Property taxes, rural development, public health and wildfire safety are among the issues shaping daily life in Bastrop County, and each received attention through recent Commissioners Court actions and the September 28, 2026, meeting.

As the county continues to grow, residents are asking how local leaders plan to balance new development with the needs of established communities, protect rural properties and maintain essential services.

Bastrop County Adopts 2026 Property Tax Rate

One of the most significant financial decisions came September 14, when Bastrop County Commissioners Court unanimously approved the county's property tax rate for fiscal year 2026-2027.

The adopted rate is $0.45540 per $100 of taxable property value, divided among three components:

• General fund maintenance and operations: $0.31070
• Debt service: $0.06670
• Road and bridge maintenance and operations: $0.07800

According to the approved tax order, the rate represents a 6.22% effective increase and is expected to raise maintenance and operations taxes on a $100,000 home by approximately $26.70.

The county's no-new-revenue tax rate was calculated at $0.41098, while the voter-approval tax rate was $0.45540.

For Bastrop County homeowners, the amount owed will depend on taxable property values and applicable exemptions. The adopted county rate is also only one component of a property's overall tax bill, which may include school districts, cities and other taxing entities.

Data Center Development Raises Questions About Rural Growth

Public concerns about data centers and industrial development took center stage during the September 28 meeting.

Residents Cameron Allen, John Bush, Kelly Jeschke and Robin Pes addressed commissioners about development pressures, neighborhood protections and the county's ability to influence land-use decisions in unincorporated areas.

The discussion reflected a growing concern among rural property owners: how can Bastrop County accommodate economic development while protecting the character and quality of life of existing communities?

Commissioners also addressed a resolution seeking additional land-use authority under Chapter 231 of the Texas Local Government Code. The resolution was amended to reflect that approximately 97.85% of Bastrop County lies in unincorporated areas.

The discussion included a pointed exchange between Bush and Precinct 4 Commissioner David Glass over development concerns and communication with county officials.

While the resolution does not itself establish new zoning restrictions, it reflects continuing efforts to address the county's limited authority over development outside city limits.

Bastrop County Public Health Clinic Moves Closer to Opening

Residents seeking local healthcare services may soon have another option.

County officials discussed plans for a public health clinic in the Grady Tuck Building, with a soft launch anticipated in October 2026.

The meeting also included discussion of support from the Smithville Hospital Authority for a children's room within the facility.

For families who face transportation challenges or difficulty accessing preventive healthcare, the clinic represents a potentially important addition to local services. Details about available appointments, eligibility and operating hours will be important as the opening approaches.

Burn Ban Extended as Dry Conditions Continue

Wildfire prevention remains another immediate concern for Bastrop County residents.

Commissioners extended the county's burn ban through October 13, 2026, citing continued dry conditions. The meeting included a Keetch-Byram Drought Index reading of 712, indicating significant dryness.

The restriction is particularly important for residents in rural areas, where outdoor burning can quickly create risks for neighboring properties and emergency responders.

Residents should check the county's latest burn ban status before conducting any outdoor burning, as restrictions can change with weather conditions and subsequent court action.

Road Safety and Subdivision Growth Remain on the Agenda

Commissioners also held public hearings related to a proposed speed limit on Makaha Drive and traffic controls at Monkey Road and Littig Road. No members of the public spoke during those hearings.

In another development-related matter, the court considered a six-month extension request involving La Selva Acres, a proposed 47-lot subdivision covering approximately 33.937 acres.

These discussions illustrate how residential growth brings ongoing questions about roadway safety, infrastructure and the county's ability to keep pace with new development.

Commissioners Recognize National 4-H Week

Alongside discussions of taxes, development and public safety, commissioners recognized National 4-H Week, October 4-10, 2026.

The proclamation acknowledged the role of 4-H in helping young people develop leadership, responsibility and practical skills through community involvement.

For local families and volunteers, the recognition highlights an established tradition of youth participation in Bastrop County.

What's Next for Bastrop County Residents?

The September 28 meeting, together with the recently adopted property tax order, highlighted several issues worth following in the weeks ahead.

Homeowners can review how the adopted tax rate affects their property, while residents concerned about development can follow future discussions about land-use authority and proposed projects. Families may also want to watch for additional information about the public health clinic's opening and available services.

As Bastrop County continues to change, decisions involving growth, public safety, healthcare and taxes will remain closely connected to the communities residents call home.

Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for continued coverage of Bastrop County Commissioners Court meetings, local development and decisions affecting area neighborhoods.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.

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