PUBLIC NOTICE
COMMISSIONERS COURT MEETING
WEBB COUNTY COURTHOUSE
1000 HOUSTON STREET, 2ND FLOOR
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
JANUARY 14, 2019
9:00 a.m.







 
             
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, Human Resources, Risk Management); 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 Federal Forfeiture budget amendment (line item transfer) in the amount of $350 under Section 111.070 (c)(1) of the Texas Local Government Code which allows the Commissioners Court to transfer from one budget item to another without authorizing an emergency expenditure.  [Requested by Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff; Fund 2153]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 2153-3020-001-452012 Property Casualty Premium $16,000 $350 $1,557 $1,207
To: 2153-3020-001-456005 Postage & Courier Service $0 $350 $0 $350

Issue: Line item transfer will cover yearly fee for PO Box used by Webb County Sheriff's Aviation personnel

Solution: With court approval on line item transfer, future /pending expense can be processed.

Result: Payment for US Postal Service can be made for use of PO Box.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within Grant funds under Section 111.070(c)(1) of the Texas Local Government which allows the Commissioners Court to transfer from one budget item to another without authorizing an emergency expenditure. [Requested by Community Action Agency]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 2368-5170-521-463801-005 Emergency Services RENT $1,775.00 $1,775 $1,775 $-0-
To: 2368-5170-521-463801 Emergency Services $1,391.52 $1,775 $296 $2,071

Issue: Auditor's office will be making an account available on the New World System (new account). CEAP 2019 grant requires new changes for next year. CAA has to require to the constituents immigration status documents and a TX ID from all household members applying  for the services. 

Solution: TDHCA approves to the Agencies if the household does not have the documentation required because it was lost or expired, and does not have the means to purchase a new copy, CAA should cover the costs under CSBG funds (new account- Support Services).

Result: Funding would allow CSBG Program to assist eligible households to obtain immigration status documentation for the purpose of receiving assistance through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP).
 
6. Business Office
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve the ratification of Fiscal Year 2017-2018 budget amendments; necessary to process payment for invoices dated or services rendered on or before September 30, 2018.

Issue: Various departments and offices depleted funds within departmental budget line items; nonetheless, multiple invoices were received after the fiscal year end which required an apply date of FY 2017-2018.

Solution: In order to process and pay invoices, funding was identified from interdepartmental and if necessary from intradepartmental budgets as approved by Commissioners Court on October 9, 2018. 

Result: Funds were transferred from within and between departments to cover pending invoices and properly classify the expenses in FY 2017-2018.
 
b.   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 14, 2019:
 
Slot # Title Hourly Rate
 
2864 Accounts Payable Specialist $18.46 - 16/A

 Issue: Slot has become vacant.

Solution: Post and fill vacant slot.

Result: Filling of the slot will allow the department to continue the operation of accounts payable.
 
7. Civil Legal Division
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve a software agreement between Webb County and Indigent Health-Care Solutions, Ltd.  1st Renewal term will take effect October 1, 2018 and terminating September 30, 2019 at a rate of $1,059 per month which help identifies discounted pricing on medical services for Webb County Jail inmates in an amount not to exceed $12,708 and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Webb County Sheriff Martin Cuellar; Account #1001-4070-001-443000-110]

Issue:  Webb County inmates who do not qualify for indigent health care service must be paid by the County Jail budget. Cost for various types of medical services for inmates can total in excess of $1 million dollars annually.
 
Solution: Continue paying Indigent Health Care Solutions at an annual investment cost of $12,708 in order to obtain Medicaid pricing for medical services such as labs/x-rays, in/out patient services, physician fees and other medical services provided for ailments being experienced by County inmates.
 
Result:  County will save a significant amount of money using Indigent Health Care Solutions services.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to approve a reimbursement agreement between the Webb County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshals Service for the overtime expense to conduct joint operations for the performance period of October 1, 2018 through September 30, 2019 in an amount not to exceed $16,000 [Fund 2599]. Applicable estimated fringe benefits in the amount of $3,483 associated with this overtime which are not covered  through this federal funding; and , therefore, will be covered by state forfeiture funds. This cooperative agreement will continue to have no impact on the general fund; and, authorizing the Webb County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matter incident thereto. [Fund 2151 - State Forfeiture Funds]

Issue:  Various criminals with felonious charges, such as but not limited to  murder, robberies, sexual assault of minors, all gang related felonies, and aggravated assault with deadly weapons, abscond from local jurisdiction in order to avoid justice for their crimes. Due to the limited manpower and other resources of local law enforcement agencies, these criminal can sometimes continue to successfully evade arrest with impunity.

