Discussion and possible action to approve the following personnel reorganization for the Environmental Health & Sanitation Department and Planning Department in an effort to ensure that the county meets the minimum Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requirements for the On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF) program; utilize the department’s existing payroll and operational funds to provide all necessary funding; and any other matters incident thereto. [Sponsored by Webb County Judge Tano E. Tijerina]
Issue: With the loss of the County’s only licensed DR (Designated Representative for OSSF) last October, TCEQ and a contracted DR provided much needed assistance in the County’s OSSF program. During this period, several existing deficiencies were identified and recommendations were offered for the County to implement safeguards to ensure the future integrity of the program.
Solution: Obtain more than one licensed DR for regular oversight of the County’s OSSF program and an additional employee to serve as “back-up” to minimize disruption of public services. Segregate field inspections from “in-take” duties and administrative functions to implement a “checks and balance” plan to ensure the integrity of the program.
Result: An enhanced OSSF Program that ensures compliance with TCEQ’s minimum requirements that eliminates potential fiscal impacts from non-compliance and provides adequate staffing to meet increased demands for public service relating to OSSF and development in the county’s jurisdiction.
Proposal for Environmental Health & Sanitation Department: