Nolan County Commissioners to Weigh Energy Zones and Public Safety in Upcoming Session

The Nolan County Commissioner’s Court is scheduled to convene for a regular meeting on March 9, 2026, at 9:00 A.M. at the County Courthouse. Presided over by County Judge Whitley May, the court will address a busy slate ranging from major industrial tax designations to local infrastructure improvements.

The centerpiece of Monday’s meeting is a Public Hearing regarding a request from Crusoe Energy to designate approximately 2,216.1 acres as the "Crusoe Energy - Nolan County Reinvestment Zone".

The Reinvestment Zone: Following the hearing, the court will consider taking action to officially designate this acreage, which is further detailed in Public Notice #7135. In Texas, designating a "Reinvestment Zone" is a primary step that allows a county to provide tax abatements or incentives. This is a common tool used to attract large-scale energy or technology projects that promise to bolster the local tax base and create jobs.

Commissioners will also review a Road and Right-of-Way Agreement with Buffalo Gap Repower LLC. These agreements are critical when energy companies move heavy equipment over county roads. They typically ensure the company is responsible for any infrastructure damage caused during the construction or "repowering" (upgrading) of wind or solar farms.

Public Safety and County Property

With dry conditions often a concern in West Texas, the court will consider reinstating the county-wide burn ban. A burn ban typically prohibits outdoor burning of trash or brush to prevent accidental wildfires when the drought index is high. The court will also look to approve the sale of surplus vehicles from the Sheriff’s Office. Selling older patrol units that have reached their mileage limit allows the county to recoup funds that can be applied back into the fleet or general fund.

Local Infrastructure and Coliseum Expansion

Nolan County's role as a regional event hub is also on the agenda, with a discussion planned for the expansion of RV sites at the Nolan County Coliseum. Expanding RV hookups is often a move to accommodate more participants for rodeos, stock shows, and other large-scale events that bring overnight visitors to Sweetwater.

Routine Business and Governance

In addition to these major items, the court will approve minutes from the February 23, 2026 meeting receive reports from various department heads regarding county operations, and address the "paying of claims," which includes line-item transfers and budget amendments as requested by the County Auditor. The public is encouraged to attend the meeting at the Courthouse. All interested persons are entitled to speak during the Crusoe Energy public hearing to present evidence for or against the reinvestment zone.