Commissioner Long is the first representative from Williamson County and the first woman to serve as Chair of the six-county CAMPO Board. "The Williamson County Election Commission has just recommended a $1.5M purchase of the ES&S voting system which the county has been renting, as well as submitted capital requests for even more equipment, at a time when the county is more than $1 billion in debt and a large percentage of citizens are wanting to move our voting process away from TX, Williamson County Commissioner FAIRVIEW For the first time in school history, the Fairview High School boys' basketball team reached back-to-back Region 5-AA championship games; however, a tough night shooting in the second half hurt the host Yellow Jackets in a 61-41 loss to Giles County Thursday. She was elected twice to the Cedar Park City Council, during which time she served as Mayor Pro-Tem, and also served on the Cedar Park Planning and Zoning Commission as well as the Round Rock Medical Center Board of Directors. She attended the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a degree in accounting and for the past 30 years has been licensed as a Certified Public Accountant. The raises total $4.7 million, which the county will pay for with savings. With this partnership, Samsung would be thelargest single facility paying taxes in Texas. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. Recognized leader in transportation:Unanimously re-elected by her fellow board members as Chair of Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization. The Texas Department of Transportation was joined by U.S. Rep. John Carter, Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell and Commissioner Valerie Covey for a joint ribbon-cutting ceremony for the I-35 at Ronald Reagan Boulevard and I-35 from Corn Hill to FM 972 projects. Commissioner Covey is an active member of the Williamson County Republican Party, Georgetown Area Republican Women, The Republican Club of Sun City, Williamson County Republican Women, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce, and First Baptist Church of Georgetown. Terry won re-election in November 2020 and is now well into her second term. Find Meetings. Whether your investments should align with your values can be a sensitive subject for some people. Meetings are open to the public and public comment is a part of the agenda at each meeting. The 6 county organization is responsible for transportation planning in the area. The Williamson County Commissioners Court has approved giving all county employees except for elected officials3% cost-of-living raises. Commissioner Covey has established herself as a leader in the county who has the courage to stand up for her conservative beliefs and family values. Her previous experience includes starting and leading anIT consulting company that included international clients in manufacturing, automotiveand the airline industries, she said. Commissioner Valerie Covey said she had thought about one-time payments but said they would notaddress theproblem of low salaries at jobs in the lower levels of county departments. largest single facility paying taxes in Texas. You have permission to edit this article. Suite #110 Since 2010, the debt for our county budget has grown by 87% while our population has grown by just under 40% and our overall debt has increased by over 68%. And it is doubtful a person can actually speak to the current commissioner, without an appointment. Cox, 66, is the owner of the Bar P Land Improvement construction company as well as a cattle rancher, he said. From helping form her first neighborhood association to sitting on the boards of organizations like the Cedar Park Regional Medical Center, the Round Rock Medical Center, the Greater Williamson County YMCA, the Twin Lakes YMCA and the AARO, serving her neighbors has always been a priority. Georgetown, Select Meeting Type. Emails go unanswered. The County Commission consists of 24 elected members, Two from each of the 12 voting districts of Williamson County, who serve a four-year term of office. Real progress begins when informed citizens band together and take action! Appointment of non-elected department head and numerous members to boards and commissions. Oversight of special projects like economic development, transportation and general county services. About Commissioner Valerie Covey. "The Declaration of Independence states that I can have life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. ", He said if elected he will be accessible to people. Pay hike:Williamson County gives starting corrections officers 17% pay hike, hire 3 prosecutors, He said county employees needed to suffer inflation with "the rest of us." (512) 244-8615 Terry Cook The Williamson County Commissioners Court has approved giving all county employees except for elected officials 3% cost-of-living raises. "One of the things from last year that I am really proud of is taking the lead on