The Jeff Davis County Commissioners Court will hold a special meeting Monday to receive public comment and consider a proposed road use agreement with Barnard Construction Co. involving Chispa Road, a route that has become part of the debate over border barrier construction in the Big Bend region.
The meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Jeff Davis County Courthouse in Fort Davis.
Commissioners previously considered the proposed agreement but tabled action following public comments, allowing additional discussion before a vote.
Under the agenda described by opponents of the agreement, commissioners are expected to hear public comments before meeting in executive session. The court could return to open session afterward and take action on the agreement.
The proposal involves Barnard’s use of Chispa Road and potential improvements to the county road. Opponents say improving the route could provide the contractor greater access toward the Rio Grande and facilitate construction associated with federal border barrier projects. The road’s location has made the agreement a concern for residents and organizations opposed to expanded border infrastructure in the Big Bend.
Barnard Construction Co. has been involved in federal border infrastructure work. The precise scope of the proposed Chispa Road agreement, including the responsibilities of the company and county and any restrictions on road use, would be governed by the agreement considered by commissioners.
Public participation at Monday’s meeting will be in person, according to information distributed ahead of the meeting. No remote speaking option is expected to be available.
People wishing to speak are generally asked to complete the county’s public participation form and submit it before the meeting or turn it in in person before proceedings begin.
The special meeting follows growing scrutiny of border infrastructure projects across the Big Bend, where proposed construction and associated road work have raised questions about environmental effects, public access and the extent of construction near the Rio Grande.
Commissioners are expected to consider whether to approve the Chispa Road agreement after receiving public input Monday.
