Agenda

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

1.

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

Roll Call by Mrs. Lucina D. Perez, Chief Deputy County Clerk on behalf of the Honorable Margie Ramirez Ibarra, Webb County Clerk.

2.

Pledge of Allegiance/Invocation

3.

Approval of Bills, Payroll, and Monthly Report

County Treasurer, Ms. Delia Perales presented the Recap of Checks, Recap of Released Immediate Payments, Ratification of Checks sent, Ratification of Payroll, and the Monthly Report for November 2016 pending approval.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, seconded by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Chief Deputy Auditor, Mr. Rafael Perez presented the monthly report for December 2016.

Motion by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 1 Jesse Gonzalez

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

TREASURER - PAYABLES BACKUP FOR 01-09-2017.pdf

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.

No one signed up for Public Comment.

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.

Honorable Oscar Hale, 406th District Court Judge

a.

AI-5304 Discussion and possible action to approve a no cost amendment to the professional services agreement between Webb County and La Familia Consulting & Counseling Services, LC by modifying the payment terms and conditions for the 406th District Court, Drug Court Program and Enhancement Project; Veterans Treatment Program, Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration, all other terms and conditions shall remain unchanged and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other mattes incident thereto. [Grant #1H79TI026702-01, Account #353-1004-6022]

Issue: Current payment terms require invoices to list details of services provided which are sensitive in nature in order for payment to be processed. Further, payment can be held for up to 30 after the invoices are submitted. Evaluator during FY 2016 was not paid timely.

Solution: Modify payment terms to require payment on the first of each month for prior months activity without notice or demand. All sensitive reports for activity conducted by evaluator will be submitted to Judge Hale for his approval and records.

Result: Improve timeliness of payment and safeguard sensitive reports dealing with Counseling sessions pertaining to this program.

Attachments:

Amendment SAMHSA Grant-01 - Executed

b.

AI-5305 Discussion and possible action to approve a no cost amendment to the professional services agreement between Webb County and La Familia Consulting & Counseling Services, LC by modifying the payment terms and conditions for the 406th District Court, Drug Court Program Expansion and Enhancement Project; Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration, all other terms and conditions shall remain unchanged and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents and any other mattes incident thereto. [Grant #1H79TI026096-02, Account #351-1004-6022]

Issue: Current payment terms require invoices to list details of services provided which are sensitive in nature in order for payment to be processed. Further, payment can be held for up to 30 after the invoices are submitted. Evaluator during FY 2016 was not paid timely.

Solution: Modify payment terms to require payment on the first of each month for prior months activity without notice or demand. All sensitive reports for activity conducted by evaluator will be submitted to Judge Hale for his approval and records.

Result: Improve timeliness of payment and safeguard sensitive reports dealing with Counseling sessions pertaining to this program.

Attachments:

Amendment SAMHSA Grant-02 - Executed

6.

Community Action Agency

a.

AI-5276 Discussion and possible action to approve conducting Category "B" Elections to fill two current vacancies as per the Governing Regulations of the Advisory Board. The Advisory Board shall be composed of membership that complies with the Community Services Block Grant- Texas Administrative Code Rule 5.215. The First Election will be held on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 for Representative and Alternate for Area IV-Azteca-Guadalupe in the Lilia B. Perez Community Center located at 4420 Santa Maria Road from 9:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m.The Second Election will be held on Wednesday, January 25, 2017 for Representative and Alternate for Area V- Fernando Salinas Community Center, 2600 Cedar from 9:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m.

Issue: To hold Election to fill current vacancy for the Representative and Alternate for Area IV- Azteca-Guadalupe and Representative and Alternate for Area V-Fernando Salinas.

Solution: The Advisory Board shall be composed of membership that complies with the Community Services Block Grant- Texas Administrative Code Rule 5.215.

Result: Webb County Community Action Agency will be in compliance with the Texas Administrative Code Rule 5.215.

b.

AI-5275 Discussion and possible action to approve funding increase Amendment No. 3 contract #58160002358 award for the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) from Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for the Program Year 2016- Contract start date January 1, 2016 through March 31, 2017 in the amount of FORTY FIVE THOUSAND SIXTY FIVE DOLLARS. ($45,065.00). This amendment will increase the PY-2016 CEAP Contract funding from $1,221,517.00 to $1,266,582.00 and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. [Account #911-4200-3501]

Issue: Approve Amendment No. 3 for the CEAP Program from TDHCA for PY- 2016 in the amount of $ $45,065.00.

Solution: The Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) provides direct client services to eligible elderly, disabled and low income residents of Webb County.

Result: The services are intended to assist eligible Webb County residents with up to 8 highest remaining calendar months of energy consumption. The CEAP allocation for contract #58160002358 is for twelve months.

7.

Honorable Marco Montemayor, County Attorney

a.

AI-5282 Discussion and possible action to enter into a One (1) year (January 9, 2017 through January 8, 2018) Preventative Maintenance Agreement between Ford Audio-Video Systems, LLC and Webb County for the Public Information Office for maintenance on audio and video equipment at a cost of One Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty Six Dollars ($1,956.00) and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents. [Requested by Larry Sanchez, Public Information Officer, Account #001-0550-6411]

Attachments:

Ford Audio Video systems Agreement-PIO

b.

AI-5284 Discussion and possible action for Webb County Head Start to enter into a one (1) year (November 1, 2016 through October 31, 2017) lease agreement extension with the City of Laredo regarding lease space located at 2801 Ireland St., Laredo, Texas (Magic Corner Head Start) at a monthly cost of Six Hundred Fifty Dollars ($650.00) and a total cost of Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Dollars ($7,800.00) over the term of the agreement and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Aliza Oliveros, Webb County Head Start Director; Account #903-4207-6012]

Attachments:

Lease Agrmt-City of Ldo-Housing Auth.-Ireland St.- Executed

Head Start Lease Extension-Magic Corner

c.

AI-5285 Discussion and possible action for Webb County Head Start to enter into a One (1) year (November 1, 2016 through October 31, 2017) lease agreement extension with the City of Laredo regarding lease space located at 6500 Springfield Avenue, Laredo, Texas (Springfield Acres Head Start Center) at a monthly cost of Five Hundred Fifty Dollars ($550.00) and a total cost of Six Thousand Six Hundred Dollars ($6,600.00) over the term of the agreement and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Aliza Oliveros, Webb County Head Start Director; Account #903-4207-6012]

Attachments:

Lease Agrmt-City of Ldo-Housing Auth.-Springfield- Executed

Head Start Lease Extension-Springfield Acres

d.

