Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sues Travis County commissioners for concealing security funding for DA’s home
Travis County, Texas – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated a lawsuit against the Travis County Commissioners Court. The lawsuit claims that the commissioners broke the Texas Open Meetings Act by secretly authorizing security improvements funded by taxpayers for the residence of Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza.
Read also: Nasdaq opens regional office in Irving, strengthening ties with Texas and Southern U.S. markets
The dispute arises from a March 19, 2024 meeting when the Travis County Commissioners Court allegedly convened an executive session under cover of “security issues.” According to reports, the commissioners approved $115,000 from the general money at this closed session to be used toward improved protection at DA Garza’s personal property. Made without public notice or an opportunity for public feedback, this action has infuriated people and attracted legal investigation.
Attorney General Paxton criticized the commissioners for their lack of transparency,
“Travis County has illegally abused procedure to conceal self-serving decision-making, to hide from scrutiny, and to prevent citizens from knowing exactly what is being done with their money,” Paxton said in a statement.
Paxton’s office further highlighted the irony in the situation, pointing out the paradox of the DA seeking enhanced personal security funded by taxpayers, especially given his policies which Paxton characterizes as “pro-crime,” creating unsafe conditions for Austin residents.
The Texas Open Meetings Act mandates that any discussions held in executive session must pertain to topics specifically eligible for such confidentiality. The Act seeks to guarantee public involvement in government decisions influencing taxpayers as well as transparency. The lawsuit claims that the subject of distributing taxpayer money for personal security does not fit for debate in an executive session, hence this move by the Travis County Commissioners is not only controversial but also apparently unconstitutional.
Read also: New DART office near Knoll Trail Station to enhance management of Silver Line services
This legal action taken by the Attorney General’s office highlights continuous conflicts between state and local government especially when it comes to transparency and public accountability. The result of this action might establish a major precedent on the boundaries of executive sessions and appropriate taxpayer fund management in Texas.
