West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 203 - Courthouse Facilities Improvement Authority
Overview
Agency 203 governs the Courthouse Facilities Improvement Authority (CFIA) in West Virginia.
The CFIA is established to provide funding, oversight, and guidance for the construction, renovation, and maintenance of county courthouses and related judicial facilities.
The authority’s goal is to ensure safe, functional, and modern courthouse facilities that meet the needs of the public and the judicial system.
The CFIA is particularly important because many county courthouses are historic and require careful restoration or upgrading to meet current standards.
1. Authority and Purpose
The Courthouse Facilities Improvement Authority:
Provides financial assistance to counties for courthouse projects.
Ensures compliance with construction standards including safety, accessibility, and durability.
Oversees capital planning and prioritization of courthouse improvement projects.
Encourages counties to modernize facilities while preserving historic features when possible.
Key Principle: The CFIA ensures that courthouse infrastructure meets the needs of both the public and the judicial system, including judges, staff, and visitors.
2. Funding Mechanism
The CFIA administers a grant and loan program for courthouse improvements.
Funding comes from:
State appropriations.
Court fees and surcharges.
Other dedicated revenue sources as authorized by law.
Counties may apply for matching grants, loans, or a combination depending on the size and scope of the project.
Purpose: To help counties, especially those with limited budgets, maintain safe and modern courthouse facilities.
3. Project Application Process
Counties seeking CFIA assistance must:
Submit a Project Application: Includes detailed plans, estimated costs, and justification for funding.
Provide Public Documentation: The county must show public notice and ensure transparency about the project.
Demonstrate Need and Compliance: Projects must comply with building codes, accessibility laws, and safety standards.
Receive CFIA Approval: The Authority reviews the application, evaluates priority, and approves funding.
4. Eligible Projects
CFIA funding can be used for:
New courthouse construction.
Renovation or restoration of existing facilities.
Infrastructure improvements like HVAC systems, elevators, fire safety systems, and security upgrades.
Accessibility improvements to comply with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
Facility maintenance projects that ensure longevity and operational safety.
Note: Funding is generally not available for routine operational costs or non-judicial facilities.
5. Oversight and Compliance
Once a project is approved:
CFIA monitors construction progress and fund usage.
Counties must submit progress reports and financial statements to ensure compliance with state regulations.
The Authority may conduct site inspections to verify that projects meet quality and safety standards.
CFIA ensures that projects are completed on time and within budget.
Goal: Transparency, accountability, and quality assurance in courthouse construction and improvement projects.
6. Objectives of CFIA (Agency 203)
Maintain safe and functional courthouse facilities across West Virginia.
Promote modernization and accessibility in line with current building and safety standards.
Support historic preservation where feasible.
Ensure financial assistance and oversight for counties with limited resources.
Facilitate efficient judicial operations by providing suitable facilities.
Summary
Agency 203 (CFIA) serves as a state-level authority that:
Provides grants and loans for courthouse construction and renovation.
Ensures compliance with safety, accessibility, and preservation standards.
Monitors projects from application to completion.
Helps counties maintain functional, modern, and safe courthouse facilities to serve the public and judiciary efficiently.
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