AI-5286 Discussion and possible action to correct the fees and account number for the Independent Contractor Agreement with Todd Russell, Ph. D. that was approved by the Commissioner’s Court on October 24, 2016. This agreement provides needs assessment, evaluation, and consulting services for the Webb County Court at Law #2 DWI Drug Court Program for a term of One (1) year that shall commence on September 30, 2016 and expire on September 29, 2017. The correct monthly cost is Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), with a correct total cost of Nine Thousand Dollars ($9,000.00) and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any matters incident thereto. [Requested by Judge Jesus Garza, Webb County Court at Law #2; Account #362-1011-6022 (Webb County DWI Drug Court Program)]

e.

AI-5287 Discussion and possible action to enter into a One (1) year License Agreement between Productivity Center, Inc. and Webb County for the Webb County Attorney’s Office for law enforcement training and certification. The training software is to be utilized by investigators of the Webb County Attorney’s Office. The term will commence when all documents are executed. The cost associated with the agreement will be Three Hundred Seventeen Dollars ($317.00); and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Marco Montemayor, Webb County Attorney; Account #001-1101-6010]

Attachments:

Productivity Ctr. Inc. License Agreement-Co. Atty.

f.

AI-5295 Discussion and possible action to approve Memorandum of Understanding for the Texas Work-Study Program between Laredo Community College and Webb County. The Agreement provides that Laredo Community College will prepare and place work study employees with Webb County offices fully paid under the Texas Work-Study Funding. Webb County will supervise the work assigned to the student employees. The Agreement will be effective February 1, 2017 through May 12, 2017. The parties may mutually agree to renew the MOU for successive One (1) semester terms. There is no financial impact on the County's General Fund, and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Alexandra Colessides, Interim Director of Risk Management]

Attachments:

MOU-LCC Work Study-Sheriff's Office

g.

AI-5298 Discussion and possible action to approve a Twelve (12) month contract between Webb County and Zapata County for the housing of Webb County adult inmates effective October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017 at a rate of $40.00 per inmate per day and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Webb County Sheriff, Martin Cuellar, Account #001-2060-6023-04]

Attachments:

IntergovCoopAgrmt - Zapata County Jail - Executed

Zapata County Inmate Agreement

8.

Honorable Margie Ibarra, County Clerk

a.

AI-5265 Approval of Minutes for December 12, 2016

Attachments:

Commissioners Court Meeting Minutes for December 12, 2016

9.

Honorable Isidro Alaniz, District Attorney

a.

AI-5293 Discussion and possible action to ratify an amendment to the District Attorney State Forfeiture fund by increasing the expenditure budget by $30,492.71; said amount is available from seized funds pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. [Fund 167-1100-6709]

Issue: New proceeds under Chapter 59.06 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure have been awarded and may be spent by the attorney representing the State after a budget for the expenditure of the proceeds has been submitted to the Governing Body.

Solution: Submit a budget to the Governing Body that clearly list and defines the categories of expenditures.

Result: The attorney representing the State can utilize the new proceeds for the official use of his office.

Attachments:

Budget Amendment

10.

Fire Suppression & EMS Services

a.

AI-5299 Discussion and possible action to accept a donation from Enterprise Texas Pipeline LLC in the amount of $1,000.00 as per local government code 81.032, to be utilized in the acquisition of training or travel by department personnel; and authorizing the Count Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #001-2203-6011 (Training and Education)]

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

Solution: Deposit check into Training & Education line item, Account #001-2203-6011.

Result: Continue working relationship with Enterprise Texas Pipeline LLC and send department personnel to needed/required training.

Attachments:

Enterprise check

11.

Head Start

a.

AI-5260 Discussion and possible action to approve the posting and filling of the following Slots:

Slot #	Title	Hourly Rate	Pay Periods

1103	Part Time Classroom Aide	$8.64	20
998	Bachelor Degreed Teacher	$15.43	20
968	Associate Degree Area Service Mgr.	$16.16	20
2569	Part Time Early HS Teacher Floater	$10.05	26
1800	Part Time Substitute Teacher	$8.64	20

Attachments:

ASM

BA Teacher

Classroom Aide

EHS Teacher Floater

Substitute

b.

AI-5290 Discussion and possible action to affirm the Court's approval to continue to allow the Head Start and Early Head Start program to participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program and to confirm the Court's awareness of the organization's responsibilities and liabilities associated with participation.

Attachments:

GoverningBodyAwareness

12.

Honorable Jose "Pepe" Salinas, Justice of the Peace Pct. 4

a.

AI-5271 Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of a Truancy Prevent and Intervention Program grant application in the amount estimated at $60,000 to continue to pay the grant-funded salary and fringe benefits for a juvenile delinquency diversion case manager in order to continue to divert at-risk juveniles from entering the juvenile justice system in Laredo/Webb County; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any cash match.

Issue: Juvenile delinquency is a nationwide problem that negatively affects not only the delinquent youth and their families but also adversely impacts schools, neighborhoods, and the local community at large. In addition, youth at-risk for juvenile delinquency who enter into the juvenile justice system tend to face limited future career, educational, and other socio-economic prospects, especially in the South Texas area.

Solution: Grant application to continue to fund a currently grant-funded juvenile delinquency diversion case manager in order to continue to provide prevention, diversion, and intervention strategies through the court of the Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4 in Laredo/Webb County area.

Result: Increased focus on diversion strategies to steer at-risk juveniles from the juvenile and criminal justice system.

b.

AI-5272 Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of a Juvenile Justice Grant Program grant application in the amount estimated at $20,000 for equipment, training/travel, and supplies costs for the juvenile delinquency diversion case manager in order to divert at-risk juveniles from entering the juvenile justice system in Laredo/Webb County; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any cash match.

Issue: Juvenile delinquency is a nationwide problem that negatively affects not only the delinquent youth and their families but also adversely impacts schools, neighborhoods, and the local community at large. In addition, youth at-risk for juvenile delinquency who enter into the juvenile justice system tend to face limited future career, educational, and other socio-economic prospects, especially in the South Texas area.

Solution: Grant application to provide additional services, including equipment, training/travel, and supplies, in order to provide prevention, diversion, and intervention strategies through the court of the Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4 in Laredo/Webb County area.

Result: Increased focus on diversion strategies to steer at-risk juveniles from the juvenile and criminal justice system.

13.

Honorable Martin Cuellar, Sheriff

a.

AI-5269 Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of an application to the Criminal Justice Division, Office of the Governor for a Assistance Grant Program (JAG) Operation Border Star in the amount estimated at $60,000 for the continued salary and fringe benefits for a deputy (certified peace officer) to continue to provide enhanced patrolling for border security; and designating the Webb County Judge in all matters related to this grant; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires no match. [Grant Fund Source 324]

Issue: The County of Webb/City of Laredo continues to constitute an important part of the federally designated South Texas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), which is one of the most strategically significant cross-border drug smuggling corridors in the entire United States.

