Ellis County Commissioners Court met to approve routine consent items, terminate a janitorial contract for cause and adopt an in-house interim plan, approve reductions to architectural fees for an elections office remodel, amend local hospital payment-rate rules, and authorize a tax anticipation note sale; an item on building security was discussed in executive session with no action taken.

Discussion Points

•Advisers solicited 12 bids; recommended the lowest-cost proposal to reduce budgetary impact.
•Architectural fees reduced and Matterport survey will start the programming work.
•County staff said the underlying rate did not change and there is no cost to the county; the change enables local hospitals to access federal funds.
•Facilities proposed an in-house contingency plan reallocating current custodians.
•Item 3.3 concerns potential deployment or funding of security personnel, devices, or audits at the Central Building and adjacent facilities.
•Item 3.3 was handled in executive session under Texas Government Code security and legal exemptions.
•Items and VINs listed on agenda for surplus declaration.
•Project shifted from ground-up to remodel after purchase of Jefferson Street property.
•Purchasing documented repeated staffing and performance deficiencies by Southern Cleaning Service, Inc.
•Purchasing recommended auction to return money to county budget.
•Purpose: reimburse purchase of Jefferson Street property and fund Phase I renovations.
•Questions were raised about whether the in-house approach should be temporary pending a new RFP or permanent with a budget amendment.
•State HHSC changed calculation requirements for LPPF; the county must split inpatient and outpatient calculations.

Decisions

•Court approved Arqitex fee amendments.
•Court approved both the implementing order for rates and the local rule adoption.
•Court approved surplus declarations and auction authorization.
•Court approved termination for cause and in-house interim coverage.
•Court authorized issuance and sale of the tax anticipation note.
•No action taken on item 3.3 in open session.

Directions

•Adopt implementing orders and create new LPPF bank account for mandatory payments as described in item 3.2.
•Proceed with recommended bid and submit documents to AG for validation; close on Dec. 8 if approved.
•Proceed with remodeling design work and return with programming outcomes.
•Purchasing to proceed with auction and deposit proceeds.
•Staff to implement in-house coverage and monitor workload; return if additional FTE or an RFP is recommended.

Nov

Commissioners Court 11/10/2026

At a regular Ellis County Commissioners Court meeting, the court unanimously approved terminating the county janitorial contract with Southern Cleaning Service and instructed staff to provide interim, in‑house cleaning; approved surplus vehicle auctions; reduced architect fees for an elections-building remodel; adopted amended local provider participation fund rules and rates; and authorized a tax‑anticipation note sale to fund the Jefferson Street purchase and renovations. The court held an executive session on pending TCEQ litigation and security matters and took no action on security deployment today.

Discussion Points

•Advisors modeled conservative growth assumptions and said debt service impact on tax rate would be minimal.
•After reconvening, no motion was made to take public action on security deployment.
•Architect to begin with Matterport interior scan to inform programming.
•Bond counsel to submit to Texas AG for review before closing.
•Change from ground‑up construction to remodel reduced required scope and fees.
•Commissioners discussed possible line‑item transfers and adding an FTE.
•Court entered executive session under Texas Government Code §§551.071 and 551.076.
•Dustin Haynes presented an in‑house contingency plan and comparative cost figures.
•E.J. Harbin described repeated staffing failures by SCSI and documented deficiencies.
•Financial advisor reported 12 proposals and recommended lowest cost proposal from Regions Bank at 3.98% fixed.
•Item 3.3 cross‑posted for executive session due to sensitive security information.
•Items and VINs were read from the posted agenda.
•Public hearing held with no speakers.
•Purchasing will auction and return proceeds to budget.
•State HHSC changed calculation requirements to split inpatient and outpatient revenue; the rate itself did not change.

Decisions

•Adopt LPPF rule and implement amended FY2027 rates.
•Approve Arqitex fee amendments.
•Authorize tax note issuance and accept recommended bid.
•Declare items surplus and approve auction.
•No public action taken on item 3.3.
•Terminate SCSI contract for cause; implement interim in‑house cleaning.

Directions

•Facilities to implement interim in‑house cleaning and monitor workload.
•Open new bank account for mandatory LPPF payments.
•Proceed with orders to implement amended rates and rule.
•Proceed with purchase agreement and engagement letter, submit to AG's office, plan for Dec. 8 closing.
•Proceed with the reduced‑fee scope and start work.
•Purchasing/legal to finalize termination documentation.
•Purchasing to proceed with auction process.
•Staff to report back on programming and potential conditioned storage needs.

Oct

Commissioners Court-2026-10-27

Ellis County Commissioners Court met to consider multiple land-use variances and replats, award several road-material and IT contracts, approve release/acceptance of performance and maintenance bonds, and discuss a proposed regional animal control center (court took no action and scheduled a workshop).

Discussion Points

•Bids opened and multiple vendors recommended to ensure supply if individual suppliers are unavailable.
•Commissioner expressed concern about erosive conditions and downstream flow rates based on USGS estimates.
•Commissioners expressed desire for cost projections and contractual protections for the county.
•IT renewal described as security and monitoring to be done in open court only at a high level.
•Jordan Meadows final plat status and bond amounts.
•Public commenters urged spay-and-neuter programs and satellite options while a permanent shelter is built.
•Staff and legal flagged potential conflicts between draft agreement and existing Compass grant conditions.
•Staff recommended replacement of performance bond with two maintenance bonds.
•The applicant lacks public road frontage; two lots would have frontage, one would rely on a private road.

