'We are out of options': Judges urge action for new Montgomery County Courthouse

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"Montgomery County district judges urged county commissioners Feb. 25 to take action on a plan for a new county courthouse, as they said the current one faces overcrowding and structural issues."




https://t.co/Nbc7fGbkB9

The enclosed article from Jessica Shorten, government reporter for the Community Impact, discusses the request from Montgomery County, Texas Judges to the County Commissioners to consider a new County Courthouse. 

The article states that the existing Courthouse was built in 1938 and the last effort to create new courthouse space was in 1997. 

There is an immediate shortfall of space made worse by structural problems, such as:

  • Faulty wiring and plumbing issues
  • Deteriorating concrete on top floor
  • Rodent infestations
  • Asbestos remediation

According to Jessica's article,

In 2022, Montgomery County commissioners authorized architecture and engineering firm PGAL to conduct a study regarding the construction of a new county courthouse and they completed a study in 2024, five options were proposed for a new courthouse facility, including options to house a smaller jail and inmate holding center as well as the Montgomery County Tax Office.


Option 1: $133.9 million

  • Courthouse: 240,000 square feet
  • Jail/holding center: 5,975 square feet

Option 2: $160.1 million (recommended by judges)

  • Courthouse: 240,000 square feet
  • Jail/holding center: 5,975 square feet
  • Tax office: 45,000 square feet

Option 3: $184.2 million

  • Courthouse: 240,000 square feet
  • Jail/holding center: 5,975 square feet
  • Tax office: 45,000 square feet
  • Garage: 132,000 square feet (400-car capacity)

Option 4: $131.6 million

  • Courthouse: 240,000 square feet
  • Jail/holding center: 5,975 square feet
  • Tax office: 45,000 square feet of flex space

Option 5: $141.4 million

  • Courthouse only: 240,000 square feet


This potential project is similar to a construction project that I was involved in. 

The Leon County Court House Project.



This project was a $25 million GMP (Guarantee Maximum Price) Contract between Leon County, Florida, and the Construction Manager that I worked with during construction. 


Contract Arraignment

As you see from the Contractual arraignment in this type of contract the Owner has a separate contract with the Architect and the Construction Manager.



With this project and several projects that I have been involved in with Municipalities throughout the years, there tends to be a lack of communication between the Construction Manager and Architect with the representatives of the municipalities.

There is no one available for the Construction and design teams to engage with on a daily or weekly basis. 

On the Leon County Courthouse project, there were considerable conflicts between the Construction Managers and the Design team. Their conflict affected the construction progress and the overall budget of the project. So much so that the local TV station reported on the demise of the project every week. 

The Commissioners finally brought in an Owner's Representative halfway through the construction process.  

Owner's Representative 

An Owner's Representative has extensive knowledge and experience in construction management. 

They are well-versed in the planning, design, procurement, and construction methods. They are available daily to the construction and design teams. Their expertise allows them to make informed decisions and guide potential challenges effectively. 

The Owner's Representative provides comprehensive oversight of the project. They monitor progress, and schedules, and review project documentation to ensure compliance with the specifications and drawings, building codes, and industry standards. This oversight helps minimize delays, cost overruns, and potential conflicts. 

Cost Control

The Owner's Representative monitors the project budget. 

They work closely with the Owner to establish the budget, and they evaluate changes in the work and identify cost-saving opportunities. They maximize the Owner's investment and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Communication and Coordination 

The Owner's Representative serves as the central point of contact, facilitating effective communications and collaboration among all parties involved. This helps to streamline the decision-making process, maintain transparency, and effectively resolve any conflicts that may arise during construction. 

Time Efficiency 

The Owner's Representative can help expedite the construction process. They are responsible for monitoring and reporting on project schedules, coordinating activities, and tracking the completion of milestones. By closely monitoring progress and identifying potential bottlenecks, they can keep the project on schedule. 

Overall, an Owner's Representative brings knowledge and experience to the design and construction process. Their involvement can lead to a smoother, more efficient construction project with better outcomes for the Owner.  

 The Leon County Court House Project.

Owner's Representative

As I stated the Leon County Commissioners finally hired an Owner's representative and the contract alignment is as follows.  

With the Owner Representative's direction and guidance, the project issues were resolved promptly.  


Shettig Construction Management provides Professional Construction Management services from the inception of your project through completion. www.shettig.com 

mshettig@gmail.com



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