Texas County Progress

The Official Publication of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas

Week in the Life of a Texas County Judge

by

Zapata County Judge Joseph Rathmell

HISTORY

Zapata County Judge Joseph Rathmell is a lifelong resident of Zapata County. He is a graduate of Zapata High School. In school, he participated in football, basketball, baseball, and was in the high school band. He attended The University of Texas at Austin where he received a degree in economics. After graduation, Rathmell returned to Zapata and married Gina Lynn Stokes. They have three daughters: Gabriella Lynn (Luis Carlos Guevara), Celia Andrea, and Sarah Josephine. Rathmell is also a general partner of Rathmell Land and Cattle Co., a family owned business. He served five years as a county commissioner before his election as county judge in 2010.

TYPICAL DAY?

My day consists of answering calls, meetings, daily mail reviews, meeting with department heads, attending public events, and preparing for the bi-monthly commissioners court meeting. The most important part of the day is making time to meet with the citizens of the county.  A county judge’s door must always remain open.

BIGGEST CHALLENGE?

The challenge facing Zapata County is, of course, the budget.  Readjusting the budget to a sustainable level is always difficult. And, in a small community, any adjustment in personnel is a painful decision. The county, after all, is staffed with neighbors and friends.


FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB?

The best part of the job is the opportunity to help people of this community solve their problems. My everyday interactions with members of the
community, the commissioners court, and county employees are essential parts of being a public servant.  Also, seeing a project that originated in commissioners court go from conception to reality and have it promote positive community growth is extremely rewarding.

IS IT WHAT YOU EXPECTED?

Serving as a county commissioner for five years was a good preparation for the job of county judge. When I came into office, I was already familiar with the operations of the court.  But, every day I still learn something new. Trying to get the county on a sustainable fiscal path is challenging but also very rewarding. I want to make sure the county will be healthy and vital for generations to come. After all, this is where my parents and grandparents were born.  Zapata is my home.