Agenda

CALL TO ORDER BY THE HONORABLE TANO E. TIJERINA, WEBB COUNTY JUDGE

1.

Roll Call by Honorable Margie Ramirez-Ibarra, Webb County Clerk

2.

Pledge of Allegiance/Invocation

3.

Discussion and possible action for Approval of Bills, Payroll, and Monthly Reports (Auditor, Treasurer, Agri-Life Extension Office; Business Office, Human Resources, Judicial Collections, Risk Management, Tax-Assessor-Collector; and any other Department reports); and any other matters incident thereto.

4.

Public Comment - This section provides the public the opportunity to address the Commissioners Court on any items on the Agenda. Members of the public wishing to participate must complete a Witness Card specifying which agenda item they wish to comment on. Each public member, individually or in a group, will be allowed a total of Three (3) minutes within which to make any/all public comments.

COURT TO DISCUSS AND ACT ON THE FOLLOWING:

CONSENT AGENDA: At most meetings, the Commissioners Court establishes a Consent Agenda. It consists of those Agenda Items which are routine or non-controversial, and which neither a member of the Commissioners court has asked to be pulled for discussion. Once the Commissioners Court has established the Consent Agenda, Agenda Items included on it will be voted upon in one vote, and will not be discussed separately unless requested by the County Judge or Commissioners.

The consent agenda has been created in order to give constituents the opportunity to view any and all pertinent backup information with reference to any item in the agenda. The objective of the consent agenda is for all Webb County constituents to be familiar with everyday county business and to demonstrate the transparency and fairness of this Commissioners Court.

The following Agenda Items are of a routine nature, and the Commissioners Court has received supporting materials for consideration. All of these Agenda Items will be passed with one vote without being discussed separately, unless a member of the Commissioners Court or the public requests that a particular Agenda Item be discussed. If so, that Agenda Item will be pulled from the Consent Agenda and discussed as part of the regular Agenda at the appropriate time. One vote will approve the remaining items on the Consent Agenda.

CONSENT ITEMS

5.

Auditor

a.

Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within State Forfeiture funds. [Requested by Sheriff Martin Cuellar]

	Acct. Number	Acct. Name	Request
From:	2151-259700	Fund Balance	$17,000

To:	2151-3010-001-454000-030	Advertising Awareness and Activity	$11,714
	2151-3010-001-410030	Incentive Pay	$4,056
	2151-3010-001-422000	FICA County Share	$256
	2151-3010-001-423000	Retirement County Share	$893
	2151-3010-001-426000	Workers Compensation	$81
			$17,000

Issue: Low on funds to cover future expenses.

Solution: Transfer funds to mentioned accounts.

Result: Funds will be available to cover future expenses. Click to View

b.

Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfers) within Grant funds. [Requested by Community Action Agency]

	Acct. Number	Acct. Name	Request	Current	End Bal.
From:	2362-5360-521-421000	Health Life	$1,391.57	$1,391.57	$0
	2362-5360-521-422000	FICA	$981.79	$981.79	$0
	2362-5360-521-423000	Retirement	$797.80	$797.80	$0
	2362-5360-521-425000	Unemployment	$26.49	$26.49	$0
	2362-5360-521-426000	Workers Compensation	$50.86	$50.86	$0
			$3,248.51
	2362-5360-521-410000	Payroll	$3,248.51	$(2,786.21)	$462.30

Issue: Funds available in account will not cover cost needed to continue operation service.

Solution: By Commissioners Court approval, accounts in the line item transfers will have enough funds.

Result: There will be sufficient funds to cover payroll. Click to View

6.

Building Maintenance

a.

Discussion and possible action to approve the posting and filling of the following Slots, subject to the availability of payroll funds and any applicable Civil Service guidelines, effective January 22, 2024.

Slot #	Title	Hourly Rate

0020	Carpenter	$15.15 - $15.93 12 A/E
0621	Groundskeeper	$14.42 - $15.16 11 A/E
2384	Building Maintenance Worker	$15.15 - $15.93 12 A/E
4047	Custodian	$13.07 - $13.73 9 A/E

Issue: Fill vacant Slots #0020, #0621 and #2384. Fill Slot #4047 new department position.

Solution: Approval from Commissioners Court to post and fill the vacant positions.

Result: The filling of slots will allow the Building Maintenance Department to function efficiently and effectively. Click to View

7.

Civil Legal Division

a.

Discussion and possible action to authorize the execution of a Donation Agreement between Charco Land Sales, LLC., and Webb County for the donation of real property, known as the “Surface Estate” of Lot Number 1, Block 1, San Rafael Subdivision, Laredo, Webb County Texas, located at 1301 Paseo De Los Santos/U.S. Hwy. 83 S, said land to be used for “public purpose uses only”, said Lot shall be the future location of the Webb County Southern Public Health Facility, and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute any and all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. Click to View

8.

Commissioners Court Administrator

a.

Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within the General fund:

	Acct. Number	Acct. Name	Request
From:	1001-1010-001-410000	Payroll Cost	$10,000
To:	1001-1010-001-412000	Part-Time	$10,000

Issue: Funds are needed to temporarily fill office with part-time staff.

