King George County government and law enforcement officials celebrated “improved access to justice for all” during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday afternoon commemorating the opening of a new courthouse.
Those were the words of Judge Victoria Willis, the chief judge of the 15th Judicial Circuit, who was on hand to observe the opening of the courthouse, which will hold its first hearings on Monday.
“It’s a momentous occasion that took a tremendous amount of effort by many individuals to recognize the need for a modern, efficient and accessible courthouse,” Willis said … “We’re not just opening a building; we’re opening a new chapter in King George’s history.”
Approximately 150 people attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new courthouse in King George Friday afternoon. (Photo by Taft Coghill Jr.)
Approximately 150 people attended the event, including all five members of the board of supervisors.
Board Chair William Davis highlighted the five years of hard work that went into planning the construction of the facility while also lamenting that, in his opinion, “we spent way too much money.”
County Administrator Matthew Smolnik said there was a $28 million bond for the construction of the courthouse, but the final product came in just under budget.
“It’s a symbol of integrity, our commitment to the rule of law and a vital resource to the people of King George County,” Davis said.
County officials are exploring using the old courthouse as space for school administration offices and/or the King George Historical Society.
The new building is located at 10446 Government Center Boulevard off State Route 3 and across the street from the sheriff’s office.
King George Sheriff Chris Giles addressed the crowd, giving credit to previous sheriffs Clarence Dobson and Steve Dempsey and retired Clerk of Court Vic Mason for moving the project forward.
Giles said the investment in the new building represents “a promise that justice will be served promptly and equitably to all.”
“Today we celebrate a renewed commitment to justice in our community,” Giles said … “It’s a promise to provide a fair and impartial justice system for every citizen in our county.”
U.S. Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-7th District) was invited to the ceremony but was unable to attend. HIs district representative, Reynolds Boadi, read a letter from the congressman that expressed “my sincerest congratulations to King George County on the successful relocation and opening of the new courthouse,” stating that it symbolizes a commitment to service.
