Howard County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Howard County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Emergency Medical Services Interlocal & Grant Agreements
The county evaluated its current ambulance service contract with the City of Big Spring to support a state grant application, ensuring continuous emergency medical coverage.
2026-2027 Budget and Tax Rate
Residents voiced strong opposition to a proposed 44-cent tax rate, citing high grocery and utility costs and questioning county cash reserves. Commissioners defended the rate as a preliminary ceiling driven by declining mineral valuations and state circuit breaker laws, voting to table the budget until September 14.
FCI Big Spring Closure
The planned closure of the federal prison in Big Spring threatens over 200 local jobs and families. Local officials are lobbying federal authorities to reverse the decision while organizing rapid-response job fairs and support groups.
Courthouse Generator Installation
County maintenance supervisor Baldomar Cortez updated the court on site preparations for new courthouse generators. The road and bridge department will move the old generator, and a new concrete pad and fencing will be arranged.
Federal Transportation Grant Pursuit ($6M - $14M)
Road and Bridge Engineer Brian Klintzik received the green light to explore a major federal Department of Transportation grant that could bring between $6 and $14 million in road improvement work to the county with an 20% match.