Sheriff's office requests funds for mandated vest purchases and pay raises

The Cooke County Special Commissioners Court held a budget hearing on July 10, 2025, focusing on critical funding needs for local departments, particularly the sheriff's office. A significant discussion centered around the budget for mandated equipment, with one official noting the necessity of acquiring specific items required by the state.

The sheriff's office presented a budget request that included a proposal for two pieces of equipment, with an estimated cost of $1,500 each. The official indicated that this pricing aligns with what has been previously paid for similar items. Additionally, the sheriff's office is seeking a pay raise, supported by updated financial documents provided during the meeting.

The discussions highlighted the ongoing financial challenges faced by local law enforcement and the need for adequate funding to ensure compliance with state mandates and to support personnel. The court's decisions in these budget hearings will play a crucial role in shaping the operational capabilities of the sheriff's office in the coming year.

As the budget process continues, the court will need to weigh these requests against the overall financial health of Cooke County, ensuring that essential services are maintained while addressing the needs of law enforcement personnel.