Decisions

•Court approved bond release and acceptance.
•Court approved the awards and authorized contract execution.
•Court took no action on the proposed partnership.
•Court took no action on the variance pending study.

Directions

•Authorize county judge to execute contracts after final legal review.
•Record bond release and acceptance; monitor required technical conditions.
•Schedule a public workshop to review budget and governance before returning the item to court.
•Staff to commission a drainage and erosion mitigation study and report back to court.
•Staff to draft a new/revised interlocal agreement consistent with grant conditions and county requirements.

Oct

Commissioners Court

The Ellis County Commissioners Court met in the commissioners courtroom to consider land‑use variances and replats, several purchasing bids for road materials and IT services, release of large performance bonds for Jordan Meadows, and a proposed regional animal‑control partnership with the cities of Waxahachie and Ennis; the court moved to take no action on the shelter contract and scheduled a workshop to refine terms.

Discussion Points

•Commissioner cited USGS estimates and raised concern about downstream impacts and erosion from significant storm events.
•Court treated the item as routine purchasing business.
•Legal review raised possible conflicts with the county's Compass funding agreement; commissioners are concerned about loss of county control over design/operations and the county's $15 million commitment.
•Public commenters urged inclusion of spay/neuter funding, interim satellite shelters and transparency around interlocal terms.
•Staff agreed to delay action and perform the requested study.
•Staff cited security rationale for limited public detail and described multi‑year pricing.
•Staff presented the bond amounts and rationale tied to final plat conditions.
•Staff recommended multiple awards to mitigate supplier outages and delivery delays; commissioners recounted past shortages and supported diversification.

Decisions

•Approve multiple awards for RFB2026 series and authorize contract execution.
•No action on the current draft; workshop scheduled.
•Release performance bond; accept two maintenance bonds.
•Renewal approved.
•Variance held (no action) pending study.

Directions

•Commission staff to commission a drainage and erosion mitigation study and report back.
•County Development to process bond replacement paperwork.
•IT to finalize contract after legal review.
•Prepare cost and governance materials for workshop.
•Purchasing to finalize award lists and contracts; Road & Bridge to prioritize vendors by location and availability.
•Staff to draft revised contract maintaining Compass compliance and protecting county control; schedule a public workshop after the election.

Oct

Commissioners Court 10/13/2026

Ellis County Commissioners Court met in Waxahachie to approve a consent agenda and unanimously authorize a sheriffs office build-out; the court also opened a public hearing on proposed amendments to the development master fee schedule, with no fee increases proposed.

Discussion Points

•Director Morris said the county is not proposing fee increases but will reorganize and move some fees to Exhibit B, and that the updates respond to an annual state authorization requirement.
•Sheriff Brad Norman described space constraints and presented two contractor bids, recommending the lower bid after reference checks.

Decisions

•Item A16 approved unanimously

Directions

•Authorization given to Sheriff Brad Norman to execute the build-out agreement.
•Public hearing opened; matter set for further consideration under action item 1.1.

Sep

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met to handle routine consent items, hear presentations on local hospital funding, review multiple interlocal and personnel matters, and debate whether to revoke adoption of the 2024 International Fire Code; the court voted 4–1 to retain the code and scheduled a workshop for further review.

Discussion Points

•Commissioner Ponder expressed concerns about fee increases and effects on small businesses and requested more time to review.
•Fire Marshal Tim Birdwell urged retaining the 2024 International Fire Code to maintain public safety and consistent enforcement.
•General deductible raised to $100,000; wind/hail deductible is 2% of building value subject to $250,000 minimum.
•No public commenters signed up during the hearing.
•Other commissioners emphasized firefighter safety, modern hazards (data centers, batteries), and that amendments can be made later.
•Program does not use county general revenue; payments by hospitals unlock matching federal funds.
•Proposed rates: 6% net inpatient, 6% net outpatient for FY2027.
•Specific bond totals: $3,390,000 (Ellis Ranch Manor); ~$611,000 (Estates of Palmer); just over $288,000 (Thunder Ridge Phase 3).
•Staff reported inspections and recommended acceptance of infrastructure and replacement of performance bonds with maintenance bonds.
•Total premium $1,889,909.20; increase tied to new facility and claims history.

Decisions

•All three items approved unanimously.
•Motion to not revoke minute order 281.26 passed 4–1; code remains adopted.
•Renewal approved unanimously.
•Resolution approved unanimously.

Directions

•Adopt resolution setting the rate at 6% for FY2027 and notify participating hospitals.
•Allow commissioners to propose amendments after the workshop.
•Approve renewal and review future terms in next renewal cycle.
•Hold a public workshop to review the adopted code item-by-item.
•Record bond changes and monitor two‑year maintenance periods.

Sep

Ellis County Commissioners Court - September 29, 2026

Ellis County Commissioners Court opened with a proclamation for Ellis County Farm Heritage Day, approved several subdivision bond and infrastructure items, and set a 6% local provider participation payment rate. The court debated revoking its adoption of the 2024 International Fire Code but voted 4–1 to keep it and agreed to hold a workshop to consider amendments.

