Primary Department: Probate Courts
Primary Department Head/Elected Official: Judge Franshenaka "Fran" Watson
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Regular or Supplemental RCA: Regular RCA
Type of Request: Financial Authorization
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Request Summary (Agenda Caption):
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Request by Probate Court No. 5 for approval to provide car-allowance compensation to the Court Investigator, to be distributed annually over 26 pay periods from the General Fund, with an effective date of January 10, 2026.
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Background and Discussion:
The proposed car allowance is intended to cover expenses related to the Court Investigator's duties, including vehicle maintenance, mileage, and tolls or parking fees incurred during court-appointed investigations. The Court Investigator position is mandated under Texas Government Code Section 25.0025. While the position is eligible for mileage reimbursement, providing a fixed car allowance is projected to be more cost-effective than reimbursing monthly mileage claims submitted by the investigator.
Expected Impact:
This request will not result in any fiscal impact to the current General Fund budget. The Court Investigator currently receives mileage reimbursement, which exceeds the cost of the proposed car allowance.
Alternative Options:
The Court Investigator may continue to receive mileage reimbursement in lieu of the car allowance.
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