Curry commissioners approve bag policy

A clear bag policy is now in effect at the Curry County Events Center.

Commissioners on Tuesday approved a recommendation by Events Center General Manager K. C. Messick to implement the policy as a new security measure.

"It's previously been handled on an event by event basis. The new policy would be for 'scanned ticket' events," Messick said to commissioners.

The new policy generally limits the clear bag size to 12 inches by 12 inches.

"There will be some exceptions such as medical bags, we'll need to search those," Messick said.

There was discussion on the matter before the unanimous vote of approval.

Curry County Sheriff Michael Brockett, asked for his opinion on the policy, said he didn't see that the measure would have an effect on a perpetrator intent on doing violence.

"I am overly OK with this. But we must advertise this policy, let people know," Commissioner Brad Bender said.

Commissioner Seth Martin stressed not confiscating pocket knives.

"I carry a pocket knife everywhere. I don't like to see Curry County confiscating pocket knives," Martin said.

"We can make exceptions," Messick said in response to Martin's comment.

"People have gotten used to clear bag policies. I believe we should do this all the time. We'll get used to it," Commission Chair Robert Thornton said.

In other commission business:

• Certificates of completion were presented to interns in the county's summer intern program.

The program had 104 participants this summer.

The presentation before commissioners involved the interns, the program coordinators and some of the area business people who used the interns' services.

• Commissioners approved an agreement between the county and the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration for $1 million to plan, design, construct and equip a recreation and sports complex.

• Curry County Adult Detention Center Superintendent Mark Gallegos presented his monthly report to commissioners.

Gallegos reported 218 education courses were completed by inmates in the past month.

Gallegos said the inmate population in the past month averaged 180 daily.

"Last weekend, though, we had 215 inmates," Gallegos said.

He said the CCADC has four new hires.

Gallegos said he is working with Clovis Community College about working with the inmates at the CCADC.

He is also working with CCC about having student interns studying in criminal justice and related degree programs working at the detention center.

• Commissioners approved a schematic design for a secure parking area at the Curry County Courthouse.

Ninth Judicial District Judge Drew Tatum spoke to commissioners offering a "thank you" for going ahead with the proposed project.