Solution: To seek authorization to transfer from payroll cost into part-time line item.

Result: To ensure adequate funding for potential part-time employee(s) payroll until necessary. Click to View

9.

Community Action Agency

a.

Discussion and possible action to approve contract extension and carry-over on Amendment #3 to Contract #61230003814 for the Community Service Block Grant Program (CSBG) from Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for the program year 2023. Extending contract from December 31, 2023 to March 31, 2024 and a budget increase from Six Hundred Seven Thousand, Three Hundred Ninety ($607,390.00) to Six Hundred Thirteen Thousand, Four Hundred Eighty Three ($613,483.00). Authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. This Contract will not have an impact to the General Fund. [Grant Account #2368-5170-521]

Issue: Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) presented CAA Social Services with Six Thousand, Ninty Three Dollars ($6,093.00) more for our Community Service Block Grant Program (CSBG).

Solution: The Court approval will allow the Webb County Community Action Agency to provide direct services to eligible low-income residents of Webb County under the CSBG program.

Result: Approval of the amendment will ensure the continuation of services to qualifying low-income clients. Click to View

b.

Discussion and possible action to approve grant award contract #61240004152 for the Community Service Block Grant Program (CSBG) from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for FY-2024, in the amount of TWO HUNDRED NINE THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED FIFTY SEVEN DOLLARS ($209,657.00) and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. The contract shall commence on January 01, 2024 and shall end on December 31, 2024. This action will not have an impact to the General Fund.

Issue: The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) has awarded Webb County Community Action Agency the amount of $209,657.00 under the Community Services Block Grant Program (CSBG).

Solution: The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) provides support services to eligible low-income residents of Webb County.

Result: The support services are intended to assist eligible Webb County residents to transition out of poverty. Click to View

c.

Discussion and possible action to approve grant award contract #58940004188 for the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for FY-2024, in the amount of ONE HUNDRED EIGHT THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED NINETY ONE DOLLARS ($108,591.00) and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. The contract shall commence on January 01, 2024 and shall end on December 31, 2024. This action will not have an impact to the General Fund.

Issue: The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) has awarded Webb County Community Action Agency the amount of $108,591.00 under the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP).

Solution: The Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) provides support services to eligible low-income residents of Webb County.

Result: The support services are intended to assist eligible Webb County residents with their energy needs. Click to View

d.

Discussion and possible action to authorize the rental of One (1) Toshiba e-STUDIO6516ACT Printer from Toshiba Buisiness Solutions for the Community Action Agency Social Services department for the monthly amount of $340 (Account #2368-5170-521-444500). The lease term of 1 year will begin on the day of installment, with the option to purchase the copier for $1 at the end of the lease term. Authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: Current printer must be upgraded in order to keep up with the department's workload.

Solution: By approval of the Commissioners Court, we would be able to proceed with the rental of one multi-function printer for the CAA Social Services department.

Result: CAA Social Services department will be able to continue day to day functions. Click to View

10.

Honorable Isidro Alaniz, District Attorney

a.

Discussion and possible action to ratify an advertising contract between Lamar Advertising of Laredo and Webb County for the benefit of the District Attorney's Office for the service dates of September 11, 2023 through February 25, 2024 in the amount of seven thousand five hundred dollars ($7,500.00) for various public service announcements and any other matters incident thereto; authorizing the Webb County Judge to sign all relevant documents. There is no financial impact on the general fund. [Account #2161-2260-001-457006 (Law Enforcement – Other)] Click to View

b.

Discussion and possible action to approve an advertising contract between Lamar Advertising of Laredo and Webb County for the benefit of the District Attorney's Office for the service dates of February 26, 2024 through August 11, 2024 in the amount of Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy Five Dollars ($7,875) for various public service announcements and any other matters incident thereto; authorizing the Webb County Judge to sign all relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. There is no financial impact on the general fund. [Account #2161-2260-001-457006 (Law Enforcement – Other)] Click to View

c.

Discussion and possible action to ratify an advertising contract between Lamar Advertising of Laredo and Webb County for the benefit of the District Attorney's Office for the service dates of December 01, 2023 through December 28, 2023 in the amount of Two Thousand Two Hundred Dollars ($2,200) for various public service announcements and any other matters incident thereto; authorizing the Webb County Judge to sign all relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. There is no financial impact on the general fund.[Account #2161-2260-001-457006 (Law Enforcement – Other)] Click to View

d.

Discussion and possible action to approve an advertising contract between Lamar Advertising of Laredo and Webb County for the benefit of the District Attorney's Office for the service dates of January 13, 2024 through January 10, 2025 in the amount of Thirty Thousand Ninety Eight Dollars and Twenty Five Cents ($30,098.25) for various public service announcements and any other matters incident thereto; authorizing the Webb County Judge to sign all relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. There is no financial impact on the general fund. [Account #2161-2260-001-457006 (Law Enforcement – Other)] Click to View

e.

