Caldwell County Commissioners address aging facilities, road improvements and spending
By Anthony Collins
LPR Editor
Deteriorating sewer pipes at the Caldwell County Jail, millions of dollars in needed facility repairs, and concerns about development-related damage to county roads took center stage during the latest Commissioners Court meeting. County officials are considering an infrastructure project that could cost nearly $8 million, while commissioners are also looking at ways to protect taxpayer-funded road improvements as new developments bring heavier traffic to the area. The meeting also included decisions on road bond projects, law enforcement spending, county vehicle policies and an extension of the countywide burn ban.
One of the bigger concerns involved a proposed infrastructure improvement project estimated to cost between $7.2 million and $7.8 million. Dan Sloboda of Johnson Controls told commissioners that an initial inspection of county facilities uncovered several problems, particularly at the jail, where aging cast-iron sewer pipes have become increasingly fragile. Some pipes have already collapsed, forcing temporary closures of portions of the facility. Crews regularly have to be called in to clear blockages because the pipes cannot withstand traditional cleaning equipment. Another major failure could force the county to relocate inmates, creating additional expenses. The proposed project also includes replacing roofs at the Justice Center and annex building, along with 32 aging heating and cooling units. Johnson Controls is seeking a $284,000 development agreement to complete engineering studies and establish actual costs. County Judge Hoppy Haden explained that the expense was not included in the current budget and could require county reserves if the larger project does not move forward. The county could potentially finance the improvements through certificates of obligation. Commissioners expressed interest in continuing the review but made no final commitment.
Road improvements were another major focus, with commissioners approving an advanced funding agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation to continue engineering and planning for improvements along State Highway 142 from SH 80 to SH 130, SH 142 from SH 130 to Windsor Boulevard, and U.S. Highway 183 from Magnolia Avenue to the Plum Creek Bridge. Commissioner Edward Theriot also questioned whether William Pettus Road could eventually be included in a similar agreement to expand funding opportunities. County representatives explained that discussions with TxDOT are ongoing, particularly regarding the roadway’s connection to SH 21. Commissioners also approved a work order with Freeland Turk Engineering Group to continue schematic design work on Northwest River Road between SH 80 and Quail Run as part of the county’s 2024 road bond program.
Another road-related discussion centered on protecting the county’s investment as development continues. Commissioners approved a $37,891 work authorization with RS&H, Inc., for rehabilitation planning on Litton Lane, Barth Road, Homannville Trail and Dry Creek Road. Theriot raised concerns about two large developments planned along Homannville Trail and the damage heavy construction traffic could cause to a roadway already scheduled for improvements. Tim Parker of RS&H suggested that development agreements could require developers to contribute toward road repairs, turn lanes, and safety improvements. Theriot emphasized documenting road conditions before and after construction and making sure taxpayers are not left paying for improvements that might need to be redone. Commissioners also approved a replat involving four lots totaling approximately 16.1 acres in the Skyline Subdivision, Section 3, within Mustang Ridge’s extraterritorial jurisdiction.
Law enforcement spending also received attention when commissioners approved a $22,500 limit per vehicle for outfitting patrol vehicles used by the Sheriff’s Office and county constables. County Auditor Danie Teltow explained that upfitting expenses have increased in recent years, with typical costs ranging from $17,000 to $25,000 per vehicle. Under the new policy, the county’s non-departmental budget will cover up to $22,500, while departments requesting additional equipment must pay those costs from their own budgets. Teltow said the county is considering changing equipment vendors after identifying opportunities to reduce expenses. The spending limit is intended to provide consistency while allowing individual law enforcement offices flexibility in choosing their equipment.
A separate discussion addressed a county vehicle-use policy violation involving Constable Precinct 3. Teltow presented an audit memorandum concerning the September 26 use of county-leased law enforcement vehicles, explaining that the incident violated existing rules prohibiting county assets from being used for personal purposes or financial gain. The finding followed an anonymous complaint accompanied by supporting evidence. Commissioner Rusty Horne acknowledged the violation but suggested reviewing county policies governing officers who work secondary jobs, commonly called moonlighting. Haden agreed that officers should have opportunities to supplement their incomes but emphasized that existing rules must be followed until changes are adopted. Commissioners unanimously acknowledged the violation and agreed to review the policy. No disciplinary action was taken. Commissioners also approved a $7,299.97 budget amendment for law enforcement training funds serving constable offices in Precincts 1, 3 and 4. Teltow explained that the money had inadvertently been omitted from the current budget. Commissioners also approved extending Caldwell County’s burn ban for another two weeks due to continued dry weather and wildfire concerns. Several projects remain in the planning stages, with commissioners expected to revisit costs, funding options, and policy changes before making additional decisions.
