Cascade County Increasing Courthouse Security

Cascade County Commissioners have approved a plan to pay for bullet-resistant windows and other security measures at the Cascade County Courthouse.

The Great Falls Tribune reports commissioners approved on Friday the plan that also limits public access outside judges' chambers and has training exercises to teach employees how to respond in a shooting event.

Commissioner Jane Weber says immediate improvements in security will cost about $17,000.

Courthouse judges still want more security improvements but District Judge Julie Macek says the commissioners took a step in the right direction.

Improvements also include hallway security cameras, a buzz-in access system with keypads and entrance codes, and solid doors for the offices of the four district judges.

Weber says work will begin as soon as possible.