Mineral Wells Area News

June 9th County Commissioner’s Court Meeting Recap

PALO PINTO COUNTY, Texas — Judge Coppy Hodgkins, the longest-serving Justice of the Peace in Texas, has announced his retirement after 45 years of dedicated service. His resignation will be effective on July 31.

The Palo Pinto County Commissioners Court is now accepting applications to fill the upcoming vacancy. Resumes should be submitted to the county judge’s office and will be accepted until the position is filled. Judge Shane Long remarked on Hodgkins’ long tenure, noting, “To our knowledge, he is the longest sitting Justice of the Peace in the state of Texas. He is retiring. Good for him.”

For more information on the application process for the Justice of the Peace position, potential candidates can contact the county judge’s office at (940) 659-1253 Ext. 286.

Employee Benefits and Safety Initiatives

In other business, the Commissioners Court discussed several key initiatives. The court approved the renewal of the air evac membership agreement for employees during work hours and authorized the solicitation of employees for full membership at reduced premiums. This decision aims to enhance employee benefits and ensure their safety.

Budget Considerations

Additionally, the court deliberated on budget allocations for capital equipment. Judge Shane Long emphasized the importance of sourcing funds from capital equipment to avoid complications experienced in previous years. “We just pick it all out of capital computers and that’s my thought on it,” he stated, highlighting the need for a streamlined budgeting process.

Facility Use and Community Events

The court also approved the use of the Dempsey facility for an event hosted by the North Texas Corvair Association on October 11, 2025. Commissioner Ralls was authorized to negotiate rent for the day, contingent upon the county attorney reviewing the agreement and establishing insurance liability requirements.

Burn Ban

The burn ban remains off. Regarding fireworks, the court decided not to impose restrictions before July 4, as the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) did not support such measures. The KBDI needs to be around 500 or higher to justify restrictions, and it currently does not meet that threshold.