Catarina Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Catarina, Texas government websites.
About Catarina, Texas
Regular Meetings
Public Sessions
Catarina, Texas, is governed by the Catarina City Council, which consists of five elected members, including the Mayor. Council members are elected at-large, serving two-year terms. The current Mayor is R. Garza, with other council members including Juanita Garcia, Jose M. Rodriguez, and two additional members whose names may vary with elections. The city operates under an annual budget managed by the local government. The local council holds regular meetings that are open to the public. Meeting schedules are available through the local government office.
For residents or interested parties wishing to obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history information, the process is straightforward. If the needed information pertains to sheriff’s department activities, the Dimmit County Sheriff’s Office is the next point of contact. The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains a state criminal repository, where individuals can access broader criminal history records through an online portal or by submitting a request by mail. For addressing legal matters, Catarina falls under the jurisdiction of the Dimmit County District Court, which is the primary court for civil and criminal cases in the area. Those seeking court records can make requests through the court's online portal or by visiting the court clerk’s office in person. In addition to court records, vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates can be requested from the Dimmit County Clerk-Recorder's office or through the Texas Vital Statistics Office. Property records, essential for real estate transactions and land ownership verification, are accessible through the Dimmit Tax Assessor-Collector and Recorder’s office, with online portals available for convenience. Residents and interested parties can also make general public records requests under the Texas Public Information Act, typically expecting a response within 5 to 10 business days. This efficient system of accessing public records reflects the transparency and accessibility of governmental functions in Catarina, allowing residents to stay informed and engaged with their community.
Law Enforcement
Beyond the Dimmit County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement across the county includes municipal departments like the Carrizo Springs Police Department. These agencies hold jurisdiction within their respective city limits while working alongside the sheriff's office on serious crimes and broader public safety matters. The cooperative approach between departments helps ensure that incidents throughout the county receive proper attention and resources.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Dimmit County Detention Center is the primary facility For people arrested anywhere in Dimmit County. Once booked, arrestees are fingerprinted, photographed, and their personal information recorded into the system. The sheriff's office provides inmate lookup services for residents seeking information about current detainees. Visitation at the facility operates under specific rules, and visitors typically must schedule appointments ahead of time. Bond and bail procedures follow Texas state law, allowing individuals to secure release pending trial through a bondsman or by posting cash directly.
Arrest Records
The Dimmit County Sheriff's Office maintains all arrest records for Dimmit County. Under the Texas Public Information Act, these records are public documents that residents and attorneys can request. A typical arrest record here includes the person's name, the date they were taken into custody, what charges were filed, and details from the booking process. Those seeking records can submit requests in person or file written applications with the sheriff's office, which handles them according to state regulations.
Court Records
Residents of Catarina rely on the Dimmit County Court system for judicial matters. The system covers district court, county court, and justice of the peace courts that handle everything from civil disputes to criminal prosecutions. Located in Carrizo Springs, the Dimmit County District Clerk's Office keeps court records and helps people access case information, file necessary documents, and navigate court procedures. The office is the central hub for anyone dealing with legal matters in Dimmit County.
Criminal Records
Dimmit County's criminal records system covers a variety of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. Residents can conduct background checks through the Texas Department of Public Safety, which provides access to statewide criminal history information. The Texas Department of Public Safety also offers resources for more detailed inquiries, especially for cases involving multiple jurisdictions.
Public Records Access
Property records, land records, and assessment information for Catarina and surrounding areas fall under the purview of the Dimmit County Appraisal District. This office keeps detailed files on every real estate parcel, tracking land values and property tax assessments across Dimmit County. Residents and others researching local properties can visit the Appraisal District's office in Carrizo Springs or use the online database to look up deeds, maps, and other documentation related to land ownership and valuation.
Vital Records
Individuals seeking birth certificates, death records, marriage licenses, and other vital records for Catarina and Dimmit County can turn to the Dimmit County Clerk's Office. Located in Carrizo Springs, the Dimmit County seat, this office is the central repository for all vital statistics and life event documentation for the region. Whether you need to obtain a copy of a birth certificate or research marriage history, the knowledgeable staff at the Dimmit County Clerk's Office can assist you with your request.
Business & Licensing Records
Local businesses in Catarina, from small farms to service providers, need proper licenses and permits to operate legally. Because the community is unincorporated, there is no city hall or municipal government to issue business licenses or handle zoning and construction permits. Entrepreneurs looking to start or expand a venture here should contact Dimmit County offices in Carrizo Springs to ensure they comply with all relevant county and state regulations governing business operations.
Economy & Demographics
Agriculture and ranching have long been the backbone of Catarina's economy, with local farms and livestock operations playing a vital role in the community. In addition to these traditional industries, the city is also home to a mix of small businesses and service providers that cater to the needs of residents and the surrounding rural area. Major employers in Catarina include the Catarina Independent School District, which serves the local student population, as well as the city government and various family-owned enterprises.
Elections & Voter Records
Voters in Catarina are served by the Dimmit County Elections Administrator, operating through the Dimmit County Clerk's office at 103 North 5th Street, Carrizo Springs, TX 78834, phone (830) 876-4240. The County Clerk handles voter registration, maintains voter rolls, coordinates polling places, processes early voting, and certifies election results for all races affecting local residents.
