WASHINGTON CO. COMMISSIONERS SUPPORT GIVING BURLESON CO. ATTORNEY FELONY JURISDICTION
Washington County Commissioners have given their support for legislation that would grant the Burleson County Attorney felony jurisdiction.
Commissioners met today (Tuesday) to pass a resolution in support of a bill that would allow Burleson County Attorney Susan Deski to take on felony prosecutions. This would reduce the workload of Washington County District Attorney Julie Renken, who currently handles felony cases in both counties.
Renken stated that this resolution was initiated by Burleson County Commissioners, noting their county’s caseload has increased drastically. She said, since her election in 2013, she has spent most of her time working in her office in Caldwell, rather than her one in Brenham.
Renken noted that her budget of over $1,064,000 is funded roughly 60 to 40-percent by Washington and Burleson Counties, respectively. In 2019's budget, Washington County funds $586,250 of operations, while Burleson County's share is $390,833.
Renken said that 60 percent will still be needed to fully fund the district attorney’s office, so taxpayers likely won’t see a reduction in what they pay. However, she said service from the office will increase and improve, due to the decreased workload.
Renken added she does currently have a caseload in Burleson County, so Burleson County Judge Mike Sutherland will need to figure out how to allot that effectively. She said she is planning for this to be a "very friendly transition".
Renken expressed her excitement of getting to spend more time in Washington County, saying it will help the county tremendously. Washington County Judge John Durrenberger agreed, saying this is a “real positive move for Washington County”.
Commissioner Kirk Hanath said it was time for this decision, saying the county will get more bang for its buck. He said he believes that Burleson County won’t realize what they have in Renken until she is gone.
This move will not become official until a bill is filed and passed. If it is passed, the change will become effective September 1st.