The Hays County Commissioners Court held a significant meeting on August 12, 2025, where the future of the Transportation Director, Jennifer Michigamba, was a central topic of discussion. Following a performance improvement plan (PIP) that lasted 60 days, the court reviewed survey results from Michigamba's direct reports, which revealed serious concerns about her leadership style and effectiveness.

The survey indicated a lack of confidence among staff, with many respondents expressing discomfort in providing feedback and feeling that their contributions were not valued. Out of five direct reports, four strongly disagreed with statements about open communication and collaboration, highlighting a troubling disconnect between Michigamba and her team.

Commissioner Smith, who played a key role in the evaluation process, emphasized the importance of employee morale and the need for a supportive work environment. He noted that the feedback from staff had not improved over the course of the PIP, leading him to question Michigamba's ability to lead effectively. Other commissioners echoed these sentiments, expressing disappointment in the lack of progress and the ongoing issues within the department.

During the meeting, Michigamba defended her management style, stating that she had been working to learn the job and engage with her staff. However, her comments did not alleviate the concerns raised by the commissioners, who ultimately voted to terminate her employment. The decision was met with mixed feelings, as some commissioners acknowledged her engineering skills but felt her leadership was lacking.

The court's decision to terminate Michigamba reflects a broader concern about leadership effectiveness in Hays County's transportation department. As the county continues to grow, the need for strong, communicative leadership is critical to ensure that projects move forward efficiently and that staff feel supported in their roles. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the leadership challenges within the department and to seek a new director who can foster a more positive and collaborative work environment.