Starr County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Starr County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
FY 2025 County Financial Audit
Starr County received a clean audit for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, with revenues and expenditures largely balancing out despite minor negative variances and new lease accounting rules. The county maintains robust operating reserves and stable liquidity across its funds.
Operation Stone Garden 2025 Grant Acceptance
Starr County accepted a $2.7 million federal grant to support local border security and law enforcement efforts.
Employee Health Benefits and Overtime Policy
The court adjusted health insurance cost-sharing to a 60-40 split between the county and employees, fully covered vision and dental increases, and updated the county overtime policy.
Bessie Energy Storage Tax Abatement
Starr County has to refund several years of tax payments to Los Mirazoles Wind Farm because the company accidentally kept paying taxes while they were supposed to have a 100% tax abatement.
CBP Border Security Right of Entry
The court approved an agreement allowing the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection to access county property near the bridge for surveying and border wall construction.
Delinquent Tax Collections and Resale Properties
Linebarger presented its six-month collection report showing nearly $2 million collected, and the court approved a resolution to auction 18 abandoned or vacant properties below appraised value on July 7 to clear titles and return them to the tax rolls.
La Rosita Fire Department Grants
The La Rosita Fire Department received three state grants totaling $50,000 from the Texas A&M Forestry Service to help fund their operations and equipment.