Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Washington County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in environment
Scrap Tire Collection Event
The amended Brannon Industrial Group agreement keeps the October tire collection event running at $5 per resident, with a new grant-required indemnification clause added.
Feral Hog Damage Management
Texas Wildlife Services removed 578 feral hogs in 2025, but hogs still caused about $132,000 in reported damage to landscapes, pastures, ponds, and cemeteries. Another 420 have been removed so far in 2026. It's ongoing damage management, not eradication.
Chronic Wasting Disease Monitoring
TPWD will keep its CWD check station on county property during deer season. A local high-fenced breeder facility had 51 positive cases, but no positives have come from low-fence (free-range) deer. Hunters can get free testing at the drop box.
Federal conservation funding for county farmers and ranchers
The local Soil and Water Conservation District has been pre-approved for about $1.1 million in federal dollars covering 3,400 acres — a huge jump from 2025's $355,000 — supporting soil health and regenerative agriculture.
Groundwater regulation limits
Residents are frustrated that heavy well pumping is dropping the water table, but state law gives counties almost no power over groundwater — only a groundwater conservation district could space wells out, and even those exemptions cover most domestic and ag wells. Commissioners said the Legislature may take up groundwater next session.