Waller County court officials approve $3.2M renovation plan for Third Floor

The Waller County Commissioners Court meeting on July 9, 2025, focused on the renovation plans for the courthouse's third floor, addressing the pressing need for additional court space in the county. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced over the past few years regarding the courthouse and other facilities, leading to a reevaluation of the judicial building project, which has been deemed too costly at this time.

County officials outlined a plan to redesign the third floor to accommodate County Court Number 2 and a smaller courtroom, allowing for simultaneous court proceedings. This redesign aims to alleviate the current strain on court resources, as the county only has limited courtroom space available. The proposed renovations will utilize existing shelf space in the courthouse, transforming it into functional courtrooms while ensuring that criminal cases are handled in a secure environment.

The estimated budget for the third-floor renovation is approximately $3.2 million, which includes design and construction costs. The timeline for completion is projected to be around May 2026, following a general contractor's agreement expected by November 1, 2025. The court emphasized the importance of minimizing disruptions during construction, particularly during court sessions.

In addition to the third-floor renovations, the meeting also addressed the relocation of various county departments to optimize space and functionality. The county clerk's office will be added to the list of departments moving to the new courthouse, while other departments will be shifted to different locations to ensure all offices have adequate space.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to improving its judicial facilities and addressing the growing needs of Waller County's court system. The court's proactive approach aims to create a more efficient and secure environment for both the public and court personnel.