Freestone County Commissioners adopt the 2017 budget, set the tax rate for 2017; and unanimously approve to restrict Texas Central Railway when crossing Freestone County roads and/or right-of ways during regular and special called meetings over the past couple of weeks.
Following several budget workshops, Commissioners voted to adopt the 2017 budget in the amount of $12,557,643.33. This budget, based on the new tax rate of 33.9%, will raise more revenue from property taxes than last year’s budget by $59,214.15, which is a 0.7% increase from last year’s budget. Property tax revenue to be raised from new property added to the tax roll this year is $109,170. The County currently has no debt obligations.
In regard to Texas Central Railway’s High Speed Rail, Commissioners unanimously voted to require permits to be obtained and certain regulations to be followed when trying to cross any Freestone County roads and/or right-of-ways. They must also be able to prove eminent domain when acquiring said permits. According to County Judge Linda Grant, the Surface Transportation Board states that the Federal Government lacks the authority to grant eminent domain power to Texas Central Railway.
Commissioners discussed the fact that following much needed rain, the burn ban could be lifted for the time being; and voted to do so. They will revisit this issue at each meeting from this point forward.
Early voting schedules were discussed and approved. Fairfield #1 and Liberty #12 have been combined and will be held at the Fairfield Conference Center. During Early Voting, registered voters may vote at any of the locations. Check online at the website listed below to view the full early voting schedule times and locations.
Also covered at these meetings was an approval of rebids as pertains to road & bridge repairs and waste management. Commissioners approved to accept and enter into contracts with the following companies: Knife River, Frost Crushed Stone, Wilson Culverts, Contech, and Republic Services.
Only one bid was received for the rebuilding of Freestone County Road 890’s bridge. This bid came from Neyland in the amount of $44,800.00; and was approved.
Election Judges and Alternate Judges for September 1, 2016 through August 31, 2018 have been approved.
Freestone County Child Protective Services Board members, Karen Daniels, Lovie Whyte, and Pamela Brackens-Barnes, were reappointed to the board through August of 2019.
In addition to regular housekeeping items, Commissioners have also agreed to look into replacing jury seating in the District Courtroom. According to Judge Grant, TDCJ Inmates should be able to build custom seating that will be cost effective, much more comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing. To view a budget break down, tax rate information, Election Judges & Early Voting Schedules, or any other information pertaining to Freestone County, visit online at http://www.co.freestone.tx.us.
