Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Taylor County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues with high priority
Expo Center drainage problems
Water has pooled up to four inches deep near the Expo Center's east entrance for years; a $267,947 ARPA-funded fix will finally move it away from the round building and pavilion.
ARPA Funds Reallocation for Home for the Holidays Program
The last of the county's COVID relief money is going to the Expo Center drainage fix, senior meals, veterans' programs, and mental health services — with about $455,000 still to allocate by the next meeting.
Speed Limit and Traffic Restrictions
Big trucks can no longer cut through County Road 398 near Merkel, matching the city's own restriction on South 11th Street.
Merkel TIRZ and 360-home development
Taylor County is joining Merkel's reinvestment zone to fund infrastructure for a huge new subdivision — about 360 homes worth an estimated $220 million on the tax rolls. It should bring a fire station, 24/7 police coverage, road upgrades, and cheaper water bills for Merkel residents.
Firefighter Collective Bargaining Ballot Measures
Abilene voters are seeing confusing mailers that tell them to reject two firefighter ballot measures, and some people think the fire union sent them—but the union actually supports both. Prop A would let firefighters collectively bargain, and Prop B would add binding arbitration.
Unincorporated Data Center Regulatory Gaps
Heavy construction and supply trucks heading to the massive AI data center are tearing up local two-lane roads like County Road 307. To prevent road destruction and safety hazards, the court established a 45 mph speed limit and banned through-truck traffic.