A couple wanting to utilize the Historic Grimes County Courthouse for a wedding was a main topic of Commissioner’s Court last Wednesday.
County attorney Jon C. Fultz mentioned the idea to court, saying it is an area in which to tread lightly, because it can open doors to larger events.
“There were issues in the past of providing security for events that have gotten out of hand. I can understand wanting to open that beautiful building to folks for that kind of event…but how do you shut the doors for someone who wants 30 to 35 people, or the next guy who wants 50 to 55 people. Security poses an issue you need to consider,” said Fultz. “Then, who is responsible for who is opening, and closing the doors, making sure it is clean…all things that are similar to changes we made to the Fairgrounds agreement.”
Discussion revolved around scheduling these evens as well, and whether that should be done through the maintenance department, as with other facilities.
Commissioner Phillip Cox, who was a min proponent of added security at the Fairgrounds recently, says people have to pay to use that facility, so it should be the same for the historic courthouse.
“I guess I am just sitting, think of a scenario…why would I rent the Go Texan building at the fairgorunds, when I can come over here, and get [the Historic Courthouse] for free?” said Cox. “I think that just saying we will open it up…at this point, it probably needs more consideration.”
No action was ultimately taken, and the idea will be discussed at a future meeting.
