The Terry County Commissioners Court met in regular session Monday morning, March 23, 2026, addressing a full agenda that included a proclamation, training certification, drought conditions, financial matters, and a proposed ordinance drawing significant discussion.
Following the call to order, invocation, pledges, and an opportunity for public comment — with none offered — the Court approved the minutes from previous meetings and authorized payment of county bills before moving into new business.
Women in Agriculture Week Recognized
The Court approved a proclamation recognizing Women in Agriculture Week, set for March 29 through April 4, 2026, with a conference scheduled for April 2.
Jackie Pate of the Terry County Soil and Water Conservation District (TCSWCD) and Michelle Cooper of the Southern Ogallala Conservation & Outreach Program (SOCOP) joined Terry County Judge Tony Serbantez in presenting the proclamation. The recognition highlights the vital role women play in agriculture across Terry County and the surrounding region.
County Clerk Training Certification Accepted
Commissioners also accepted the certification of completion for County Clerk Kim Carter, who successfully completed 20 hours of required continuing education through the County and District Clerks’ Association of Texas.
90-Day Burn Ban Implemented Amid Worsening Drought Conditions
Due to increasing wildfire risk, the Court approved a 90-day burn ban, which may be lifted earlier if conditions improve.
Officials cited the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI), which currently sits at 482 in Terry County — a level indicating significantly increased wildfire potential. At this stage, larger fuels can ignite and smolder for extended periods, increasing the risk of dangerous fires.
Additionally, the U.S. Drought Monitor classifies Terry County as experiencing both Moderate (D1) and Severe (D2) drought conditions. These conditions have led to:
- Low levels in stock tanks, creeks, and streams
- Increasing wildfire frequency and intensity
- Poor pasture conditions and hardened soil, impacting planting
- Decreasing crop yields
- Wildlife moving closer to populated areas in search of resources
County officials are encouraging residents to exercise caution and follow all burn ban restrictions to reduce wildfire risks.
Guardianship Funds Approved for Distribution
The Court approved the investment and distribution of Terry County guardianship funds. According to County Clerk Kim Carter, many of the recipients are individuals who have reached 18 years of age and are now eligible to receive those funds.
Sanctuary County Ordinance Considered, Not Approved
The final and most discussed agenda item involved a proposed ordinance to designate Terry County as a “Sanctuary County for the Unborn.”
Mark Lee Dickson, Director of Right to Life Across Texas and founder of the Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn initiative, presented the proposal to the Court. Dickson has previously presented similar ordinances to local governments, including the City of Brownfield and the City of Wellman, the latter having approved the ordinance.
The proposed ordinance sought to prohibit elective abortions within the unincorporated areas of Terry County at any stage of pregnancy, including those involving abortion-inducing medication if taken within county limits. Exceptions would be made for medical emergencies threatening the life of the mother.
Additional provisions included:
- Prohibiting assistance in arranging or facilitating abortions
- Restricting the transportation of individuals for the purpose of obtaining an abortion
- Banning the manufacture, distribution, or delivery of abortion-inducing drugs within unincorporated areas
- Allowing the ordinance to apply in certain cases involving county residents, even if the procedure occurs outside the county
The ordinance also proposed enforcement through private civil lawsuits, rather than direct government enforcement. Individuals found in violation could face a minimum of $10,000 in damages per incident, along with court costs and attorney fees. Notably, the ordinance explicitly stated that a pregnant woman could not be prosecuted or held liable under the law.
During the discussion, Commissioner Martin Lefevere questioned why such measures were not being pursued at the state level, referencing State Senator Charles Perry, State Representative Carl Tepper, and Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows, who are behind this initiative. Dickson responded that efforts are underway to address the issue during a future legislative session, though that process would take time.
Judge Tony Serbantez then asked the Court how it wished to proceed. A motion was made to vote on the ordinance. When asked for those in favor of approval, no commissioners responded. When asked for those opposed, all four commissioners voted against the measure.
With no further discussion on the item, the ordinance failed to pass.
Meeting Adjourned
With all agenda items addressed, the Terry County Commissioners Court adjourned the meeting.