Discussion and possible action to ratify the purchase of televised football commercial advertisement from Grey Television Group, Inc./Grey Media Group, Inc., for ABC, NBC and CBS Sunday Night Football/NCAA games in Laredo by the Webb County District Attorney’s Office, for the “Make the Right Call” campaign. The campaign discourages drinking and driving in Webb County. The agreements consist of commercials to commence September, 2023 and through the end of the football season as follows: ABC Monday Night Football Package in the amount of Two Thousand Six Hundred Dollars ($2,600.00), NBC Sunday Night Football advertisement package commercial ads at a total cost of Twelve Thousand Eight Hundred Dollars ($12,800.00), the CBS NFL Regular Season advertisement package at a total cost of Ten Thousand Three Hundred Dollars ($10,300.00), and CBS NFL Playoffs/Super Bowl Season advertisement package at a total cost of Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty Five Dollars ($7,725.00). The Webb County District Attorney’s Office will be featured in the advertisement and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents, and any other matters thereto. There is no financial impact on the general fund. [Requested by District Attorney Isidro Alaniz, Account #2161-2260-001-457006 (Law Enforcement – Other)] Click to View

f.

Discussion and possible action to authorize and ratify the purchase of televised commercial advertisement from FOX Laredo for the FOX National Football League (NFL) Sunday Football Television advertising in Laredo by the Webb County District Attorney’s Office, for the “Make the Right Call” campaign. The campaign discourages drinking and driving in Webb County. The FOX advertisement package commercial ads commence August 2023 and follow the entire season through the end of February, 2023, at a total cost of Thirty Five Thousand Dollars ($35,000.00) for a total of Two Hundred Forty Seven (247) ads. The Webb County District Attorney’s Office will be featured in the advertisement and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents, and any other matters thereto. There is no financial impact on the general fund. [Account #2161-2260-001-457006 (Law Enforcement – Other)] Click to View

11.

Economic Development

a.

Discussion and possible action to accept Amendment No. 2 for ARPANGO-0002 (Sacred Heart Children's Home) Sacred Heart Children's Home has requested additional activities to fully expend their award in the amount of $200,000.00. This action will not have an impact to the General Fund. Documentation has been reviewed by Webb County Economic Development Department and is compliant with SPOC policies and procedures. [Account #2703-5205-463701-120]

Issue: Sacred Heart Children's Home will complete the original project activities.

Solution: Heart Children's Home will complete the original project activities (Rehabilitation of sewer lines for building A&B) and have a cost savings of $25,150.00, and are requesting an amendment to include additional building that would supplement the additional activity.

Result: Sacred Heart Children's Home will be able to fully expend the $200,000.00 awarded to them via the ARPA NGO process. Sacred Heart Children's Home will be able to supplement, utilizing the cost savings of $25,150.00 and their own funds (Sacred Heart Children's Home) in the amount of $57,650.00, to include additional buildings for sewer line rehabilitation. Click to View

b.

Discussion and possible action to authorize Webb County Court-at-Law II to submit a grant application as developed, written, and submitted by Webb County Court-at-Law II. The grant is through the Governor of the State of Texas, Public Safety Office Criminal Justice Division; Specialty Courts Grant Program, FY2025. The grant would expand The DWI Court Program if awarded with a contractual partnership with AMISTAD Consultation and Evaluation services LLC of San Antonio, Texas for the evaluation services and consulting of the grant. The court would then also partner with SCAN for treatment to court participants. The request is $250,000.00 for one year. Grant funds shall be utilized to provide outpatient services to area DWI Offenders charged before the county courts-at-law and district courts that qualify for outpatient treatment. Authorizing Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents any other matter incident thereto. This grant does not require a match; and thus, will not have an impact on the general fund. All required documents were sent for review through Economic Development and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County single point of contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by Judge Victor Villarreal, County Court at Law #2]

Issue: The current caseload of The DWI Court Program has reached 100+ participants.

Solution: The grant if awarded would allow to expand services and for the hiring of additional support staff to assist the court with cases.

Result: DWI Court will be able to fully service more participants. The court positions will be fully operational for DWI Court Program. Click to View

c.

Discussion and possible action to authorize Webb County Court-at-Law II to submit a grant application as developed, written, and submitted by Webb County Court-at-Law II. The grant is through the Governor of the State of Texas, Public Safety Office Criminal Justice Division; Specialty Courts Grant Program, FY2025. The grant would expand services for the Juvenile Drug Treatment Court if awarded with a contractual partnership with PILLAR which is a non-profit mental health organization and licensed outpatient substance abuse treatment facility. The grant would also contract with AMISTAD Consultation and Evaluation services LLC of San Antonio, Texas for the evaluation services and consulting of the grant. The request is of $300,000.00 for one year. Grant funds shall be utilized to provide outpatient services to area juveniles charged before the county courts-at-law that qualify for outpatient treatment. Authorizing Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents any other matter incident thereto. This grant does not require a match; and thus, will not have an impact on the general fund. All required documents were sent for review through Economic Development and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County single point of contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by Judge Victor Villarreal, County Court at Law #2]

Issue: Currently Webb County just started a treatment court dedicated to Juveniles.

