Jail a done deal: Commissioners finalize $75M site purchase despite resident concerns

  • Residents from Carlson Place, Saddle Creek, Pinnacle, Churchill Farms, Summercrest and University Park fill the Commissioner Courtroom during the May 19 meeting. Photo by Nalani Nuylan.
    Residents from Carlson Place, Saddle Creek, Pinnacle, Churchill Farms, Summercrest and University Park fill the Commissioner Courtroom during the May 19 meeting. Photo by Nalani Nuylan.
  • Jenna Lewis (front), who was a former attorney, speaks in opposition of the Jail and Justice Center property, while John Gamez (back), speaks in favor of the location, during the May 19 Commissioners Court meeting. Photo by Nalani Nuylan.
    Jenna Lewis (front), who was a former attorney, speaks in opposition of the Jail and Justice Center property, while John Gamez (back), speaks in favor of the location, during the May 19 Commissioners Court meeting. Photo by Nalani Nuylan.
  • The Williamson County Commissioners Court approves finalizing the purchase of 248 acres for the Jail and Justice Center property. From left, Commissioner Terry Cook of Precinct 1, Commissioner Cynthia Long of Precinct 2, Presiding Judge Commissioner Valerie Covey of Precinct 3, and County Commissioner Russ Boles of Precinct 4. County Judge Steve Snell was absent from the meeting. Photo by Nalani Nuylan.
    The Williamson County Commissioners Court approves finalizing the purchase of 248 acres for the Jail and Justice Center property. From left, Commissioner Terry Cook of Precinct 1, Commissioner Cynthia Long of Precinct 2, Presiding Judge Commissioner Valerie Covey of Precinct 3, and County Commissioner Russ Boles of Precinct 4. County Judge Steve Snell was absent from the meeting. Photo by Nalani Nuylan.

    After an hour of public opposition from residents, Williamson County Commissioners Court finalized its contract to buy 248 acres off SE Inner Loop in South Georgetown for its future Jail and Justice Center.

    Commissioners entered an initial agreement to purchase the property after meeting in executive session March 24. In the month-and-a-half since, residents from nearby neighborhoods have voiced co…