Discussion Points

•457(b) amendment required to administer IRS catch-up; one-time $300 fee.
•Commissioners asked about reimbursement timelines and impact on budget.
•Commissioners moved to approve each item after staff presentation.
•Commissioners worried about county paying salaries and expenses during deployments and long FEMA reimbursement timelines.
•Consultants explained program mechanics and emphasized no county general revenue is used; commissioners asked clarifying questions about participants and program history.
•Fire Marshal Birdwell argued revocation would cause enforcement and safety uncertainty; Commissioner Ponder requested revocation to permit additional review; other commissioners stressed safety and the ability to later amend the code.
•Personnel procedures formalize existing practice for transparency.
•Premium increase tied to expanded coverage and prior hail/other claims; deductible increases explained.
•Rafael described ASPCA disaster services as free for declared disasters; commissioners saw reimbursement language in backup and asked legal to confirm.
•Rafael: participation voluntary and requires training; reimbursement depends on incident declaration and FEMA involvement.
•Retiree premium increase absorption to avoid disrupting retirees amid provider network changes; estimated additional county cost approx. $69,656.10.
•Staff confirmed required work (earthwork, drainage, pavement) was complete and recommended acceptance of maintenance bonds.
•The court preferred clarity about county obligations before approving the MOU.

Decisions

•Approve 457(b) amendment, absorb retiree premium increase, and adopt written personnel procedures.
•Approve insurance renewal with revised deductibles.
•Approve release/acceptance actions for Ellis Ranch Manor, Estates of Palmer, and Thunder Ridge Phase 3.
•Motion to not revoke minute order 281.26 passed 4–1; workshop to be scheduled.
•No action taken; item deferred for further review.
•No action taken on A4; item to return to a future meeting.
•Set mandatory payment rate at 6% for FY2027.

Directions

•HR to execute amendment, implement changes for open enrollment and distribute written procedures to departments.
•Legal to review the MOU and confirm whether any county reimbursement or obligations exist outside declared disasters.
•Record maintenance bonds and monitor through maintenance period; schedule inspections as required.
•Schedule a workshop to review the adopted code and potential fee/technical amendments.
•Staff to file resolution and notify participating hospitals; continue administration for FY2027.
•Staff to finalize contract and monitor loss history for future renegotiation.
•Staff to return with detailed policy on deployments, training, supervisor approval, and reimbursement examples.

Sep

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met to approve purchasing policy updates adding vehicle replacement procedures, elect to operate under Chapter 111 Subchapter C of the Texas Local Government Code and provisionally appoint a county budget officer, and to create an Office of County Administration after amendment limiting certain authorities; votes were taken on several minute orders.

Discussion Points

•Commissioners questioned 125,000‑mile flag and emphasized differences between patrol and low‑use vehicles.
•Consent agenda routine items enacted.
•Court elected to operate under Subchapter C and provisionally named a budget officer pending interviews.
•Creation of Office of County Administration approved after amendments to limit unilateral authority.
•Departments should keep maintenance records to justify retention decisions.
•Desire for checks such as confirming majority and appeal rights to protect long‑term staff and limit politicization.
•Harbin presented benchmarking results and a proposed conservative policy to balance vehicle life and auction return.
•Interim arrangements: county judge to serve as interim supervisor until position filled.
•Legal basis for private consultation with counsel (§551.071) and personnel deliberations (§551.074).
•Legal requirements under Chapter 111 about appointing a budget officer for counties of certain population.
•Need to discuss appointment details outside open session.
•Role and reporting relationships between budget officer, specialist, and commissioner's court.
•Vehicle replacement policy and purchasing procedures added.
•Whether section 4 improperly concentrated hiring/firing power in county administrator.
•Whether to appoint a specific person now or conduct a public interview process.

Decisions

•All listed items adopted; some by unanimous voice and others by recorded tallies (4–1; 3–2).
•Amendment passed unanimously; amended minute order adopted 3–2.
•Court entered executive session at 2:16 p.m., adjourned it at 2:54 p.m., then resumed open session and proceeded with votes.
•Item 2.1 adopting vehicle replacement procedures passed unanimously.
•Minute order adopted electing Subchapter C and provisionally naming Eric Test; vote 4–1.

Directions

•Amend section 4 to require confirming majority vote of the court and to add an appeal right for dismissed department heads.
•Court to conduct an open interview process for the permanent budget officer.
•Departments to maintain records on vehicle maintenance and costs.
•Eric Test to serve in the designated role until the interview process concludes.
•Proceed to hire county administrator consistent with newly adopted order and schedule.
•Proceed with interview processes and implementation steps as noted in minute orders.
•Purchasing will flag candidate vehicles beginning April 1 each year and include list in the budget process.

Sep

Commissioners Court-2026-09-15

Ellis County Commissioners Court met to approve routine consent items, consider multiple development plats and variances, amend the county master thoroughfare plan, approve joint election services for Nov. 3, 2026, designate the county auditor as an additional investment officer, and hire a facilities director.

