Ellis County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ellis County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Sheriff Office Lobby Space Expansion
The court approved funds and contracts to convert a portion of the main sheriff's office lobby into needed staff offices.
Rescission of County Outdoor Burn Ban
With scorching temperatures and drought index numbers climbing rapidly, the court enacted an immediate burn ban to prevent wildfires across Ellis County.
Commercial Fire Code Standards and Permit Fees
The court debated whether to revoke the recently adopted 2024 International Fire Code over concerns about increased permit fees and mandates like concrete fire lanes for commercial properties. Ultimately, commissioners voted 4-1 to keep the code in place while agreeing to hold future workshops to review potential amendments.
County Facilities Director Appointment
The county filled a two-and-a-half-month vacancy in the maintenance department by hiring Dustin Haynes, who will start on October 5.
Jail Inmate Food Services Transition
Following Selrico Services' early contract termination, the county re-awarded jail food services to Correctional Food Services, increasing daily meal costs.
Veterans Treatment Court Behavioral Health Services
The county terminated its failing contract with TrueCare24 for veterans' mental health assessments and established an open-bid clinician pool to ensure continuous care.
Public Safety
A teenager was recently shot near Lake Grove Park and Coleman Elementary, sparking a police investigation. While officials say the area is safe now, it’s a wake-up call to keep your guard up in our local parks.
Political Signage Regulations at County Polling Places
The county established new rules for political signs at polling places to prevent visual clutter and safety hazards, limiting sign sizes, quantities, and placement dates while setting overnight parking rules.
County Judge Resignation and Appointment
County Judge Todd Little announced he is resigning in May to lead the North Central Texas Council of Governments, prompting the county to start a public application process to pick his replacement.
Emergency Management
Severe storms just tore through Ellis County, causing tragic damage and loss of life. Stay alert for road closures and check in on official recovery resources as the community starts to clean up.
Emergency Services Contract
Ellis County’s ambulance provider just bailed on their contract, leaving the area without a primary emergency service. The county is currently scrambling to find a replacement, which could mean slower response times when you need help the most.
Police Officer Termination Appeal
The Italy City Council voted 3-2 to officially fire veteran cop Kevin "Blue" Oginski, upsetting locals who loved his community-focused approach. Residents gave the council a hard time over the decision, showing just how popular the officer was in town.