County staff told commissioners Friday that the jail roof is leaking in several places, vendor responsibility is disputed, and the county may proceed with repairs while pursuing warranty or subrogation options.

What happened: staff reported visible leaks and several problem areas identified in a prior inspection: possible through‑membrane holes, gaps where the membrane attaches at vertical walls, flashing defects around rooftop mechanical units, and wrinkled membrane at rooftop units where attachment and tension appeared compromised. Staff said Carlisle (the manufacturer/inspector referenced in the meeting) previously inspected the roof and noted installation issues and also proposed fixes; the contractor and other parties have not accepted clear liability.

County response: staff said the county will likely move forward with the repairs in the short term to “stop the bleeding” and limit interior damage while continuing to pursue warranty responsibility from the manufacturer, the installer and any successor companies. Commissioners discussed whether to involve the county’s insurance carrier or its legal team in subrogation or to have the Texas Association of Counties (TAC) send an adjuster to inspect the work and help with resolution.

Additional maintenance notes: the jail chief noted laundry equipment issues as well — a washing machine about 15 years old is out of service and will be replaced — and reported 53 maintenance work orders in the recent week. Staff said that interim patching may be done now while the court seeks a long-term perimeter membrane replacement if warranted.

Next steps: staff will obtain a full scope/quote for replacement work, ask TAC to consider an adjuster visit if needed, and continue efforts to secure warranty coverage or bonding remedies from the parties that installed the roof.

Ending: the court did not take a formal vote; staff were directed to continue repairs and pursue warranty/insurance options.