Friday, May 3, 2024
Coryell County Commissioners approved plans for a civil development proposal for the future Coryell County Justice Center and also a survey of property adjacent to the jail to help determine future options during a Sept. 27 meeting.
Overpopulation concerns at the Coryell County Jail, which have prompted county leaders to look for a solution to the problem, are among the pressing issues the commissioners court faces.
While portable/modular buildings have been discussed and considered as one possible option to relieve overcrowding, County Attorney Brandon Belt said a survey of the property where the temporary facilities might be located is needed before action can be taken.
He said the current justice of the peace building and jail are one large lot, and the old impound lot nearby is a separate tract. That is a location that could be used for portable jail facilities.
"If we're ever going to do anything with the old impound yard, a survey of the property is needed," Belt said.
The commissioners court approved a survey by Mitchell and Associates for that site, and a development proposal for land that would house the nearby justice center and adjacent parking lot.
Estimated cost is $3,300.
"In the late 1980s or early 1990s, they did not require the county to replat the site where the new jail was built," Belt said. "I think we need a good new survey."
Commissioner Scott Weddle, who has helped the county to explore options for portable/modular jail facilities, said before action is taken by the commissioners court, there are questions that need to be answered.
"There are several things I want to make sure we're comfortable with," he said. "One, is the sheriff's office comfortable with moving that way. I want to make sure we're not wasting our time.
"Also, we're looking at 48 beds for $6 million to bring us into compliance (with Texas jail standards). What are our options for financing?"
County Judge Roger Miller said there are three options he is aware of, and the most likely to be used would be a tax note for seven years or less to pay for the facilities. That option would not require voter approval. Two similar options which may have a different length of time for repayment would require voter approval.
"The next step is to work with the city (of Gatesville) and make sure it's a viable spot to put 48 (jail) beds on that site," Weddle said.
