Commissioners Rename Annex Building in Honor of Sheriff Karnes

Today the Franklin County Commissioners dedicated and renamed the Franklin County Annex Building (410 S. High St.) in honor of Franklin County Sheriff James A. Karnes. The dedication commemorates his 48 years of service to Franklin County and his dedication to the profession of law.

Sheriff Karnes began his law enforcement career with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office in 1963 as a Deputy in the Corrections Division. Throughout his career, he progressed through the ranks and supervised various divisions within the office before being elected Sheriff in 1992. As of 2007 he became the longest serving Sheriff in Franklin County history.

“Renaming this building in Sheriff Karnes’ honor is a fitting tribute to this great public servant and will serve as a lasting legacy for all those who enter it,” said Commissioner Marilyn Brown.

“Naming this public building in honor of Sheriff Jim Karnes is actually an honor for the Commissioners too,” said Commissioner Paula Brooks. “As both a personal friend and colleague, I’m proud to work with Jim and wish him and his family the best. He deserves this honor as a small token of the community’s appreciation for his service of almost 50 years, working so hard to keep all of us safe and secure.”

“The Sheriff’s service to his profession and to our community is unparalleled. His exceptional devotion to Franklin County and the pursuit of justice has earned him prestigious status and recognition among his colleagues, both locally and throughout the nation,” said Commissioner John O’Grady.

“During our entire lives, Dad has dedicated himself to Franklin County and to the law enforcement community,” added the Sheriff’s daughters Paige, Brooke and Shannon. “This act is an honor for our family and will serve as a legacy for our children in understanding the importance and value of public service.”

The Franklin County Annex was built in 1950 and at one time housed the offices for Franklin County elected officials. It currently houses the following Sheriff’s Office divisions; Human Resources, Finance/Purchasing, Information Technology and Investigations.