Solution: The award of this grant would expand services to Juvenile Treatment Court to service juvenile offenders in cases before either County Courts-at-law that would qualify.

Result: Webb County families would greatly benefit of the services offered between Webb County Court-at-Law II and PILLAR. Click to View

d.

Discussion and possible action to authorize the development and submission of a grant application and resolution to the Office of the Governor Criminal Justice Division for the FY25 Juvenile Justice & Truancy Prevention Grant Program in an amount not to exceed $70,000 for grant-funded salary fringe benefits, training, travel and supplies of the Truancy Juvenile Case Manager; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require a cash match and thus will have no impact to the general fund. All required documents were reviewed by the Economic Development Department and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by Judge Roberto “Bobby” Quintana, Webb County Justice of Peace Pct. 2, Place 1; Grant fund #5022201]

Issue: Our Office does not currently have a Truancy prevention program nor a Truancy Juvenile Case manager to manage it, in South Laredo and through this grant, we can attempt to reduce the rising Truancy cases held in our court, which will benefit our families and the at-risk youth in the community standing at the edge of juvenile delinquency.

Solution: A grant application opportunity is an intervention strategy to provide a Truancy prevention program for South Laredo run by a grant-funded truancy case manager to deter Truancy behavior in our community.

Result: Webb County Justice of the Peace Pct.2, Pl.1 will be able to provide the community of South Laredo with a Juvenile Case Manager to focus on diversion strategies to steer at-risk youth away from the juvenile and criminal justice system through this grant. Click to View

e.

Discussion and possible action to accept a grant award from the Office of Texas Attorney General (OAG) in the amount of $12,300 as prepared and submitted by the Webb County Sheriff’s Office Grant Writer for training and software licensing for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC), authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires no match, and thus is at no cost to the Webb County budget. All required documents were sent to the Economic Development Department and were found in compliance with the Single Point of Contact (SPOC) policy. [Requested by Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff]

Issue: The psychological, emotional, and physical damage caused by child predators and inflicted on innocent victims, their families, and communities can be deeply destructive and have far-reaching consequences that can last a lifetime. Furthermore, throughout the United States, criminal cases built against child predators can be extremely complex, technologically challenging, and legally complicated.

Solution: The Webb County Sheriff’s Office cybercrimes law enforcement unit has successfully worked with multiple federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Office of the Attorney General, to arrest child predators in the Laredo/Webb County area. Grant award to supplement the successful endeavors of the Webb County Sheriff’s Office cybercrimes against children task force to protect the children and youth of the Laredo/Webb County community against child predation.

Result: The Webb County Sheriff’s Office will continue to enhance its ability to work proactively not only to catch individual child predators, but to produce an overall inhospitable environment for cybercrimes against children in Laredo/Webb County for the further prevention of child predation in our community. Click to View

f.

Discussion and possible action to authorize the development and submission of a grant application and resolution to the Office of the Governor Criminal Justice Division for the FY25 Body-Worn Grant Program in an amount not to exceed $156,515 for Body Worn Camera (BWCs) equipment, software, and supplies; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires cash match of 25% ($39,128.75), which will be met utilizing the Constable Pct. 1 Office forfeiture funds (Fund #2180) for a total project cost estimated at $156,515; and, thus will have no impact to the general fund. All required documents were reviewed by the Economic Development Department and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by Guadalupe Gomez, Webb County Constable Pct. 1; Grant Fund #2180]

Issue: Our Office does not currently have any Body Worn Cameras and with this valuable technology it will benefit our deputies and the community.

Solution: Grant application opportunity to increase transparency and accountability through the continued utilization of body-worn cameras for its deputies.

Result: Webb County Constable Pct. 1 will be able to utilize this vital technology so it can have greater transparency and accountability. Click to View

g.

Discussion and possible action to authorize the submission of the "Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) Continuation Grant application as developed, written, and submitted by and for the Webb County Adult Drug Court Program in an amount of Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000.00) and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any kind of match; therefore, there is no impact to the general fund. All required documents were sent for review through the Economic Development Department and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by Margarita H. Garza, Drug Court Director]

Issue: SAMHSA awarded a multi-year grant to the Webb County Adult Drug Court Program on 09/30/2023 and the funding agency requires the submission of a non-competing continuation application for subsequent years after year 1 of funding.

Result: Webb County Adult Drug Court Program will remain in compliance with SPOC, and with the submission rules and regulations set forth by the funding agency. Click to View

h.

Discussion and possible action to authorize the resolution and submission of the "Office of the Governor Public Safety Office, Criminal Justice Divisions Specialty Courts Grant Program, FY 2025 grant application", as developed, written, and submitted by and for the Webb County Adult Drug Court Program in an amount not to exceed Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000.00) and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents including a Resolution; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any kind of match; therefore, there is no impact on the general fund. All required documents were sent for review through the Economic Development Department and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) Procedures. [Requested by Margarita H. Garza, Drug Court Director]

Issue: Webb County Adult Drug Court seeks to renew funding for FY 2025, Year 3 of Office of the Governor (OOG), Criminal Justice Division (CJD) for Specialty Courts Grant. This funding enhances the current services by providing family integrated-based therapy and family-based interventions to qualifying participants.

