During the recent Lubbock County Commissioners Court work session held on June 24, 2025, significant discussions centered around budget requests and operational needs for local law enforcement, particularly the constable's office. Constable Barnes presented a compelling case for an additional deputy, citing a substantial increase in court cases and the need for enhanced services in the community.

Barnes reported that the number of court cases handled by his office has surged from 199 to 569 over the past year, highlighting a growing demand for law enforcement services. This increase has resulted in longer processing times for paperwork, which now averages nearly seven days per case, up from about four days. The constable emphasized that the additional deputy would help manage this workload and ensure timely service to the community.

The budget request for the upcoming fiscal year includes an increase of $81,000, which covers operational expenses, supplies, and the cost of a new vehicle. Barnes noted that the request is contingent on securing the additional deputy, as the operational needs would be significantly reduced without this personnel addition. He also mentioned that he has managed to save costs by acquiring equipment from other precincts, which has helped offset some of the budgetary increases.

In addition to the personnel discussion, the constable addressed vehicle needs, expressing flexibility regarding whether to acquire a Tahoe or a pickup truck, depending on what is most economical for the county. He highlighted the importance of having reliable and safe transportation for law enforcement duties, especially given the challenges of transporting individuals without proper equipment.

The meeting also included acknowledgments of the valuable work done by local organizations, such as AgriLife, which supports youth programs like 4-H and FFA. The commissioners expressed appreciation for the positive impact these programs have on the community.

As Lubbock County continues to navigate increasing demands for public safety and community services, the discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of adequate funding and resources to support law enforcement and related initiatives. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the budget proposals and the potential approval of the requested positions and resources to enhance community safety.