Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Washington County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues with low priority
2027 Sheriff's and Constables' Fees
Constables will charge more for citations starting 2027 — $100 for service (up from $85) and $50 for posting. It's the first increase since 2013, and the constable's office is actually a revenue generator for the county.
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.
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
The county proclaimed September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, supporting the Color Brazos Valley Gold effort; Washington County saw four new childhood cancer diagnoses this year.
County branding: first official seal, logo, and standards
For the first time, Washington County has an official seal, logo, colors, and branding rules for everything from business cards to vehicle decals. Departments use up current stationery before switching — no forced waste.
Pecan Glen Road District tax rate
The road district's 2026 rate was proposed at $0.278321 — flat compared to last year, so district property owners shouldn't see a rate-driven increase.
Fiber installation in county right-of-way
Periti Group will install about three-quarters of a mile of fiber on each of Old Independence and Hopmann Roads in Precinct 3, mainly to support airport radar. No county roads will be bored under.
EMS Fleet Replacement
EMS is buying three vehicles (~$164,000) from the Tobacco Fund — two Expeditions because leased Suburbans couldn't be upfitted properly, and an Explorer to replace one totaled by lightning. Purchasing beats leasing, and no tax dollars are used.
Windmill Ridge subdivision roads nearing county acceptance
Four streets totaling 1.08 miles serving 41 lots moved into the one-year maintenance period with the bond cut to 50%. If the final core seal holds up, the county takes over the roads in about a year.
Fallen tree removal on Brandt Road
A tree fell from the county right-of-way onto private property near an old barn. Crews will hand-cut it to avoid damaging the building and will repair the fence it crossed.
911 Livestock Registration Program
Livestock owners can now register their animals and property access details with 911, so deputies can quickly find owners when animals get loose — and warn them about broken fences. The court wants better outreach so older residents without smartphones can participate.