Ellis County approves drainage master plan contract, funds animal‑shelter feasibility study and courthouse metal detectors

The Ellis County Commissioners Court approved three administrative items intended to address county infrastructure, courthouse security and animal‑services needs.

County engineer Zach Garrick described a professional services agreement with Kimley‑Horn to develop a countywide drainage master plan focused on priority watersheds including South Prawn Creek; Garrick said the scope was within the budgeted amount and would coordinate with existing local studies to avoid duplication.

During public comment, Matt Craig (project manager and Pet Coalition board member) urged the county to coordinate the Kimley‑Horn study with broader regional efforts led by the North Central Texas Council of Governments, including a multi‑agency stormwater integration study funded in part by a $10 million grant, and to incorporate flood‑warning systems and other data sources.

The court approved the Kimley‑Horn agreement by unanimous vote.

The court also approved item 3.2 to purchase two ADA‑compliant metal detectors for the rehabilitated courthouse and administration building for an amount not to exceed $14,244, to be funded from the Courthouse Security Fund. Captain Gardner of the sheriff's office was listed as available to speak about the security committee recommendation; the item passed unanimously.

Finally, the court approved a feasibility study and needs assessment with Quorum Architects, in partnership with the City of Waxahachie. The county's portion is not to exceed $14,500 (50% of the overall cost). Commissioner Lane Grayson said the study will be stakeholder‑driven and involve cities, rescue groups and the sheriff's office; members of the Pet Coalition offered to provide data and assistance. The motion to approve passed unanimously.

All three items passed without opposition and county staff will follow up to implement the studies and purchases.