The Hill County Commissioners Court approved vehicle purchases for the sheriff’s office and issued a proclamation recognizing 4-H Week in Hill County during a meeting held Tuesday, September 30.
Hill County Sheriff Hunter Barnes presented information to the court showing that his administration has managed to save $717,000 in its budget since taking office this year and requested to use that money to purchase new vehicles.
Buying the vehicles outright will eliminate the interest payments that the department has had in the past on lease-purchase agreements.
The sheriff’s office will purchase nine or 10 Ford F-150s outfitted with law enforcement equipment.
Precinct 4 Commissioner Martin Lake praised the sheriff for his work over the past nine months of the budget year, saying that in the past, the county has had to address the department being $500,000 to $900,000 in the red at the end of the fiscal year.
County Judge Shane Brassell agreed, saying it is rare to see savings from the sheriff’s office. “Many people run on being conservative with their funds, but this is actually proof,” the judge said.
Brassell proclaimed October 5-11 as National 4-H Week, recognizing the youth development organization’s role in shaping future leaders. This year’s theme, “Beyond Ready,” highlights 4-H’s focus on equipping young people with skills to thrive in a changing world.
The nation’s largest youth development program, 4-H reaches about six million young people annually through the Cooperative Extension System, a network of more than 100 land-grant universities. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and encourages youth to engage with their communities while building leadership, career and life skills.
Originally rooted in agriculture, 4-H has expanded to provide opportunities in science, leadership and community development. Brassell said the program helps young people connect with mentors, develop independence and prepare for future success.
The proclamation encourages Hill County residents to celebrate 4-H’s contributions and support its ongoing efforts to empower the next generation of leaders.
In other action, commissioners approved the annual engagement letter with Pattillo, Brown and Hill for the county’s outside audit, reappointed Dr. James Earhart as the county’s public health authority for a two-year term and approved grant resolutions to allow the county to receive funds from the Indigent Defense Grant Program for criminal defense and the Texas Department of Agriculture for Meals on Wheels.
The court’s next regularly scheduled meeting is set for Tuesday, October 14, at 8:30 a.m. in the Hill County Courtroom of the courthouse.
The Lakelander 