Hood County joins Somervell County in new subregional planning commission to coordinate industrial growth

The Hood County Commissioners Court voted on Feb. 10 to form a Hood–Somervell Subregional Planning Commission under Texas Local Government Code chapter 3.91, a move supporters said will give counties a coordinated forum to research and respond to cross‑border infrastructure and environmental impacts from large industrial growth. Commissioner Samuelson made the motion; Commissioner Andrews seconded and the court approved the resolution by voice vote.

Somervell County Commissioner Chip Jocelyn, who addressed the court by invitation, said the commission is intended to be a collaborative vehicle that does not expand local taxation but will give neighboring counties a formal process to engage state agencies and discuss joint planning, including water supply, drainage, public utilities and transportation.

Supporters said the commission offers a way to present unified, coordinated positions to state agencies including TxDOT, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and state lawmakers. The court also discussed inviting municipalities into the process later, noting cities' broader regulatory tools could be useful on topics such as zoning and permitting.

The court approved the subregional planning commission resolution unanimously during the meeting. Next steps include scheduling the first intergovernmental meeting and drafting specific areas of study for the commission's initial agenda.