The Van Zandt County Commissioners Court convened on September 26, 2025, for a regular session, addressing several key agenda items, including public comments, board appointments, and budgetary matters.

The meeting commenced with public comments, where several residents voiced their concerns. Ronnie Jones raised questions regarding House Bill 1522, which pertains to the notice of meetings under the open meetings law, specifically seeking clarification on the effective date and the counting of days for meeting notices.

Deborah Johnson from the Van Zandt County Library Board presented a request to appoint three new members to the board following recent resignations. The commissioners unanimously approved the appointments of Linda Boston, Kathleen Bork, and Jennifer Collins, bringing the board's total membership to 14.

Kathy Zonicker discussed a contract with the Bridal Protection League for spaying and neutering services for county residents' pets, highlighting the program's success in reducing the number of stray animals. The contract was approved with an amendment to extend its end date to September 30, 2026.

The court then reviewed and adopted the sheriff and constable fees for the upcoming year, confirming no changes from the previous year. Similarly, the Fire Marshal office fees were also adopted without alterations.

A significant discussion centered on House Bill 1522, which mandates that government bodies must post meeting notices at least three business days in advance, an increase from the previous 72-hour requirement. The court acknowledged this change without requiring a formal vote.

The commissioners approved the Cottonwood Estate Subdivision plat, which includes four lots, each over an acre in size, meeting all necessary requirements.

During a workshop segment, the court discussed the 2026 fiscal year budget policy, particularly the need to increase the purchase order limit for satellite offices from $100 to $500 to streamline procurement processes. This proposal was met with agreement, and the motion to amend the policy was passed.

Finally, the court adopted an order setting the meeting schedule for the 2025-2026 term, confirming that the commissioners would continue to meet every other Wednesday, with the next meeting scheduled for October 8, 2025.

Overall, the session addressed critical community needs, including animal welfare and library governance, while also making strides in improving operational efficiency within county departments.