Introduction to the Controversy
A divided Fort Bend County Commissioners Court voted to approve several appointees to its redistricting committee, sparking controversy and debate among its members. The decision came after Republican State Rep. Matt Morgan sent a letter stating that Fort Bend’s voter precincts did not meet the population requirements under state law.
The Redistricting Committee
The committee was formed to review the county’s voter map, with two members appointed by each commissioner and the county judge. Fort Bend GOP spokesperson Jacob Lee will lead the committee, along with other appointees including Robert Beham, Ryan Yokubaitis, Wendy Duncan, Upendra Sahu, and Mike Gibson. The two Democrats on the county commissioners court had not yet named their appointees at the time of the vote.
The Role of the County Attorney
The court also clashed over the role of the county attorney, with Judge KP George proposing to hire outside legal counsel to advise the commissioners court in place of County Attorney Bridgette Smith-Lawson. George evaded questions about when the county would use outside legal counsel, prompting criticism from Democratic County Commissioner Grady Prestage.
Concerns Over Partisanship
Smith-Lawson, a Democrat, has clashed with Republicans on the court over which law firm to hire to help redraw the county’s voter maps. She rejected claims that her office is partisan, stating that both Democrats and Republicans work for her. The proposal to hire outside counsel was ultimately tabled, with Smith-Lawson arguing that it would undermine her authority as an elected official.
Redistricting Precinct 3
Commissioners also voted to redistrict Precinct 3 County Commissioner Andy Meyers back into his previous home. Meyers’ house was moved out of his own precinct during the last round of redistricting in 2021.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court’s decision to form a redistricting committee and potentially hire outside legal counsel highlights the ongoing debate over partisan politics and the role of elected officials. As the committee begins its work, it remains to be seen how the county’s voter map will be redrawn and what impact it will have on future elections. One thing is certain, however: the decision will have significant implications for the citizens of Fort Bend County and the balance of power on the commissioners court.
