Adult probation seeks roof repairs and more office space as caseloads grow

The San Patricio County Commissioners Court approved repairs to the roof at the adult probation office at 404 West Market Street and heard from Adult Probation Director Jason Woods about a shortage of office space as caseloads rise.

Woods told the court repeated leaks have made part of the office "not operational" and said the department needs every square inch of available workspace as it grows. He described plans to replace two‑thirds of the original flat roof section; County maintenance staff and contractor Tremco had inspected the building and provided designs. County Engineer John Dorio (project coordinator) said the replacement work was in the drawing phase and scheduled to begin within weeks.

Commissioners moved and approved the repair request. John Dorio said the section to be replaced was part of a three‑section building and that the contractor will install upgraded built‑up roofing with improved insulation.

Woods also briefed the court on office‑space needs: the department currently manages roughly 1,230 monthly office visits, up from about 838 four years earlier — an increase of roughly 34 percent — and expects continued growth. He said the county's planned new building across the street will provide six offices for adult probation and pretrial services but may not meet longer‑term needs; Woods estimated the department could need 35–40 offices if current trends continue. He asked the court to consider interim measures, including converting storage rooms to offices, and said he would return with a formal request if necessary.

The court took no immediate action on additional office moves; commissioners said the new annex project would be monitored for timing and capacity.