Caldwell County Commissioners discussed the burn ban, Black History Month and approved a flurry of grant applications at their Feb. 12, 2026 regular meeting.
Black History Month, Black leadership highlighted with trio of proclamations
Caldwell County commissioners approved three proclamations recognizing the important contributions of Black Americans to our community.
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- Black History Month: All residents are encouraged to observe this month by participating in educational programs, community events, and acts of reflection and service that celebrate African American history, honor its lasting impact and promote unity, tolerance and acceptance of one's own neighbor throughout Caldwell County. Read the full proclamation.
- Caldwell County Progressive Club: In 1974, four Black construction workers - Ammie Carter Jr., Hiawatha Franks Sr., Nathaniel "Bubba" Bennett Jr., and Homer Williams Sr. learned that there were disparities in the opportunities to collegiate scholarship for African American students graduating from Lockhart High School. To fix this scholarship challenge, a nonprofit, The Caldwell County Progressive Club was organized as a nonprofit. The Progressive Club provides five scholarships to Lockhart High School graduates who apply and meet all the qualifications of the scholarship criteria. Read the full proclamation.
- Vessie Davis Tutt Day: Commissioners approved a proclamation celebrating the 100th birthday of Vessie Davis Tutt. Ms. Tutt, who was born in St. John Colony in 1926, is a direct descendant of Andrew and Laura Davis, among the original trailblazers who settled St. John Colony in Caldwell County in 1870. The proclamation recognizes her as a respected example of resilience, perseverance, and inspiration within her community. Read the full proclamation.
Caldwell County Commissioners presented Pastor Lora Hardaway with a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month. Pictured (l-r) are: Pct. 1 Commissioner BJ Westmoreland, Pct. 2 Commissioner Rusty Horne, Pastor Lora Hardaway, County Judge Hoppy Haden, Judge Pro-Tem Ed Theriot and Pct. 4 Commissioner Dyral Thomas.
Burn Ban extended amid persisting drought conditions
Commissioners voted to extend the burn ban another two weeks amid persistent dry conditions. The Caldwell County Office of Emergency Management recommended the countywide burn ban extension, citing that the Texas Forest Service had noted that Travis, Lee, Caldwell and Hays counties remain in a drought. All outdoor burning is prohibited at this time. If you must burn, please contact the appropriate offices to apply for a special permit. Information about that can be found on the Emergency Management webpage.
Flurry of grant applications approved
Commissioners approved resolutions authorizing applications for three grants aimed at making sure county law enforcement and first responders have necessary tools while out protecting residents of Caldwell County.
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- A grant application to the Office of the Governor’s Public Safety Office (PSO) for the FY 2027 Body-Worn Camera Program. Body-worn cameras record video and audio of police interactions with the public. They provide objective evidence for investigations and court proceedings, improve report accuracy, and can deter aggressive behavior from both the public and officers. Grant funding uses would include purchasingadditional equipment and replacing dated equipment.
- An application for funding from the PSO for the FY 2027 Rifle-Resistant Body Armor Program. The county is planning on purchasing 52 vests if awarded the grant.
- An application for funding through the HB 3000 Rural Ambulance Grant Service program for Caldwell County ESD #5. Proceeds can be used for modifying, purchasing or reconstructing ambulances.
This is a brief summary of discussion and action highlights of the Feb. 12, 2026 regular commissioners court meeting. See full agendas and official meeting minutes and watch full video of the meetings.