Court authorizes negotiations with HNTB for bond program management after heated debate

Rockwall County’s commissioners voted 3–2 to authorize staff to begin contract negotiations with HNTB Corporation for bond program management consultant services after an extended debate over strategy, cost and procurement process.

Commissioner Stacy framed the item as a response to slow project delivery, citing that Rockwall added about 15.2 lane miles since 2004 while neighboring counties used different strategies to accelerate construction and secure outside funding. "If we continue to do the same thing, we will continue to get the exact same results," he said, urging a multifaceted approach that includes federal and state advocacy as well as local funding strategies.

Commissioner Lichty objected to the process used to select HNTB, questioned the price and said the court had not followed recommended procurement steps. "This is the process is wrong," he said, arguing there should be an RFQ/RFP, clearer evaluation criteria and greater engagement with the infrastructure consortium and municipal partners. He also noted the HNTB task orders presented a first‑year transition fee and annual cost materially higher than the county’s current consultant budget.

After questions from other commissioners and staff, the court approved starting negotiations with HNTB by a 3–2 vote; several commissioners said further negotiations and contract redlines must address price, deliverables, work with the consortium and measurement of outcomes. The court did not execute a final contract during the meeting and asked staff to return with negotiated terms and legal review before final approval.