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Mills County weighs costly courthouse repairs; historic-preservation steps and grants discussed
Summary
Facilities manager told commissioners the courthouse south facade is leaking and listed high repair estimates (one bid ~ $97,000). Commissioners discussed prioritizing waterproofing and sidewalks, possible grants for historic courthouses and next steps for contractor bids and Texas Historical Commission coordination.
Facilities manager Guy Burns told the court that the courthouse’s south façade has mortar failures leading to water intrusion in the district courtroom and judge’s office, and that window and step repairs on the 1888 jail second floor are also needed. Burns said many small contractors declined the work and that the one large bid received to address the façade was about $97,000.
"What's needed is to get this south wall fixed with the biggest leaks are the district courtroom and then the judge's office," Burns said, describing missing mortar and areas where copper flashing is loose. Burns and commissioners discussed options including removing and reusing existing mortar product mixed with a modern rubberized replacement to match color and flexibility, and pursuing grant funds available for historic courthouse repairs.
Commissioners debated priorities given limited budget: addressing building leaks as a top priority versus sidewalk and step repairs that also carry safety concerns (they noted at least one trip-and-fall incident). Several commissioners asked Burns to solicit additional bids, consider getting a historical-commission recommendation and return with contractor proposals and cost comparisons.
Next steps: Burns will pursue additional quotes, explore Texas Historical Commission grant/repair resources for historic properties and present options and estimates to commissioners for prioritization.
