Jasper County Commissioners Approve New Constable Fees, Road Project, and Courthouse Repairs

JASPER COUNTY, Texas — The Jasper County Commissioners Court met in a special session Tuesday, January 13, 2026, marking its first meeting of the year and addressing a wide range of county business, including law enforcement matters, infrastructure improvements, and courthouse repairs.

The Court began by welcoming Maegan Pope, who was officially introduced as Jasper County’s new County Auditor. County officials thanked Pope for her willingness to serve and welcomed her to the position.

Sheriff’s Office Donation Approved

Sheriff Chuck Havard addressed the Court next, requesting approval to accept a $300 donation from Cecil Ramsey to be placed into the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office jail operations budget. The Court unanimously approved the request and expressed appreciation to Ramsey for supporting local law enforcement.

New Constable Fees Considered Under State Law Changes

The Court then heard from Precinct 2 Constable Niles Nichols, Precinct 3 Constable Christie Hutchison, and Precinct 4 Constable Gene Hawthorne regarding recent changes to the Texas Property Code related to individuals occupying property without the owner’s consent.

Under the updated law, property owners may contact a Constable to file a checklist and affidavit when someone is residing on their property unlawfully. After reviewing the documentation, a Constable may remove the individual and their personal property without requiring the traditional Justice of the Peace eviction process.

Constable Nichols explained that Constables across the state are expected to be increasingly utilized for these removals, particularly due to a growing transient population. The Constables recommended that a fee be associated with the service.

Officials emphasized that this civil process does not replace criminal trespass charges and does not apply to landlord-tenant disputes, which must still go through civil eviction proceedings.

After discussion, the Court voted to set the fee at $500 for the initial removal, with an additional $100 per hour if the removal of personal property requires extended time. The Court noted that the updated fees may not take effect until the Texas Comptroller’s Office opens the next fee update window later this year.

Road Improvements Planned in Brookeland Area

Commissioners also voted to authorize the County Auditor to publish for bids on a road improvement project on County Road 219 in Precinct 2 near Brookeland. Commissioner Kevin Holloway stated the project will include pavement improvements along approximately 1.6 miles of roadway.

Auditor Added as Bank Signatory

The Court approved a measure designating County Auditor Maegan Pope as an authorized signatory on Jasper County bank accounts for check signing and account access purposes.

Courthouse HVAC Repairs Approved

To conclude business, Commissioners approved replacing a damaged HVAC control module at the Jasper County Courthouse, which was affected during a recent storm. The courthouse operates on a geothermal HVAC system, and the control module plays a key role in conserving energy, reducing equipment wear, and providing remote system monitoring.

The Court approved contracting Ferrara’s of Lufkin for the replacement project at a cost of $92,670. County officials noted that Jasper County’s insurance provider contributed $74,246 toward the replacement.

County Judge Mark Allen closed the meeting by thanking those in attendance and encouraged residents to reach out with any questions or concerns.