Solution: Authorize the submission of the OOG for Specialty Courts Program for Fiscal Year 2025, Year 3.

Result: The Webb County Adult Drug Court will remain in compliance with the submission rules and regulations set forth by funding agency. Click to View

12.

Elections Administration

a.

Discussion and possible action to approve the execution of an upgraded Field System Software Maintenance, Warranty and Oracle sublicense Support agreement between Webb County and VOTEC Corporation (VOTEC Election Management and Compliance Systems) in the amount of Fifty-three Thousand Six hundred Twenty Dollars and Ninety cents ($53,620.90) with the Oracle sub-license, plus the sum of Fourteen-Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty Dollars with zero cents ($14,920.00) for the Field System Software Support for a combined total of Sixty-Eight Thousand Five hundred Forty Dollarsand Ninety cents ($68,540.90). The payment is for the October 1, 2023 thru September 30, 2024 fiscal year support coverage period, and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents: and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-1110-001-451201 (General Fund-Elections Expense) Click to View

13.

Engineering

a.

Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) for the Engineering Department:

	Acct. Number	Acct. Name	Adopted	Request	Current	End Bal.
From:	3716-7230-709-470000	Mangana Hein Road-Capital Outlay	$64,995.04	$20,000.00	$64,995.04	$44,995.04
To:	3716-7230-709-432001	Mangana Hein Road-Professional Services	$20,879.00	$20,000.00	$20,879.00	$40,879.00

Issue: Vendor will provide professional services for as-built evaluation for drainage crossings A, B. and C of the Mangana Hein Road Project. Please refer to attachment for additional information. Time to complete: 45 days.

Solution: Approval of line item transfer.

Result: Funding will allow continuation of services for this project. Click to View

14.

Fire Suppression & EMS Services

a.

Discussion and possible action to accept a donation from Medina Electric Cooperative Inc. as per Local Government Code 81.032, in the amount of $500.00 to be utilized in the following line item: Minor Tools & Apparatus; and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-3140-001-460105 (Minor Tools & Apparatus)]

Issue: Donation check issued by Medina Electric Cooperative to support the mission of the Webb County Volunteer Fire Department.

Solution: Deposit money accordingly, $500.00 into Minor Tools & Apparatus.

Result: Continue working relationship with Medina Electric, and meet department needs. Click to View

b.

Discussion and possible action to accept a donation from Enterprise Texas Pipeline LLC in the amount of $5,000.00 as per local government code 81.032, to be utilized in the acquisition of materials and supplies by department personnel; and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-3140-610-461000 (Materials & Supplies)]

Issue: Donation check issued by Enterprise Texas Pipeline LLC to support the mission of the Webb County Volunteer Fire Department.

Solution: Deposit check into materials & supplies line item, Account #1001-3140-610-461000.

Result: Continue working relationship with Enterprise Texas Pipeline LLC and purchases needed department items. Click to View

15.

Head Start
Disclaimer: All Head Start monies are 100% Federal funds

a.

Discussion and possible action to approve the posting and filling of the following Slot:

Slot #	Title	Hourly Rate/Salary	Pay Periods
1145	Cook	$12.28 / $20,623	20

Click to View

b.

Discussion and possible action to approve the "Annual Report to the Public" for the 2022 - 2023 Program Year and to make available to the public via the Head Start website at https:www.webbcountytx.gov/HeadStart/AnnualReport/default.

Issue: Annually, the Head Start program must publish and disseminate a report that complies with section 644 (a) (2) of the Head Start Act and includes a summary of the most recent community assessment, as described in section 1302.11 (b) consistent with privacy protections in subpart C of part 1303 of the chapter.

Solution: Approve the posting of the Annual Report to the Public on the Head Start website.

Result: The Head Start program will be in compliance with reporting information to the public. Click to View

16.

Planning & Physical Development

a.

Discussion and possible action to approve the qualifying applicants for Private On-Site Sewage Facility Assistance (OSSF) under ARPA Project No. 6 and authorize Planning Department staff and ARPA Project Manager to initiate the final scope of work and required specifications for the Purchasing Agent to solicit competitive bids for the installation of the septic systems for each qualifying applicant and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: Applicants that meet the criteria of the grant Guidelines are required to be approved by Commissioners Court prior to securing competitive bids for the installation of approved septic systems for those qualifying applicants. All applicants meet the criteria outlined in the adopted Guidelines and the Planning staff recommends approval.

Solution: Court approval will allow staff to finalize the scope of work and required specifications of septic systems for the solicitation of formal bids.

Result: Qualifying applicants will receive the OSSF installation services and Guideline requirements will be met. Click to View

b.

