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 Commissioner Louis Ponder (left) with David Cook at a birthday celebration and campaign event in Mansfield, TX.

 Italy, TX (July 2, 2026) — Ellis County Commissioner Louis Ponder (Precinct 3), today announced his endorsement of David Cook for Texas State Senate, Senate District 22.

“I am proud to endorse David Cook for Texas Senate,” said Commissioner Ponder. “David is a proven conservative leader with the integrity and experience needed to fight for our values in Austin. He will be a strong advocate for property rights, responsible growth, suburban/rural Texas, and the priorities that matter most to Ellis County families and businesses. I look forward to working with David for years to come on behalf of our shared constituents.”

David Cook is a dedicated conservative running for Senate District 22, which includes the western portion of Ellis County. His campaign focuses on securing elections, strengthening the Texas economy, protecting our liberties, and ensuring government remains accountable to the people.

Early Voting: October 19–30, 2026

Election Day: November 3, 2026

For more information and to support David Cook’s campaign, visit davidcookfortexas.com.

April 2, 2026 - Ellis County Commissioner Louis Ponder, is proud to announce his sponsorship of Hachie-Stock 2026, a three-day music festival hosted by Railport Brewing Co. The event, set for May 22–24, 2026, at Railport Brewing Co. in historic downtown Waxahachie, will feature live Texas music on two stages, local craft beer, food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment. Headliners include Bart Crow, Charlie Shafter, and other regional artists. 

“I’m excited to support Hachie-Stock because it showcases the best of Ellis County , great music, local business, and our strong sense of community. Events like this bring families and friends together while supporting the hardworking businesses that make our county special.” said Commissioner Ponder. 

As a longtime advocate for responsible growth and community initiatives, Commissioner Ponder views Hachie-Stock as a perfect example of balanced economic development that celebrates Ellis County’s unique character. 

Tickets and more information are available at Railport Brewing Company’s website.

April 25, 2026 – The Ellis County Commissioners Court approved a $1.05 million road rehabilitation project for two heavily traveled roads in Precinct 3.  Commissioner Louis Ponder championed the project to address increasing traffic demands in the area. Baucum Road and North Oak Branch Road currently see approximately 13,000 vehicles per week.

The contract was awarded to Texas Materials Group Inc. for full-depth reclamation, base stabilization, and resurfacing to improve safety and longevity. Costs will be shared between Precinct 3 funds and the county’s Road & Bridge budget. 

These improvements reflect Commissioner Ponder’s ongoing priority of maintaining and upgrading roads and bridges across Precinct 3 to support safe, reliable travel for families and businesses while managing the county’s rapid growth.

April 28, 2026 – At the regular Commissioners Court meeting, Commissioner Louis Ponder sponsored a resolution calling for stronger local control over data center development in Texas. The resolution passed unanimously.

The measure urges the Texas Legislature to grant counties greater authority in the siting and regulation of data centers. It emphasizes the need to protect critical infrastructure, water resources, electricity grid reliability, and quality of life while still supporting responsible economic development. 

“We want growth that benefits our communities — not at the expense of our roads, power supply, or rural way of life,” said Commissioner Ponder.

This action aligns with similar efforts in neighboring counties and continues Commissioner Ponder’s commitment to giving local residents and commissioners courts a stronger voice in major land-use decisions.