Commissioners hear HVAC problem, humidity concerns at new district court suite; project still in punch-list stage

Wichita County Commissioners Court received an update on courthouse renovation work on June 3, including a mechanical problem that has produced high relative humidity inside the recently renovated 30th District Court suite.

County staff reported indoor relative humidity of about 74% while outdoor humidity was near 80%. The courtroom and adjoining suite have experienced excessive moisture levels that staff described as unacceptable for courtroom conditions. The county said the mechanical engineer who designed the system will be engaged along with the architect and contractor to diagnose and correct the problem.

Commissioners were told the project has been accepted and retainage remains; a number of punch-list items are outstanding. Staff said they have taken emergency steps to mitigate humidity while pursuing a foundational fix through Harper Perkins (architect) and the contractor. The county noted the schedule has slipped from initial expectations and that, if necessary, the county may extend a temporary lease for court operations.

In related courthouse work, commissioners were told the men's and women's restrooms on the annex first floor are expected to reopen after lunch, and that repairs to the elevator lobby flooring—damaged when safes were moved—will be completed while materials are on hand.

No formal contract changes or further approvals were made at the meeting; staff will continue coordinating with architects, engineers and the contractor on engineering corrections and outstanding punch-list items.