Solution: Grant application to continue to fund an existing grant-funded peace officer/deputy to continue to be deployed to assist, supplement, and enhance border security in the South Texas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) as well as to continue to provide protective services to the residents of Webb County.

Result:Through the grant-funded efforts of the deputy, the patrol division of the Webb County Sheriff’s Office will be provided enhanced manpower to detect, deter, and disrupt various illegal transborder activity in the Webb County area.

b.

AI-5270 Discussion and possible action to authorize the submission of a Violent Crimes Against Women Criminal Justice and Training (VAWA) grant application to the Criminal Justice Division (CJD) Office of Governor (OOG) in the amount estimated at $6,500 for training, equipment, and supplies for investigators working at the Webb County Sheriff’s Office serving victims of violent crimes against women and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires a Thirty-Five (35%) percent cash match, or a $3,500 cash match, which will be met by the Webb County Sheriff's Office forfeiture funds. Thus, this grant will have no impact to the general fund. [Account #170-9501-9301 (Transfer out from Forfeiture Funds)]

Issue: Violence against women is among the most intractable and deadliest criminal justice problems in the United States, especially domestic violence and in the South Texas area. According to published statistics, the number of American women between 2001-2012 who were murdered by current or ex male partners in the United States was 11,766. That's almost double the amount of casualties lost during wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Women who will be victims of severe violence by an intimate partner in their lifetimes number 1 in 4. (“30 Shocking Domestic Violence Statistics That Remind Us It’s An Epidemic” Vagianos 10/23/2014)

Solution: Grant application to enhance the tools, techniques, and training to those investigators who follow-up to calls for assistance, conduct interviews with these victims, file incident reports, provide these victims information/referrals to service providers, initiate arrests of perpetrators, refer cases for prosecution, and prepare testimony/evidence for trial in cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.

Result: Enhanced law enforcement services, including investigative techniques, to deal with emergent criminal trends, such as cyber stalking, and improved efficacy of the law enforcement response to the needs of victims of violent crime.

c.

AI-5288 Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of an application to the Homeland Security Grants Division Office of the Governor for a 2017 State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) grant in the amount estimated at $40,000 for equipment and supplies; and designating the Webb County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires no match.

Issue: Complex and dynamic law enforcement challenges exist in the Southwest border area of the United States, including Laredo/Webb County. Furthermore, the County of Webb/City of Laredo continues to be one of the busiest in-land ports as well as a strategically significant international commerce corridor for the United States.

Solution: Grant application to further enhance the Webb County Sheriff’s Office preparedness to prevent threats, protect citizens, mitigate loss of life and property, and respond quickly to save lives.

Result: Through the grant-funded efforts, the Webb County Sheriff’s Office will be able to address high-priority preparedness goals to strengthen core capabilities to prevent, protect, mitigate, respond, and support community recovery.

d.

AI-5289 Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of an application to the Homeland Security Grants Division Office of the Governor for a 2017 Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Activities (LETPA) grant in the amount estimated at $90,000 for law enforcement terrorism prevention equipment; and designating the Webb County Judge in all matters related to this grant; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires no match.

Issue: Since the tragedy of 9/11, the urgent need for expanded and enhanced law enforcement efforts to prevent terrorism in the United States was understood to help save the lives of both first responders and the people they serve.

Solution: Grant application to fund enhanced capabilities for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office.

Result: The Webb County Sheriff’s Office will have increased capacities and enhanced capabilities.

e.

AI-5301 Discussion and possible action to authorize the continued payment of salary and fringe benefits for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office investigators working on the City of Laredo High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force not to exceed Ninety (90) days pending the receipt of grant continuation award by the funding agency to the City of Laredo. The City of Laredo has been utilizing this grant for the continuation of this task force for over Twenty (20) years.

14.

Honorable Patricia A. Barrera, Tax-Assessor- Collector

a.

AI-5267 Discussion and possible action to approve the following refunds:

a) The amount of $11,299.90 to Laredo Energy LP, Account #04917800080140WI, as per Supplement 4 Certified 2016, Division Order change information provided by Wardlaw for 2016.

b) The amount of $15,336.61 to be distributed as follows: $154.45 to Rancho la Cuchina Minerals Ltd, and $15,182.16 to Webb County Tax Office, Account #04797460180729RI, as per Supplement 4 Certified 2016, Correct ownership per Division Order information provided by Wardlaw Appraisal Group for 2016.

c) The amount of $15,336.61 to be distributed as follows: $154.45 to Marmiom Janey Briscoe GST Trust, and $15,182.16 to Webb County Tax Office, Account #04797460180728RI, as per Supplement 4 Certified 2016, Correct ownership per Division Order information provided by Wardlaw Appraisal Group for 2016.

d) The amount of $15,336.61 to be distributed as follows: $154.45 to Miramar Holding LP, and $15,182.16 to Webb County Tax Office, Account #04797460183690RI, as per Supplement 4 Certified 2016, Correct ownership per Division Order information provided by Wardlaw Appraisal Group for 2016. Issue: All aforementioned accounts had adjustments as per Supplement 4 Certified 2016 sent by the Webb County Appraisal District. These adjustments generated refunds since the accounts had been paid prior to receiving the information.

Solution: Refund said amounts to all entities for the over-payments.

Result: The monies will be reimbursed to the appropriate taxpayers and any pending taxes will be satisfied.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo to approve all Consent Agenda items

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

Laredo Energy

Rancho la Cuchina

Webb County - Rancho la Cuchina

Marmiom Janey Briscoe

Webb County - Marmiom Janey

Miramar Holding

Webb County - Miramar Holding

REGULAR AGENDA

Honorable Isidro Alaniz, District Attorney

15.

AI-5291 Discussion and possible action to authorize the submission of a grant application to the Texas Department of Transportation in the amount of $53,250 for a "no refusal program"; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires a 20% match. [Account #167-1100-6205 (Forfeiture Funds)]

Issue: Drinking and driving remains a serious public safety concern that tragically affects many victims and their families every year. Webb County remains one of the five counties in South Texas to have a high number of alcohol-related crashes. Webb County District Attorney’s Office records show that the number of DWI cases filed remains high. In 2013, 479 cases were filed, 597 cases were filed in 2014 and 335 cases were filed in 2015. From January 1, 2016 to November 30, 2016, a total of 365 DWI cases have already been filed with the District Attorney’s Office. According to data requested from the Texas Department of Transportation, in Webb County, out of the 133 alcohol-related crashes that occurred in 2015, 88 of them occurred during weekends (Friday-Sunday).

