Jasper County Commissioners Court Holds First Regular Session of 2026

The Jasper County Commissioners Court met Tuesday, January 20, 2026, for its first Regular Session of the new year, addressing county business ranging from inmate housing and grant projects to employee support programs—while also pausing to honor the life of a longtime public servant.

At the outset of the meeting, the Court asked the community to continue keeping the family of former County Judge Joe N. Folk in their prayers. Judge Folk passed away on January 17 and was remembered as a devoted Christian, a veteran, and a true public servant who faithfully served the citizens of Kirbyville and Jasper County for many years.

The Court also extended thanks to Jasper VFW Post 6380, Sabine County VFW Post 10351, and Michael Norsworthy for coordinating a military escort and burial service on short notice. Judge Folk previously served his country in the U.S. Army.

Law Enforcement and Jail Operations

District Clerk Rosa Norsworthy presented her monthly civil and criminal fee reports, which were approved by the Court.

Sheriff Chuck Havard then requested approval of a contract between Jasper County and Newton County for temporary inmate housing at the Newton County Jail, at a rate of $75 per day per inmate. Sheriff Havard explained the arrangement is used infrequently but is necessary in cases where defendants involved in the same criminal episode must be temporarily separated during an active investigation. He noted that Newton County Sheriff Colton Havard has agreed to assist when needed.

The Court approved the contract and confirmed that Jasper County continues to maintain its standing overflow inmate agreement with Newton County.

Sheriff Havard also presented the December 2025 jail report, advising that Jasper County invoiced $42,425 for housing inmates from Liberty, Newton, Trinity, and Tyler counties. The report was approved.

Grant Projects and Infrastructure

In grant-related business, the Court voted to accept a bid for the Evadale WC&ID #1 water well drilling project, awarding the construction contract to C. Miller Drilling in the amount of $977,777. Construction of the elevated water tower—previously approved by the Court—has already begun. The project is fully funded through the Texas General Land Office CDBG-Mitigation grant program.

The Court also approved the purchase of a new tractor (approximately $70,000) and a street broom sweeper attachment ($15,000) for Commissioner Precinct 4 under the Texas Forest Service Community Wildfire Defense Grant program.

Concluding grant matters, the Court authorized Criminal District Attorney John Burt to apply for funding through the Office of the Governor Body-Worn Camera Grant Program to acquire equipment for criminal investigators.

County Operations and Employee Support

In other business, the Court approved a renewal agreement with Kaseya for remote network services for the county’s Information Technology Department.

County Treasurer Rene’ Ellis presented the county’s financial report and provided an update on the employee sick leave pool. Ellis reported that Jasper County employees have collectively donated 3,153 hours of sick leave to assist coworkers facing extended or terminal illnesses.

Deputy Treasurer Terrena Busby presented nominations for the FY2026 Sick Leave Pool Committee. Four county employees were selected to serve this year: Jed Sheppard (Commissioner Precinct 4), Donna Berger (Sheriff’s Office), Jessica Biscamp (District Clerk’s Office), and Iva Allen (Indigent Health Department).

Cold Weather Advisory

Before adjourning, County Judge Mark Allen reminded residents to prepare for extremely cold weather expected later in the week and through the weekend, which could include freezing rain and dangerous wind chills. Residents are encouraged to protect plants, pets, livestock, and plumbing—and to check on neighbors and vulnerable individuals during the freeze.