Titus County approves issuing county credit cards to elected, appointed officials despite liability concerns

The Titus County Commissioners Court voted unanimously on June 8 to authorize issuing county credit cards to elected and appointed officials, adopting a policy the court’s finance staff said will include receipt deadlines and reconciliation to guard against misuse.

Officials said vendor requirements often force travel and lodging providers to require a named credit card on file, limiting the county's ability to use a single procurement card issued in the county's name. County administration described internal controls and a policy requiring officials to submit receipts within 30 days: failure to provide receipts could result in payroll deductions to recover county funds.

During debate, commissioners described practical benefits in emergency situations and travel. One commissioner said issuing named cards had helped in urgent equipment purchases, citing a case where a part was purchased to get a county truck back in service. Commissioner Coburn asked how the county would recover funds if an official misused a card, asking, "Do we have to sue them?" County counsel and other officials said such matters would be handled case-by-case and could involve hearings or payroll action depending on the circumstances.

Commissioner Abawatt moved to approve issuing the cards under the proposed policy and Commissioner Parchman seconded; the motion carried unanimously. Officials said the county would retain reconciliation responsibilities and maintain strict guidelines for card use and documentation.