Solution: As part of a continuous commitment to reduce and prevent impaired driving, the Webb County District Attorney’s Office would like to continue and implement the “No Refusal” program in Webb County, which brings together public awareness, stronger enforcement and effective prosecution.

Result: Reduce the number of DWI offenses and prevent alcohol-related crashes throughout Webb County through the implementation of the "No Refusal Program" resulting in arrests on weekends, targeted holidays and special events.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

TX DOT Grant

Economic Development

16.

AI-5279 Discussion and possible action to accept the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) Grant in the amount of $92,662.80 awarded by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and authorize an expenditure line item; and designating the County Judge as the County's Chief Executive Officer and authorized representative to act in all matters in connection to this project. Funding will be used for the purchase of equipment needed during Hazardous Materials response operations by the Webb County Fire Department and first responder agencies that provide mutual aid during such events. Equipment to be purchased includes a HazMat mobile trailer, personal protective equipment, gas monitoring equipment, and laptops to be used for Tier II report access. This action will not impact the County General Fund.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, seconded by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Fire Suppression & EMS Services

17.

AI-5254 Discussion and possible action to accept state tobacco funds provided through the Seven Flags RAC Trauma Service Area "T" in the amount of $9,172.40, to be utilized in the purchase of EMS supplies, training, travel, personnel cost, membership to professional/technical organizations, public education, and equipment for both stations of the Webb County Volunteer Fire Department, and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Accounts #001-2203-6205; 001-2203-6011; 001-2203-5601]

Issue: State funding provided through Seven Flags RAC for EMS needs/operations.

Solution: Accept funds, and utilize monies for purchase of EMS supplies, training, travel, and equipment.

Result: Properly stocked emergency units ready for response, and well prepared personnel.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

SFRAC Check

Human Resources

18.

AI-5262 Discussion and possible action to appoint a Civil Service Commissioner, for a two-year term, commencing January 1, 2017 thru December 31, 2019; and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: Term has expired for current Commissioners. On December 12, 2016 Commissioners Court appointed 2 of the 3 Civil Services Commissioners.

Solution: In order for the Civil Service Commissioners to conduct business, a quorum is required.

Result: The appointment of the commissioners will insure smooth and efficiently run Commission, and will provide good continuity for such an important function.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina to nominate Mr. Roberto Santos

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Community Action Agency

19.

AI-5253 Discussion and possible action for authorization to the Webb County Community Action Agency to enter into a contract with the City of Laredo (El Metro) administering the Enhanced Mobility of Senior and Individuals with Disabilities Program set forth under the 49 U.S. Section 5310, through fiscal year 2016, acting through the Texas Department of Transportation wherein Webb County accepts grant amount not to exceed SEVENTY-TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS ($72,000.00) for El Aguila Rural Transportation, and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents. This will have no impact on the general fund.

Issue: Fleet's major and/or minor mechanical liabilities.

Solution: Seeking and applying for new grants to obtain new buses, adding to our current fleet.

Result: Applied and awarded new monies that will be used to purchase a Type III 18 to 22 passenger bus.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

ED Grant

letter of funding

20.

AI-5264 Discussion and possible action to authorize Webb County Community Action Agency - El Aguila Rural Transportation to modify department's Job Descriptions and submit to Civil Service for revision and approval as per the one recommendation of Wage and Hour, Department of Labor. This has no impact on general fund.

Issue: Wage and Hour conducted an overall investigation on the department. Job descriptions will need to be modified to fit need as per salary/hourly rates.

Solution: Recommendations and a full report were established to resolve findings. Job descriptions will be modified as follows:

Transit Program Manager to Transit Program Manager
Senior Transit Program Assistant to Senior Transit Program Assistant
Transit Program Assistant to Transit Program Assistant
Transit Field Supervisor to Lead Driver I
Fleet Manager to Lead Driver II
Bus Operator I to Bus Operator I-Part Time/2054 and Bus Operator II/1911
Bus Operator II to Bus Operator IIIA/1123
Bus Operator III to Bus Operator I/1127, Bus Operator I /1132, Bus Operator II/1129 and Bus Operator IIIB/1128
Maintenance Driver to Maintenance/Bus Operator II/1556

Result: Proactive stance to comply with the state and federal mandates. All job descriptions will be modified as per recommended information for the betterment of the department.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Engineer

21.

AI-5300 Discussion and possible action to approve Change Order No. 1 in the amount of $12,325.00 to AZAR Services, L.L.C., for 1,750 square feet of 6" reinforced concrete slabs under two canopies and 4 feet wide sidewalks for the new Utilities Warehouse. [Account #745-3001-8801-7 (Capital Outlay Water Utilities)]

Issue: Additional work area is needed to work on equipment.

Solution: Add concrete slabs under canopy area.

Result: Double the work area.

County Engineer, Mr. Luis Perez Garcia stated that the amount in item #21 would be split amongst accounts #745-3001-8801-7 and #758-8006-8601.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina to approve item #21 as amended

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Motion by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo to open up item #21 again

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina to eliminate account #745 and use account #758 Bond Series

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

CHANGE ORDER

CHANGE ORDER DRAWING

Purchasing

22.

AI-5266 Discussion and possible action to approve the following line item transfer:

	Acct. Number	Acct. Name	Amount	Bal.	End Bal.
From:	605-3001-8801-7	Capital Outlay - Contingency Fund	$1,440	$250,766	$249,326
To:	605-0101-8801	Capital Outlay	$1,440	$120	$1,560

Issue: On October 26, 2015, Commissioners Court approved item 19 authorizing a 48 month lease/maintenance agreement with Toshiba for a E-Studio 457 Copier at a monthly cost of $119.94 to be used by the Child Protection Court. Account 603-0101-8801 was authorized as funding Source. CCT at a future date closed out all activity under 603/604 and created the contingency fund 605. Currently 605-0101-8801 does not have sufficient funding to support the agreement approved on 10/26/15.

Solution: Authorize a line item transfer within fund 605 to cover the annual lease cost of copier totaling $1,440. Quarterly maintenance expense will be covered by each District Judge at a total of $50.00 per Court and an overall total of $200.00 for maintenance expenses.

Result: Secure funding to pay bills and proceed with issuance of Purchase Order.

Motion by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

10262015 agenda item

23.

