Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Jim Wells County, TX public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues with critical priority
Jail Prisoner Detention and Medical Costs
To handle unexpected inmate transfers and avoid jail standard violations, the county established backup housing agreements with Nueces and Bee counties.
Local Disaster Declarations for Drought and Screwworms
The court extended local disaster declarations by 30 days to address ongoing severe drought conditions and the threat of the New World screwworm to local livestock.
Proposed 2026 Tax Rate and 2027 Budget Planning
The county adopted its 2027 budget of $26.6 million and maintained the property tax rate at 0.767802 per $100 valuation for the third consecutive year. The budget includes a $1.4 million contingency reserve for prisoner detention costs.
New World Screwworm Disaster Declaration
Jim Wells County and Alice have officially declared a disaster after last Thursday's storms wrecked the area. This move is basically a green light to get state and federal cash flowing so we can fix the power grid and clear out the debris.
Jail Facility Evaluation
The county cleared away old contract talks to start fresh with a new request for proposals for jail expansion or replacement studies.