Solution: Through joint law enforcement overtime (OT) operations, members of the US Marshal’s Service Multi-Agency Task Force can continue to assist other local law enforcement agencies, such as the Laredo Police Department and the Zapata County Sheriff’s Office, to conduct necessary investigations convert surveillance and undertake in the arrests of absconders who have outstanding warrants for their felonious crimes.

Result: Webb County/Laredo citizens will be safer once these criminals are captured and taken out of the local community in order to face justice for their felonious crimes.
 
c.   Discussion and possible action to approve and adopt the Webb County Self-Help Center (SHC) Housing Assistance Guidelines for Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and New Construction for SHC Contract Number 7216013 in order to comply with TDHCA’s requirement of adopting housing assistance guidelines for the Self-Help Center Program.  [Requested by Javier Ramirez, Community Action Agency Director]
 
Issue: Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) requires that Webb County develop and adopt Guidelines for the Self-Help Center Program’s grant contract. The current grant contract number is 7216013.
 
Solution: Webb County Commissioners Court approves the Webb County Self-Help Center’s proposed guidelines.
 
Result: Webb County complies with TDHCA’s requirement of adopting housing assistance guidelines for Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and New Construction for the Self-Help Center Program, Contract Number 7216013.
 
d.   Discussion and possible action to enter into a twelve (12) month (September 30, 2018 through September 29, 2019) Professional Services Agreement between Jesse Gerardo Hernandez and Webb County for the 406th District Court Drug Court Expansion and Enhancement Project for Veteran’s Treatment Program to evaluate and monitor program participants at a monthly cost not to exceed Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000.00) and a total cost not to exceed Thirty Six Thousand Dollars ($36,000.00) and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents. [Requested by Judge Oscar Hale, 406th District Court; Account #2352-2040-001432001]
 
e.   Discussion and possible action for Webb County to enter into a One (1) year (November 1, 2018 through October 31, 2019) lease agreement with the Laredo Housing Authority regarding lease space located at 6500 Springfield Avenue, Laredo, Texas (Springfield Acres) 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 #2357-5190-531-444100 (Space Rental)]
 
f.   Discussion and possible action for Webb County to enter into a One (1) year (November 1, 2018 through October 31, 2019) Lease Agreement between the Laredo Housing Authority and Webb County Head Start regarding lease space located at 2801 Ireland, Laredo, Texas (Magic Corner) 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 #2357-5190-531-444100 (Space Rental)]
 
g.   Discussion and possible action to approve Amendment #1 to the Services Agreement between Webb County and Lighthouse Services, Inc. that was effective September 15, 2018 to change the commencement of the initial term of the agreement from September 15, 2018 to September 30, 2018 and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Rafael Perez, County Auditor]
 
h.   Discussion and possible action to approve a Memorandum of Understanding (M.O.U.) between the Webb County Community Action Agency (W.C.C.A.A.) and Barber Education Academy, to fund the Transition Out of Poverty (T.O.P.) Program for a Two (2) year term, commencing November 27, 2018 through November 26, 2020, in order to provide for and help facilitate low income citizen/student program participation by furthering their educational opportunities in a chosen field of study that will allow low income citizen/students of Webb County to earn a “living wage”, to assist them in the pursuit of a better standard of living and transition out of poverty by providing qualified applicants financial assistance in an amount not to exceed Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) per individual, to be paid by Webb County to Barber Education Academy, and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Javier Ramirez, Community Action Agency Director; Account #2368-5170-521-457008-010 (CSBG Grant Transition Out of Poverty Case Management Program)]
 
i.   Discussion and possible action to approve theTerms of Engagement and Addendum for Actuarial Services between Webb County and Lewis and Ellis at a cost of Eleven Thousand Eight Hundred Dollars ($11,800.00) for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2018. The actuarial analysis will encompass the postemployement health plan and Incurred But Not Reported (IBNR) reserves for Webb County's Medical, Prescription and Dental plans. [Requested by Nathan Bratton, General Counsel, Webb County Civil Legal Division; Account #63001-09000-1432001 (Professional Services)]
 
j.   Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of classification of employees and wage pay rate, as required by the U.S. Department of Labor, for the Inter Governmental Service Agreement (IGSA) Federal Contracts 70DCR18DIG000004 and 70DCR18DIG000010 that were entered into pursuant to Texas Government Code §272.005 and requesting the Department of Labor approve the additional classifications and wage pay rates; authorizing the Webb County Judge to sign all relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. This will have no impact on the County's General Fund. [LPC Account #1001-209250-185; WCDC Account #1001-209250-180]

Issue: The current IGSA contracts with the federal government require that CoreCivic's Laredo Processing Center and their Webb County Detention Center employees have a wage and classification for the duties that each employee performs. Those positions that are not customary require a request for authorization for additional classification and rates using standard form 1444. Webb County is the Service Provider and by and through Sheriff's Office facilitates the relationship and administers the contracts between the federal government and CoreCivic.

