Newton County approves security camera payment, accepts ESD financials and engagement letters for auditors
February 24, 2026 | Newton County, Texas
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Newton County commissioners on Jan. 28 approved several operational items: a $39,477 budget amendment to complete payment for previously authorized security cameras, the compiled financial statement from Emergency Services District No. 4, and engagement letters for outside audit support.
On the security cameras, the court moved $39,477 from courthouse cash accounts to fund camera installation for the tax office, county clerk and sub‑courthouse. County staff said the cash is available in the courthouse security account and that a money market account also maintains additional reserves.
Pete Porter, representing Emergency Services District No. 4, presented the district’s compiled financial statement showing a 3% tax rate, no debt, and plan to buy a new truck in 2026. Commissioners accepted the ESD financial report.
On audit services, the court approved an engagement letter for Barbara Shlady, CPA (to assist in preparing county financials) and an engagement letter with Charles Reed & Associates for audits. Commissioners discussed prior efforts to solicit outside auditors and relative costs; staff said the county is current on work for 2023 and 2024 and is assembling materials for 2025.
The court also approved payment of county bills across funds totaling $468,019.02 by voice vote and then adjourned.
On the security cameras, the court moved $39,477 from courthouse cash accounts to fund camera installation for the tax office, county clerk and sub‑courthouse. County staff said the cash is available in the courthouse security account and that a money market account also maintains additional reserves.
Pete Porter, representing Emergency Services District No. 4, presented the district’s compiled financial statement showing a 3% tax rate, no debt, and plan to buy a new truck in 2026. Commissioners accepted the ESD financial report.
On audit services, the court approved an engagement letter for Barbara Shlady, CPA (to assist in preparing county financials) and an engagement letter with Charles Reed & Associates for audits. Commissioners discussed prior efforts to solicit outside auditors and relative costs; staff said the county is current on work for 2023 and 2024 and is assembling materials for 2025.
The court also approved payment of county bills across funds totaling $468,019.02 by voice vote and then adjourned.
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