Montgomery County commissioners voted Tuesday to support the creation of a new state district court as rising felony cases and jail overcrowding strain the justice system.
On Tuesday, the commissioners of Montgomery County cast their votes in favor of establishing a new criminal court, highlighting the challenges posed by increasing caseloads and the pressing issue of jail overcrowding.
In a significant move during the recent special legislative session, State Rep. Will Metcalf, R-Conroe, successfully secured the 523rd state District Court. The court is set to become operational by late 2026, contingent upon approval from Gov. Greg Abbott, and has been included in the county’s budget planning for 2027.
In a recent statement, Metcalf highlighted the establishment of the 523rd District Court, marking it as the fourth court he has initiated through legislative efforts. This development follows collaboration with the county commissioners' court and is in response to requests from judges and the Office of Court Administration. “Given the pressing concerns of jail overcrowding and the paramount importance of public safety in our community, it is crucial that we expedite the processing of cases to avoid the significant backlog experienced in Harris County.”
In 2008, Montgomery County made its last addition to the criminal court system. In 2021, the commissioners took a significant step by approving County Court at Law No. 6, designated to handle Class A and B misdemeanor cases. County officials project that the establishment of the new district court will incur an annual expense of approximately $1.5 million, covering the salaries of a judge and supporting staff.
The vote elicited a range of responses from the commissioners. Precinct 4 is making headlines today. Commissioner Matt Gray expressed concerns about the timing, arguing that the matter was brought up without sufficient public dialogue.
“The only message I have received is that there is not enough space; we require a new courthouse,” Gray stated. “Until now, we hadn’t been informed that a completely new court was necessary, and suddenly, we managed to secure space in no time.”
In a decisive moment, Commissioner Ritch Wheeler stood alone in opposition to the proposed plan, contending that it would be prudent to postpone the decision for further discussion, allowing taxpayers to voice their opinions.
“While I acknowledge the necessity of this, my priority is to ensure greater transparency and to involve our taxpayers more significantly in the decision-making process regarding their funds,” Wheeler stated.
Some commissioners argued that the necessity for a new court has been evident. In a recent discussion, Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley highlighted that the county's IT department has recently left a space that could accommodate the new court. Meanwhile, County Judge Mark Keough emphasized the urgency for immediate action on this matter.
District Judge Phil Grant of the 9th District Court highlighted the significant burden faced by both criminal and civil judges. According to his statement, approximately 7,500 new felony cases were reported in 2024.
“The train is approaching,” Grant remarked. “You all will need to determine how to manage the expansion of courtroom proceedings over the long haul.” Continuing to force criminal and civil cases through the existing court system is not sustainable.
