In Texas counties, the County Judge is primarily the chief executive of the county government, not just a courtroom judge. The job is closer to a county CEO combined with a budget chair.
Core Duties
- 🏛️ Presiding over Commissioners Court: Setting policy, budgets, tax rates, and managing major projects.
- 📊 Leading budget planning & fiscal oversight: Ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently.
- 🚨 Coordinating emergency management: Leading disaster response and public safety initiatives.
- 🤝 Serving as a liaison: Working with state agencies and local municipalities to represent the county's interests.
- ⚖️ Judicial Duties: Handling certain administrative or probate/civil matters (varies by county).
Focus on Bastrop County
Given Bastrop’s growth corridor along Hwy 71 and our proximity to Austin, Judge Klaus's focus often revolves around:
Infrastructure Expansion
Managing the development of roads, public safety facilities, and essential utilities.
Growth Management
Implementing development services that balance growth with our rural heritage.
Fiscal Responsibility
Careful county budgeting and analyzing tax impacts on residents.
Emergency Preparedness
Mitigating wildfire risks, issuing burn bans, and storm response coordination.