Van Zandt County Commissioners Workshop 6/9/2026

The Van Zandt County Texas Commissioners Court held a workshop on June 9, 2026, to discuss the creation of a County Assistance District (CAD) as a supplemental funding mechanism. The discussion focused on clarifying that the CAD would not affect property tax rates but would generate additional revenue through a 2% sales tax increase applicable only to unincorporated areas outside municipalities and Emergency Service Districts (ESDs). The potential revenue of approximately $3.7 million annually was highlighted, with proposed uses including funding for roads, first responders, and public infrastructure such as radio tower maintenance. Commissioners debated whether to implement the CAD countywide or by precinct, the governance structure including the creation of an advisory board, and the allocation of funds among various county needs. Concerns were raised about transparency, accountability, and ensuring equitable distribution of funds, especially to volunteer fire departments facing funding challenges. The workshop emphasized the need for public education and outreach before the proposed tax increase is placed on the November ballot, with a deadline for ballot language submission in August. No formal votes were taken during the workshop; the discussion was exploratory to inform future decisions and community engagement efforts.