Falls County Enacts Burn Ban, Approves Extra Employee Holiday
The Falls County Commissioners Court met Oct. 13 at the Falls County Courthouse, with County Judge Jay Elliott presiding. Commissioners Milton Albright (Pct. 1), F.A. Green (Pct. 2), Jason Willberg (Pct. 3), and Nita Wuebker (Pct. 4) were present, along with ADA Steve Sharp.
Among the actions taken, commissioners approved a countywide burn ban for unincorporated areas effective Oct. 13 for 90 days.
Elected official reports included a thank-you note from the Boys & Girls Club for a recent donation made through unclaimed property funds.
Commissioner Wuebker also reported on volunteer assistance provided to a family with septic system repairs.
The Falls County Workforce Solutions Center, 230 Coleman in Marlin, announced a public disposal of surplus equipment and furniture set for Tuesday, Oct. 22. Disposal times are as follows: 9–10:30 a.m. — City of Marlin and county offices 10:30–11:30 a.m. — Public library and eligible child care providers 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — Nonprofit organizations 2–3 p.m. — General public
Commissioners discussed a tax abatement request from Circle T Travel Center, though no action was taken. A December strike-off tax resale was approved, with the Sheriff’s Office overseeing sales of properties from prior auctions. Opening bids will begin at 25% of appraised value.
The Court approved a letter of support for Next-Link Internet’s application to the Texas Middle Mile Grant Program.
Commissioners also authorized the purchase of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for the county jail, to be funded through commissary funds, and approved the purchase of a repair valve for the jail’s emergency water tank system, which will be covered under building maintenance.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the City of Waco was approved to allow interoperability between Waco’s and Falls County’s public safety radios on the 800MHz Trunked Voice Radio System.
Constable Jerry Wood (Pct. 4) submitted the quarterly Asset Forfeiture Report, which contained no entries.
The Court reviewed the Camino Solar Project LLC, based in Milam County. Since project traffic will use certain Falls County roads, Falls County entered into a Road Use Agreement with Milam County to ensure road maintenance.
Commissioners approved several items, including: The Optional Health Care Services Notification, with no changes.
A Record Archive Fee of $10 per filing for the County Clerk’s office.
The Lumen Serve contract, which provides ongoing maintenance and repair for LED lighting systems on county towers.
A resolution supporting the Falls County Home-Delivered Meal Grant Program, providing $2,500 in funding for qualified elderly and disabled residents between Feb. 1, 2026, and Jan. 31, 2027.
The Court also nominated Jace Albright, Charleen Prince, and Jeff Martent to the Falls County Appraisal District Board of Directors for 2026–2027. Current members Linda Mitchell and Jesse Martinez are not seeking re-election.
Commissioners approved adjustments to the county holiday schedule, adding Thursday, Jan. 1, and Friday, Jan. 2, as holidays. The Falls County ESD #3 budget for fiscal year 2025–26 was approved, listing total expenses of $359,100. Commissioners also voted to retain Dr. Downing as County Health Official.
Judge Elliott reminded residents of the upcoming Falls County Free Trash Day, scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 6, in Lott and Marlin. No tires will be accepted.
Road and Bridge Administrator Jeff Jackson provided updates on bridge repairs and equipment needs. Due to delays in obtaining parts, the county plans to trade in a tractor for a Kubota model. One motor grader proposal was received and will require financing, which will be discussed at the next meeting.
Commissioners approved payment of all bills, budget amendments, and payroll, and approved minutes from the Sept. 22 and Sept. 29 meetings.
With no further business, the meeting adjourned. The next Commissioners Court meeting is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 27, at 9 a.m.