Atascosa County approves two hires, sets start dates and salaries

The Atascosa County Commissioners’ Court approved two personnel actions during its meeting.

A new patrol officer was approved with a Tier 2 pay rate of $27.70 per hour, an 86-hour fluctuating schedule and a $120 uniform allowance. The court record notes the position is Senate Bill 22 eligible, includes incentive pay, a 90-day county probation and a one-year agency probation; the officer’s start date was set for Sept. 4, 2025, and physical and drug tests were reported complete. A motion to approve the hire was recorded as made by Commissioner Pavelic; Commissioner Bowen registered a negative vote and the presiding commissioner announced the motion carried with three votes.

The court also appointed Adela Martinez as assistant county attorney with a total annual salary of $115,000 — described in the record as a base of $83,400 plus $31,600 from Senate Bill 22 funds — charged to salary budget area 012404425. County staff (Elise) said Martinez brings "vital attorney experience," the start date was set for Sept. 2, 2025, and required physical and drug testing were complete. Commissioner Gillespie moved approval; Commissioner Riley seconded and the motion carried with four votes.

The court did not record additional conditions attached to either hire beyond the probationary periods and background checks. No name was provided in the record for the new patrol officer.