SPOKANE, Wash --- A recent security scare at Spokane's Public Safety Building highlighted a growing worry for authorities.
Despite being a hub for local law enforcement agencies, there are currently no security cameras around the exterior of the building.
Authorities said it is a glaring problem but a solution is finally on the way.
A hazardous letter sickened several people at the building and forced an evacuation.
The investigation into that case is on-going, but one thing is clear, none of it would have been caught on tape.
Visitors like Tyler Waite were shocked to learn that no security cameras exist at the building.
"It's very surprising because when you think of the courthouse, you think of security and safety,” Waite said.
Waite was at the building to deal with a speeding ticket.
To protect people like Tyler, as well as law enforcement officers, visitors will finally be monitored in and out of the Public Safety Building.
"We're able to document what is taking place... and who the players are,” Security coordinator Ray Bush said.
Plans are currently in the works to install as many as 15 security cameras.
A federal grant is expected to pay for those upgrades in the next few months.
It will plug a potentially hazardous gap at one of Spokane's most important buildings.
"If someone were to come in here with a weapon, they wouldn't even have it on tape,” Waite said.
Up until now, the upgrades were too costly, and money was needed for other things here.
But at a time when law enforcement officers are being targeted increasingly often, security experts said now is the time to make some vital changes.
"I have a very good feeling about it, because it’s money well spent,” Bush said.
If all goes well, the building will have security cameras by the end of the summer.