Commissioners delay action on easement agreement for LEC

Shackelford County commissioners voted Monday to table a proposed easement agreement from FiberLight, LLC regarding a 60’ x 60’ area at the Law Enforcement Center, citing errors and unresolved questions in the contract.

The offer, submitted in writing by FiberLight, outlines a one-time payment of $40,000 in exchange for an exclusive easement to install fiber infrastructure on county property for a term of 49 years. A clause also stipulates that if the agreement is not executed, the company would pay $1,000 to the county.

Discussion during the meeting raised concerns about the location description, the size of the easement area, and setback requirements. Commissioners noted the proposed site is in the southeast corner of the LEC property off Baird Street, near Highway 180, and that the agreement should include clearer language regarding fencing and construction setbacks.

Commissioner Lanham Martin motioned to table the item so that the county attorney could review the document and propose necessary changes. Cody Jordan seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. The court is expected to revisit the revised agreement at a future meeting.

In other business, officials reported a growing bee problem around the courthouse, including a large hive spotted on the east side of the building. The issue will be added to a future agenda for possible removal or relocation.

Commissioners and County Judge John Vier­tel also commented on recent tree trimming work around the courthouse square, noting that the cleanup had improved the appearance of the area. They discussed options for addressing the remaining bare dirt patches, with suggestions including the use of dryland landscaping materials such as stone or gravel.