Discussion and possible action to amend the First Time On-Site Sewer Facilities or Replacement OSSF Program Guidelines for ARPA Project No. 6, approved and adopted September 25, 2023, and authorize the County Judge to execute all necessary documents and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: The adopted guidelines dictate the terms that applicants must maintain to qualify for grant funds. The guidelines use the term “occupancy” in a manner that causes confusion. Additionally, the adopted guidelines disqualify applicants whose lots have any floodplain.

Solution: Changing “occupancy” to “residency” will clarify the issues and preserve the integrity of the guideline’s intent. Allowing lots in which there is a floodplain, but neither the dwellings nor the proposed improvements are impacted will increase the number of qualifying applicants.

Result: Adopting the amendments will clarify the Guidelines and allow more colonia residents to qualify for grant assistance. Click to View

17.

Public Defender

a.

Discussion and possible action to approve the posting and filling of the following slot, subject to the availability of payroll funds and any applicable Civil Service guidelines, effective January 22, 2024:

Slot #	Title	Salary

2299	Administrative Clerk	$27,178.52 - $28,563.14 (9/A-E)

Issue: Slot #2299 became vacant on January 5, 2024.

Solution: Request is being made to post and fill slot # 2299.

Result: This action will allow our department to continue to function efficiently and effectively. Click to View

18.

Honorable Martin Cuellar, Sheriff

a.

Discussion and possible action to approve a reimbursement agreement between Webb County on behalf of the Webb County Sheriff's Office and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) during the performance period of October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024, for an amount not to exceed Ten Thousand Eight Hundred Dollars ($10,800.00) to lease a vehicle at a rate of Eight Hundred Ninety-Nine Dollars ($899.00) monthly and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #2600-3010-001-444200, OCDETF Fund #2600]

Issue: Collaboration between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies is necessary to pursue and dismantle organized crime organizations within Webb County and along the Texas international border.

Solution: Enter into contractual agreement for to offset cots of leasing vehicles.

Result: Disruption of organized crime activity along the Texas border and in Webb County. Click to View

19.

Honorable Roberto "Bobby" Quintana, Justice of the Peace Pct. 2 Pl. 1

a.

Discussion and possible action to authorize the use of Materials and Supplies funds to pay for the annual membership dues with JPCA, also known as TAC Education, for $70.00 and the Texas Justice Court Judges Association annual dues for $75.00. Judge Quintana is required to have 20 hours of continuing education hours and these organizations provided the classes for him to be able to accomplish the requirements. [Account #1001-2160-001-461000 (Materials and Supplies)]

Issue: Need to pay annual dues to have access to continuing education programs.

Solution: By approval of the Commissioners Court, we would be able to pay for annual dues with materials and supply funds.

Result: We will have access to affordable continuing education classes and/or conferences. Click to View

REGULAR AGENDA

Honorable Isidro Alaniz, District Attorney

20.

Discussion and possible action to continue paying grant funded personnel under the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force Agreement, DEA Narcotics Task Force until notification about grant continuation award from the U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration. [Fund #2592]

Issue: HIDTA is a multi-agency task force that continues to gather intelligence and disrupts the illicit flow of narcotics and money laundering activities along the South Texas Border region. South Texas HITDA is an alliance of over 57 federal, state and local law enforcement agencies working together to combat drug trafficking and related crimes. Historically the Grantor has always submitted award letters to local law enforcement agencies between the months of February and March; Nonetheless, the
grants are retroactive to January 1st of each calendar year.

Solution: For the Webb County District Attorney's Office to continue supporting HIDTA by employing grant funded investigators and continue corroborating with other law enforcement agencies to push forward the mission and goals of the South Texas HIDTA task force.

Result: The Webb County District Attorney's Office will continue to employ HIDTA funded investigators who will actively participate and help the task force fight against the continued flow of illicit drugs and related crime within the South Texas region. Click to View

Honorable Martin Cuellar, Sheriff

21.

Discussion and possible action to continue paying grant funded personnel under the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force Agreement, DEA Narcotics Task Force until notification about grant continuation award from the U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration. This grant has been active for the past 29 years and is anticipated to continue. [Grant Fund Account #2906]

Issue: HIDTA is a multi-agency task force that continues to gather intelligence and disrupts the illicit flow of narcotics and money laundering activities along the South Texas Border region. South Texas HITDA is an alliance of over 57 federal, state and local law enforcement agencies working together to combat drug trafficking and related crimes. Historically the Grantor has always submitted award letters to local law enforcement agencies between the months of February and March; Nonetheless, the grants are retroactive to January 1st of each calendar year.

Solution: For the Webb County Sheriff's Office to continue supporting HIDTA by employing grant funded investigators and continue corroborating with other law enforcement agencies to push forward the mission and goals of the South Texas HIDTA task force.

Result: The Webb County Sheriff's Office will continue to employ two (2) HIDTA funded investigators who will actively participate and help the task force fight against the continued flow of illicit drugs and related crime within the South Texas region. Click to View

22.

