Commissioners Court Briefs
Here are briefs from the Young County Commissioners Court meeting on Sept. 22: Fire update & burn ban returns
Emergency officials reported the Belknap/ Young 4469 fire burned about 224 acres and was 90 percent contained as of the meeting. State crews were expected to return for mop-up, with a control date targeted for Sept. 23–24.
The likely cause was old power lines. Chiefs said departments worked “non-stop” all weekend on multiple incidents, and wind damage assessments were underway in Olney.
On a unanimous vote, commissioners reinstated the countywide burn ban, noting elevated fire danger despite scattered rainfall.
Tax office activity edges up
The Tax Assessor- Collector reported $489,000 in fees collected year-to-date through August, slightly above the $485,000 collected by the same time last year.
Treasurer reports clear the way for audit The Treasurer presented pledge and financial reports for September– December (prior fiscal year), noting that with the fiscal year closed, the annual audit can begin. The court approved the reports.
Budget amendments & vouchers The court approved $178,190.57 in vouchers, including $141,267.64 from the General Fund. Noted cost drivers included unemployment claims (about $16,000 over budget), approximately $17,000 in autopsy bills, and a $6,600 payment noted by the Treasurer. Additional routine budget adjustments are in progress.
Sheriff ’s report: jail count & revenues
Sheriff Travis Babcock reported 101 inmates in the jail on meeting day, with 24 housed for Liberty County and associated housing revenue noted. Year-to-date reimbursements have been recorded. Staff also detailed recent fire responses, traffic enforcement stats, multiple serious crashes in one afternoon, and pending kitchen ovens delivery for the jail.
November constitutional amendments election ordered
Elections Administrator Kaitlyn Mosley briefed the court on the Nov. 4 constitutional amendment election. Early voting runs Oct. 20–31.
The court formally ordered the election. Members briefly discussed anticipated future changes to state “early voting” rules (renaming to a “voting period”), with specifics still pending statewide guidance.
MOU adds local recovery resource Commissioners approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Helen Farabee Centers, subcontracting with the Abilene Recovery Council, to provide intervention, treatment, and recovery services in Young County. The provider will meet locally with County representatives to coordinate referrals.
Capital credits allocated to county promotion
The court accepted a $9,878 payment under the 2025 capital credit program and voted to allocate the funds to county promotion/advertising efforts consistent with Local Government Code §381.004 (economic development and tourism promotion). The county expects an additional 40 percent distribution later.
2026 holiday schedule set Commissioners approved the 2026 holiday schedule at 14 days, including Columbus Day, on a 3–2 vote.
Regional conference noted
The Rolling Plains County Commissioners Court Conference is set for Nov. 6 in Vernon.