Discussion Points

•Cantor: corridor is about 1.7 miles and crosses two flood-control structures; likely infeasible for TxDOT and rights-of-way nearby already acquired.
•clarifying_details':[{
•decisions":["Court approved joint contract and notice of election."]},
•decisions":["Hiring approved unanimously."]},
•decisions":["Replat approved with conditions."]},
•directions[]=[]
•directions':['Amend investment policy and submit necessary bank paperwork.'],'decisions':['Court designated auditor as additional investment officer and authorized amendments to investment policy.'] },
•Hartley: auditor historically was an additional rep; due to the passing of Cheryl, signatures and records needed updates. Auditor: US Bank account holds securities and an act of the court is required to add authorized individuals.
•Judge: candidate Dustin Haines accepted contingent offer; start date Oct. 5.
•Judge explained consent agenda procedure and stated items are routine and noncontroversial.
•Morris: Bruce Road is a county-maintained gravel road so it does not meet paved frontage requirement; five letters were sent out; staff recommends approval with five conditions.
•Morris: corridor crosses flood-control structures and steep grade changes (approx. 70–76 feet); staff recommends termination.
•Morris: one additional lot proposed; last court approval was Aug. 20, 2024; staff recommended approval subject to 12 conditions.
•Morris: property has 99.34 feet of frontage and cannot gain more; staff recommends approval with three conditions.
•Morris: staff advertised the replat, sent 21 certified letters, and received a notice that the applicant wanted to withdraw; interlocal agreement requires the county to act.
•Onion: Six entities requested joint elections; notice includes early voting and 30 Election Day sites.

Decisions

•Amendment to master thoroughfare plan approved; corridor removed.
•Court approved joint contract and notice of election.
•Court designated auditor as additional investment officer and authorized amendments to investment policy.
•Hiring approved unanimously.
•Items A1–A11 and F1–F5 approved as consent agenda.
•Replat approved with conditions.
•Variance approved subject to conditions.
•Variance approved with conditions.

Directions

•Amend investment policy and submit necessary bank paperwork.
•Staff to update plan maps and notify relevant agencies if necessary.

Sep

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court held a regularly scheduled meeting covering land-use variances and replats, an amendment to the county master thoroughfare plan with a public hearing, joint election contracts and notice for Nov. 3, 2026, a designation of investment authority for the county auditor, clarification of the adopted 2026 tax rate, hiring of a facilities director, and an executive-session consultation on TCEQ litigation.

Discussion Points

•Closed-session consultation with counsel about TPDES permits and MUD petitions.
•Judge noted the prior vacancy of 2.5 months and welcomed the appointee.
•Judge reviewed subcomponents of the adopted tax rate and noted potential transposition during prior reading of the motion.
•Six entities requested joint administration; joint notice includes early voting and polling locations.
•Staff and project engineer cited flood-control structures, unstudied floodplain areas and severe grades as the reason to terminate the corridor.
•Staff presented site-specific facts including prior plat dates, number of certified letters sent and required right-of-way dedications.
•Treasurer noted prior official’s passing and current view-only access to US Bank securities account; auditor noted legal requirement for court action for certain accounts.

Decisions

•Clarification only; no procedural change.
•Court approved all items 1.1–1.5 with conditions; staff to follow up on Crow Road study.
•Court approved joint contract and adopted the joint notice.
•Court designates county auditor as additional investment officer; authorization passed unanimously.
•Entered and then adjourned executive session as authorized by statute.
•Hire approved unanimously; start date Oct. 5.
•Terminate the corridor in the Master Thoroughfare Plan

Directions

•Amend investment policy and account authorizations to reflect designation.
•No additional studies or conditions were imposed as part of the vote.
•Post the joint notice and proceed with election logistics.
•Proceed with onboarding and required hiring paperwork.
•Staff to apply listed conditions and, for Crow Road, to study feasibility of abandonment/discontinuance.

Sep

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court held a public hearing and voted 3–2 to adopt a 0.273500 property tax rate for tax year 2026 after staff presented rate components, several residents urged no-new-revenue or a delay on a proposed county administrator position, and the court approved conforming budget amendments.

Discussion Points

•Background check on candidate for maintenance/facilities director completed that morning.
•Consent agenda passed unanimously.
•Maintenance-director item deferred.
•No action was taken; item expected back for final action next Tuesday.
•Public commenters asked for lower or no-new-revenue tax rates, questioned budget math and asked for the delay of a county administrator hire.
•Public commenters urged no-new-revenue and requested delay on creating a permanent county administrator position until the incoming judge assumes office.
•Speakers encouraged constructive alternatives and engagement with state representatives to address mandates.
•Staff presented rate components and revenue projections; commissioners debated a slightly lower rate to preserve fund balance while reducing I&S.
•Staff read specific pages requiring changes (cover, revenue allocations, debt-service fund summaries and department pages).
•Tax-rate adoption and conforming budget corrections passed 3–2.
•The court approved conforming corrections to align the adopted budget with the new rate.

Decisions

•Adopt tax rate 0.273500 (3–2).
•Approve conforming budget corrections (3–2).
•Approve conforming corrections to budget pages (3–2).
•Consent agenda approved; tax rate adopted; budget corrections approved; no hiring decision made.
•No appointment made at this meeting.

