In what must be one of the shortest special meetings of the Blanco County Commissioners Court on record, commissioners acknowledged the racial profiling report for the Precinct 4 Constable’s Office. In relation to Article 2.132 CCP Law Enforcement Policy on Racial Profiling, Constable Ronnie Steubing simply stated in his report, “I certify it is not the policy of this agency to make traffic stops in the routine performance of the officers’ official duties.”

In the “Summary and Findings” section of the Blanco County Sheriff’s report on racial profiling, it states that “Based on this report, the findings suggest that the Blanco County Sheriff’s Office and its certified law enforcement personnel do not engage in any form of racial profiling. This is supported by the fact that the Blanco County Sheriff’s Office has not received any complaints from citizens regarding its members engaging in misconduct or bias associated with racial profiling practices.”

The Sheriff’s report went on to state that “further examination of current population demographics indicates that our self initiated stops and searches are entirely within the current population makeup for Blanco County as outlined in the 2010 Census Report. Of the total One Hundred Eighty Seven (187) self initiated stops made by members of this agency in 2010, One Hundred Fifty Three (153) were residents of Blanco County for a total of 81.81%.”

“In conclusion,” the report said, “the lack of complaints and no pattern of racial profiling or bias suggests that the Blanco County Sheriff’s Department is operating within established departmental policy and within the intent of S.B. 1074.” Commissioners accepted the annual report as presented by Sheriff Elsbury.

Commissioners accepted the nominations of Ed Hullum and Ingrid Moursund to fill seats on the North Blanco County Emergency Services District Board for two year terms.

Commissioners also approved the nominations of Kelly Dowdy and Theresa Turner to fill two seats on the South Blanco County Emergency Services District Board for two year terms.

Commissioners acknowledged the continuing education hours for the District Clerk, Debby Elsbury, for 2011 as set out in Texas Government Code Section 51.605.

The meeting adjourned nine minutes after it opened. Commissioner James Sultemeier sat back in his chair and said, “Whew! These long meetings about wear me out!”