AI-5309 Discussion and possible action to award the following annual contract (Bid 2017-79 Cutaway Bus Repair) to South Texas Auto Rebuilders and A&S Electric and to authorize the Purchasing Agent to solicit an annual contract for Hot Mix Asphalt:

Issue: The County does not have a contract for cutaway bus repair, which makes the procurement process lengthy and troublesome for the departments that operate buses.

Solution: Solicit and award a contract to the bidder(s) who submitted the overall best value to Webb County.

Result: Purchasing efficiency, compliance of the law

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 1 Jesse Gonzalez

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

24.

AI-5317 Discussion and possible action to award RFQ 2016-002 "Master Plan for Webb County Property (Known as) Laredo International Fair and Exposition Property" to Naismith Engineering, Inc. and to authorize County staff to negotiate the terms and conditions of contract. [Account #007-0101-7474-01 (LIFE Down Repairs)]

Issue: Webb County solicited formal request for qualifications from interested firms to prepare a master plan of improvements to LIFE property to include but not limited to upgrade of existing facilities, new facilities, identify options for best use of the property and to make recommendations on other site locations that may be in the best interest for Webb County and its Citizens.

Solution: Six (6) proposals were submitted by deadline. All proposals have been reviewed by County staff and Naismith Engineering, Inc. is the recommended firm for the Courts consideration.

Result: Approval to proceed with negotiations with Engineering firm and return to Court to approve final contractual terms and conditions. Move forward with Master plan for LIFE property or other recommended sites for future development of fair grounds that will service our community for current and future generations.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 1 Jesse Gonzalez

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Risk Management

25.

AI-5280 Discussion and possible action to request estimates for the repair of the Administration Building automatic doors, identify a funding source, and direct the Building Maintenance Department to manage the project; and any other matters incident thereto. Total amount of project shall not exceed $14,570.00 for complete overhaul of operators to three sets of doors. Repairs are highly recommended by the Safety Committee. [Account #605-0106-8801-7 (Capital Outlay Contingency Fund)]

Issue: The Risk Management Department has received multiple complaints regarding the malfunctioning automatic doors at the Administration Building. Although several attempts have been made by the Building Maintenance Department, the doors need major repairs by specialized technicians.

Solution: It is the Safety Committee's recommendation to have the doors repaired and provide long-term improvement to their function in order to provide adequate access to people with access and functional needs and a safe entrance and egress to the building.

Result: Adequate repairs to the Administration Building doors will provide for safe entrance and egress to the building and appropriate acceptability for people with access and functional needs.

Motion by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

26.

AI-5313 Discussion and possible action to authorize county staff to review the proposed policies for the Webb County Safety Certification program for future adoption and implementation; and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: There is no current certification policy in Webb County. This program will address employee trainings, incentive/recognition, Review Board/Process and Discipline.

Solution: Coordinate with various (legal, HR) departments to instigate and formalize a certification policy/program in place for Webb County.

Result: Webb County will have a Certification Program in place and employees will be trained, equipped and certified safety employees with the skill sets, knowledge and clear expectations of what it means to be a safety employee of Webb County.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

Safety Program Draft

Water Utilities

27.

AI-5283 Discussion and possible action to award a contract to Superior Water Management of Texas LLC in the amount not to exceed $5,000 to complete final calculations of a proposed water rate increase and provide presentations for public hearings for the 2017 Webb County Utilities Tariff Amendments that include rate adjustments of minimum and unit based fees for water and wastewater services. [Account #758-8006-6022 (2016 Bond Series, Professional Services)]

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 1 Jesse Gonzalez

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

Proposed Contract

Honorable Marco Montemayor, County Attorney

28.

AI-5294 Discussion and possible action to authorize Webb County to enter into a Thirty-Six (36) month heavy equipment lease-purchase agreement with Holt Texas LTD. for One (1) Caterpillar motor grader, at a monthly rental rate of TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR DOLLARS AND .02/100 CENTS ($2,264.02) sum not to exceed EIGHTY-ONE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED FOUR DOLLARS AND .72/100 CENTS ($81,504.72) with an initial rental payment of TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR DOLLARS AND .02/100 CENTS ($2,264.02) paid in arrears due upon approval and execution of the lease agreement, subject to annual budget appropriating and authorizing the County Judge to execute any and all relevant documents and any and all matters incident thereto and applicable to record the required budget adjustments for the debt service and road and bridge fund. [Requested by Jose Luis Rodriguez, Road and Bridge Department Superintendent, Account #010 Road and Bridge and Fund 600 Debt Service Fund]

Issue: There is a need for additional motor grader.

Solution: Approval of new lease is required.

Result: Webb County and Bridge Department will be able to accomplish its objectives.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

Holt Lease Purchase Agreement-Road and Bridge

29.

Discussion and possible action to approve a Professional Services Agreement between Webb County and Homero R. Sanchez, M.D. The Agreement will be that Dr. Sanchez provide Mental Health Services to jail detainees. The Agreement will be for a term of Three (3) years, effective January 1st, 2017, and ending on December 30th, 2020. Webb County has agreed to compensate Dr. Sanchez Three Thousand Five Hundred and No/100ths Dollars ($3,500.00) per month. The amount should not exceed Forty-Two Thousand and No/100ths Dollars ($42,000.00) per year; subject to annual budgetary appropriations and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Webb County Sheriff Martin Cuellar, Account #001-2060-6022 (Professional Services)]

Issue: Current annual Agreement expires December 31, 2016.

Solution: New contract required.

Result: Continue providing Mental Health Services to jail inmates.

Attachments:

ProfServicesAgrmt - Homero R. Sanchez - Executed

30.

AI-5297 Discussion and possible action to enter into a One (1) Year (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017) Planned Service Agreement between Johnson Controls and Webb County for the Webb County Facilities Department to provide for proper maintenance and repair services of the chiller system for the County’s downtown campus at a cost of TWENTY-SEVEN THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY-TWO and 00/100 CENTS ($27,772.00) over the term of the agreement, subject to annual budget appropriating, and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Jorge Lopez, Building Maintenance Department Supervisor; Account #001-0106-6401 (Repairs & Maintenance of Buildings)]

Issue: The existing contract has expired on December 31, 2016.

Solution: New contract is required.

Result: Webb County is assured the chiller is serviced and maintained.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina to approve items #29 and #30

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

PlannedServiceAgrmt - Johnson Controls - Executed

Johnson Controls Service Agreement-Bldg. Maint.

Honorable Margie Ibarra, County Clerk

31.