Directions

•Item 3.2 to be returned for final action.
•Place item for final action at next meeting.
•Staff to amend budget pages.
•Staff to amend the listed budget pages and update fund-balance figures.
•Staff to identify and correct budget pages to conform to the adopted tax rate and return documentation as needed.

Sep

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met to consider a slate of plats and maintenance-bond decisions, approve a three-year LexisNexis contract for the law library, renew a $440,000 contract with Hope Health for indigent care, order a special election for State Senate District 22, appoint an interim treasurer, and adopt the FY2027 budget over a 3-2 vote that funds a county administrator and budget officer positions.

Discussion Points

•Appointment of an experienced chief deputy treasurer to fill an unexpired term after a death.
•Continuation of services and funding through 11-15 waiver.
•Contract term and yearly payment schedule.
•County discretion to accept roads is supported by Transportation Code and AG opinions; acceptance without corrections would burden taxpayers.
•County rules and state statute do not require second point of access until much larger subdivisions (1,000 lots).
•Developer failed to correct deficiencies within maintenance-bond period; staff contacted developer multiple times.
•Formalizing authority for facilities operations while a permanent director is sought.
•Planned hiring of psychiatrists and service expansions by Hope Health.
•Routine nature of the procurement.
•Safety and traffic concerns from adjoining residents about single access on Bent Trail.
•Scale of the discrepancy between budget estimates and actual collections.
•Whether forensic audit is necessary and scope of work.
•Whether the budget would require a tax-rate adjustment; options to remove reliance on a tax anticipation note.
•Whether to create county administrator and budget officer positions now or delay until incoming judge is seated.

Decisions

•Adopt FY2027 budget including funding for county administrator and budget officer; adopt two technical modifications as part of the motion.
•Approve both appointments unanimously.
•Approve the contract renewal for $440,000.
•Approve the LexisNexis three-year agreement.
•Court will seek forensic-audit proposals and proceed with external review.
•Preliminary plat approved subject to staff conditions.
•Release bonds and do not accept infrastructure into county maintenance.

Directions

•Aim to have proposals and scope recommendation by Oct 1.
•Allow developer to return with evidence of remediation for reconsideration.
•Apply the 18 staff conditions to final plat approval.
•Document temporary pay increase and acting duties for Garrick.
•Execute contract and implement digital access for the law library.
•Execute the renewal contract and continue quarterly payments.
•Release bonds and decline acceptance at this time; notify homeowners.
•Remove any reliance on a tax anticipation note in budget documents.
•Set DA seizure fund balance to $405,000.
•Solicit at least three proposals for a forensic audit and ask chosen firms to advise on scope.
•Staff to ensure technical items (setbacks, floodplain note, road names) are added to final plat.
•Swear in Laurie Hartley and proceed with administrative transition for the treasurer's office.

Aug

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners heard a broad agenda including land-use variances, contract renewals, the county's proposed FY2027 budget and a proposed tax rate, a newly disclosed budget discrepancy prompting a proposed external audit, termination and re-award of the jail food contract, and fact-finding on a regional animal shelter following a $15 million gift.

Discussion Points

•Audit firm Patillo, Brown and Hill reported FY2026 tax revenue was underestimated by about $6,000,000 in the adopted budget.
•Commissioners discussed ability to publish higher rate and later lower it at adoption.
•Community volunteers demanded an interim countywide animal-services plan in advance of a permanent facility.
•Creation of county administrator and budget officer offices; 10 new detention positions; additions for sheriff and DA support.
•Fact-finding trips to existing shelters to benchmark costs and features.
•Public comments urged delaying major structural changes until elected officials assume office.
•Purchasing will pursue potential recovery from Salrico for contract termination.
•Salaries and inflation adjustments in the replacement contract; financial impact estimates provided.
•Tax Assessor-Collector presented calculations for no-new-revenue, voter-approval, and proposed rates; public urged NNR.

Decisions

•No final adoption; proposals to be refined in hearings.
•No final capital decision taken; court directed staff/commissioners to continue planning and stakeholder engagement.
•No immediate contract action taken; court supported further investigation.
•Propose 27.3992¢ rate for publication (passed 4-1); set hearings each Tuesday in September.
•Terminate and re-award approved; contract execution pending legal review.

Directions

•Commissioner Ponder to assemble stakeholders, plan workshops with shelter-planning experts and explore interlocal partnership options.
•Create a citizens advisory group for shelter planning and recommend interim intake solutions.
•Judge Ray will solicit proposals and return with recommendations for hiring an external forensic audit firm.
•Proceed with re-award and finalize contract language; report back on legal recovery options.
•Publish proposed rate, schedule September hearings to allow staff to calculate lower-rate splits if desired.
•Staff to provide additional detail and adjustments in September hearings; budget remains proposed and subject to change.

Aug

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court conducted routine business including approval of a road-use agreement for a solar project, multiple development and purchasing approvals, a presentation from Prairie Lands Groundwater Conservation District, election planning, pension rate setting for TCDRS and discussion of design scope for a newly purchased county building.

