KingWm #LibertyMatters

Well, the hearing was about air quality, not roads, flooding, noise, nuisances, decreased quality of life or property values.  So, we asked a couple questions about dust and most of the rest of the meeting was pointless, other than to speak our minds and send a message to developers.  I didn’t even bother to look at the application.  We can’t stop it, but we may have a little recourse.  We’ll have to save our battle for another day I suppose…
TCEQ Regional Office in Austin for future nuisance complaints: (512) 339-2929

There were lengthy public comments today and we had a visitor from House District 85.  The Fayette County recycling program is in the spotlight again as past Director of Keep Texas Beautiful brags on our fabulous program, saying they use it as an example.  Great job Mr. Zapalac!  There were many subdivisions today but one in particular had a reserve strip that we discussed at length.  I think this conversation will likely lead to a policy change, banning reserve strips.  Also, don’t miss the EMS discussion, an update on the DPS Sergeant’s headquarters and a normally-routine-but-not-today discussion about fines & fees collected by Precinct #2 JP.  All that in about an hour.

This afternoon, the Court begins by proclaiming Catholic Schools Week honoring St. Rose of Lima Catholic School.  Next, there was some informative discussions during the reports on subdivisions, the manner of acceptance of county roads and even a little on courthouse security.  However, once again, grant requests dominate the discussion as another nearly $700,000 in “free money” is granted to private organizations.  I asked the court for its policy related to government funds for private organizations and the standards by which they judge grantees.  There was lengthy discussion but ultimately, every request was granted.

This morning, the Commissioners Court welcomed County Extension Agents Garrett, Kaspar and Willey for their annual report on the local activities of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.  These activities included community education for early childhood, in health and wellness, farm & food safety, leadership, 4-H youth, for land owners, beef & forage producers and on other agricultural & natural resources.  The even spend quite a bit of time discussing the controversial Hog Bounty program and how it benefits local farmers.  I had no idea of the breadth and scope of the educational services they provide, or the rich history of this organization.  If you want a lesson in Fayette County values, don’t miss this incredibly informative report.

Mr. Mueller’s first Commissioners Court is off to a rough start with a gentle rebuke from the gentle Mr. Read over the oath ceremony incident.  At 16 items & 38 minutes, this agenda and meeting were the shortest I’ve seen.  The proceedings were a bit rushed at times, perhaps a bit robotic, but overall, I’d say not bad for the first day.  Let’s see how his style develops.  The Subdivision report includes discussion of growth trends and an update on the Westpoint sewer treatment plant.  The delegation from Ellinger discussed their grant requests and gave a short lesson on the history of Ellinger and the challenges it faces related to water, sewer & growth.

Dan Mueller took the oath of office early Sunday morning and administered the oath to the other newly elected officials.  His second act as County Judge was apparently to terminate the Emergency Management Coordinator position, essentially delivering the news during the ceremony while the others were still being recognized.  I support the dismissal, but a little more discretion would have been wiser.  [audio of ceremony only]

FaCoTx Com Court 12/22/2022 - $70k Tax Payer Dollars to Private Organization?
Today in Commissioners Court, I am disappointed to report that the Court voted to award $70k in taxpayers’ dollars [in “other people’s money”, aka “federal taxpayer dollars”] to a private organization that does not provide a government service.  By comparison, I support the Court approval of a $350k grant to the Animal Shelter, which provides a quasi-governmental service.  Ms. Stanley-Brown, the director of the Animal Shelter, was visibly & emotionally moved by the Court’s [McBroom’s] generosity.  Also, don’t miss the informative discussions related to the process of accepting county roads for county maintenance and the bidding and awarding of a new, one-year contract for financial auditing services for 2022.

La Grange, Tx ISD Public Hearing 12/12/2022 – Monarch Green Energy Tax Scheme Declined
More Professional & Fewer Pitchforks, God Bless Fayette County Citizens!
Monarch Energy didn’t perform any better in person.  Once again, the public heavily opposed, but this time, there were fewer pitchforks and more professionals.  A wealth of general information related to the county water and energy supplies was shared.  Don’t miss the public comments if you want a free Fayette County history lesson.

FaCoTx Com Court 12/8/2022 - Flood Regulations & EMC Under Microscope
Today in Commissioners Court, the Flood Damage Prevention Regulations are under the microscope.  I thank the Court for their patience and time.  I feel I made some progress but have much convincing to do yet.  Also, the Commissioners are not happy with the EMC again, so don’t miss the courthouse security update.  Le sigh...

Fayette County (Texas), La Grange Independent School District Public Hearing for Proposed Chapter 313 "Reinvestment Zone" 12/5/2022