Open Meeting for Justice Center 10-12-2026

Freestone County held a public information meeting on the proposed Justice Center on October 12, 2026. County officials discussed a bond proposition that would fund a new facility combining a jail, courtrooms, and county offices. The proposed jail is designed for 144 beds; officials cited the existing jail’s deterioration and ongoing costs, including more than $1 million for out-of-county inmate housing and related transportation. They described an estimated 18–30-month construction period, bond terms of up to 30 years, interest rates currently above 5%, and a potential tax-rate increase of roughly 6–7 cents. Officials also discussed the possibility of locating the facility on county economic development property and extending water and sewer infrastructure, with a potential reimbursement arrangement. Early voting was stated to begin October 19. No contract award, procurement vote, or spending motion occurred at this meeting; voters will decide the bond proposition.

The county also provided an update on the courthouse restoration, which remains planned to begin before year-end. The project has faced contractor changes and a gap between the Texas Historical Commission grant and restoration bids. Discussion covered whether the courthouse could be retained or used differently, the effect of relocating county offices on the courthouse square, accessibility and space constraints, and options if the bond proposition fails. No procurement decision was made on the restoration or Justice Center projects.