Williamson County officials approved a mutual-aid agreement with Bell, Burnet, Milam and Williamson counties to form a joint law enforcement task force at their Oct. 27 meeting. The agreement was formed under Chapter 362 of the Texas Local Government Code. It lets neighboring law enforcement agencies pool resources, coordinate across county lines and respond together to major incidents.
Under the agreement, sheriff's deputies can conduct investigations, make traffic stops, execute warrants and make arrests across all four counties during joint efforts and civil emergencies. Local officials said the partnership is meant to enhance public safety across county borders.
County Judge Steve Snell said the agreement shows local government and local law enforcement working together to keep residents safer. According to county documents, the arrangement has no added cost to taxpayers.