Sunday, May 5, 2024
Although it served the county well for decades, a building that previously housed Coryell Memorial Hospital will be torn down because it has fallen into disrepair.
On Sept. 27, the Coryell County Commissioners Court approved Sierra Demolition of Round Rock to complete demolition, clearing and cleaning of the property at 207 N. Lutterloh St. in Gatesville.
Commissioner Ryan Basham said five contractors applied to do the work, "and all five were very good."
Commissioner Kyle Matthews recommended that Sierra be selected, which the commissioners court approved.
The next step will be a request for a contract from Sierra Demolition for the project, which will be reviewed by County Attorney Brandon Belt.
One woman attending the meeting asked why the historic structure was being torn down.
"After Winter Storm Yuri (in 2021), we had extensive water damage there," said County Judge Roger Miller. "Central County Services (which provides mental health services) had previously occupied the building. There was extensive damage to the floor, walls and ceiling (as a result of the winter storm) that made it cost prohibitive to repair."
Miller said the insurance proceeds the county received will pay for the building to be demolished, but those funds would not have covered repairs.
"We believe (demolition) is in the best interest of the taxpayers of Coryell County," he said. "We believe it will enhance the value of the property. It could be utilized by the county or we could sell it."
Miller said the building's historical significance is not forgotten.
“A lot of us can say we were born at that hospital," he said. "It served our community well and the building stood for 82 years – I believe it was built in 1940."
Commissioner Scott Weddle said it wasn't just a financial decision for county leaders.
"It's for public health and safety, too," he said. "Right now, it's a rat trap."
