Montgomery County officials have introduced new restrictions on outgoing elected officials, preventing them from making independent financial decisions on property worth over $5,000. The move aims to protect county assets and ensure transparency in leadership transitions.
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The Montgomery County Commissioners Court has unanimously decided to implement a policy limiting the financial authority of outgoing elected officials during their lame-duck period. A new rule, approved in a Tuesday meeting, mandates that county and precinct officials must secure court approval before making decisions regarding vehicles, motorized equipment, or any other property valued at over $5,000. The measure applies to officials who have lost an election or opted for retirement.
Judge Mark J. Keough of Montgomery County highlighted the importance of oversight to ensure that outgoing officials do not make financial commitments that carry over past their term. The commissioners discussed various policy drafts, with one iteration suggesting a more stringent expenditure threshold of $50,000. Commissioner Matt Gray of Precinct 4 opposed stricter limits, contending that routine operations should not face delays due to prolonged approval processes. Commissioner Charlie Riley from Precinct 2 expressed similar concerns, highlighting the possible effects on vital services.
Commissioner Ritch Wheeler of Precinct 3 pointed to a prior administration's acquisition of a $400,000 piece of equipment as an illustration of wasteful expenditure before departing from office. He proposed reviewing the policy to ensure critical financial decisions are addressed in open court instead of concealed in consent agendas. The commissioners ultimately agreed on a $5,000 threshold while allowing for potential future adjustments to improve transparency and accountability in county expenditures.
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