Preparation work for the installation of a new exterior for the Butler County Government Center was done Thursday.

Subcontractor A.C. Dellovade Inc. of Canonsburg in Washington County used a laser scanner to take measurements of the building's facade.

John Campbell, director of county facilities and operations, said the company's scanner uses plastic balls, which were placed on the wall along the southern side of the building entrance.

“The scanner measures everything around it,” Campbell said.

Christopher Spano, Dellovade project manager, explained the effectiveness of using the spheres.

“It gives the reference point because it's a perfect 6 inches,” Spano said.

Beginning outside the Diamond Street building, the scanning was continued on the government center roof.

The county commissioners were discussing construction options with Campbell in front of the building Thursday morning.

Commissioner Leslie Osche, board chairman, said the large planter to the left of the entrance will be removed to make more room for people congregating outside.

“I just like to see that opened up,” Osche said.

Commissioner Kim Geyer agreed.

“It takes up a lot of space,” she said.

Geyer said some things may be added for people waiting outside.

“Perhaps, metal benches,” Geyer said.

Osche said the county is finalizing what to do about the rest of the wall extending down West Diamond Street.

Instead of replacing the wall, just the bricks may be swapped for a grayish tan variety.

Geyer said the county is trying to keep the cost as low as possible.

The $3.5 million project is being done because the exterior beige panels are deteriorating from the inside. New aluminum siding will be attached.

The prime contractor, Uhl Construction of Allison Park, has completed work around the county courthouse to reroute rainwater runoff in a separate project.