Precinct 2 budget cuts and growth surge discussed in Caddo Mills meeting

During the recent Hunt County Commissioners Court Regular Session held on July 11, 2025, significant discussions centered around budget adjustments and the rapid growth in the Caddo Mills area. The meeting highlighted the proactive measures taken by county officials to manage resources effectively in response to increasing demands.

One of the key topics was the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. A county representative detailed a series of cuts across various line items, resulting in substantial savings. Notably, the budget for grease and lubricants was reduced by $4,000, and the expendable tools budget was slashed from $10,000 to $5,000, reflecting a more efficient approach to resource management. Additionally, the fuel budget was decreased from $180,000 to $125,000, based on historical spending patterns over the past three years. Collectively, these adjustments amounted to savings of approximately $112,938, which will be redirected to bolster the materials budget, increasing it to $2,241,856 for the next fiscal year.

The meeting also addressed the significant population growth in Caddo Mills, which has seen a staggering 175% increase from 2020 to 2023. Projections indicate that the population could rise from 6,000 in 2024 to over 15,000 by 2029. This growth has implications for local governance, particularly in terms of voting infrastructure. The number of registered voters in Caddo Mills has surged from 3,000 to over 9,000, necessitating the establishment of at least two new voting precincts to accommodate the expanding population.

The discussions underscored the need for strategic planning and resource allocation in light of the rapid growth in Precinct 2, which encompasses several communities including Josephine, Royce City, and Greenville. As the county prepares for these changes, officials are tasked with ensuring that infrastructure and services keep pace with the increasing demands of the population.

In conclusion, the Hunt County Commissioners Court's recent meeting highlighted critical budgetary adjustments and the pressing need to address the challenges posed by significant population growth. As the county moves forward, these discussions will play a vital role in shaping effective governance and community services in the years to come.