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Civic Engagement

How to Attend a County Commissioners Meeting

Step-by-step guide to participating in local government — agenda access, public comment sign-up, decorum rules, and follow-up strategies.

Local GovernmentPublic CommentEllis County

When & Where


Ellis County Commissioners Court meets the second and fourth Monday of each month at 10:00 AM in the historic Ellis County Courthouse, 101 W. Main St., Waxahachie, TX 75165. Meetings are open to the public.


Before the Meeting


Step 1 — Get the agenda

Agendas are posted 72 hours in advance on the Ellis County website. Review items relevant to you.


Step 2 — Sign up for public comment

Arrive 15–20 minutes early and sign the public comment sheet at the clerk's table. Speakers are typically called in order.


Step 3 — Prepare your remarks

You will have 3 minutes. Practice out loud. Cover: who you are, what you want, and what you want them to do about it. Bring 5 copies of any written materials to hand to commissioners and the clerk.


During the Meeting


  • Address the County Judge (presiding officer), not individual commissioners.
  • Speak clearly and stay within your time limit — the clerk will signal when time is almost up.
  • Be specific: reference the agenda item number, dollar amount, or policy name.
  • Avoid personal attacks — focus on the issue.

    • After the Meeting


  • Follow up in writing — email your comments to the County Clerk within 48 hours so they're on record.
  • Track the vote — minutes are posted online within 10 days.
  • Build relationships — introduce yourself to commissioners and their staff after the meeting.

    • Ellis County Commissioner Contacts


    PrecinctCommissionerContact
    Pct. 1Check elliscounty.com(972) 825-5000
    Pct. 2Check elliscounty.com(972) 825-5000
    Pct. 3Check elliscounty.com(972) 825-5000
    Pct. 4Check elliscounty.com(972) 825-5000

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