Discussion Points

•Benefits of pre-planning to avoid future redesigns and support better AV/public-access features.
•Commissioners asked timing and purchase vs. lease; confirmed purchase.
•Commissioners discussed overfunding history and budget priorities; staff noted flexibility to change rate again in future years.
•Commissioners had no objections.
•County and city coordination ahead of phased annexations; staff and legal recommended approval.
•County staff clarified the specific project does not include battery storage and that the road bond is a developer obligation.
•County will finalize election-day notices in September.
•District received a $300,000 Texas Water Development Board grant to expand monitoring.
•District rule amendments adopted in 2025 and additional proposed amendments for high-volume wells; public hearing scheduled for Aug. 17.
•Interest from Texas Workforce Solutions to lease space; concerns about tenant improvements and lease length.
•New main early-voting site selected for space and parking; branch locations confirmed; party-based judge appointments described.
•Public commenters asked for a temporary moratorium on BESS and related projects until safety and supply-chain reviews are complete.
•Staff confirmed prior approval of preliminary plat and civil plans; recommended acceptance of bond.
•TCDRS presentation covered fund size, funded ratio, rate changes and mitigation (reserves and smoothing).
•Vehicle meets department specifications; funding from salary savings.
•Whether to expand scope of architect services from a ~20,000 sq. ft. elections design to a ~50,000 sq. ft. master plan.

Decisions

•Accepted performance bond.
•Approved interlocal agreement.
•Approved purchase.
•Approved road-use agreement A4 with 4–0 vote and one recusal.
•Elected TCDRS rate set to 10.58% for 2027.
•No court action required (presentation only).
•No formal action; direction provided to staff and architects.
•Order adopted; judges and central-counting personnel appointed.

Directions

•County staff to consult with the architects and return with refined recommendations; potential future agenda item to consider leasing terms.
•District encouraged public review of proposed amendments and participation in the August hearing.
•Elections staff to return in September with election notices for signature.
•Meet with fire marshal and staff for technical follow-up if requested by commenters.
•TCDRS to provide plan agreement for signatures reflecting the elected rate.

Jul

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met in regular session, approving routine consent items and several land‑use and administrative actions, enacting an immediate countywide burn ban, and discussing tax‑abatement compliance and a regional animal‑shelter initiative; two agenda items were taken up in executive session and later approved.

Discussion Points

•A $6,000 stipend proposed for an after‑hours magistrate to sign blood‑draw warrants; statutory requirements explained.
•Amendment adds North Grove Creek and 18 reaches in South Prong to move zones from unstudied to studied FEMA mapping.
•Applicant sought subdivision of a 1.3‑acre tract into five lots; one lot has ~19 feet frontage.
•Assistant Fire Marshal reported index at 583 and rapid rise, nine of next 10 days >100°F.
•Commissioners discussed maintenance strains and budget source (FM budget).
•Commissioners wanted legal counsel input before final action due to linked road agreement.
•Driveway remains within county easement; no conveyance of private rights.
•Estimated additional cost $232,000; county reported budget availability.
•General 3% COLA proposed for most elected officials; sheriff and constables adjusted via step plan.
•Joint meeting with Waxahachie, Ennis and Midlothian had differing visions; county may proceed alone if needed.
•Public commenters criticized abatements for data centers and enforcement challenges.
•Sourcewell contract price with vendor discount reduces county cost.
•Staff described prior, related variance for adjacent 22‑acre parcel earlier in the year.
•Staff recommended approval subject to three conditions.
•Staff reported 5 of 14 abatement agreements not fully compliant (often missing annual reports).
•Stakeholders urged early satellite shelters, funding in FY2027 and stakeholder inclusion.
•Surveyor initially missed existing driveway and tree line; alignment shifted ~30 feet.

Decisions

•Alignment change approved unanimously
•Burn ban enacted immediately
•Contract amendment approved unanimously
•No action taken at this meeting
•No immediate revocation; proceed with notices and legal consultation
•Publish proposal for required notice; vote at later date anticipated
•Purchase approved unanimously
•Variance approved subject to conditions
•Variance approved unanimously

Directions

•Amend contract and proceed with study; consultant to submit deliverables.
•Approve revised legal description and obtain final survey drawings after construction.
•Continue talks with partner cities and architects; explore interim satellite options.
•Immediate burn ban enacted; staff to coordinate enforcement guidance.
•Invite local animal‑control and rescue organizations into planning.
•Proceed with approval; ensure three staff conditions are met before platting.
•Proceed with purchase; charge FM budget.
•Publish the proposed schedule and begin notice process; return for final adoption.
•Require road‑use agreement and seven staff conditions be met before development proceeds.
•Send notice letters to recipients requesting missing reports; consult counsel and report back after deadline.

Jul

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met July 13, 2026, approving routine consent business, development permits and road agreements, authorizing replacement AV equipment and an extended warranty, approving leases and vehicle transfers, hearing a Meals on Wheels update, selecting a salary grievance committee composition and public members, declaring surplus equipment, approving budget line-item transfers, and entering executive session to finalize a courthouse-adjacent property purchase.

