County talks courthouse lawn preservation

We no longer have a sprinkler system, County Judge Richard Evans said of the Bandera County courthouse.

Trampled by horses, stakes and vehicles that occupy the courthouse lawn during events, Evans said the sprinkler system has been destroyed. Seeking guidance from the court on how to best handle requests to use the lawn from various entities throughout the year, Evans expressed concern that the property is not being preserved.

Were not doing citizens a service by not maintaining their courthouse, Evans said during the Jan. 23 regular commissioners court. I get tired of always being the bad guy[but] we need to do something.

Pointing out that the courthouse is the center attraction of town, Evans said people like to congregate for photos and weddings, though the barrage of activities has killed the grass and compacted the soil making the site less attractive. He did not endorse repairing the sprinkler system, saying he felt it inappropriate to water during drought conditions.

Itll rain some day. Well have grass some day. Itll look good some day, Evans said, adding when that day comes the lawn will need to be looked after with more care.

Historically eight regular events are hosted annually at the courthouse. Commissioners suggested hosting only non-profit groups on the lawn; all other groups may use the asphalted perimeters. County Attorney Jana Lindig suggested the county create a schematic to delineate usable areas. She said she would draw up a release of liability form for all vendors to sign before future events.

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County talks courthouse lawn preservation