In Jeff Davis County, a small community tucked away in West Texas with a population of just under 1,900 residents, the allocation of a 2023 Ram Cummins Diesel 4×4 to the Justice of the Peace has sparked inquiries and concerns. The vehicle, which boasts a sticker price of $53,250 enhanced by an additional $20,000 in upgrades—including advanced emergency lighting, a heavy-duty grill guard, running boards, and sophisticated radio equipment—totals an estimated value of over $70,000.
The decision to provide this high-value vehicle for use by county officials, including the Justice of the Peace, has been authorized by the county commissioners on an as-needed basis. County Judge Curtis Evans clarified, “The Jeff Davis County Commissioners authorized the Justice of the Peace to use this truck and also other County Elected officials and County Employees may use this vehicle on an As Need Basis.”
However, a comparison with neighboring regions reveals a different standard. Inquiries by Big Bend Times into the practices of Presidio and Brewster Counties found that justices in these areas generally use their personal vehicles for official duties, and none are provided with county vehicles. This stark contrast raises questions about the necessity and appropriateness of such a high expenditure in a county where economic prudence is typically paramount.
The use of the truck by the Justice of the Peace, who has been under recent scrutiny for interactions with the press and public access issues, further complicates the community’s perception of this allocation. With other counties adhering to more modest vehicle policies, Jeff Davis County’s approach highlights a unique and potentially contentious decision in public resource management.
This situation underscores the need for transparency and justification for the use of public funds, especially in smaller communities where every dollar counts. The community of Jeff Davis County is left seeking answers about the criteria used for such decisions and the expected benefits to their governance and public service operations.
Texas Reporter 