April 28th, 2006
Talks are underway to discuss the possibility of moving staff and court operations from the North Wing of Monterey County Courthouse after abnormally high levels of asbestos were detected earlier this month, prompting officials to close down the court house temporarily. County officials have now met up with staff from the Sheriff’s office and the Superior Court in order to discuss whether relocations should be looked into.
The court has closed on a number of occasions over the last year due to asbestos concerns, after contractors started working on it as part of a renovation. However, a spokesperson has stated that the reason for the discussions over moving staff and proceedings to another location was due to disruption to court operations rather than concerns about the health and safety of staff.
No decision appears to have been reached with regards to whether or not staff will be relocated as yet, but some staff have expressed concerns about being based in and working in the building in light of the recent discovery of asbestos, which is a carcinogenic and can cause a range of health problems through exposure to airborne fibers.
Jim Bass, president of the Sheriff's Deputies Association, stated that efforts are being made to get the staff relocated to another building. He stated: "We're pushing for that," Bass said. "We think for the well-being of our members it's best to move out of there."
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