Falls Commissioners discuss new travel center
The Falls County Commissioners Court met at the County Courthouse on Monday, Feb. 26, with County Judge Jay Elliott presiding. Commissioners present were Milton Albright (Pct. 1), F. A. Green (Pct. 2), Jason Willberg (Pct. 3) and Nita Wuebker (Pct. 4).
Marlin Circle T Travel Center Mgr. Brandon Trinh and associate were on site addressing a possible 10-year tax abatement. Commissioners shared concerns and expectations. The much-needed lift station would be a long-term approximate $1 million investment for Falls County. Judge Elliott suggested involving the county, city, school and HOTCOG in a joint Economic Development grant. Providing additional input were City of Marlin Mayor Susan Byrd and City Manager Keith Whitfield. Marlin ISD representatives will be invited to future discussions. The representatives were assured of their welcome to Marlin/Falls County however, agreed once summoned, to return with updates.
In other matters, Commissioners approved disbursement requests regarding a Falls County Credit Card Account dispute/chargeback of fees of Office Revenue Collections and another District Clerk refund request which was filed in the wrong court. It should have been paid to the Court of Appeals. Commissioners acknowledged the required peace officer license and firearm qualifications for Falls County Constable Pct. 4 Jerry Wood and the full exemption racial profiling report.
Commissioners approved the revised Interlocal Cooperation Contract (ICC) for Failure to Appear (FTA) Program. Changes included language/restructuring of the original ICC providing clarity, inclusion of indigency into the program and language to account for future changes ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Pending plans, bonds and contract, local entrepreneur Sanchez Driveways, LLC will upgrade the WW II Memorial structure at the Courthouse.
Jeff Jackson, Road & Bridge Administrator, provided department updates including likely personnel issues and bid to move oil drums to new location on the premises. After comparing the current uniform services, the Commissioners approved allowing Judge Elliott and Attorney Sharp to review and negotiate a new 3-year contract with UniFirst Uniform and Facility Services for Road & Bridge employees.
Commissioner Wuebker moved to approve the payment of all bills, budget amendments and payroll. Seconded by Commissioner Albright, the motion carried. Both also moved to approve the minutes of the prior meeting. After all agenda items had been discussed, Judge Elliott moved the meeting to adjourn.