Texas AG Ken Paxton Sues Travis County Over Alleged Secret Meeting on DA Security Funds

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued the Travis County Commissioners Court. Paxton claims that the court violated the Texas Open Meetings Act during a closed-door session to authorize security funds for District Attorney Jose Garza.

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The lawsuit, filed this week, alleges that the commissioners convened an executive session on March 19 to address "security concerns" before promptly voting to allocate $115,000 from the general fund for security improvements at Garza's residence. According to Paxton, this type of deliberation does not meet the criteria for a closed session under state law, which requires that such decisions be made in public with appropriate notice.

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"Travis County has illegally abused procedure to conceal self-serving decision-making, to hide from scrutiny, and to prevent citizens from knowing exactly what is being done with their money," Paxton stated in a press release.

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The attorney general's office also criticized District Attorney Garza, labeling him "pro-crime" and accusing him of contributing to hazardous conditions for Austin residents through his policies.

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The lawsuit aims to prevent future violations of the Texas Open Meetings Act and to invalidate the commissioners' vote on the funds. It contends that the commissioners' decision was made without adequate public transparency or the opportunity for residents to provide input.

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Paxton's legal action is being taken in response to the ongoing tensions between his office and Garza, who has been criticized by state leaders for his criminal justice reforms.

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The Travis County Commissioners Court has not yet responded to the lawsuit; however, the case is expected to raise concerns regarding the transparency of government operations and the decisions made regarding public safety in the capital of Texas.

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