Commissioners Court to change homestead exemptions and raise them for those over 65, disabled persons and for the first time ever implement general residential homestead exemptions," she said. Precinct 2 includesCedar Park, Leander, Liberty Hill, along with Anderson Mill and part of the city of Austin,and a large unincorporated portion of western Williamson County stretching to the Burnet County line. ", Long saidshe setsup appointments for people to talk to her "out of respect for their valuable time. Each program aims to keep non-violent offenders out of the county jail providing more appropriate care and saving countless taxpayer dollars. FILE - In this Nov. 30, 2019, file photo, Democratic presidential candidate Marianne Williamson speaks at a campaign stop at Body and Soul Wellness Center Read More FILE - In this Nov. 30, 2019, file photo, Democratic presidential candidate Marianne Williamson speaks at a campaign stop at Body and Soul Wellness Center in Dubuque, Iowa . ", "The current commissioner is not accessible to the people," Cox said. Commissioner Long has been active in the community since moving to Williamson County in 1988. In 1995, Cynthia was elected to the Cedar Park City Council and served as a volunteer council member for four years before being elected as the first woman to represent Precinct Two on the Williamson County Commissioners Court. "Additionally, they are concerned that we stay ahead of congestion. Winds light and variable. Commissioner Cynthia Long was elected to get things done and to fight in the trenches to keep Williamson County exceptional. They have also seen the completion of deceleration lanes at Cedar Hollow, Escalera Pkwy, Gabriels Overlook and Cimarron Hills. [emailprotected], Mary Jane Perez Privacy Policy Apply for Liquor Licenses, Raffles and Poker Runs. The records are open to the public. Driving Directions Trial Counsel in Death Penalty Cases for 2022, Over 65-Disabled Person-Disabled Veteran-Tax Deferral, Over 65 - Disabled Person - Disabled Veteran, 2019-2023 Consolidated Plan and 2019 Annual Action Plan, FY20 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodation Request, Transparency In Coverage (United Healthcare), Hairy Man Rd/Brushy Creek Rd Safety Improvements, CR 258 Extension (US 183 To Sunset Ridge Drive), CR279/Bagdad Road (Loop 332 to CR 281/Leander City Limits), SH 29 At DB Wood Intersection Improvements, Ronald Reagan Boulevard Extension Planning, Southwest Williamson County Regional Park, Certificate of Interested Parties Texas Ethics Commission (Form 1295), How to do Business with Williamson County, Storm Water and the Construction Industry. The building isa two-story building with 60,000 square feet of space. First elected in November 2006, Valerie Covey represents Precinct Three on the Williamson County Commissioners Court. In a Dec. 14 statement, LISD said it will be coordinating. 2023 www.statesman.com. Long, 59,was first elected in2007. You may not use this site for the purposes of furnishing consumer reports about search subjects or for any use prohibited by the FCRA. The project includes constructing two lanes of . "They need to feel the pain everyone else does,", Gravell said the decision to give employees a raise was "being forced upon us by poor government in Washington, D.C.", "Inflation is as high as I've ever seen in my lifetime," he said. Williamson County will install a dedicated left-turn lane southbound on Wyoming Springs Drive at Smyers Lane. Selected by the Texas Department of Transportation as one of three people statewide to be awarded the 2022 Road Hand Award. Commissioner Long was also the Vice Chairman of the Williamson County Republican Party for three years. Additionally, Commissioner Long was appointed to and currently serves on the Board of the Directors for the Cedar Park Regional Medical Center. Commissioner Cynthia Longs leadership is one of the big reasons why. Commissioners Responsibilities. For Williamson Countians who have long wondered about the security of the voting machines on which we vote and the processes surrounding them, Williamson County Commissioner Christopher Richards is providing a chance to ask your questions. Erin Crawford / District 12 County Commissioner. Information found on CountyOffice.org is strictly for informational purposes and does not construe legal, financial or medical advice. "I returned to Franklin to start my career and family because Williamson County is the greatest place I've been. Gold Depository The Fort Knox of Texas in Leander. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, Executive Assistant These programs include funding the San Gabriel Crisis Respite Center, Mobile Outreach Team, Crisis Intervention Team, drug and alcohol docket, and veterans docket. [emailprotected], Doris SanchezCommunicationsSpecialist Financial Commentary: Should your investments align with your values? Chas' family has a history of volunteering in Franklin and Williamson County. "We have close to 200 vacancies right now in Williamson County. THE COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE IS NOT INVOLVED WITH VOTING or ELECTIONS. The raises total $4.7 million, which the county will pay . Law enforcement, corrections, paramedics, dispatchers - Public safety has always been a budget priority and I have proven it by voting for competitive pay for our public safety staff and funding tools and programs for them to be able to do their jobs.Williamson Countys AAA Bond Rating has been reaffirmed with Fitch Ratings and Standard & Poors Ratings Services. Jarrell, TX 76537-0647. "Yes, it has happened, while in the meantime appraised values of property haveskyrocketed.". Commissioners are elected at-large to six-year terms. Commissioner Covey understands that growth is inevitable and that responsible growth and planning is invaluable. Commissioner Long served on the Williamson County Metro YMCA Board and was the founding Chairman of the Twin Lakes Family YMCA. Homeowners who did not fit into those categoriesreceived whichever was greater: either a $5,000 exemption or 1.5% of their property value. In 1997, she returned to the private sector and started a consulting firm that managed major technology projects in the airline, manufacturing, and financial service industries. If you would like to go to the Commissioners Court page, click here. Click below to learn more about his grandfather, Dr. Harry Guffee, who started the Franklin Rodeo. The event is funded by donations and over 60 volunteers come alongside our Parks staff to put on the event each year. We have hosted over 4,000 kiddos since the programs inception in 2010. Better schools. Negotiation and approval of labor contracts. Box 3363 Cedar Park, TX 78630. The Williamson County Emergency Management Agency coordinates the plans and operations of all components of the emergency management system within the county. Williamson County Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey and Precinct 1 Commissioner Terry Cook were joined by others to break ground on improvements to the Wyoming Springs at Smyers Lane intersection in Round Rock today. The natural resources in Williamson County are precious to each one of us. Williamson County Commissioner Cynthia Long is running in the Republican primary for her fifth term against opponent J.T. (512) 244-8610 Direct Line In Texas, Williamson County is ranked 77th of 254 counties in Commissioners per capita, and 37th of 254 counties in Commissioners per square mile. Boles, is a 54-year-old commercial real estate broker and attorney. The Constitution gives me the right to protect my property. Some of these duties include: Each year, the Commissioners elect a Chairman from their ranks. 201 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Web Site Phone: (512) 260-4280 Fax: (512) 260-4284 Commissioner Precinct Two. Williamson County Pct. 1801 East Old Settlers Blvd. Coxserved a year on probation and paid a $2,000 fine after pleading guilty to a Class B misdemeanor in connection with pointing a gun at three construction workers sitting in a truck in 2017 in Liberty Hill, according to court records. On average, the county portion of a residential homestead tax bill has gone down. County Clerk(512) 943-1515, 405 Martin Luther King St Ill be there. Cynthia Long (Republican Party) is a member of the Williamson County Commissioners Court in Texas, representing Precinct 2.She assumed office in 2007. Be Truthful. Georgetown, TX 78626-4901 If you agree that we need more results and fewer soundbites from our elected leaders, then support Commissioner Cynthia Long in the upcoming November Election General. ", Cox also said the incident was why he was "so adamant about being 'for the people and land owner rights,', and will continue to fight for the people. "Williamson County voters overwhelmingly approved transportation bonds to be used for the improvement of existing roads and for new roadways," she said. Several county offices have moved the new Georgetown Annex, 100 Wilco Way in Georgetown. The expansion project hasdoubled the capacityfor cats and added 80 dog kennels. Under the Commission form, the County is governed by a three person Board of Commissioners. Some residents said the court redrew the map to favor . Her current term ends on December 31, 2022. Over the last two years, I have voted not only to lower your tax rate but more importantly to lower your tax bill. Suggest Listing Women in Transportation Seminar Heart of Texas Chapter member engaged, networking and learning through this powerful and fun organization. Cynthia led the Commissioners Court this year in increasing the residential homestead exemption to $5,000 or 5% of the value of the home.Increased the Over 65 and Disabled Persons Exemptionto $125,000.Championedproperty taxes rate decreasesduring her tenure. that is degrading to another person. Williamson County Judge Gravell faces GOP opponent Gallagher ahead of primary election, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. If you need assistance or have inquiries regarding the Williamson County website, please. