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Sheriff reports jail repairs progressing; HVAC damage and inmate relocations remain challenges
Summary
The Liberty County Warden told commissioners Sept. 23 that contractors have completed intercoms and hinges for two hallways and that fire‑restoration work started Sept. 22; HVAC damage is greater than first estimated and some inmates were moved out of county while repairs continue.
The Liberty County Warden gave an information‑only update to the Commissioners Court on Sept. 23 about ongoing repair work at the Liberty County Jail, reporting progress on intercoms and locks but continued challenges with HVAC and inmate housing.
The Warden said contractor Sedapic completed hinges and intercoms for the JKL and MPQ hallways and that one dorm is now operational. Maintenance staff have been working seven days a week to coordinate multiple contractors, the Warden said. Fire‑restoration contractor work on West Hall began Sept. 22, and demolition of that hallway was described as roughly 75% complete.
The Warden reported that the HVAC system in the damaged hallway was more extensively harmed than originally estimated and that the county is still seeking an HVAC firm to complete repairs. Because portions of the jail will require “complete renovation,” the Warden said work on remaining projects is scheduled to begin after Oct. 1 so payment can align with the new fiscal budget.
Commissioners asked about inmate housing. The Warden said the county had transferred some inmates out of county and that about 15 remained in‑county while roughly 15 were sent to other counties. He said Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDC) is coordinating where possible, but many surrounding counties face similar constraints.
Commissioner Greg moved, with a second from Bruce, to accept the sheriff/warden’s information report; the court voted in favor and the motion carried. The presentation was recorded as an information item; no budget appropriation was made during the update.
