Falls County Commissioners discuss several topics at meeting
The Commissioners Court of Falls County met on Monday, Nov. 8, with Judge Jay Elliott presiding. All commissioners were present.
Regarding the animal control issues at The Falls, Judge Elliott expressed accolades for the assistance of the responsible citizens.
Everything is still on track with the courthouse renovation. Improved lighting on the Courthouse bottom floor and courthouse directory signs were suggested.
On behalf of GrantWorks, Jerri Gauntt, ARP Project Manager, led the American Rescue Plan Act Project discussion. The ARPA Grant Award total allocation is $3,359,739. GrantWorks’ fee is $167,732 with a $3,192,007 remainder. Allowable used of the funds include supporting public health expenditures, responding to negative economic impact, premium pay for essential workers, revenue loss, and investments in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure. Commissioners received paper copies of the presentation.
Redistricting voting will take place at the Nov. 22 meeting.
Regarding the opioid litigation, Commissioner Green moved to sign the release form for the opioid settlement agreement, seconded by Commissioner Wuebker. Motion carried. It is estimated Falls County would be entitled to a direct payment of $9,089. Commissioner Wuebker moved to accept the vote canvassing report with the removal of the addition Proposition 7, seconded by Commissioner Green. Motion carried.
In addition, the Falls County Emergency Service District II Budget was approved. Judge Elliott reported the current court collection services utilized by the Justice of the Peace is going well. Motion carried to continue using this service.
In other matters, with the passage of SB 476, all Texas counties are required to form an adult Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) to create a statewide infrastructure of resources, awareness, connection, and coordination to address sex crimes locally. Falls County will partner with Bosque, Hill, and Limestone counties. Resolution will be presented at the Nov. 22 meeting. Commissioner Albright moved to accept the Correctional Communications Services Agreement, seconded by Commissioner Wuebker. Motion carried. The agreement allows inmates access to a Law Library software and computer-related equipment at the county jail.
Jeff Jackson, Road and Bridge Administrator, reported that although the Interlocal Agreement with the City of Marlin has been established with an estimated $33,000 for road repair materials and services to be paid to Falls County Road and Bridge, because of the change in weather conditions, the City of Marlin and Falls County will have to update contract for start time. Concerned citizens were in attendance regarding road closure CR409D.
“If a road is abandoned but not closed by the Commissioners Court, all that is required is maintenance,” Judge Elliott said.
After much discussion, it was decided to post a CR 409D sign, maintain the road and remove private road signs. Jackson also noted security lights will be added at the county shed in Lott. Some inmates will be available to assist with the Dec. 4 County Trash Day and noted the Blevins Solar, LLC has agreed to pay up to $4,000 for CR 459 road damage.
Falls County Sheriff Lopez requested a change in salary of an employee hired as a Deputy Sheriff. Because the employee has pursued and completed a higher education meeting the criteria as Jail Administrator, Sheriff Lopez requested an increase base salary from $36, 708 to $41,722. The difference in this lateral move will be re-allocated from jail uniform to Jail Administrator salary. Commissioner Green moved to accept the 2022 amended budget request, seconded by Commissioner Albright. Motion carried.
Other agenda items included the approval giving authorization to The SpyGlass Group, LLC to analyze primary telecommunications service accounts, to seek cost recovery and cost reduction. Commissioner Albright moved to accept the agreement, seconded by Jason Willberg. Motion carried. Commissioner Green moved to approved contract position in the Tax Office good thru Nov. 22, seconded by Commissioner Albright. The FMLA employee will return Nov. 23.
A Brazilian Riffle & Admonition Company has expressed an interest in Falls County, producing firearms, rifles, suppressors, and ammunitions, creating 350 jobs within five-year plan.
The Commissioners approved the payment of bills, including reimbursements, late charges, transfer of cash/funds from a line item or department to another, book transfers and budget amendments. The minutes of the Oct. 25 meeting of Commissioner’s Court were approved and the meeting was adjourned.