Anderson County approves $573K contract for courthouse stained glass restoration

The Anderson County Commissioners Court convened on December 30, 2024, to address several key agenda items, including the approval of a final plat for the Sandflat Subdivision and a significant contract for the restoration of the stained glass dome in the historical Anderson County Courthouse.

The meeting commenced with a motion to approve the final plat for the Sandflat Subdivision, located on FM 323. Commissioner Hill moved to approve, and the motion received unanimous support from the court, marking the final approval needed for the project. The court expressed appreciation for the work done thus far and wished the developers well as they move forward.

Following this, the court turned its attention to item number six, which involved a proposal from DRG Architects regarding the restoration of the stained glass dome in the courthouse. Gary Adams from DRG Architects presented the details of the contract with a manual stained glass studio, which includes comprehensive repairs and restoration of the dome. The project will involve taking the stained glass to Nashville for repairs, including replacing old lead with stronger materials to ensure longevity.

Adams explained that the restoration process is expected to take approximately six to eight months, with the scaffolding remaining in place to protect the public during the work. The total cost of the contract is $573,040, which will be funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocations. The court discussed the importance of maintaining the courthouse, emphasizing its historical significance and the necessity of the repairs for safety and preservation.

After a thorough discussion, the court moved to approve the contract for the stained glass restoration. The motion was passed, allowing the project to proceed as planned. The court concluded the meeting with a commitment to continue preserving the historical integrity of the courthouse while ensuring public safety.