Dimmit County commissioners engaged in an extended debate on Nov. 10 about whether elected officials may authorize pay (overtime/administrative time) for employees who assist at public, community events such as parades, trunk‑or‑treat, or holiday programs.

Court members cited prior Attorney General opinions and Texas Association of Counties guidance requiring that county expenditures satisfy a three‑part public‑purpose test (public purpose, public control of funds, and a measurable return benefit). Commissioners split on practice and fairness: some said limited arrangements (one employee released while office remains open) have been an accepted, long‑standing practice; others cited morale concerns when some precincts have budgeted funds for overtime while others do not.

Specific matters driving the debate included time‑sheet entries that listed event hours (creating overtime liabilities), whether employees could be permitted to clock event time, and how to administratively control payments (e.g., elected official signs approvals and auditor verifies). Commissioners asked the county attorney and TAC legal to assist with a written policy that would define when employees can be paid for event participation, how many may leave an office during business hours, and how after‑hours events would be handled.

The court did not adopt a final written policy on Nov. 10 but directed staff to draft options for future consideration; commissioners emphasized the need for even application and auditability to avoid budget and equity problems.