Gwinnett Daily Post

LAWRENCEVILLE - Gwinnett's county courthouse will be closed on weekends, beginning Saturday, to save money.

The move also reduces hours to close the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center at 75 Langley Drive in Lawrenceville on holidays and at 10 p.m. most weekday evenings. Officials said the facility will be kept open as needed for public hearings, court activities and other scheduled events.

"We regret that this action is necessary due to reduced revenues and increased operating expenses," Commission Chairman Charles Bannister said. "We have had to cut back in all areas of county government."

Savings will come due to a reduction in the hours of officers needed to secure the building, and lighting and air conditioning systems will be shut down when possible. According to a press release, some 24-hours-a-day functions such as the computer center will be able to operate, and the sheriff's control desk will be manned around the clock.

The reduced hours, which come just weeks after reduced hours and the elimination of Sunday service at county libraries, were approved by commissioners July 21.

Facilities Administration Director Michael Plonowski said the closure on weekends and holidays alone will save around $200,000 a year.