COMMISSIONERS WARN OF POTENTIAL MISUSE OF DATA

  

Washington County Commissioners expressed concern over new county clerk procedures at today’s (Tuesday) meeting.

While Commissioners were looking at monthly reports, County Clerk Beth Rothermel announced her office recently went live with its criminal e-filing program, which would document criminal information online.  As a side effect of the program, Rothermel says private information can be viewed by attorneys and public officials.

Concerns stem from there being no legislation in place to prevent officials from selling this data, which could include divorce or child ownership records from local courts.

The Court showed frustration with the Texas Supreme Court, saying the state is wanting to take control of local-level responsibilities.  Commissioner Kirk Hanath called the state’s approach hypocritical, saying state legislators are all for power going to the smaller entities when it comes to federal government.

In other items on the agenda, the Court approved the placement of several temporary water lines within the county right of way.  County Judge John Brieden said if not for the temporary lines, water trucks would have to come out to deliver water.  Commissioners Kirk Hanath and Joy Fuchs said it is much safer to have water lines in the ditch, rather than increase traffic on county roads.

The Court also approved a Re-Plat of Poehlmann Development, which is adding onto its business.  The Court also dealt with budget line-item transfers and amendments, to cover for overdraws.