Solution: Submit standard form 1444 to the proper federal entity, U.S. Department of Labor.

Result: The employees that are performing the functions at the Laredo Processing Center and the Webb County Detention Center will be in compliance with the two IGSA contracts and federal department of labor requirements.
 
k.   Discussion and possible action to enter into an Consulting Services Agreement with Essential Elements, LLC to provide Educational Training and Technical Assistance Services for the Webb County Webb County Head Start for a term to commence upon execution of the MOU and shall terminate upon the completion of the Training and Technical Assistance Services, for a total cost of Four Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($4,750.00) and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents and any matters incident thereto. [Requested by Aliza Oliveros, Director, Webb County Head Start Director; Account #2357-5230-531-432068 (Consultants Training)]
 
l.   Discussion and possible action to approve the First Amendment to the Emergency Ambulance Service Agreement between Webb County and Angel Care Ambulance Service, LLC that was effective July 6, 2017 to change ambulance unit and personnel locations and to decrease monthly costs payable to Angel Care Ambulance Service to the amount of Sixty Two thousand Dollars ($62,000.00) and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Chief Ricardo Rangel, Webb County Fire Chief]
 
m.   Discussion and possible action to enter into a two year Source Installation and Ambassador Agreements with ZeroMass Water, Inc. to locate six Source Hydropanels at the La Pressa Community Center and six Source Hydropanels at the Santa Teresita Community Center as pilot projects to demonstrate the potential of supplying a viable potable water supply from water vapor in the air, using sunlight to power the panels and supply a renewable source of drinking water at no cost to the county for the first year warranty period.
 
8. Honorable Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 2
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to re-appoint Mr. Juan Avila to the Webb County Community Action Agency Advisory Board as Representative for Precinct 2 Commissioner Rosaura "Wawi" Tijerina.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to accept a donation in the amount of $1,250.00 from Medina Electric Cooperative, Inc. for the Bruni Community Center to benefit programs and activities sponsored by the center. Funds to be deposited into Bruni Community Center's Goods for Public Events account #1001-6190-001-461003. Funds to remain in said account until completely exhausted.
 
9. Honorable Cindy Liendo, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 4
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to re-appoint Mr. Sergio Mora as Representative for Precinct 4, to the Webb County Community Action Agency Advisory Board; and any other matters incident thereto.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to approve the transfer of employee in slot (#2350) Director at the Ladrillito Community Center, to (Slot #2285) Director at the Fred & Anita Bruni Community Center), subject to the availability of payroll funds and adhering to any and all Wage Plan Policies, effective January 14, 2019, with additional action to fill vacant slot (#2350) also subject to the availability of payroll funds and any applicable Civil Service guidelines; and any other matters incident thereto.
 
Issue: Appointment is pending for the Fred & Anita Bruni Community Center.
 
Solution: Request to transfer employee in slot #2350 (Ladrillito Activity Center Director) and appoint as the new director for the Fred & Anita Bruni Community Center, with an additional request to post and fill the newly vacant slot.
 
Result: Both centers filled with the staff necessary for daily operations.
 
10. Community Action Agency
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the Webb County Community Action Agency to enter into an annual vendor agreement with Retail Energy providers (listed below) for the implementation of Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) and the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). These vendor agreements are a Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) requirement for the implementation of the programs.

List of Retail Energy Provider

Infinite Electric LLC
Veteran Energy, LLC
Gexa Energy

Issue: The Webb County CAA will enter into an annual vendor agreement with Retail Energy Provider for the implementation of Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) and the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP).

Solution: These vendor agreements are a Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) requirement for the implementation of the programs.

Result: The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) will provide funding to be used for payment of qualifying low income clients home energy expenses.
 
11. Honorable Tano E. Tijerina, Webb County Judge
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to re-appoint Erasmo Villarreal as representative for Webb County Judge to the Webb County Community Action Agency Advisory Board.
 
12. Economic Development
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to accept a grant award for a FY 2017 State Criminal Alien Assistance Program (SCAAP) in the amount of $121,512  in response to a grant completed and submitted by the Webb County Sheriff’s Office to the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) for reimbursement of costs already incurred for the incarceration of undocumented criminal aliens at the Webb County jail; 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; and, in fact, is a reimbursement of costs already incurred. 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 Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff]  [Co-sponsored by Hon. Commissioner Jesse Gonzalez, Pct. 1]

Issue: Although immigration matters, including illegal immigration, are constitutionally established as existing under the legal jurisdiction and regulation of the federal government, state prisons and local detention facilities, such as the Webb County jail, incurs significant costs incarcerating undocumented foreign aliens who commit crimes in the United States. This includes but is not limited to supervision, housing, feeding, clothing, any medical and transportation expenses, and other associated detention costs.
 
