Soil and Water district asks for sharp increase in mowing contract; commissioners seek justification

Commissioners reviewed a request tied to dam mowing performed for the regional Soil and Water Conservation District (Kaufman‑Van Zandt‑Rockwall). Staff said acreage mowing had been paid at $6,000 previously, rose to $12,000 last year and that the district now requests $25,000 for mowing approximately 254 acres, a large year‑over‑year increase.

Commissioners said the requested jump ‘‘sounds high’’ and asked staff to check typical state contract rates and request the district provide a detailed justification for the higher figure, which one participant noted could reflect fuel and equipment costs but may also require vendor cost documentation.

No decision was made; the court scheduled follow‑up at upcoming budget workshops and asked for more information before committing funds.