Jasper County Commissioners Court Briefly Meets, Approves Roadway Modification and Grant Items

JASPER COUNTY, Texas — The Jasper County Commissioners Court met in regular session Monday, September 15, 2025, addressing a short list of business items ranging from roadway adjustments to grant authorizations.

The Court first considered a request to modify a portion of Audrey Drive in the Lakelan Addition within Precinct 2. Attorney Robert Jackson of Jasper, representing affected property owners, explained the change involved removing a rounded section on the north end of the roadway that resembles a cul-de-sac but is not used, as the road continues past the curve. Commissioners noted all legal notices had been properly issued and approved the modification without abandoning the roadway.

Major Steve Crowell of the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office presented the monthly jail report, advising the county invoiced $40,185 in August for housing inmates from Liberty, Newton, and Tyler counties, along with the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas. Commissioners accepted the report.

In other law enforcement matters, the Court approved participation in a new salary supplement grant program funded by the State of Texas for officers holding a Master Peace Officer certification. The one-time program, created under House Bill 4264 and effective September 1, provides a $6,500 payment to qualifying officers in recognition of their advanced training and continuous service.

Commissioners also addressed infrastructure concerns in Evadale, voting to reject bids on a Texas General Land Office–funded project for a new water well for the Evadale Water Control & Improvement District #1. The Court noted the single bid received exceeded the project budget by approximately $450,000. The county’s grant administrator and engineer were authorized to re-advertise the project to attract more competitive bids.

In other business, the Court nominated Keith Stephens of Jasper and Kay Kent of Kirbyville to serve on the Jasper County Appraisal District Board of Directors. Commissioners also approved a resolution to participate in the next round of indigent defense grant funding through the State of Texas.

To close out the session, the Court accepted the monthly civil and criminal fee reports presented by District Clerk Rosa Norsworthy and the monthly finance report from Deputy Treasurer Brenda Harding.

The meeting adjourned without further discussion.