Local judges appointed

A resolution of the city of Elgin was passed to re-instate Amanda Carter as judge for the city’s municipal court, while Elgin’s own, Veronica Juarez-Dunne, was also named appointee to the 465th Judicial District Court by Governor Greg Abbott.

Located in the city hall annex, Carter’s court adjudicates mostly class C misdemeanors and fineonly cases within the territorial limits of the city, including traffic, city ordinance, juvenile and state code violations.

Carter started her tenure in 2016, serving terms of two years. Without changes to her contract, this is the local judge’s third renewal.

“We’ve always had a great relationship with Amanda, and the police have,” said City Manager Thomas Mattis. “She’s really been a partner with us, while doing her job and staying independent in the process.”

Council members noted that they have had no issues with Carter, at no cost impact for the city.

Raised in Elgin, Carter was part of the first Austin Community College class to earn dual credits.

“I’d just like to say Amanda is a prime example of home grown, she grew up here and came back and stayed here, working in the community,” said Mayor Theresa McShan. “This is what we want to do, this is where we want our kids to go.”

Judge Blas Coy has been aiding as a backup authority when Carter isn’t able to be present, without complaints or concerns, she said. Coy served as the presiding judge in Bastrop for several years.

Juarez-Dunne also operates as an associate judge for Bastrop County, following time spent serving as a special commissioner for the Bastrop County Court of Law.

Locally, she is a member of the Elgin High School Booster Club and has volunteered for Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Cen-Tex Family Services and St. Mary’s Catholic School.

Her term as a Judicial Court Judge is set to expire on the last day of 2024, or until her successor is duly elected and qualified.