Commissioners approve $250,000 road‑use bond for oil and gas operators under updated county agreement

Lavaca County commissioners on Feb. 10 approved an updated routing and road‑use bond agreement that requires oil and gas companies operating in the county to file a $250,000 blanket bond to cover potential road damages.

The agreement, presented by the commissioner bringing the item, updates the county’s road-use permit framework and explicitly covers companies and their subcontractors for hauling, drilling access and other field activity. The presenter cited Texas Transportation Code § 251.151 as authorizing the commissioners court to regulate county roads and said the text mirrors agreements used in neighboring counties.

The court heard that the bond will be a first layer of financial assurance but does not cap company liability. A speaker noted a key paragraph reading in part, “In no event shall the company’s liability for damages be limited to the bond amount of $250,000,” meaning the county could pursue claims beyond the bond if damages exceed that amount.

Commissioners discussed enforcement and coordination with sheriff and county patrols to identify damage; the motion, made by Precinct 3 and seconded by Precinct 1, carried on a unanimous voice vote.

Votes at a glance

- Motion: Approve creation of Lavaca County Routing and Road Use Bond Agreement and require $250,000 blanket bond from oil and gas companies. - Mover: Precinct 3; Seconder: Precinct 1. - Outcome: Approved (unanimous voice vote of those present).

Ending

County officials said the updated agreement gives Lavaca County “more teeth” to require industry to repair or reimburse road damages and that the sheriff’s office will be asked to prioritize complaints on designated county roads.