County discusses courthouse moisture problems, approves annex river-rock landscaping

Commission staff briefed the commissioners on ongoing moisture infiltration at the historic courthouse, reporting that remedial work to date has addressed running leaks but that moisture continues to affect interior plaster and paint. Staff said the building's original tunnel and steam systems, double-walled construction and age make the problem complex and that a full exterior renovation (tuck-pointing, roof replacement, window work) could range from roughly $1 million to $3 million depending on scope.

Commissioners discussed interim measures — targeted sealing, investigating flat-roof drainage and using waterproofing specialists — and asked staff to explore options including specialized historic-building contractors and possible grant opportunities tied to exterior-historic preservation.

Separately, the board considered landscape-maintenance bids for the annex and approved a $24,440 Brookleaf Lawn and Landscape quote to remove mulch and install river rock at the annex grounds, with in-house crews to handle ongoing maintenance where feasible. Speaker 4 moved to approve the annex river-rock quote; Speaker 7 seconded and the motion passed.

Why it matters: Persistent moisture can cause accelerated deterioration and recurring maintenance costs; commissioners signaled interest in a proactive planning and budgeting process for a larger exterior renovation while approving a more immediate, lower-cost landscaping change for the annex.

What’s next: Staff will pursue specialist assessments, solicit targeted quotes for exterior work, and explore grant opportunities; landscaping work will proceed under the Brookleaf contract.