Memorandum
Date: October 22, 2024
To: The Honorable Bruno Sabatier, Chair, Lake County Board of Supervisors
From: Lars Ewing, Public Services Director
Stephen Carter, Assistant County Administrative Officer
Subject: Consideration of Upcoming Courthouse Facility Projects
Executive Summary:
As your Board is aware, the Public Services Department and Administrative Office have been planning several improvements to the courthouse building. These projects will enhance the operational efficiency of the building and provide a more comfortable and accommodating environment for both staff and visitors. Given the nature and interrelationship of the projects, and need to weigh financial considerations, staff is providing this update to your Board. We look forward to any relevant direction, and ensuring the path forward is clear.
Superior Court Fourth Floor
The new Lakeport Courthouse is under construction, and the Superior Court is preparing to vacate the existing Courthouse's fourth floor. The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) estimates the new Courthouse will be complete mid-2026; the Court expects to move soon thereafter.
This provides a unique opportunity to consider potential reallocation of that space for County use, and subsequent renovation based on the new use. Staff intends to work with the Space Committee to address the following questions:
- What County Departments or services would benefit from relocation or expansion to the fourth floor?
- What potential uses or tenants should be prioritized for this newly available space?
- Should the County explore any public-private partnership opportunities for the space? If so, which ones?
As your Board is aware, the AOC maintains equity rights in the current Courthouse, and use of the fourth floor would require the County's acquisition of those rights. The 2008 Joint Occupancy Agreement[MR1] outlines anticipated terms. County and AOC staff plan to order an independent appraisal of the AOC's equity ri...
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