Longtime Smith County employee Atonia Rawlings was sworn in to serve as treasurer on Friday, August 1, 2025.
Ms. Rawlings has worked for Smith County for 19 years and has been assistant treasurer since 2016.
“I am honored for the opportunity to serve Smith County, and I am committed to making a positive impact in the community,” she said. “I am excited to contribute my knowledge and enthusiasm for continued progress.”
Ms. Rawlings was appointed to fill the unexpired term as treasurer by the Smith County Commissioners Court after Kelli White announced she was retiring after 25 years of service.
Ms. Rawlings started working in the Smith County District Clerk’s Office in 2006, serving as a bookkeeper for five years. She received her associate’s degree from Tyler Commercial College and Bish Mathis Institute in Business. She became a certified County Investment Officer in 2025.
In Texas, the statutory duties of a county treasurer revolve around the
management of county finances. This includes receiving, depositing, and disbursing county revenues, acting as the liaison between the county and its banks, and maintaining accurate records of all financial transactions.
Treasurer’s responsibilities include:
Receiving and disbursing all funds belonging to the county; making proper records; issuing receipts; and depositing funds in the proper accounts in the bank depository. Additional duties include custodian of bail bond collateral, Smith County Bail Bond Board, share duties of payroll with the auditor’s office, and serving as agent for state reports and payment on accounts.