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism Georgetown Annex100 Wilco Way, CO201Georgetown, TX, 78626, Rachel Arnold RSS Load next 5 article (s) (15 left) We need to: I believe the degree to which we succeed or fail in achieving those goals in the future will determine whether or not our children inherit a pro-business, pro-family Williamson County where they want to stay and raise families of their own. The Williamson County Election Commission has just recommended a $1.5M purchase of the ES&S voting system which the county has been renting, as well as submitted capital requests for even more equipment, at a time when the county is more than $1 billion in debt and a large percentage of citizens are wanting to move our voting process away from machines and toward hand-marked paper ballots. Budget:Williamson County's proposed $287.5 million budget includes 27 new positions, 4% cost of living increases. Commissioner Russ Boles. "I will remain focused on building and maintaining a strong road system and bringing good jobs to our vibrant community," she said. Terry can be found often giving speeches, writing poems, and telling stories in support of many non-profit organizations in Williamson County including Hope Alliance, Helping Hands of Georgetown, Pavilion Round Rock, Life Steps Council on Drugs and Alcohol, United Way, and regional organizations such as Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area and Texas State Technical College. Cox said the incident happened after his parents sold 4 acres of land to subdivision developers with an agreement that gave his family an easement to and from their property. Driving Directions, Mailing Address: We'd love to hear eyewitness They unanimously approved the new cost-of-living raises on Tuesday. Long said she is the best candidate for the job because she had guided the county through unprecedented growth. Don't Threaten. 0:57. Williamson County is one of only 8 counties in the State of Texas and 101 counties in the U.S. to receive a AAA rating, the highest possible.Saved taxpayers millionsin early debt payment and refinancing existing debt for lower interest rates. Regional Affordability Committee central Texas organization of leaders from government, medical, and educational sectors to analyze, collaborate and influence development of affordable housing Williamson County representative. The starting salary for a corrections officer in Travis County in June was$45,255.64 and in Hays County in June it was$43,352.40 annually,officials there said. At a Franklin Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting Tuesday night, Franklin police officer Kevin Spry received a Lifesaving Award from Franklin Police Chief Deborah Faulkner, Assistant Franklin Fire Chief Greg Baltimore, Franklin Fire Chief Glenn Johnson and other city officials. accounts, the history behind an article. Lower tax rates. Cox said he is best suited for the job because he is "truthful, not deceitful,dont believe in coverups, will not work for the 'suits,'and fully believes in transparency to the citizens of Precinct 2. Increased the residential homestead exemption to 5%Increased the Over 65 and Disabled persons exemption to $125,000With property values rising, providing property tax relief is even more important. Use the 'Report' link on Originally from Houston, she graduated number one in her high school class before earning a business degree from Texas A&M University. We've got to stop the bleed of losing employees because inflation is skyrocketing," he said at the commissioners meeting on Tuesday. The event will start at 6:30 p.m. and conclude at approximately 8 p.m. For more information, email Commissioner Christopher Richards atchristopher.richards@williamsoncounty-tn.gov. Commissioner Precinct One, Terry Cook Terry won re-election in November 2020 and is now well into her second term. A clear sky. Self-help author Marianne Williamson speaks to the crowd as she launches her 2024 presidential campaign in Washington, Saturday, March 4, 2023. Third party advertisements support hosting, listing verification, updates, and site maintenance. Hours: 8 am to 5 pm, Criminal Court Division "The roads in this precinct are by far the worst in the entire county, and they are neglected on a daily basis," he said. "Yes sometimes it (eminent domain) is required, but only after true, good faith efforts and thoughtful considerations have occurred," he said. I now want to take that passion for service to the Williamson County Government as the County Commissioner for District 5. According to Long, most of that growth happened on the west side of the county . The homestead exemptions in Williamson County increased last year from $30,000 to $90,000 for residents ages 65 and olderand for disabled persons the exemptions rose from $25,000 to $75,000.