Resident urges Uvalde County to hold budget workshops and study pay equity

Diana Alberto Karoo spoke during the public-comment portion of the Uvalde County meeting and urged commissioners to host public workshops so citizens can attend, listen and participate in the county budget process.

Karoo told the court she understands the county currently has an interim judge and other changes that could disrupt processes, but said commissioners still have a responsibility to voters to be actively involved in preparing and reviewing budgets rather than relying solely on the judge, auditor and treasurer. "I ask you, be involved, set up workshops, and let the citizens be involved and informed about what you're doing," she said.

She also requested the commissioner's court undertake a pay-equity and salary-structure study, saying department heads have repeatedly raised concerns about inconsistent starting salaries and pay disparities when elected officials change. Karoo asked that meeting packages and documents be provided to commissioners in advance so they have time to review materials before taking action.

Why it matters: Karoo's requests raise transparency and equity questions that affect county employees and taxpayers; they ask the court to increase public participation in budgeting and to study pay practices across county departments.

What comes next: Karoo asked the court to consider these steps; commissioners did not announce any immediate follow-up actions during this meeting.