AI-5281 Discussion and possible action to adopt a resolution opposing re:SearchTX as it relates to any statutory amendments that would affect the local control of county records. [Requested by Honorable Margie Ramirez Ibarra, Webb County Clerk, Co-Sponsored by Honorable Esther Degollado, District Clerk]

Issue: The Supreme Court's initiative named re:SearchTX, was created as a way to give Texas attorneys and judges a statewide internet access system to look up information about cases from all 254 Texas counties, similar to PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records), which is used for federal court documents. Currently, only judges can use re:SearchTX, but by January attorneys will have access to the portal and by the summer, when the site is complete, the general public will have access to it. There is deep concern for potential privacy issues and loss of county revenues generated from document copies.

Solution: To approve the resolution opposing re:SearchTX.

Result: Webb County will avoid losing any revenues collected by both the County Clerk and District Clerk.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

Resolution-Opposing SearchTX - Executed

Honorable Martin Cuellar, Sheriff

32.

AI-5274 Discussion and possible action to authorize a change order for Purchase Order 16-0009279 to change the purchase quantities from 160 stab proof vests and 93 bulletproof vests to 231 bulletproof/stab proof combination vests and approve the purchase of these combination vests in the amount of $213,675 from Nardis Public Safety for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office; pursuant to Sections 271.101 and 271.102, Subchapter F, Cooperative Purchasing Program (Buy Board Contract #507-16) and authorization to transfer funds from Account #605-3001-8801-07 in the amount of $37,770 to Account #605-2001-8801 to cover additional expenses; and any other matters incident thereto. This will require an additional $37,770 more than the original amount of funds set aside. [Account #605-3001-8801-7 (Capital Outlay Contingency Fund)]

Issue: Critically, a local law enforcement officer was stabbed by an individual armed with a knife on Sunday, December 11, 2016, after officers responded to a report of a domestic disturbance in south Laredo. Moreover, it is a fact that in the United States the number of law enforcement officers killed by gunfire was up 72% in 2016 as compared to the prior year.

Solution: The purchase of these bulletproof/stab proof combination vests by the Webb County Commissioners’ Court will provide Webb County Sheriff’s Office deputies and correctional officers needed and essential protective equipment for their safety against gunfire and knife assaults that they can utilize both in the field and during jail operations for their increased safety.

Result: Through the purchase of bulletproof/stab proof combination vests, correctional officers and deputies will be provided essential safety equipment for their protection from knives and guns.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina to approve item #32 not to exceed $213,675

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

LMT Article

Budget Officers

33.

AI-5311 Discussion and possible action to transfer salary savings from departments listed below to the District Attorney's Intake Program and County Auditor's budget. The County Auditor's Budget was approved on November 14, 2016 for adoption.

	Acct. Number	Acct. Name	Amount
From:	001-0106-5001	Payroll Cost	$10,000
	001-0108-5001	Payroll Cost	$7,000
	001-0700-5001	Payroll Cost	$50,000
	001-1042-5001	Payroll Cost	$5,000
	001-1044-5001	Payroll Cost	$8,000
	001-1045-5001	Payroll Cost	$2,000
	001-1100-5001	Payroll Cost	$12,000
	001-1101-5001	Payroll Cost	$1,000
	001-1102-5001	Payroll Cost	$22,000
	001-1110-5001	Payroll Cost	$22,000
	001-1120-5001	Payroll Cost	$18,000
	001-1205-5001	Payroll Cost	$6,100
	001-1301-5001	Payroll Cost	$19,504
	001-2060-5001	Payroll Cost	$36,000
	001-2061-5001	Payroll Cost	$8,000
	001-2070-5001	Payroll Cost	$10,000
	001-2500-5001	Payroll Cost	$15,000
	001-2503-5001	Payroll Cost	$4,000
	001-6002-5001	Payroll Cost	$7,000
	001-6104-5001	Payroll Cost	$6,000
		Total	$268,604
To:	001-1100-5003-DA	DA's Intake Program	$120,000
	001-0400-5001	Auditors- Payroll Cost	$145,704
	001-0400-5602	Local Mileage	$200
	001-0400-6004-2	Cell Phone Cost	$2,000
	001-0400-6005	Postage & Courier	$100
	001-0400-6007	Dues & Membership	$100
	001-0400-6010	Books & Subscriptions	$500
		Total	$268,604

Issues: The District Attorney Intake Overtime review program and the county auditor's payroll line item require funding as per Court approval.

Solution: Provide funding for District Attorney to continue the program and to provide the personnel costs to the county auditor's budget as the budget approved by the district judges and commissioners court.

Result: To continue with the District Attorney's program to control the county jail population and to provide the necessary funding for the county auditor's duly approved budget.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 1 Jesse Gonzalez

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 1 Jesse Gonzalez, seconded by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina to bring back item #29

Vote: 4 - 0 Motion Carried

Other:

Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo (OUT OF THE COURTROOM)

Attachments:

Payroll Savings

Honorable Marco Montemayor, County Attorney

29.

AI-5296 Discussion and possible action to approve a Professional Services Agreement between Webb County and Homero R. Sanchez, M.D. The Agreement will be that Dr. Sanchez provide Mental Health Services to jail detainees. The Agreement will be for a term of Three (3) years, effective January 1st, 2017, and ending on December 30th, 2020. Webb County has agreed to compensate Dr. Sanchez Three Thousand Five Hundred and No/100ths Dollars ($3,500.00) per month. The amount should not exceed Forty-Two Thousand and No/100ths Dollars ($42,000.00) per year; subject to annual budgetary appropriations and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Webb County Sheriff Martin Cuellar, Account #001-2060-6022 (Professional Services)]

Issue: Current annual Agreement expires December 31, 2016.

Solution: New contract required.

Result: Continue providing Mental Health Services to jail inmates.

No action taken.

Attachments:

ProfServicesAgrmt - Homero R. Sanchez - Executed

Homero Sanchez MD-Mental Health Services-Sheriff's Office

Budget Officers

34.

AI-5312 Discussion and possible action to amend the 2017 Capital Project Fund budgets to the 2016 available balance. The Special Revenues Funds require a balanced budget based on the available balance or projected revenues.

Issue: Capital project budgets require to be adjusted to the available balances for expenditures and encumbrances for 2017. The Special Revenues budgets require to have balanced budgets.

Solution: Capital Project Funds and Special Revenue Funds will have the balanced budgets to perform their intended purpose.

Result: The amendments to the Capital projects and Special Revenues budgets will allow to have the balanced budget.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

budget amendments

35.

AI-5316 Discussion and possible action to approve the modification of titles, job descriptions and qualifications for the following slots to be submitted to the civil service commission for certification; and any other matters incident thereto.