Discussion Points

•Amount of bond ($814,000) and scope (~2,000 linear feet of road)
•Cause of damage (sprinkler discharge during February freeze) and insurance coverage
•Choice between nine public members or six elected officials plus three public members
•Correction of road name for A8 from 'Cattle Drive Road' to 'Cattle Drive'
•Interlocal cooperation with City of Garrett for Beverly Drive chip seal
•Invitation extended to commissioners for ride-alongs to observe deliveries
•Lease term of two years to allow time for locating permanent facility
•Legal review and county liability protections
•Monthly rent $13,200 versus prior lease ($10,500 / 10,000)
•Motion to approve consent passed unanimously
•Need to move funds into repairs and parts to maintain aging equipment
•Options for 2- or 3-year extended warranty and which items installation would cover
•Preliminary plat approved Jan 2024 for 22 lots
•Proclamation text and community encouragement to commemorate 250th anniversary
•Program remains sole home-delivered meal provider for seniors in Ellis County
•Randomization process and reading of selected public members
•Recognition of donor organization (SAR Chapter 70) and installation of bench
•Recusal by Judge Ray due to potential conflict on the 1305 West Jefferson Street purchase
•Scope and dimensions of proposed median and sign (320 ft x 12 ft median; 8 ft x 39 ft sign; 10 trees)
•Sheriff's request that proceeds from Econoline go back to sheriff's department
•Staff recommendation of six conditions and requirement for a maintenance agreement
•Use of executive session for real property negotiations under state code
•Vehicles described as aging and unused; justification for surplus
•Which funds receive proceeds from surplused vehicles (vehicle replacement fund vs. departmental funds)

Decisions

•Bond accepted and recorded
•Commissioners reported they accepted the negotiated offer and no additional public vote was required
•Consent agenda approved (A1–A12, F1–F4)
•Court chose six elected officials plus three public members; first three public members identified by randomizer
•Encroachment and maintenance agreement approved
•Lease authorized
•No formal action; informational presentation and recognition
•Proclamation read and recorded; donation recognized
•Purchase with 2-year extended warranty approved
•Surplus declared; budget transfers approved; chip seal work order approved
•Transfers approved; amendment specifying proceeds destinations approved

Directions

•Amend motion to specify destination of surplus proceeds for each vehicle
•Execute lease and continue facility planning
•Implement surplus process; execute transfers; coordinate interlocal work order
•Procure equipment under TIPS contract and include 2-year extended warranty
•Record and execute maintenance agreement with developer

Jun

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met in regular session to approve consent items, reallocate $967,700 in fiscal 2026 budgeted courthouse restoration funds, approve development plats and variances, adopt updates to the county Flood Damage Prevention Order, approve a stop sign installation, select a health‑insurance renewal option (option 2) with the county absorbing a projected $959,174 increase, and, after executive session, approved an interlocal agreement for inmate medical services with UTMB.

Discussion Points

•Amendments to the Flood Damage Prevention Order align code with those standards.
•Commissioners agreed installation was appropriate.
•Court concluded reallocation was temporary given grant timing and potential alternative building.
•Deadline June 26 to finalize decision.
•Dental premiums increase 6.6%; county cost to absorb if chosen.
•Drainage standards updated March 31 required elevation increases.
•Intersection uncontrolled; nearby development increased traffic.
•Judge explained funds were matching grant money not received; building occupancy could disrupt work.
•Liability and insurance language required legal review.
•No public comment was received during the hearing.
•Public comment urged keeping funding for courthouse restoration.
•Public hearing held with no speakers.
•Three renewal options presented with tradeoffs between deductible and max out‑of‑pocket.
•UTMB and CoreHealth were the options reviewed.
•UTMB favored on price and scope after broker review.

Decisions

•Adopt amendments to minimum finished‑floor elevations.
•Option 2 approved; county to absorb additional cost ($959,174.16).
•Reallocation of $967,700 approved.
•Stop sign installation approved.
•UTMB selected; motion passed unanimously.

Directions

•Finance to reallocate funds and update budget records; staff to report back on grant status and potential building purchase.
•Human Resources to finalize vendor paperwork and implement Option 2.
•Purchasing to finalize contract language with counsel and bring final document for signature.
•Road & Bridge to install the sign and update records.
•Staff to publish the updated order and apply changes to permitting and plan review.

Jun

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met to consider routine consent items, planning and purchasing actions, a proposed $15 million community benefit gift from Compass Data Centers to fund a county animal shelter, and several staffing and contracting items including an interlocal for inmate medical services. The court accepted the Compass gift after public comment and appointed representatives to negotiate a possible regional shelter; several other procurement and planning items passed unanimously.

Discussion Points

•Alberto Morris explained the three sets of amendments and noted two changes are inside Midlothian city limits.
•Behavioral Health staff and Purchasing recommended termination of TrueCare 24 after attempts to resolve performance issues.
•Commissioners emphasized returning negotiated outlines to courts/city councils for formal approval.
•Commissioners requested legal consultation and additional options from staff and the sheriff.
•Public comments split between rescue organizations (support) and nearby residents (concerns about timing, transparency, and potential links to tax abatements).
•Purchasing explained contracts expire Nov–Jan and asked to begin rebid process to ensure supply continuity during peak season.
•Purpose of appointments was clarified as exploratory and non-binding; citizen/rescue input will be solicited.
•Staff and Compass described gift terms (restricted account, use for construction/operation only, milestone dates).
•Staff presented interlocal with UTMB including cost estimates; the item was cross‑posted for executive session.
•Staff proposed a two-year best-value bid to create a pool of clinicians to restore and maintain services for the Veterans Treatment Court.
•Staff said amendments are largely cleanups to match existing conditions or city classifications.
•Staff will use cooperatives and local contacts to improve vendor response and may use quoted prices for small purchases under $100,000.

