Hughes Springs judge seeks increase in fines

By J. Leslie Riseden

Special contributor to The Steel Country Bee

Dogs roaming loose on the streets is a problem in some parts of Hughes Springs, and a fine of $200 just isn’t enough to make some dog owners take care of their dogs. So says Hughes Springs Municipal Judge Gina Bassham. At the regular meeting of the Hughes Springs City Council on Feb. 16, Judge Bassham asked the Council to consider amending city ordinances relating to the keeping of animals in the City of Hughes Springs. These amendments would increase the maximum fine for violations from $200 to $500. Judge Bassham said this would permit her to levy a progressively higher fine for repeated violations which would, ideally, be a stronger incentive for repeat offenders not to be brought before her again. When asked what happens if a fine is not paid, Judge Bassham said “We issue a warrant, and put them in jail.” The Council will consider proposing an amendment to the ordinances at its next regular meeting. If the maximum fine is increased, the public will be given 30 days’ notice before it goes into effect.

Fire Chief/EMS Coordinator Jay Cates made a report to the Council on the updated Hazard Mitigation Action Plan for Cass County and surrounding cities. By adopting the county’s plan, the city is not required to develop its own plan. A formal Hazard Mitigation Action Plan is required in order to qualify for FEMA assistance in the event of a natural disaster. Mr. Cates confirmed that Hughes Springs is in compliance with the Cass County plan. The Council voted unanimously to adopt Cass County’s Hazard Mitigation Action Plan.

The Council discussed and approved an order for a special election to be held in Hughes Springs to submit a proposition on the question of adoption of a sales and use tax. Hughes Springs is one of the few cities that still charge 7.75 percent tax; the proposed increase would bring Hughes Springs up to the 8.25 percent rate found in a majority of cities in the surrounding area. The increase would also provide the city with additional funds to use for daily operations.