Added security features are continuing to be installed in Carbon County offices and the courthouse.

On Thursday, the commissioners approved 2-0 a proposal with Ibis Tek of Butler, for the installation of NIJ level III ballistic protection barriers at three of the four district court offices. Commissioner William O'Gurek was absent.Commissioners' Chairman Wayne Nothstein explained that the ballistic barriers will be much like the thick window covering barrier that was recently installed in the commissioners' front office.The cost for the barriers totals $28,755 and will be installed in the next month or so in the Lansford, Jim Thorpe and Palmerton district court offices. The purchase is funded through an Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts grant."There are certain areas in the district judges' offices that have open windows," Sheriff Anthony Harvilla said."This will provide some extra ballistic protection for the staff in those offices.""You never know who is going to come into the office," Nothstein added. "It's just another step in security and safety for the employees."Nothstein pointed out that the Weatherly district court office is not getting outfitted with the ballistic barriers at this time because Weatherly borough is working on a new building project. The district judge's office will be moving into that new building once completed.Harvilla also pointed out that the new gate next to the county courthouse has been installed. That area is used for inmate transports to and from court and had never been secured in the past.He said that there are a few adjustments that need to be made on the gate but expects it to be fully operational next week."It's long overdue," said Commissioner Thomas J. Gerhard.