Callahan County reinstates burn ban ahead of July 4 holiday

Callahan County Commissioners Court voted unanimously June 23 to reinstate the countywide burn ban, citing rapidly drying conditions and forecasts showing no rain before the July 4 holiday.

Court members said they had texted fire chiefs before the meeting and that “the general consensus is it's drying up fast,” prompting the court to act. Commissioners said high winds and rising temperatures increased the risk of uncontrolled fires and that chiefs recommended the ban be in place before holiday activities.

A commissioner noted that municipalities retain authority over events inside city limits — for example, fireworks displays — and should be consulted about any city-held activities. The motion to reinstate the burn ban was made by Commissioner Winner and seconded by Commissioner Clark; the court called for the vote and recorded unanimous support with no opposition.

The reinstated ban applies countywide; court members did not state an end date during the meeting. Fire chiefs’ input and the court’s unanimous vote were the actions the court recorded during this agenda item.