Ellis County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ellis County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Drainage Master Plan
A proposed homesite on 4.5 acres near Jen Road sits on highly erosive land with heavy water flows — up to 706 cubic feet per second in a 100-year event. Commissioner Stinson delayed the variance until a drainage and erosion study protects downstream neighbors and Walker Creek.
Regional Animal Shelter Development
The county, Waxahachie, and Ennis are trying to build a regional animal shelter, but the first draft contract would put the county's $15 million Compass donation at risk. The court wants a rewritten contract and a public workshop so residents can see the cost numbers before committing. Rescue volunteers are pushing for open intake and spay/neuter funding.
Road material supply reliability
Precincts have been burned by suppliers who couldn't deliver crushed rock and asphalt on schedule. The court awarded multiple vendors on each bid so road crews always have a backup, keeping chip seal and patching projects on track.
Rocket Ranch MUD Wastewater Discharge Permit
The county voted to challenge a TCEQ wastewater discharge permit for a proposed 1,200-home subdivision. Developers explained the discharge permit is only a backup plan to connecting with a regional Trinity River Authority plant.
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.