The Commissioners Court met Monday, July 20th, for their regular meeting. Even though we have received some rain, it is still very dry in many places in the county. They voted to reinstate the Burn Ban. There was a temporary reprieve for a few days so folks could burn over the weekend when it was so wet.
The San Saba County Commissioners Court meets at least twice a month, typically on Mondays, to conduct the county’s business. The public is invited to these meetings.
The Court usually meets in the Commissioners Courtroom on the 2nd floor of the Courthouse. However, it was moved to the District Courtroom on the third floor this week due to the large attendance, 25 including the Court.
Among other items not covered elsewhere in this edition are:
• San Saba County Treasurer Lois VanBeck informed the Court she is working on next year’s benefits and that it appears the health insurance may increase approximately 9.9%.
• Ms. VanBeck also noted she had received the $500,000 for the Ambulance grant and needed to know where the funds needed to go. Later in the meeting, the Court discussed the grant monies. It was noted that the funds can only go towards the purchase of a new ambulance. Options were discussed.
• The Court voted to approve a sealed bid on a 1994 Dodge Pickup (Precinct 1) for $3,500 from Brad Williams.
• There was quite a bit of discussion regarding an OSSF (On Site Sewage Facility) in Bend. There have been many complaints over a long period of time. There was concern that wastewater was going on a person’s property. Commissioner McGregor said he had visited the area six months ago and found nothing. However, he visited the area again earlier that morning before this meeting. He said there was definitely a problem and that something needed to be done. Mr. Blackman from TCEQ was at the meeting and addressed the Court. He stated that samples had been taken, and no contaminants were found in that sample. They invited him to take additional samples today after the rain, but he did not come prepared with equipment to take samples, just to report on previous testing. Judge Fauley thanked Mr. Blackman for taking the time to come in person to give the report.
• $30 million was divided among 30 counties affected by the 2025 flood. San Saba County was awarded some of this grant money and is working with a hydraulics engineering group that is also working with McColloch County. This is to be used to pay for flood sirens which would be in place by the end of 2027.
The next Commissioners Court meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 29th, at 8 a.m.