Please note: All agenda items are considered PASSED unless indicated otherwise.

OPEN SESSION:

PRESENTATION

1. Receive collection report and presentation from the Perdue Brandon Fielder Collins & Mott law firm.

Comments: 

We received an update on collections of delinquent fines and fees from Justice of the Peace and County Court cases. The Perdue, Brandon, Fielder, Collins & Mott Law Firm handles these when payments are overdue beyond about 60 days. They recover the funds through follow-up processes and partner closely with the county.

The arrangement is effective, with positive feedback from staff. Collections benefit Smith County directly—the firm’s fee comes only from recovered amounts, with no cost to taxpayers. The presentation shows breakdowns by each JP precinct and County Court, demonstrating consistent recovery of otherwise uncollected revenue that supports county operations without raising taxes. I believe that this is efficient, accountable management of taxpayer resources.

2. Receive update from RTS Environmental LLC regarding on-site sewage facilities.

Comments:

Mr. Trace Stanley from RTS Environmental gave an update on their work. Smith County contracted with RTS to handle on-site sewage services. This includes inspecting private septic systems and enforcing rules when violations occur.
RTS took over the contract for recently. Here are the main points from the update:

• They scanned and digitized old paper records so everything is now stored electronically.
• They are entering violation notices and tracking cases in a modern software program called SAFE. This helps them stay organized and follow up more easily.
• Residents reported 40 complaints about septic problems. RTS has already resolved 38 of those complaints.
• The new software lets them email important documents quickly. They can send permits, inspection reports, or violation notices directly to septic installers and property owners. This reduces paperwork and speeds up communication.
• RTS now works more closely and effectively with Smith County Environmental Services staff. Better teamwork means violations get fixed faster and rules are enforced more consistently.

The county’s septic system oversight program is now more efficient, better organized, and more responsive. These improvements help protect public health, prevent pollution from faulty systems, and make the process easier for homeowners and professionals.

COURT ORDERS
COMMISSIONERS COURT

3. Consider and take necessary action to approve a resolution supporting Statewide County Road Funding Reform.

Comments:

This resolution endorses reallocating 5% of the state motor fuels tax, which equals one penny per gallon, and 5% of electric vehicle registration fees to the County and Road District Highway Fund. Funds would be distributed to counties based on area, rural population, and lateral road miles. This provides sustainable revenue for local infrastructure maintenance without raising taxes.

This is a letter of support for bills expected in the 90th Texas Legislature, which convenes in January 2027. It is not law. It is simply our endorsement to advocate for efficient, pay-as-you-go funding that benefits Smith County taxpayers and safety.

RECURRING BUSINESS
TREASURER’S OFFICE

4. Consider and accept the Treasurer’s January monthly report as received.

Comments:

To stay informed and make your voice heard at Commissioners Court meetings, check out the agenda packets now available on my website the same day they’re released—typically by end of business on Wednesdays. This change allows you to review everything in advance, empowering you to prepare thoughtful comments on issues that matter to Smith County.

For convenient access, visit SmithCountyCommissioner.com. If you’d prefer direct delivery, email JMacMillan@smith-county.com to sign up for emailed packets—no hassle, just transparency at your fingertips.

Your participation strengthens our community. Public comment is a simple way to engage: Fill out a form at the entryway before the meeting starts, and you’ll have up to three minutes to speak on agenda items. I encourage you to join us—your insights help drive accountable decisions that benefit all taxpayers. Let’s work together for a better Smith County.

ROAD AND BRIDGE

5. Receive pipe and/or utility line installation request (notice only):

1. County Road 1320, Frontier Communications, install fiber optic cable, Precinct 1,
   
2. County Road 2288, Oncor Electric, road bore and install one pole, Precinct 2, and
   
3. County Road 489 and 490, Conterra Ultra Broadband, install fiber optic cable, Precinct 4. 
   

6. Consider and take necessary action to authorize the county judge to sign the:

1. Re-Plat for Estate Villages, Unit 6, Precinct 1,
   
2. Final Plat for the Hernandez Addition, Precinct 2, and
   
3. Re-Plat for the Shaw Subdivision, Lot 2, Precinct 3.

AUDITOR’S OFFICE

7. Consider and take necessary action to approve and/or ratify payment of accounts, bills, payroll, transfer of funds, amendments, and health claims.
 
SHERIFF’S OFFICE

8. Receive report on status of Smith County jail operations, inmate population, employee overtime, and employee vacancies.

ADJOURN