Court reviews county facility projects: Marion Building, Justice Center courtroom, courthouse HVAC and secured storage

Guadalupe County commissioners reviewed a group of building projects and interim facility uses as part of the April 15 budget workshop, asking staff for updated cost and timing information and for design options that could be carried into the FY26 budget.

Marion Building and related moves - The court discussed design and bid timing for the Marion Building (also referred to as the old Green Valley Building). Commissioners said they expect construction to begin in July and to carry into the next fiscal year; the court noted $2 million has been allocated for the project and that some departmental space and square‑footage needs have put earlier estimates near $2.5 million for full buildout. - The planned group moves (including Justice of the Peace Precinct 4 and related constable functions) were discussed as part of a cascade of moves: once Marion is ready, those offices could relocate and their former building could be repurposed for emergency response or fire station use.

Justice Center first‑floor courtroom - The court discussed finishing millwork and potential reuse of an existing judge's bench in storage to reduce costs; staff said most network and electrical work already exists and projected completion "this summer." Cost estimates cited historically ranged from about $100,000–$150,000 for a modest renovation to higher numbers in prior iterations; the court noted earlier figures near $350,000 included additional features that are not part of the current plan.

Courthouse HVAC and secured file storage - Courthouse HVAC: The court reviewed recurring HVAC reliability and parts availability issues in the historic courthouse. Staff said rooftop units were not viable for the building's structure; options discussed included variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems and a chilled‑water (chiller) system. Commissioners were warned either replacement path likely carries multi‑million‑dollar costs and engineering challenges in a historic building. - Secured file storage/old jail: Commissioners discussed using the old jail (a county‑owned historic facility) for secure file storage because of its hardened construction and existing space. Some members noted the building may have historic‑commission considerations that limit major alterations but that secure storage and climate control upgrades might be feasible. Staff also suggested departments review scanning and digitization options to reduce hard‑file demand.

Next steps Staff were asked to provide updated bids, design alternatives and cost estimates before the next workshop so commissioners can prioritize which facility projects to fund in FY26.