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Commissioners approve HarTex plan to install concrete basins and buried drains at courthouse to route downspouts
Summary
Mills County Commissioners approved a contractor proposal to replace downspouts at the courthouse with concrete basins and buried drain lines that tie into an existing storm drain, after hearing concerns that simply connecting PVC could cause “static pressure” and roof flooding.
Mills County commissioners voted unanimously to approve a contractor proposal to install concrete basins and buried drainage piping to route roof downspout water away from the courthouse.
The work addresses failing surface drainage where downspouts discharge onto a concrete pad north of the courthouse. Commissioners heard that a simple reduction from large downspouts to smaller PVC could create "static pressure" and cause water to back up onto the roof, potentially risking structural damage.
The county’s description of the approved work calls for lifting and adjusting the concrete pad, installing a cast‑iron‑grated concrete basin at each downspout, tying those basins to an 8‑inch PVC line that will feed a 10‑inch line and ultimately connect to a storm drain near the sidewalk. County staff said the buried line will run north and away from the building so any worst‑case overflow would be distant from the courthouse.
Commissioners also discussed a related second project — drainage work on the north side of the courthouse and near an old mesquite tree — and said that will require a separate site visit and bid because it involves additional excavation.
A contractor representative told the court that the company can likely begin within two to three weeks; the portion of work inside the courthouse footprint covered by the approved proposal will proceed separately from time‑and‑materials work to locate an existing buried storm drain. Commissioners emphasized preserving the courthouse’s historic features while correcting the drainage.
During the meeting a motion to approve the contractor proposal passed with an affirmative voice vote.
County staff said the contractor provides a workmanship warranty but the written warranty language was not discussed in detail during the meeting; the minutes show staff will follow up on schedule and warranty terms.
