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Clay County recently delayed a space needs study that would have cost more than $70,000. It was the right move to make for several reasons, not just the current economic conditions.

The county, along with other area governments, has far too long turned to outside firms for assistance when professionals within its own walls can often provide solutions if simply called on to use their expertise and experience. Staff members are also in a position to see the daily workings of an operation, giving them a clear understanding of what will work and what won’t.

More than once taxpayers have paid the costs for moves that were made based on outside expertise that proved to be less than stellar. Look no further than the open classroom concept, which led to many classrooms later being closed in, and buildings that were designed far more for aesthetics than functionality.

Keeping that in mind, there is no reason to believe that Clay County personnel already in place can’t address the most immediate needs for space utilization within existing facilities. That includes finding an area for another courtroom, which the county is going to be required by state statute to add after the results of the 2010 Census are in.

Just two possibilities that have already drawn attention are creating another courtroom in the James S. Rooney Justice Center, which could require the relocation of a current county operation, or using the courtroom at the Clay County Western Annex, complete with judge’s chambers. That courtroom is currently being used for offices and meeting space.

While there would unquestionably be security concerns if a courtroom apart from the justice center was used for felony cases, those concerns are greatly diminished if the courtroom was the site for traffic cases and minor violations.

Cities across the country hosting municipal court prove that on a weekly basis.

Either of the aforementioned options or others coming from staff willing to travel roads less traveled could easily prove to be workable without the need for a $70,000 study.

The county needs to rely on the people it already has.

It’s time to get back to the basics.

It’s a lesson families throughout the Northland have already learned.

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