The Ellis County Commissioners Court meeting on July 22, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding water management and the fiscal year 2026 budget. Key topics included proactive measures for water rights awareness and proposed salary increases for county officials.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the importance of educating realtors and potential property buyers about existing water rights and permits in Ellis County. Concerns were raised about developers potentially subdividing land without proper consideration of water well placements, which could lead to conflicts over water access. The county is working to improve communication with realtors to ensure that buyers are informed about water rights before making property purchases. This initiative aims to prevent situations where new owners discover that their water rights have been severed after the sale.

Additionally, the district introduced a rainwater harvesting grant program to encourage residents to install systems for irrigation, thereby reducing reliance on public water supplies during drought conditions. The program offers a rebate of one dollar for every gallon stored, up to 500 gallons, and aims to promote sustainable water use in the community.

On the budget front, the court discussed proposed salary increases for elected officials, driven by a 3% cost-of-living adjustment and mandated increases from recent legislative changes. Notable increases include a significant adjustment for the sheriff's department to align salaries with market standards. The proposed budget will be published for public review, with a final vote scheduled for August 19, 2025.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to addressing water management challenges while ensuring fair compensation for its officials, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance community resources and governance in Ellis County.