Frio County officials have been actively engaged in discussions and decision-making concerning the county's financial future. On September 29, 2026, a public hearing was held at the Frio County Courthouse to deliberate on the proposed salaries for elected officials for the fiscal year 2026-2027. This meeting, as announced by the Frio County Official Site, was a pivotal moment for local governance, focusing on salary adjustments and financial allocations.
Salary Adjustments for Elected Officials
During the public hearing, the Frio County Commissioners' Court reviewed the proposed salaries, supplements, and allowances for various elected officials. According to the Frio County Official Site, most officials will maintain their current salaries, with a one-time $1,500 cost of living adjustment applied across the board. However, some officials, such as the Justice of the Peace for Precincts 2 and 3, will see increases of $2,952 and $3,018.54, respectively.
The decision to keep most salaries unchanged, aside from the cost of living adjustment, reflects a cautious approach to fiscal management amid broader economic considerations. The County Judge and Commissioners from various precincts will continue with their current remuneration, highlighting a focus on maintaining budgetary stability.
Budget Hearing and Tax Rate Decisions
In conjunction with salary discussions, a public hearing on the proposed 2026-2027 budget was also conducted on the same day. As outlined in the official notice, the Frio County Commissioners Court proposed maintaining the same tax rate as the previous year. Despite this, the budget will result in an 8.36% decrease in total property taxes, amounting to $1,470,808 less than the previous year's budget. This decrease includes $110,125 in tax revenue from new properties added to the tax roll.
The decision to keep the tax rate steady while managing a decrease in total property taxes underscores the county's commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency. The budget is available for public inspection at the County Clerk's office and online, encouraging community engagement and oversight.
Commissioners Court Meetings
Leading up to these public hearings, the Frio County Commissioners Court held special meetings on September 23 and 25, 2026, to discuss various agenda items, including budget workshops and resolutions. According to notices published on the Frio County Official Site, these meetings were accessible both in-person and via video conference, ensuring broad participation.
During these sessions, the Commissioners Court addressed old and new business, with a focus on fiscal planning for the upcoming year. The meetings included presentations by Hon. Crystal Marquez, Frio County Auditor, who facilitated discussions on the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget. The meetings also allowed for citizen participation, providing a platform for community members to voice their opinions and concerns.
The Commissioners Court's proactive approach in holding these meetings and hearings reflects a dedication to transparent governance and community involvement. By engaging with the public and maintaining open channels of communication, Frio County aims to navigate its fiscal challenges effectively while addressing the needs of its residents.