Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in El Paso County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
24 issues with high priority
Strategic Leadership and Governance Planning
County leaders discussed long-term goals, operational management, and financial planning to prepare for the upcoming fiscal years. The session focused on aligning county resources with future community needs and projects.
Darrington Roadway Improvement Project Amendment
Commissioners will consider an amendment to increase the Darrington Roadway Improvement Project budget to over $7.5 million for engineering design and survey work.
Sheriff's Office Personnel Policy Updates
Proposed changes to Section 11.3.08 will reshape how deputy sheriff promotions and selections are handled.
Veteran Support and Advocacy
The county reorganized the governance of the Veterans Capital initiative by creating a specialized subcommittee and designating the Veterans Assistance Office as the operational lead.
East El Paso Abandoned Lots Policy
The county is moving forward with a first-of-its-kind policy to address 82 square miles of abandoned "paper plat" subdivisions in Far East El Paso, aiming to clear fractionalized ownership and bring utilities and development to the area.
Meta El Paso Data Center Negotiations
The court held a closed-door discussion regarding economic development agreements for the Meta data center project.
Regional Transportation Planning & MPO Funding
Commissioners reviewed upcoming El Paso Metropolitan Planning Organization agenda items, including funding for border highway connectors, Socorro microtransit vehicles, and trail construction.
Bond Projects Public Dashboard
County staff rolled out a new public dashboard to keep residents updated on timelines and progress for voter-approved bond projects.
Sound Compatibility Between Live Music Venues and Residential Areas
Austin is exploring how to protect its live music culture while ensuring residents can sleep, balancing the needs of venues and neighborhoods through better rules and technology.
Statewide Wireless 9-1-1 Funding Modernization
The County supports state legislative action to update the 1997 wireless 9-1-1 fee to ensure sustainable funding for next-generation emergency communications.
Election Administration
Early voting is officially underway in El Paso County, giving you a chance to skip the Election Day lines. Check the official list of polling sites to cast your ballot for local races and state propositions on your own schedule.
Montana Vista Transmission Line Concerns
Residents expressed concern over notices received from El Paso Electric regarding high-voltage transmission lines impacting landowners.
Employee Compensation, COLAs, and Minimum Wage
Commissioners debated raising cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) from 1.5% to higher tiers, aiming to reach a $16 hourly minimum wage and address pay compression across county staff and attorneys.
Departmental 2% Budget Reductions and Staffing Freezes
Departments were tasked with finding 2% budget reductions, leading to difficult choices regarding vacant positions, overtime caps, and operational cuts.
Pickleball Court Expansion
El Paso is planning to cap a section of I-10 with a new public park to bridge the gap between downtown neighborhoods. It’s a bold move to turn a noisy highway barrier into a walkable green space for everyone to enjoy.
Certified Appraisal Roll and Property Valuations
The Central Appraisal District reported a 2.12% increase in overall property valuations across El Paso County, with ongoing challenges regarding assessment protests.
Ethics Commission Appointment
El Paso is dragging its feet on releasing police lawsuit records, even after the state Attorney General told them to hand them over. It’s a bad look that makes you wonder what exactly the city is trying to keep under wraps regarding officer conduct.
Community Recognition and Awards
The County is honoring local residents and employees who have made significant contributions to the region through various awards and resolutions.
Elected Official Compensation
El Paso's mayor and city reps just scored a solid 15% pay raise. If you've been wondering where your tax dollars are going, your local politicians' salaries just got a whole lot heavier.
Municipal Taxation and Fees
An appeals court just struck down El Paso’s $6 monthly trash fee, calling it an illegal tax. This ruling leaves a massive hole in the city's budget and forces officials to scramble for a new way to pay for environmental services.
Election Logistics
Don't get caught in a loop trying to find your polling place this election cycle. Check the official city portal before you head out to make sure you're hitting the right spot during active voting hours.
Opioid Settlement Fund Management
El Paso is sitting on a pile of opioid settlement cash that’s just gathering dust instead of helping people on the ground. It’s frustrating because our local addiction services are desperate for funding while this money remains locked in a bank account.
Animal Welfare Partnership
The County is considering a partnership with 'Laws N Paws' to improve animal welfare initiatives in the region.
Municipal Bond Funding
El Paso City Council just approved a new bond package to pay for local infrastructure and community upgrades. It’s a big move that aims to save the city money in the long run while potentially changing the look of your neighborhood.