(Texas Scorecard) – A contract recently issued by Williamson County has watchdogs calling foul.
On September 24, the Williamson County Commissioners Court issued a contract for over $500,000 to Family Hospital Management Company for “Jail Inmate Psychological Services.”
The contract was recommended by Democrat Sheriff Mike Gleason, who wrote, “The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office recommends that Family Hospital Management Company, LLC be awarded the Medical and Psychological services contract for Williamson County based on the ability to address both medical and psychological services.”
While that sounds straightforward, a campaign donation received by Gleason earlier that week raised additional concerns.
On September 20, just four days before the contract was issued, Gleason received a $20,000 campaign donation from Henry Higgins of Cedar Park.
While the donation lists Higgins as “self-employed,” he is, according to the website, the Founder and CEO of Family Hospital Management Company.
The Williamson County Republican Party has called upon Gleason to return the money. GOP Chairwoman Michelle Evans said, “We can only conclude that Sheriff Gleason has found a way to pad his campaign coffers by awarding lucrative contracts to his donors. The Williamson County Republican Party calls on Sheriff Gleason to immediately return this pay-to-play donation.”
Texas Scorecard asked Sheriff Gleason for an explanation but did not hear back before publication.
Gleason faces Republican Matthew Lindeman, a retired Texas Ranger, in the 2024 General Election.
Early voting begins October 21 through November 1. Election Day is November 5.