Hardin County officials on Oct. 28 told the commissioners court the ongoing federal government shutdown, which began Oct. 1, was creating uncertainty for some grant‑funded projects and positions but that certain state payments are guaranteed through Nov. 15, 2025.

The county judge summarized written notices in the meeting packet and said a letter dated Oct. 23 from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) states DSHS will guarantee payment "through 11/15/2025" and will reevaluate if the federal shutdown continues beyond that date. County staff also reported that the WIC program funding was expected to continue through November.

Treasurer Deborah McWilliams and County Auditor Candace McKinney explained how grant reimbursements appear in county finances. McWilliams listed current cash balances earlier in the meeting. McKinney said the county's cash reports reflect expenses paid and that revenue receipts from reimbursements are recorded in fund revenue accounts; she said the county submits reimbursements monthly and that most recent reimbursements (including for August) had been received.

Commissioner Cooper asked how long the county could continue to pay grant‑funded payroll without reimbursement and whether unemployment or furlough costs would be covered by grants. Staff said coverage varies by grant; county officials said they did not expect grants to pay unemployment for furloughed employees and that outstanding reimbursement amounts were being monitored.

The judge said he had received regular updates from state contacts and would seek another status update near the court's Nov. 12 meeting; he asked staff to obtain additional letters confirming payment status if the shutdown persists. The judge also said he would consult Representative Daven's office contact for further information about federal timing.

No formal action was taken; the court discussed contingency planning and asked for additional documentation as the Nov. 15 date approaches.