Commissioners

Emergency Services District (ESD) Board provides oversight, strategic direction, and fiscal responsibility for emergency services within the district. The board is the governing body responsible for ensuring that residents receive reliable, professional fire protection, emergency medical services, rescue response, and other life-safety services.

Board Appointment

ESD Board members are appointed by the County Commissioners Court. Appointees typically serve staggered terms to ensure continuity, experience, and stable leadership within the district. The appointment process helps maintain accountability to the taxpayers and ensures that board members represent the interests of the community. Commissioners can be reappointed.

Key Responsibilities

• Budgeting & Financial Stewardship: Establishing and overseeing the annual budget; setting the tax rate; ensuring public funds are used responsibly and transparently.
• Policy & Governance: Approving policies, procedures, and operational guidelines that support efficient and safe emergency service delivery.
• Long-Range Planning: Identifying and planning for future needs regarding facilities, staffing, apparatus, equipment, and training to ensure readiness and improved public safety.
• Contracting & Procurement: Reviewing contracts, approving purchases, and authorizing expenditures for apparatus, vehicles, technology, protective gear, services, and other operational necessities.
• Oversight of Leadership: Hiring, evaluating, and supporting the Fire Chief and administrative staff, while ensuring leadership is equipped to manage day-to-day operations.
• Community Accountability: Representing the interests of local taxpayers; maintaining transparency; ensuring compliance with state laws and ethical standards.

Governing Link

In summary, an ESD Board serves as the governing link between the community and its emergency services, making decisions that protect lives, property, and financial resources while promoting long-term stability and growth for the district.