Rockwall County Court Discusses Constable Salary Increases Amid Budget Draft Review

Rockwall County officials are taking significant steps to address constable salaries as part of the preliminary discussions for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. During a special meeting on August 14, 2025, the Commissioners Court engaged in a detailed dialogue about the compensation of constables, highlighting a pressing need for adjustments to align their pay with regional averages.

Commissioner Bobby Galana pointed out that constable salaries have stagnated since 2020, remaining at $76,000 for three consecutive years. He emphasized that, had standard raises been applied, their salaries would now be closer to $96,000. This stagnation, he argued, has contributed to the current pay disparity, which is critical as Rockwall County continues to grow.

The court reviewed salary data from 19 counties, revealing a wide range of constable salaries—from $39,039 in Bowie County to $150,000 in Fort Bend County. The average salary across these counties stands at approximately $90,495. Commissioner Dana Lickdiet proposed that increasing constable salaries to this average, along with a 3% raise, could bring their compensation to about $95,000.

The discussion underscored the importance of fair compensation for constables, who play a vital role in law enforcement and community safety. As the county grows, the need for competitive salaries becomes increasingly evident to attract and retain qualified personnel.

While no formal proposals were made during the meeting, the court acknowledged the necessity of addressing constable pay in the upcoming budget discussions. The court plans to revisit this topic as they refine the budget, ensuring that constables receive the compensation they deserve while maintaining a commitment to keeping tax rates low for residents.

As the budget process unfolds, the Commissioners Court is poised to make decisions that will not only impact constable salaries but also reflect the county's priorities in supporting its law enforcement personnel. The next steps will involve formal proposals and potential votes to finalize these crucial budgetary adjustments.