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Potter County approves higher constable fees and a new 'squatters' writ' procedure
Summary
Commissioners approved an increase in constable fees, including higher charges for enforceable‑detainer/eviction citations and a new fee for a 'squatters' writ' created by recent state legislation; constable office said new state rules and heavier workloads drove the request.
The commissioners approved a package of fee increases requested by the constable's office to cover increased workload from recent state changes. Constable staff explained that new state law (referenced in the meeting as a recently passed senate bill) created a mechanism for landlords to use a 'squatters' writ' that routes some eviction‑related filings directly to constables or sheriffs rather than through the court, creating new response and verification duties for constable deputies.
The constable requested raising enforceable‑detainer citation fees to $125 and increasing certain writ‑of‑possession fees by $25; the office said the changes align with common statewide practice and will help offset extra personnel time and safety risks when entering and clearing occupied properties. Commissioners discussed coordination with the sheriff's office, uniform county fee policies, and the risk landlords might try to shop for cheaper service; the court voted to approve the fee increases 5–0.
The change takes effect following the court's administrative process; staff said it stems from the broader statutory changes that took effect earlier in the year and highlighted the increased safety and mental‑health challenges constables face during some enforcement actions.
