Caton said it was discussed during the meeting to consider opening the courthouse early to accommodate those appearing for court at 8 a.m.

“This way, anyone who has to appear before the judge can go through security in enough time to still be in the courtroom at 8 a.m.,” Caton said. “I told them I would bring this back and discuss it with you all.”

Caton told commissioners that with the change in hours, it would cost the county an additional $15 per day to pay the two security personnel manning the front door entrance.

Commissioner Joseph Parnell said he had heard nothing but positive feedback from people in Chilton County regarding the new security measures.

Commissioner Shannon Welch echoed Parnell saying he had also heard positive feedback.

New security measures started at the courthouse on Aug. 14 with off-duty Clanton Police Department officers manning the building’s front entrance.

The CPD provides a rotation of off-duty officers to work at the front entrance of the courthouse on a temporary basis, at least until the end of the current budget year for the county.

Commissioners unanimously voted on Aug. 13 to contract with the CPD for two off-duty police officers to man the front entrance to the courthouse, until a permanent solution can be found.

The commission plans to form a concrete plan for officers to man the doors after the current budget year is complete.