The County Judge is the county’s chief executive. The Judge leads the Commissioners Court, helps set the county budget and priorities, and works in partnership with the commissioners to ensure county services run smoothly. Decisions are made collaboratively by the Commissioners Court, reflecting the voices of communities across the county. The Judge also serves as the county Director of Emergency Management, works closely with the Emergency Management Coordinator during disasters, and represents the county when working with state and local partners.
Core Duties
- 🏛️ Presiding over Commissioners Court: Setting policy, budgets, tax rates, and managing major projects.
- 📊 Leading budget planning & fiscal oversight: Ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently.
- 🚨 Coordinating emergency management: Leading disaster response and public safety initiatives.
- 🤝 Serving as a liaison: Working with state agencies and local municipalities to represent the county's interests.
- ⚖️ Judicial Duties: Handling certain administrative or probate/civil matters (varies by county).
Focus on Bastrop County
Given Bastrop’s growth corridor along Hwy 71 and our proximity to Austin, Judge Klaus's focus often revolves around:
Infrastructure Expansion
Managing the development of roads, public safety facilities, and essential utilities.
Growth Management
Implementing development services that balance growth with our rural heritage.
Fiscal Responsibility
Careful county budgeting and analyzing tax impacts on residents.
Emergency Preparedness
Mitigating wildfire risks, issuing burn bans, and storm response coordination.