PARIS – A new security system will soon be placed in the Oxford County Jail, replacing toggle locks installed in 1979.

Oxford County commissioners agreed to allow Oxford County Sheriff Lloyd “Skip” Herrick to talk to one more vendor before deciding which system to go with.

Herrick said a lock system driven by computer to handle all door locks and cellblocks in the jail could cost about $31,000. Such a system uses touch pad activation to lock doors.

A lower-cost option would be simply to upgrade and replace the toggle switches involved in the locking system, he said. The lock control panel essentially needs to be replaced, he said.

“Over the years, we’ve replaced those switches but the switches aren’t being made anymore,” Herrick said.

The lower-cost option of upgrading the toggle switches would cost about $19,000.

The issue was tabled until commissioners next meet.

In other action, commissioners agreed to accept the low bid of Reed Saunders roofing to install an ice and snow guard across the front of the building. The material Saunders plans to use is a strong form of high-impact polycarbonated plastic.

Commissioners accepted the low bid of Ripley and Fletcher for $60,018 for four new Ford Crown Victoria cruisers for the sheriff’s patrol. The cost includes several cruisers taken in trade.

Commissioners were told there is between $99,400 and $111,600 in federal money available to rehabilitate the runway at the Oxford County Regional Airport. The runway is 30 years old, and “this will keep it from falling apart,” Commissioner Steve Merrill said.

Commissioners also signed copies of the updated master plan for the airport.

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