Montgomery Co. New Courthouse Footprint Decision

**Montgomery County Commissioners Court Nears Decision on New Courthouse Footprint Amid Heated Debate**

**Conroe, TX –** The Montgomery County Commissioners Court is poised to cast a pivotal vote this Tuesday, August 27, 2019, that will determine the precise size and scope of its ambitious $65-75 million new courthouse project. The decision, expected to bring an end to a heated debate that began on August 13, is more than just about square footage; it will fundamentally shape the future layout of the county’s central campus in downtown Conroe and dictate how court services are delivered for decades to come.

The county’s need for a new facility stems from the rapid growth of Montgomery County, which has strained the capacity of the current 1935 courthouse at 301 N. Thompson St. The aging structure, while historic, is no longer adequate to accommodate the county’s burgeoning judicial demands. The new courthouse has a target completion date of late 2021 or early 2022.

At the heart of the disagreement are two distinct proposals for the facility. County Judge Mark Keough, supported by Commissioners Robert Walker (Precinct 1) and Charlie Riley (Precinct 2), advocates for an 80,000 square foot building. This estimated $65 million option focuses specifically on core judicial functions, housing only courtrooms and judges’ chambers. Proponents argue this approach allows ample space on the block for future phased development, including a multi-story parking garage and another building—potentially a separate judicial complex—to be added later as needed. Under this plan, the District Clerk and County Clerk offices would remain in the adjacent Alan B. Sadler Administration Building for the foreseeable future, offering a more fiscally conservative initial outlay.

“This phased approach allows us to address the most pressing judicial needs efficiently while planning for future growth without an immediate, massive bond package,” Judge Keough stated recently, reflecting the sentiment behind the smaller proposal. “It gives us flexibility and ensures we’re good stewards of taxpayer dollars.”

Conversely, Commissioner James Noack (Precinct 3), with support from Commissioner James Metts (Precinct 4), champions a larger, 100,000 square foot courthouse. Priced at approximately $75 million, this design aims to consolidate all court-related services, including the crucial District Clerk and County Clerk offices, under one roof from its inception. This comprehensive approach would necessitate an earlier demolition of the Sadler Building to make way for the larger footprint and would likely require a larger bond package or a quicker turnaround on funding for the full $75 million.

“Our goal should be a ‘one-stop shop’ for all court services, making it more convenient and efficient for residents and staff alike,” Commissioner Noack remarked, outlining his vision for the larger facility. “While the initial cost is higher, it prevents future disruption from additional construction phases and offers a more cohesive, long-term solution that anticipates our county’s continued growth.”

The City of Conroe is also a significant stakeholder in this discussion, with city officials closely monitoring the proceedings. City Administrator Paul Virgadamo and City Attorney Marc Winberry have publicly voiced concerns, particularly regarding potential parking impacts if the new building doesn’t immediately include its own dedicated solution. They also emphasize the importance of the county’s overall “Central Campus” concept and how the courthouse decision will integrate with the broader downtown Conroe revitalization efforts.

When the Commissioners Court convenes on Tuesday, August 27, the vote will not merely finalize architectural blueprints. It will be a defining moment that determines the operational efficiency of the county’s justice system, impacts the daily lives of residents seeking court services, and permanently alters the physical landscape of downtown Montgomery County for generations to come. The public is encouraged to attend the meeting or follow local media for updates on this critical decision.