JUDGE’S COMMENTS
Our roof is leaking But not for long.
Our iconic courthouse was built in 1890, almost 130 years ago, and needs a few repairs including a new roof.
Thanks to our Milam County Historical Commission, repairs are about to begin.
With the assistance of Stan Graves of Architexas, the Milam County Historical Commission worked diligently to secure a $60,000 matching grant from the Texas Historical Commission to repair the roof and waterproof parts of the exterior basement walls.
Our roof has been leaking for some time and water seeps into the basement, especially during periods of heavy rain.
Last week, for example, we had seep water in the basement most of the week, even though we vacuumed it out almost daily.
The Milam County Commissioners Court approved a bid from MRI Services (Tim Burns) to make the needed roof repairs and to waterproof the basement walls a couple of weeks ago and work will begin very soon.
The estimated cost of the project is about $135,000 and thus we will use the grant money and the rest will come from county coffers.
We are also having the exterior drains enlarged and replaced.
A big part of the problem is that the drains are really not large enough to carry the drain water.
Further, exasperating the problem are 45-degree angle downspouts which are easily clogged from leaf debris.
Thus, this problem will be solved and help with our drainage issues.
As soon as these repairs are completed, we will begin cleaning up around the exterior of the courthouse.
We will power wash the exterior walls to remove mold and stain.
The commissioners and their staffs will help with this project.
We are also going to repair the scales that used to hang from the Lady of Justice and light up both with solar lights.
Finally, we are going to get the courthouse chimes working and repair the clocks.
Our courthouse was placed on the National Register of Historical Landmarks in 1977 because of its historical significance.
It is the most notable and recognizable building in the county.
Its mystic appearance identifies the county and reminds us daily of the hard work and foresight of our forebears to building such a beautiful and lasting structure.
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