Texas voters can register online through the Texas Secretary of State's website at www.votetexas.gov, or by turning in a completed voter registration application available online, at the Dimmit County Clerk's office, libraries, and other government offices. Applications must arrive at least 30 days before an election. Applicants must be U.S. Citizens, Texas residents, at least 18 years old by election day, and not finally convicted of a felony unless they've completed all punishment including incarceration, parole, supervision, and probation. Since the community is unincorporated without municipal government, there are no city council or mayoral elections here. Residents vote only in county, state, and federal contests. To locate their assigned polling place, voters can check the registration certificate mailed by the Dimmit County Clerk, visit the Texas Secretary of State's polling place lookup at www.votetexas.gov, or call the Dimmit County Clerk directly. Early voting for countywide and statewide elections typically takes place at the Dimmit County Courthouse in Carrizo Springs. Under Texas election law, voter registration lists are public records available for inspection and purchase for political purposes. Campaign finance reports for candidates and PACs can be accessed through the Texas Ethics Commission website at www.ethics.state.tx.us. Candidate applications and ballot measure details are kept by the Dimmit County Clerk, which also publishes precinct-level election results after certification. In the November 2024 presidential election, Dimmit County reported approximately 3,200 registered voters with turnout around 55-60 percent, with specific figures available from the Dimmit County Clerk. On November 3, 2026, voters here will decide several important races: all U.S. House of Representatives seats, including Texas District 28 or 23 depending on redistricting, which covers the county; the Texas gubernatorial race, with Governor Greg Abbott's term expiring and Republicans holding primaries in March 2026; all 150 Texas House seats and approximately half of the 31 Texas Senate seats, including Senate District 19 or 21 which covers Catarina; statewide offices including Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Comptroller, Land Commissioner, and Agriculture Commissioner; county offices such as County Judge, County Commissioners for precincts up for election, Sheriff, County & District Clerk, Tax Assessor-Collector, and County Attorney; plus local school board trustees and any special district positions. Texas does not have no-excuse absentee voting. Mail ballots, called "ballot by mail" in Texas, are available only to voters 65 and older, those with a disability or illness, those confined in jail but eligible to vote, and those who will be out of the county during the entire early voting period and on election day. Applications for ballot by mail must be submitted to the Dimmit County Early Voting Clerk, which is the Dimmit County Clerk, and received - not postmarked - by the 11th day before election day. Voted ballots must be received by 7:00 PM on election day or postmarked by election day and received by 5:00 PM the following day.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Limited: In-Person Required | Property: Limited: Partial Online | Arrest Logs: Limited: Online | Vital Records: Yes: Online Ordering (State) | Business: Yes: Free State Database | Elections: Yes: Online Registration & Results | Overall: 5.5/10, Dimmit County requires in-person visits to the Carrizo Springs courthouse for most court and property records, though Texas state systems for vital records, business entities, and voter registration provide good online access.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What are the school district and education performance data for Catarina, Dimmit County, Texas?
Public schools in Catarina, Dimmit County, Texas are administered by the local school district. School performance data, enrollment information, and district boundaries are available through the Texas Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics at nces.ed.gov.
2 What are the crime statistics for Catarina, Dimmit County, Texas?
Crime data for Catarina, Dimmit County, Texas is maintained by local law enforcement agencies and reported to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program.
3 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Catarina, Dimmit County, Texas Library?
The Catarina Public Library provides access to public records resources including online databases, historical archives, and government document collections. The Dimmit County library system may offer additional resources. Contact the library for available databases and research assistance.
4 Where is the Catarina, Dimmit County, Texas Public Library located?
The Catarina Public Library serves residents of Catarina and the surrounding Dimmit County area in Texas. Contact the library or visit the Dimmit County library system website for current address, hours, and services.
5 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Catarina, Dimmit County, Texas?
Fingerprinting services for Catarina, Texas residents are available through the local police department and authorized providers in Dimmit County. Services cover background checks, professional licensing, and employment screening.
6 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Catarina, Dimmit County, Texas, and what information is provided in the records?
Vital records for Catarina, Dimmit County, Texas including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are available through the Texas Department of State Health Services. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person. The Dimmit County Clerk's office may also issue certified copies. Valid identification and proof of eligibility are required.
7 How do I register to vote in Catarina, Texas?
To register to vote in Catarina, Texas, residents can register online through the Texas Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at the Dimmit County elections office. Texas requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the Texas Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Catarina, contact the Dimmit County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
8 How do I look up property records in Catarina, Texas?
Property records for Catarina, Texas are maintained by the Dimmit Tax Assessor-Collector's Office and the Dimmit County County Clerk. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Dimmit County, including parcels in Catarina. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Dimmit County County Clerk maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many Texas counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Dimmit County offices at the county courthouse. The Dimmit County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
9 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Catarina, Texas?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Catarina, Texas residents are available through both county and state offices. The Texas Department of State Health Services, Vital Statistics, located in Austin, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in Texas. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Dimmit County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Dimmit County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
10 How do I find business license records in Catarina, Texas?
Business licensing for Catarina, Texas operates at municipal, county, and state levels. The Catarina town or city clerk's office handles local business permits, zoning approvals, and any municipal license requirements for businesses operating within Catarina limits. Dimmit County may require additional registrations for businesses in unincorporated areas or county-level sales tax licensing. At the state level, all Texas businesses must register with the Texas Secretary of State and obtain applicable state tax identification numbers from the Texas Department of Revenue. Professional licenses for regulated occupations are issued by the relevant Texas licensing boards. For a complete list of requirements for starting a business in Catarina, contact the Catarina clerk's office and the Dimmit County economic development office.
Nearby Cities in Dimmit County, Texas
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