Decisions

•Accept the $15,000,000 community benefit gift from Compass Data Centers; funds restricted to animal shelter construction/operation.
•Appoint county judge and Commissioner Ponder as representatives to negotiate regional shelter options.
•Approve the thoroughfare plan amendments as presented.
•Authorize rebidding and solicitation for listed materials.
•No final action taken at this meeting; item deferred pending legal review.
•Terminate TrueCare 24 contract; authorize two-year solicitation to create clinician pool.

Directions

•Appoint county representatives to negotiate regional options (item 3.5).
•Issue solicitation; vet clinicians; bring recommendations monthly for court approval.
•Place funds into dedicated account; consult legal counsel (completed in executive session); begin planning and engage city partners and volunteers.
•Proceed with bid preparations and advertising timed to contract expirations; coordinate with county cooperatives and local vendors.
•Record changes and implement technical conditions required for replat approvals and mapping updates.
•Representatives to convene with city representatives and report back.
•Solicit rescue organizations for technical expertise during planning.
•Staff and the sheriff’s office to explore alternatives and return with refined recommendations.

May

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met to approve multiple plats and variances, adopt amendments to the county's Quality Growth Initiatives, discuss a possible change in the county jail medical services provider, approve a road equipment purchase, accept an HR resignation and appoint an interim director, and hold an executive session on a pulled consent item.

Discussion Points

•BuyBoard discounts and accessory package detailed by purchasing staff.
•Changes include lowering lot depth from 150 to 75 feet where sewer is available and increasing some setbacks; bond and variance language revised to match state law.
•City water and sewer service were determinative for recommending approval despite lot‑depth shortfall.
•Commissioner Stinson explained operational need for smaller machine in constrained locations.
•Mancilla cited family reasons for resignation; Luna has experience in HR and will serve as interim.
•Resident Marl Lewis Abbott said he did not use Singleton Road and objected to being burdened with repairs.
•Sheriff Norman raised concerns based on prior experience with UTMB (2010–2013) and is contacting peers for references.
•Staff contacted three potential providers; CoreHealth's prior proposal was much higher; UTMB proposed cost‑plus model with 10% overhead.
•Staff listed technical conditions and added a road‑use agreement requirement.
•Staff proposed administrative approval for plats with four lots or fewer to meet the 30‑day statutory review window.
•Staff will require septic application if sewer is later disconnected.

Decisions

•Amendments adopted 4–0.
•No action taken; matter to return to the court with contract and references.
•Plat approved with conditions; 4–0 vote.
•Purchase approved 4–0.
•Replat approved 4–0.
•Resignation accepted and interim appointment approved 4–0.

Directions

•Applicant must meet 17 staff conditions prior to filing.
•Developer must execute road‑use agreement and pay the county for repairs as listed in the agreement.
•Development director to provide post-approval reports to the court on administrative plat approvals.
•Post job and proceed with recruitment for permanent director.
•Procurement to complete purchase and arrange delivery.
•Staff to get a formal UTMB contract and reference checks; no action taken at this meeting.

May

Commissioners Court

Ellis County Commissioners Court met May 12, 2026. The court issued ceremonial and policy resolutions, declined acceptance of two subdivision infrastructures and released related maintenance bonds, accepted additional HAVA election-security grant funds, appointed a representative to the Regional Transportation Council, and introduced a new Ag and Natural Resources agent.

Discussion Points

•Amares described bond expiration dates and unsuccessful attempts to get developers to correct deficiencies.
•Commissioner Ponder moved to appoint Stinson and Butler as alternate; court approved.
•Commissioner Ponder said counties lack land-use authority compared with cities and requested the state grant counties permitting and regulatory powers for wind and solar.
•Commissioners described physical defects (pock marks in concrete, deep ditches lacking vegetation) and expressed reluctance to accept roads into county maintenance without repairs.
•Extension representatives described Adams’s educational background, teaching experience and veteran status.
•Judge Ray noted local wind development near southern Ellis County as motivation.
•Judge Ray suggested making the appointment effective immediately and removing a fixed end date; he cited shared appointment priorities between Ellis and Kaufman counties.
•Judge Ray welcomed Adams and confirmed the June 1 start date.
•Onion explained the grant increase and its use for security and e-poll books; she confirmed matching funds exist in the budget.

Decisions

•Appointment approved, effective 05/12/2026.
•Court approved the resolution to accept the funds.
•Court voted unanimously to not accept the listed infrastructure and to release the bonds.
•Introduction announced; staff to implement onboarding.
•The court issued a resolution urging the Texas Legislature to act; no county-level ordinance or permit changes were enacted at the meeting.

Directions

•County Clerk to update RTC membership records.
•County HR to onboard Adams and coordinate with the extension office.
•Staff to complete grant acceptance paperwork and apply match from county budget.
•Staff to document decisions in official record and process maintenance bond releases.

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