Wichita County Commissioners Court voted 5-0 to approve a $60,002 proposal from T.W. Hicks to waterproof the courthouse exterior steps. The work covers all three sets of steps and will be paid from department 510 with lines determined by the county auditor, the court recorded.
Commissioners and county maintenance staff described the product as a grit-topped coating that improves slip resistance and protects concrete from cracking and UV exposure. The proposal covers removal of the center handrail, filling the anchor holes and smoothing surfaces before applying the coating. The court discussed end-use details including a sand-grit finish, UV compensation in the product, and a standard one-year warranty offer from the contractor.
Facilities staff said the department has about $100,000 available in the relevant budget line for 2025 and that the proposed work should fit within that appropriation. Maintenance officials noted occasional touch-ups may be necessary over time, particularly after construction activity or heavy wear, and said portable stanchions and temporary signage will be used to manage pedestrian access during work.
The motion was made and seconded by commissioners and carried 5-0; no additional appropriations or schedule was adopted during the meeting. Facilities staff will coordinate handrail removal and scheduling with county offices to limit disruption.