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Pendleton County commits to courthouse annex planning, cites $5–6 million estimate
Summary
Pendleton County commissioners and the Building Commission agreed March 26 to move forward with plans for a courthouse annex and to work with Region 8 on financing after members concluded renovating nearby properties would require extensive structural work and pose security concerns.
Pendleton County Commission President Gene McConnell said the commission will move forward with plans for a courthouse annex, estimating the cost at "$5 to $6 million," after building commission members reported that renovating an available house would require major structural work and raised security concerns.
The decision came during a joint meeting of the Pendleton County Commission and the Building Commission at the county courthouse on March 26. Building Commission members Jeff Bowers, Jim Brown and Matt Harper told commissioners they did not recommend purchasing the McCoy House for office space because the structure was in worse condition than anticipated and would need substantial repairs.
Jeff Bowers also disclosed he did not participate in the viewing of the Carroll Lee Sponaugle property because he is related to the owner. Commissioners Carole Hartman and Carl Hevener said they agreed with the Building Commission's assessment and that security at the private property would be a significant concern.
Commissioners and building commissioners discussed alternatives, including building an annex onto the courthouse or constructing a smaller building on the High Street parking lot. Carl Hevener suggested a phased approach — adding a basement for storage and roughing in utilities during initial construction, with interior finishes deferred to a later date — to reduce immediate debt.
County Administrator Karen Pitsenbarger said Region 8 would assist with the steps needed for the project, including financing. The Building Commission's primary role, participants said, would be arranging to borrow funds for construction.
Gene McConnell moved that the county proceed with annex plans and work with Region 8 on the project. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 a.m.
The commission asked staff to review and possibly revise annex plans to ensure the county secures needed space while limiting debt; no construction contract or final financing agreement was approved at the meeting.
