The Williamson County Commissioners Court held a regular session on September 30, 2025, focusing on emergency preparedness for local school districts, particularly those on the eastern side of the county. A significant discussion centered on the establishment of a reunification plan for students and parents in the event of a catastrophic incident, such as a tornado or school shooting.

The plan involves utilizing the Wilco Expo Center as a designated reunification point. In the event of an emergency, parents would receive a text message directing them to the Expo Center instead of the school campus, which may be chaotic and unsafe. The reunification process would be organized to ensure that students are grouped by grade or alphabetically, allowing for a streamlined and efficient pickup by parents.

Bruce Clements from the Office of Emergency Management explained that the duration of the Expo Center's use would depend on the severity of the incident. Typically, the facility would serve as a reunification point for the day of the event, but in more severe cases, it could be utilized for an extended period to provide additional support, including mental health services.

The discussion also raised questions about the plan's applicability beyond school districts, particularly in the context of city-wide emergencies. Officials acknowledged that while the current focus is on schools, the potential impact of disasters on local communities is significant, and further planning may be necessary to address broader emergency responses.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of preparedness and coordination among local agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of students and families during emergencies. The next steps will involve refining the plan and considering its implications for the wider community.