The Howell County Commission has selected Elevatus Architects to conduct a needs assessment and preliminary design for a proposed county law enforcement facility.
The company is based in Fort Wayne, Ind., but has previously designed municipal and county law enforcement projects across Missouri. Howell County Presiding Commissioner Ralph Riggs noted the firm also maintains connections with local firms specializing in justice facility construction.
The selection followed a competitive bidding process. Sheriff Matt Roberts and the commission interviewed three of the four firms that submitted proposals before choosing Elevatus.
Riggs emphasized that the project is in its early planning stages and will focus on evaluating current facilities while determining future space, security, operational and functional requirements.
"Selecting the right architectural team is an important first step in planning for the future of our law enforcement operations," Riggs said. "Elevatus brings valuable experience and a thoughtful approach to this process, and we look forward to working with their team as we evaluate our needs and develop a plan for a facility that will serve our community well into the future."
The assessment will evaluate potential requirements for the sheriff's office, detention center and justice center to determine the most effective approach for meeting county needs.
Riggs added that the initial study will provide commissioners and the sheriff with critical data to guide decisions regarding the proposed facility's scope, configuration, location and development.
Commissioners expressed appreciation for the time and effort invested by all firms that presented proposals.
