The Mills County Commissioners Court held a special meeting on September 12, 2025, to address several pressing issues regarding courthouse maintenance and repairs. The meeting focused primarily on bids for landscaping and construction work needed to address ongoing leaks and structural concerns.

The first item on the agenda involved a proposal for landscaping, specifically the installation of sod recommended by the state of Texas and the county extension agent. The discussion highlighted the need for durable grass, with a preference for a type that is drought-tolerant. After deliberation, a motion was made to approve the bid from Brasher Company, which was seconded and passed unanimously, despite concerns about the details of the bid.

Next, the court considered a bid from Calvary Construction for repairs to the courthouse. The discussion revealed significant issues with leaking mortar around windows, particularly on the south side of the building. The court noted that previous assessments indicated leaks were not due to the windows themselves but rather the mortar surrounding them. The proposed work would involve removing and replacing the faulty mortar and sealing the affected areas.

Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the assessment methods used to identify the leaks, with some members expressing a desire for a second opinion, potentially involving drone technology for a more thorough inspection. The court acknowledged the high costs associated with the repairs, with estimates reaching up to $400,000, and discussed the need for a comprehensive approach to address all leaks around the courthouse.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of moving forward with the repairs while ensuring that all aspects of the project are thoroughly evaluated. The court plans to follow up on the recommendations for further assessments and to secure additional bids if necessary. The urgency of these repairs was underscored by the ongoing issues affecting the courthouse's integrity and functionality.