The voters of Precinct 3 selected Commissioner-elect Chad Dismukes during the 2026 Primary Election, and upon being sworn into office, he will succeed Commissioner Kirk Hanath, who has continued serving the precinct in a holdover capacity pursuant to Texas law.
The August 28 swearing-in date is consistent with the transition process outlined in the County's March 24, 2026, news release.
Commissioner-elect Chad Dismukes will assume office earlier than the County's other newly elected commissioners because, on November 18, 2025, Precinct 3 Commissioner Kirk Hanath formally tendered his resignation pursuant to Article XVI, Section 65 of the Texas Constitution, creating a vacancy in the office. Commissioner Hanath will continue serving Precinct 3 in a holdover capacity until Commissioner-elect Dismukes is sworn into office on August 28, 2026.
The transition timelines for the County's incoming commissioners differ due to the circumstances surrounding each office. Precinct 2 Commissioner-elect Jim Chisolm will be sworn into office on January 1, 2027, following the completion of Commissioner Candice Bullock's elected term, along with the County's other officials elected during the 2026 General Election.
Washington County also began its Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Workshop sessions this past Monday. Chief of Staff Carrie Marmol has been working closely with Precinct 2 Commissioner-elect Jim Chisolm and Precinct 3 Commissioner-elect Chad Dismukes to ensure they remain informed and engaged throughout the budget development process. Both commissioner-elects are being included in discussions and workshops to help facilitate a seamless transition into office and ensure continuity in county operations.
"Preparing our incoming commissioners for the responsibilities of office is an important part of ensuring continuity in county government. By involving them in the budget process and ongoing county operations, we are helping provide a smooth transition while continuing to serve the citizens of Washington County with transparency and good stewardship." - Judge Durrenberger
