Saturday, February 15, 2025

County holds ribbon cutting, open house for Leon Street Annex

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Citizens had the opportunity to receive a first look at the new Leon Street Annex in Gatesville.

Coryell County officials and the project’s contractor, Butler-Cohen, held an open house and ribbon cutting for the new building on Thursday, Jan. 16.

Jonesboro ISD Superintendent Matt Dossey held the opening prayer for the ceremony followed by remarks from Precinct 2 Commissioner Scott Weddle.

According to Weddle, this is the first new construction the county has taken on since 1991. It is the second phase of a larger project, with the first phase being the 47-bed Coryell County Jail expansion that was completed last year.

“Most importantly, I'd really like to thank the citizens of Coryell County,” Weddle said. “This wouldn't be here, and I know it's on your tax dollars; it's on your back. And so, I hope that you give an appreciation of what we were able to produce, that this building will stand here for the next 50-75 years, and it'll function as a county building for that long.”

Weddle also recognized various local entities and departments for their help in the development of the new annex, including the City of Gatesville, the Coryell County Road and Bridge Department, the Cunty Auditor, and the Gatesville Fire Department.

The county plans to occupy the building by the first week in February, Weddle said.

The Coryell County Sheriff’s Office led the raising of the American flag and Texas state flag for the building.

Following the ribbon cutting by county and elected officials, attendees had an opportunity to view the lobby and two new courtrooms for the 440th District Court and Justice of the Peace Court.

Along with the 440th District Court and justice-of-the-peace courts, the Leon Street Annex will also house constables for Precincts 3 and 4 and Texas Game Wardens. The building includes a 120-seat district courtroom, jury box, bailiff space, courthouse holding cells, and a secure area where attorneys can meet with clients.

The building design was developed by Fort Worth architect firm Southwest Architects. The county approved the project for a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) of $8 million in December 2023.

The Coryell County Leon Street Annex is located at 417 E. Leon Street in Gatesville.