Commissioners discuss master plan and possible leases for newly purchased Jefferson Street building

The county discussed increasing the architect’s scope beyond an elections renovation to a full master plan for 1305 W. Jefferson (approximately 50,000 sq. ft.), including whether to relocate the commissioners' courtroom, administrative offices and elections operations to that facility.

County leaders said pre-planning the entire building could save money over multiple redesigns and allow for better audio/visual upgrades and public access. Commissioners discussed leasing space to Texas Workforce Solutions; staff cautioned long-term tenant-improvement obligations usually come with longer leases and suggested short-term or flexible lease terms if the county accepts tenancy. The item was discussion-only; staff will follow up with the architects and may return this to a future court agenda for direction and possible action.