $37,000 is for the Town Hall for cameras; second segment is hard drive related materials for that construction, i.e. a reserve account for electrical improvements; third is the police fence at $24,800 with a $5000 contingency for electrical work, footings, and lines.

Youth and Family Services and the Senior Center costs are to be determined; no quotes yet. The first part of the project funding has been submitted; the second part is the capital expense request form submitted previously by John Bowers for radio upgrades; there was a presentation on the cost analysis.