Commissioners discuss COVID-19 updates

The Falls County Commissioner’s Court met for their regular meeting on April 13. Social distancing practices set by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention were observed by those present; Commissioner Nita Wuebker was present by telephone.

Along with general maintenance items, the commissioners spoke on a number of issues concerning the coronavirus global pandemic. 

Falls County Judge Jay Elliott announced that the county has possibly secured a way to purchase $6,000 worth of personal protective equipment, like masks and gloves, for the county’s first responders, police officers, and nursing home staff.

“We were lucky to be able to find these,” he said.

State Representative Kyle Kacal supplied county officials with the lead for available products. It is being done through the EOC to hopefully make the process quicker.

Elliott also informed commissioners that the county would have to purchase videoconferencing technology in order to keep up with state needs concerning district and county court cases. 

“It’s not as important for county court,” he said. “It’s much more for district court where you have CPS cases and such.”

The equipment is looking to total less than $5,000.

Whatever money is spent will be saved in the transition back to the Falls County Courthouse, as this technology was to be installed there anyways. It also could possibly qualify for reimbursement by FEMA because it is being purchased due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The question was also raised as to whether Falls County should follow the lead of Texas State Parks in closing the Falls on the Brazos Park to the public.

After a discussion amongst the commissioners and Johnny Seiley, who’s caretaking contract was unanimously voted for renewal during the meeting, it was decided that the park would remain open.

According to Seiley, the park has not seen much change in activity. 

Falls on the Brazos Park is open from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. RV campsites, complete with water/electric hook-ups, picnic benches and BBQ pits, are available from $20 per night. Night fishing permits and primitive campsite reservations can be obtained for $10. Call (254) 716-0355 or head to https://www.fallsonthebrazospark.com for more information.