Slot #2816 - Assistant County Attorney II
Slot #0862 - Administrative Services Director
Slot #2426 - Human Resource Administrator
Slot #1709 - Principal Accountant
Slot #2290 - Community Events Coordinator
Slot #1333 - Utilities System Director

Issue: During the budget adoption for fiscal year 2016-17, several new departments were created such as the business and financial office, environmental and gaming task force and the separation of the Risk Management and Human Resource departments. All new job descriptions or modifications to existing job descriptions for any position must be approved by the Commissioners Court prior to being submitted to civil service commission for certification.

Solution: Approve the submittal of job descriptions and/or modifications to existing titles and job descriptions for certification by the civil service commission.

Result: Comply with civil service rules and regulations.

Motion by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo

Vote: 4 - 1 Motion Carried

NAY:	Commissioner, Pct. 4 Jaime Alberto Canales

(Recess 10:58 - 11:05 a.m.)

Presentations

45.

AI-5252 Presentation by Eddie Villarreal, President of the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA), regarding the upcoming WBCA events with presentation of the 120th Celebration’s Commemorative Poster to the Webb County Judge and Commissioners Court. [Requested by Tano E. Tijerina, County Judge]

48.

AI-5321 Recognition and presentation of plaque to Ediza Garcia, Assistant Professor and Director of the Masters in Counseling Psychology program at Texas A&M International University for her tireless dedication to her work and projects such as Families Over Coming Under Stress (FOCUS) and State Partnership Initiative to Address Health Disparities (SPIAHD); and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by John Galo, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 3] [Co-Sponsored by Tano E. Tijerina, Webb County Judge]

46.

AI-5268 Presentation by the Texas Association of Counties a Counties Best Practices Award to Webb County Sheriff Martin Cuellar and the Webb County Sheriff’s Office for their legislative initiatives; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by the Jesse Gonzalez, Webb County Commissioner, Pct. 1 and Texas Association of Counties (TAC)]

Issue: Historically, the Webb County Sheriff’s Office was losing young peace officers to other organizations that offered larger salaries and better fringe benefits. Unable to compete, the Webb County Sheriff’s Office helped introduce and pass legislation that allows the reactivation of retired peace officers’ licenses.

Solution: The Webb County Sheriff’s Office worked with its state representatives to introduce needed legislation. By hiring experienced officers, the Webb County Sheriff’s Office avoids the expense of sending unlicensed new young officers for months of training just to witness them hired away by other federal, state, or local agencies which offer higher salaries and better benefits.

Result: The Texas Association of Counties (TAC) has awarded the Webb County Sheriff’s Office a 2016 County Best Practices Award in recognition of this innovative program. Webb County was one of 15 counties out of 254 counties in Texas selected by TAC to receive a Best Practices Award.

Attachments:

Press Release

Award Notice

47.

AI-5278 Recognition for county employees that completed the American Red Cross Shelter Fundamentals and Shelter Management Training on December 7, 2016 that was held at the Texas Department of Public Safety Laredo Office. Employees represented the following departments: Bruni Community Center, Emergency Management, Engineering, Fred and Anita Bruni Community Center, Larga Vista Community Center, Public Information Office, Risk Management, Santa Teresita Community Center, and the Webb County Fire Department. [Requested by Laura Govea, Emergency Management Coordinator]

Budget Officers

36.

AI-5320 Discussion and possible action to authorize the distribution of funds to United Independent School District, Laredo Independent School District and Webb Consolidated School District in the amount of One Million Three Hundred Forty-Two Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Six Dollars and Fifty-One Cents ($1,342,676.51) from the reserve fund balance of the Webb County School Lands that is to be distributed on a Scholastic Basis; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Webb County Auditor; Funds #861 and #862 (Permanent Available School Funds)]

Percentage	GL Account	School	Fund 861	Fund 862	Total
64.40%	XXX-0301-6072	UISD	$97,936.46	$766,747.21	$864,683.67
35.12%	XXX-0301-6071	LISD	$53,408.83	$418,139.16	$471,547.99
0.48%	XXX-0301-6073	Webb Consolidated ISD	$729.96	$5,714.89	$6,444.85

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina to approve the distribution according to the percentages

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo, seconded by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina to bring up item #44

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Honorable Tano E. Tijerina, Webb County Judge

44.

AI-5303 Discussion and possible action to accept the recommendation to the Webb County Historical Commission (WCHC) nominations committee and approve the following individuals for appointment/reappointment to the Webb County Historical Commission; and any other matters incident thereto, including an Annual Report regarding WCHC activities for 2016:

Jeanette Hatcher
Renee LaPerriere
Alfredo Gutierrez
Jorge Santana
Frank Gonzalez
Lily Perez
Mary Trevino
Elisa Gutierrez

Motion by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Honorable Jesse Gonzalez, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 1

37.

AI-5306 Discussion and possible action to designate all Precinct 1 Community Centers as live Christmas tree disposal sites for the month of January 2017, with further action to assign proper disposal to the Building Maintenance Department; and any other matters incident thereto.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, seconded by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

38.

AI-5319 Discussion and possible action to authorize the Webb County Sheriff’s Office to accept a 2017 National Crime Victims’ Right Week (NCVRW) Community Awareness Project (CAP) grant award in the amount of $5,000 from the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC); and designating the Webb County Judge as the authorized official to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires no match; and, therefore, will have no impact to the general fund.

Issue: The rights of crime victims are enshrined in the federal code (Section 3771 of Title 18 of the U.S. Code, Crimes and Criminal Procedure), the Texas Constitution (Article I Section 30), and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure (Chapter 56). However, many victims of crime are unaware of their mandated rights as well as the services that are specifically available to them to facilitate needed restitution, recovery, privacy, dignity, and justice.

Solution: Grant application to highlight the rights of and services for crime victims in the Laredo/Webb County area during the 2017 National Crime Victims’ Right Week.

Result: The general public and any victims of crime will become more aware of the services available to them in the Laredo/Webb County area.

Motion by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Honorable Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 2

39.

AI-5256 Discussion and possible action to approve the submission by the Webb County Sheriff's Office of a grant application to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for FY 2017 Community Outdoor Outreach Program (CO-OP) Grant in an amount estimated at $50,000.00 to provide low-income, at-risk youth of Webb County outdoor recreational opportunities at Texas State Parks; and designating the Webb County Judge as the authorized official in all matters related to this grant; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant requires an estimated $40,000.00 match, which the Webb County Sheriff's Office and its community partners will provide as in-kind match. Thus, this proposed grant will have no impact on the general fund. [Co-Sponsored by Commissioner Jesse Gonzalez]

Issue: The U.S. Census Bureau data released during October 2016 showed that the 2015 poverty rate for Laredo, Webb County, (listed at 32% in comparison to 16% for the State of Texas and 15% for the United States), ranked the second highest of all the metropolitan areas in the entire United States. Poverty, along with poor social skills and association with deviant peers, is among the most significant factors for mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in youth. Important protective factors to counter these risk factors include positive physical development; developing problem-solving skills/self-agency; engagement and connections with peers and atheletics; presence of mentors and support for development of skills and interests; positive social norms; and opportunities for engagement within the community.

