WASHINGTON CO. COMMISSIONERS HOLD SHORT TALKS ON TAX RATE
Washington County Commissioners held brief discussion on their proposed tax rate at today’s (Tuesday) meeting.
Their proposed rate of $0.5171 per $100 is the same as last year’s rate, but will bring in additional revenue to the county because of higher property values.
The next public hearing on the tax rate is scheduled for Monday at 5:15 p.m.
In other action, commissioners approved entering into negotiations for a contract with the Page Southerland Page architect firm out of Austin. Washington County 911 Director Kristi Stamnes said the negotiations are for work on a new Emergency Operations Center, for improved communications.
County Judge John Brieden says the project has morphed into more than what was initially being considered, and called Stamnes’ work “forward thinking.” Commissioner Joy Fuchs said negotiations will begin immediately.
Commissioners also approved the purchase of body cameras and a docking base for the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Chief Deputy Jay Petrash says the six additional cameras will be used for additional courthouse security. Brieden says the purchase is for $2,985.
Petrash also thanked the Washington County IT Department for its work on building the system for the cameras. After the Texas-based computer software company COPsync stopped supporting camera software for the county, commissioners lost what they paid for the software and were forced to obtain their own cameras.
Commissioners also approved a notice from Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative for an overhead electric line on Adamek Road. In addition, they granted right of way permits for the Chappell Hill Bank Classica Road Race on Main Street, as well as Washington County Fair trail and tractor rides on East Blue Bell Road.
However, the court did not approve a permit for Odubb Riders for Pickens Road, citing not all necessary forms had been completed and submitted to the county.
Commissioners also recognized County Clerk Beth Rothermel for being presented the Best Practice Award from the Texas Association of Counties.
They also issued a proclamation listing now until October 18th as the official period for the Washington County READ.