Taylor County Commissioners lift burn ban, approve vehicle purchase
The Taylor County Commissioners Court addressed property liability coverage, workers’ compensation policies and lifted a county burn ban during its April 8 meeting.
The court discussed the 2025 Property Liability Coverage Renewal schedule, which will run from July 1, 2025, to July 1, 2026. Human Resources Director Roseann Seelke presented a report recommending timely approval to meet underwriter deadlines.
Seelke and County Auditor Elijah Anderson proposed amendments to the worker’s compensation salary continuance policy for law enforcement personnel in accordance with state regulations.
“Law enforcement personnel must be paid salary continuance in reference to worker’s compensation injury, and leave to due injury,” Seelke said. “It’s been the county practice to deduct the first seven days whether it be vacation time, sick leave time, comp time in coordination with general Texas workers compensation laws.”
Commissioners voted to lift a burn ban implemented March 4 during drought conditions. Commissioner Chuck Statler said he consulted with fire officials before recommending the action.
“Both of them think this is a good time to close out this order,” Statler said. “We were blessed with sustainable rain, but 30 days from now, we may be in another dry situation.”
The court also approved the purchase of a 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD for $63,750 through the TASB Buy Board Purchasing Cooperative contract.
“Construction Manager Benton Graham asked to purchase the Chevrolet through the TASB Buy Board. This would be from Caldwell County Chevrolet, contract #724-23,” said Purchasing Agent Scott Henderson.
County officials recognize Stewardship Week, discuss certificate sale
At the April 22 meeting, Judge Phil Crowley presented the Stewardship Week Proclamation to Glen Sampson, recognizing Texas State Soil and Water Stewardship Week. This year’s theme focuses on land stewardship’s environmental benefits.
The court also honored Tracy Matthews, Alexandra Hudson and Beth Argus as Employee of the First Quarter Award recipients.
Commissioners discussed adopting an order to authorize the issuance and sale of certificates of obligation, which would require an annual ad valorem tax.
“The main cost driver is the jail roof, and we have a contract that has been executed on that side,” County Auditor Elijah Anderson said. “The remainder [of costs] towards the improvement at the jail, potential in costs at law enforcement centers. There’s a fiber connection between a couple of county buildings, which will increase our ability and speed.”
The court also addressed reimbursement of travel expenses for county employees. The policy covers lodging, mileage, meals and registration fees, with approval based on budget considerations and business purposes.