Solution: The Webb County Sheriff's Office grant application for a 2017 Community Outdoor Outreach Program (CO-OP) Grant will provide at-risk youth in Laredo/Webb County the opportunity to participate in outdoor recreational activities and visit Texas State Parks in order to facilitate their abilities to development pro-social skills, increase self-esteeem/self-agency, engage in positive physical development, connect with positive peers, partake in outdoor athletics skills, receive mentorship and support for development of outdoor skills and interests, participate in positive social norms, and enjoy outdoor recreational opportunities that provide constructive engagement with role models/community members, including parents/chaperones, deputies and other employees of the Webb County Sheriff's Office, representatives of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and other civic leaders.

Result: At-risk youth in Laredo/Webb County will be able to participate in outdoor recreational activities at Texas State Parks, which will provide healthy lifestyle-related, fitness-correlated, pro-social, and safe alternatives to often sedentary, unhealthy, risky, and anti-social activities which many of these at-risk youth are more likely to engage in without the structured provision of such alternative outdoor recreational activities.

Motion by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Attachments:

C:\Users\alarellano\Desktop\2017 CO-OP Grant Transmittal Receipt.pdf

C:\Users\alarellano\Desktop\RESOLUTION-2017 CO-OP Grant Application.pdf

40.

AI-5261 Discussion and possible action to approve the submission by the Webb County Sheriff's Office of a grant application to the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) for a FY 2017 Improving Criminal Justice Responses to Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Grant Program in an amount estimated at $450,000.00 to enhance investigations in all matters relating to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and dating violence through the continuing payment of the salary and fringe benefits of a grant-funded investigator and to sustain legal advocacy efforts by the Casa de Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter; and designating the Webb County Judge as the authorized official in all matters related to this grant; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any type of match and, thus, will have no impact on the general fund. [Co-Sponsored by Commissioner Jesse Gonzalez]

Issue: Violence against women is among the most intractable and deadliest criminal justice problems in the United States, especially domestic violence and in the South Texas area. According to published statistics, the number of American women between 2001-2012 who were murdered by current or ex male partners in the United States was 11,766. That's almost double the amount of casualties lost during wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Women who will be victims of severe violence by an intimate partner in their lifetimes are 1 in 4. ("30 Shocking Domestic Violence Statistics That Remind Us It's An Epidemic" Vagianos 10/23/2014)

Solution:Casa Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter and the Webb County Sheriff's Office seek to continue their coordinated, collaborative efforts to assist victims of domestic violence in the local Laredo/Webb County Community.

Result: Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking in the Laredo/Webb County area will continue to receive improved, enhanced services from the Casa Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter and the Webb County Sheriff's Office to assist them with needed recovery, restitution, privacy, justice, and dignity.

41.

AI-5308 Discussion and possible action to authorize the development and submission of a Texas Community Development Block Grant application to the Texas Department of Agriculture for the Community Development (CD) Program in an amount not to exceed Two Hundred and Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($275,000.00); and authorizing the County Judge to act as the County's Executive Officer and Authorized Representative in all matters pertaining to the County's participation in the Community Development Program. [Requested by Juan Vargas, Executive Director, Economic Development Department]

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 4 Jaime Alberto Canales, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina to approve items #40 and #41

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

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

42.

AI-5314 Discussion and possible action to authorize the use of Six (6) county golf carts from the Casa Blanca Golf Course to be used by the Laredo Crime Stoppers to conduct operational business at the upcoming Menudo Bowl which will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at the Laredo Fair & International Exposition (LIFE) grounds; and any other matters incident thereto.

Motion by Commissioner, Pct. 1 Jesse Gonzalez, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 4 Jaime Alberto Canales to approve item #42 and for the fee to be paid by personal funds

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

Honorable Tano E. Tijerina, Webb County Judge

43.

AI-5255 Discussion and possible action to initiate the process to pave and stripe the empty lot located at 1001 Houston St., formerly known as the Courthouse Annex property, and to allocate funding in an amount not to exceed $35,000; and any other matters incident thereto. Funds will be used to obtain any and all permits necessary and any additional materials if needed. [Accounts #605-3001-8801-7 and #605-0106-8801]

Issue: The former Webb County Courthouse Annex building was demolished almost one year ago and the site remains unpaved and unused. Additional parking for courthouse staff and/or visitors is also needed and this tract of land can be conveniently utilized.

Solution: By allocating funds to pave and stripe this tract of land, additional parking can be utilized by courthouse staff and/or courthouse visitors. Paving of this property will be conducted by Webb County Road and Bridge staff with existing materials, machinery and labor. Striping of this paved property will be conducted by the Webb County Building Maintenance Department with existing materials, machinery and labor.

Result:This tract of land can be used by courthouse staff and/or courthouse visitors upon completion of the paving and striping.

Motion by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 3 John C. Galo

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

49.

Communications

Communications were led by Commissioner Jaime Alberto Canales, Commissioner John C. Galo, Commissioner Rosaura "Wawi" Tijerina, Commissioner Jesse Gonzalez, and Judge Tano E. Tijerina.

50.

Adjourn

Motion by County Judge Tano E. Tijerina, seconded by Commissioner, Pct. 2 Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina to adjourn

Vote: 5 - 0 Motion Carried

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Official Minutes for Webb County Commissioners Court Meeting Monday, January 9, 2017 at 9:00 AM (Approved January 23, 2017)
Let it be remembered that a regular meeting of the Webb County Commissioners Court was held at 9:00 a.m. at the regular meeting place with the following members present to wit: Tano E. Tijerina, County Judge Jesse Gonzalez, Commissioner, Pct. 1 Rosaura "Wawi" Tijerina, Commissioner, Pct. 2 John C. Galo, Commissioner, Pct. 3 Jaime Alberto Canales, Commissioner, Pct. 4 Thus constituting a quorum, the Commissioners Court proceeded to act upon the Agenda as posted in the meeting notice of the 6th day of January 2017. Present also were Mrs. Virginia M. Rodriguez, Deputy County Clerk representing Mrs. Margie Ramirez Ibarra, Ex-officio Clerk of the Commissioners Court, various officers and others interested in the business of the Court.