Commissioners table Emergency Services District appointments, plan evening meeting for applicants

Van Zandt County commissioners on Jan. 1 tabled appointments to two Emergency Services Districts so applicants or a representative could address the court.

For ESD No. 1, the court reviewed three applications — Ross M. Hamilton, Tom Troll and William Scott Adams — and several commissioners said applicants should appear because ESD board members exercise financial oversight. Commissioner Barton moved to table the appointments and Commissioner Curtis seconded; the motion passed.

For ESD No. 2, commissioners discussed applicants John David Savage (a two‑term incumbent) and Kelly Walker (new applicant). Commissioners agreed to attempt an evening meeting to allow working applicants or representatives to present; a motion to table and follow up passed.

Commissioner comments emphasized transparency and the importance of allowing taxpayers to meet individuals who will have authority over ESD finances. "If somebody is being appointed to a board, especially when we have financial oversight, folks in Van Zandt County want to know who their people are," one commissioner said.

Why it matters: ESD board members oversee district budgets used for fire and emergency services; the court asked for more public-facing opportunities before confirming appointees.