Discussion and possible action to transfer $21,031 from the Operational Reserve account to the Sheriff’s Office Repair and Maintenance Buildings line item to pay for work completed by Summit Building Design for the 911 call center at the new Sheriff’s Office building. The amount will be reimbursed by the 911 Regional Administration Office. [Transfer from Operational Reserve Account #1001-1130-001-431007-010 to Sheriff’s Department Repairs and Maintenance Buildings #1001-3010-001-443000-020]

Issue: Summit Building Design performed electrical work requested by the 911 Regional Administration to ensure compliance with state regulations at the new Sheriff’s Office building 911 call center.

Solution: Transfer $21,031 from Operational Reserve account to cover this cost.

Result: Payment of expense for the 911 call center. Click to View

23.

Discussion with possible action to approve expenses not to exceed $20,000 related to the Sheriff’s Office PAL’s gym and to allow the Auditor’s Office to create a sub-account within the department’s Materials & Supplies line item for PAL’s related expenses; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-3010-001-461000 – Materials & Supplies]

Issue: Expenses previously incurred for the PAL’s boxing gym were paid from a non-profit entity within the Sheriff’s Office. That non-profit entity has since been dissolved.

Solution: To allow for future expenses from the PAL’s gym to be covered by the Sheriff’s Office department.

Result: All future expenses related to the PAL’s gym will be paid for by the Sheriff’s Office Materials & Supplies line item. Click to View

Casa Blanca Golf Course

24.

Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within the General fund:

	Acct. Number	Acct. Name	Request
From:	1001-1130-001-431007-010	Operational Reserve	$30,000
To:	7100-6080-001-441305-010	Utilities-Water	$30,000

Issue: There is an outstanding invoice from the City of Laredo Utilities sewage/water and fire hydrant.

Solution: Transfer as above mentioned.

Result: Invoice will be paid and up to date. Click to View

Auditor

25.

Discussion and possible action to increase the budget for the Webb County Fairgrounds – Fund 2031 by $200,000 and create departments, revenues line items and expenditures line items, by order according to the November 13, 2023 amended fee for the pavilion event $100,000, pavilion facility rental, restaurant rental $100,000, fairground rental, concert stage venue, pavilion ticketed event, rodeo arena and general fairground revenues in accordance with Texas local Government Code Sec. 111.07075. SPECIAL BUDGET FOR REVENUE RECEIVED AFTER START OF FISCAL YEAR, and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: Webb County Fairground has received new revenues sources as of December 2023 from operations that require disbursements to fairgrounds contractual vendors.

Solution: Increase the budget and create departments (cost centers), revenues line items and expenditures line items to account for the fairground operations.

Result: Have the appropriate budget to report revenues and related expenditures line items by source. Click to View

26.

Discussion and possible action to authorize the County Auditor to establish a new sale tax location on behalf of Webb County Fairgrounds – Fund 2031 for applicable events subject to sales tax according to Texas Tax Code and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: Sales tax remittance is required for some of fairground services chosen by clients based on the Texas Tax Code.

Solution: Webb County to apply for a new sales tax location.

Result: Comply with Texas Tax Code statutes. Click to View

Elections

27.

Discussion and possible action for the Order of Joint Primary Election and to authorize and establish the Main and Temporary Branch Early Voting Polling Sites for the March 5, 2024 Joint Primary Elections within Webb County, Texas pursuant to Chapter 85, Texas Election Code and any other matters incident thereto. Click to View

28.

Discussion and possible action to approve the appointment of Precinct Judges appointed by the Democratic & Republican party chairs for the two year term for the March 5, 2024 Joint Primary Election and any other matters incident thereto. Click to View

Engineer

29.

Discussion and possible action to approve Amendment No. 2 in the amount of $21,240.00 to Crane Engineering Corp., for the Mangana Hein Road Project; and have the County Judge sign any relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #3716-7230-709-432001 (Professional Services)]

Issue: Installation of drainage crossings A, B & C were not installed following construction plans. An evaluation is necessary to determine if as-built conditions can still satisfy the intent of the design.

Solution: Provide professional engineering services to address as-built drainage crossings A, B and C. Please refer to attachment for scope of services.

Result: Inspection of drainage crossings to confirm proper installation. Click to View

Human Resources

30.

Discussion with possible action to authorize the reclassification of positions pertaining to the Public Health Services Department, Sheriff’s Office, and Treasurer’s Office, subject to approval by the Civil Service Commission and any applicable Civil Service guidelines if required, and any other matters incident thereto. The below positions were reviewed by The Segal Group, Inc. and recommended as stated below. [Requested by Wage Review Committee; Account #1001-1130-001-431007-015 (Wage Classification Study)]

Issue: The Wage Review Committee recommended these requests be reviewed by The Segal Group, Inc. and provide the committee with recommendations. The Wage Review Committee reviewed the recommendations on December 13, 2023, and concurred with the outcome.

Solution: Approve the proposed changes agreed by the Wage Review Committee.

Result: Ability for corresponding departments to properly classify and staff their respective areas. Click to View

Planning

31.

Discussion and possible action to enter into a Flood Plain Development Permitting Agreement with TDB World Industrial Park, LLC and accepting an irrevocable letter of credit in the amount of Fifty-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Dollars ($58,400.00) to secure compliance with Webb County development regulations and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. [No effect on the County Budget] Click to View

Purchasing

32.

