Dougherty County officials looking at comprehensive renovation of courthouse facility

ALBANY – There may be busier buildings in Dougherty County than its courthouse, but it’s likely that number is small. And the functions of the Judicial Building has a huge impact on the daily lives of many, as its functions include everything from being the repository of records to the site of civil and criminal court proceedings.

After nearly 60 years in service, county officials are looking at a makeover for the building to ensure it is up to date in technology and ability to serve the public.

“A lot of this really was a result of the state approving the additional Superior Court judge for the Dougherty County Circuit,” Dougherty County interim Administrator Barry Brooks said. “When I transitioned over to the county (from a position with the city of Albany), it was kind of in a transition when (Chief Judge Willie) Lockette said we’re going to need an additional courtroom added.”

After a lengthy review process, a state judicial panel concluded that the three judges in the circuit had the heaviest caseload of all of Georgia’s judicial circuits. Last year Gov. Brian Kemp appointed Albany attorney Joe Dent as the fourth judge, and he was sworn in to the position in early 2024.

“The county has a lot of commitments when it comes to the courts,” Brooks said. “The building was laid out through the most efficient fashion when it was constructed, but it has been piecemealed over those 58 years in a haphazard fashion. As you can imagine, what I’m finding is there really hasn’t been much planning for the future.”

Brooks has met with architect Mike Johnson, Lockette and Facilities Director Heidi Hailey as well as other tenants in the building, including the clerk of court, district attorney and public defender.

“Judge Lockette agreed that maybe we need to look at some master plan,” Brooks said. “Other officials agreed we need to look at some master plan or some efficient use of space plan.”

The county is looking to establish a task force to take on the planning project.

Brooks said he envisions a thorough review of current needs, such as technology upgrades and lighting, and long-term planning for the replacement of expensive items like heating and cooling units. The review also will include accessibility and convenience to both those who work in the building and the public.

The county currently has no funds budgeted toward implementing a master plan, but it can work on that and may be able to find grant funds available.

“A lot of this building efficiency is in President Biden’s (legislation),” he said. “We really need to have a clear plan and a vision for where we want to get to. We’re going to maintain what we have now with the idea that in four or five years we’re going to, floor by floor, renovate the courthouse. It’s an investment.”

During a recent commission meeting Commission Chairman Lorenzo Heard indicated that he would like to bring Albany Municipal Court functions to the building. The city moved its court out of the building to accommodate Dent’s arrival.

Staff Photo: Alan MauldinAlanMauldin[email protected]
Staff Photo: Alan MauldinAlanMauldin[email protected]