Rockwall County advances sheriff's office renovation plan using bond and ARPA funds

Rockwall County officials are moving forward with a significant renovation project for the sheriff's office, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and address space needs. During the Commissioners Court Workshop Meeting on May 13, 2025, discussions centered around the $5 million project, which will repurpose existing space rather than expand the building's footprint.

The renovation will transform approximately 9,500 square feet of previously unused jail space into functional office areas for the sheriff's department. While the project does not involve demolishing the building, it is designed to optimize the use of existing structures, allowing for improved workflow and better service delivery. Officials emphasized that this renovation is part of fulfilling a commitment made to voters, utilizing $825,000 from a previously approved jail bond alongside American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

Project manager Dan Jones outlined that the renovation will occur in three phases over an estimated eight months, with the first phase expected to begin shortly after the necessary documents are finalized. The project aims to create a more effective workspace while maintaining essential dispatch services throughout the construction period.

Commissioners expressed concerns about future space needs for the sheriff's office, highlighting the importance of planning for growth over the next decade. The discussions also touched on the necessity of digitizing records to alleviate storage issues, indicating that further budget considerations may be needed in the upcoming cycles.

As the project progresses, officials are optimistic that the renovations will significantly enhance the sheriff's office's operational capabilities, ultimately benefiting the Rockwall County community. The next steps include finalizing project documents and preparing for the first court meeting in June to officially kick off the renovation process.