Discussion and possible action to approve the purchase of one (1) Peterbilt 537 Brush Grapple Truck from Rush Truck Center (Buy Board Contract #723-23) in an amount not to exceed $276,744.15 pursuant to Sections 271.101 and 271.102 of the Texas Local Government Code, Cooperative Purchasing program; and any other matters incident thereto [2007-7150-001-470000 (Road and Bridge Road Maintenance - Capital Outlay)].

Issue: The Webb County Road and Bridge Department needs one (1) Peterbilt 537 Brush Grapple Truck for use for loading and transporting bulky waste, construction materials, fallen trees, and other items.

Solution: Consideration to purchase the Brush Grapple Truck from Rush Truck Centers utilizing the Texas Buy Board cooperative pricing. Equipment was approved through the FY23-24 Budget process.

Result: If approved, the order will be initiated immediately after Commissioners' Court meeting. Estimated time of delivery is 14 days. Click to View

33.

Discussion and possible action to rescind previous action by Commissioners Court on January 8, 2024, item 22 to authorize the purchase of two (2) 10 station portable restrooms and one (1) ADA Portable restroom from Portable Restroom Trailers, LLC and to further authorize the Purchasing Agent to advertise for competitive proposals for the leasing of portable restrooms with trailers to include delivery, setup, removal and maintenance of each portable restroom leased for County events on an as needed basis for a one (1) year term with options to extend pursuant to the County Purchasing Act and any other matters incident thereto. Click to View

34.

Discussion and possible action to ratify/approve the creation of an expenditure line item (3900-7230-001-474503) for the fairgrounds parking lot improvements and transfer from the Fairground Construction in Progress fund (3900-7230-001-474501) for an amount not to exceed $60,000, by order Texas local Government Code Sec. 111.0705. BUDGET FOR EXPENDITURES FROM PROCEEDS OF BONDS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS, and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: Webb County Fairground requires a parking lot improvement expenditure line item to segregate expenditures within the Fairgrounds 2019 Bond Series fund. Phase I parking lot improvements need to start immediately in order to initiate parking lot preparations for phase II and upcoming scheduled events at the Webb County Fairgrounds on February the 24^th.

Solution: Approve the ratification to create a new expenditure line item and budget to account for the related expenditures for the parking lot site improvements for phase I through III.

Result: Have the appropriate expenditure line item and budget to segregate and report the associated expenditures for the Webb County Parking lot improvements within the eligible bond series. Click to View

Risk Management

35.

Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, the following emergency budget amendment (line item transfer) within the General fund:

	Acct. Number	Acct. Name	Request
From:	1001-1130-001-431007-010	Operational Reserve	$62,806.91
To:	1001-1100-001-443000-005	Repairs & Main't- Casa Ortiz	$62,806.91

Issue: Casa Ortiz needs several electrical repairs in order to be in compliance with insruances.

Solution: Transfer as above mentioned to complete work and pay invoice.

Result: Casa Ortiz will be in compliance once repairs are made. Click to View

Honorable Ricardo A. Jaime, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 4

36.

Proclamation designating February 4, 2024, as World Cancer Awareness Day with a presentation by Mrs. Patty Vela and survivors and any matters incident thereto. Click to View

37.

Discussion and possible action to authorize the Webb County Purchasing Agent to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for civil engineering services for the El Pico Road Project, which includes the right of way identification, right of way widening, rehabilitation of a creek crossing and reconstruction of an approximate 1/2 mile section of the roadway (approximate project limits are 27°38'23.28" N, 99°33'32.50"W to 27°38'14.76"N, 99°33'54.55W) and any matters incident thereto. Click to View

38.

Communications

39.

Adjourn

The Webb County Commissioners Court hereby reserves the right to go into closed session at any time during this public meeting, if such is requested by the County Attorney or other legal counsel for the County, pursuant to his or her duty under Section 551.071(2) of the Government Code, to consult privately with his or her client on an item on the agenda, or on a matter arising out of such item.

DISABILITY ACCESS STATEMENT

Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need auxiliary aid of service such as interpreters for persons who are deaf or hearing impaired, readers, or need large print are requested to contact the court administrator at (956) 523-4622.

DATED THIS ______ DAY OF JANUARY, 2024

By: ______________________________

Melinda Mata
Court Administrator

CERTIFICATION OF NOTICE AND POSTING

I, the undersigned, County Clerk, do hereby certify that the above notice of meeting of the Webb County Commissioners Court, is a true and correct copy of said notice, and that I posted a true and correct copy of said notice on the bulletin board at the Courthouse door of Webb County, Texas, at a place readily accessible to the general public at all times on the _____ day of January, 2024 and said notice remained so posted continuously for at least 72 hours preceding the scheduled time of said meeting.

DATED THIS ______ DAY OF JANUARY, 2024

MARGIE RAMIREZ IBARRA, COUNTY CLERK, WEBB COUNTY, TEXAS

BY: ______________________________________________

Margie Ramirez-Ibarra, County Clerk