Solution:  Grant application to obtain reimbursement of a small percentage of the incurred correctional officer salary costs associated with detaining undocumented criminal aliens who had at least one felony or two misdemeanor convictions for violations of state or local law and who were incarcerated at the Webb County jail for at least four (4) consecutive days during the reporting period of July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016.
 
Result:  Webb County will be reimbursed by the federal government a limited percentage of the amount of its already incurred costs of detained foreign criminals incarcerated at the Webb County jail.
 
b.   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 14, 2019:
 
Slot # Title Salary
 
1382 Project Coordinator $38,402.54 16/A-I

Issue: the employe that was in slot #1382 transferred to a different department effective 01/07/19.

Solution: Request to fill this vacant slot will allow the department to continue to operate effectively.

Result: The filling of slot #1382 will allow the department to run on a full staff if the court grants approval.
 
c.   Discussion and possible action to approve grant award first Allocation to Contract Number #61190003065 for the Community Services Block Grant Program (CSBG) from Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for the Program Year 2019, in the amount of ONE HUNDRED THIRTY NINE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED EIGHTY EIGHT DOLLARS ($139,888.00) and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Account #2368-5170-3303000. All required documents were sent for review through the Economic Development Department and the solicitation is complaint with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. This action will have no impact to the General Fund. [Requested by Javier Ramirez, CAA Director]

Issue: Approve funding for the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) from Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for program year 2019 in the amount of $557,470.00. The contract shall commence on January 01, 2019 and shall end on December 31, 2019. First Allocation or first Installment is $139,888.00.

Solution: The Community Services Block Grant Program (CSBG) provides support services to eligible elderly, disabled and low income residens of Webb County.

Result: The support services are intended to assist eligible Webb County residents to transition out of poverty.
 
13. Engineering
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve a purchase for the Engineering Department of the Acrobat Professional Software and MircroStation Bentley Software System in the amount of $7,267.00 from SHI Government Solutions as per Quote #16418248; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-1280-470000-190 (Capital Outlay - I.T. Software)]

Issue: The Engineering department will need to purchase/install the latest version of Microstation for use to review schematic files for the Hachar Reuthinger Project. Webb County designated the County Engineer as the RPIC (Responsible Person In Charge) and the Assistant County Engineer as Webb County Project Manager for the Hachar-Reuthinger Project. 

Solution: As per policy from Auditor's office, purchases that exceed $5k require they come from capital outlay accounts. 

Result: Proceed with purchase of software.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to approve a Budget Amendment by increasing revenues and expenditures in the amount of $5,670,008.19 for new revenues (carryover amount) received for the Engineering Department's Grant Fund No. 3720 County Transportation Infrasructure Fund Grant Program C.T.I.F.).  This required by court policy but does not ipact the grant; and, therefore, does not require notification to/approval by the funding agency in accordance with the Texas Local Government Code Section 111.07075. (Special Budget for Revenue Received after Start of Fiscal Year). The Financial information has been certified by the Auditor's Office; and any other matters incident thereto. [There is no Financial Impact]
 
Account Number Account Name Carried Over Budget
3720-7230-330300 Grant Revenue $5,103,007.27
3720-7230-337200 Revenue from Webb $567,000.92
     
3720-1150-001-431002-035 Administrative Expense $43,750.00
3720-7230-001-432001 Professional Services $443,134.19
3720-7230-001-47000 Capital Outlay $5,183,124.00
    $5,670,008.19

Issue:  This grant funding is available until September 30, 2018. Newly implemented procedures require year end balances to be carried over and entered in the system in order to continue the availability of these grant funds during the new fiscal year.

Solution: In order to carry over grant funds, this carry over agenda item must be approved by the court.

Result: Approval of this agenda item for the continued availabiltiy of these grant funds.
 
14. Fire Suppression & EMS Services
 
a.   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 materials and supplies by department personnel; and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-3140-001-461000 (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 #1001-3140-001-461000.

Result: Continue working relationship with Enterprise Texas Pipeline LLC and purchases needed department items.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to accept a donation from Medina Electric Cooperative Inc. in the amount of $750.00 as per Local Government Code 81.032, to be utilized in materials and supplies by department; and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-3140-001-461000 (Materials & Supplies)]

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

Solution: Deposit $750 check into materials and supplies line item, Account #1001-3140-001-461000.

Result: Continue working relationship with Medina Electric Cooperative Inc., and purchase needed supplies for department and its personnel.
 
             
15. Planning & Physical Development
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to issue a “Certificate of Compliance with Plat Requirements” to authorize an electrical service connection pursuant to Section 232.029(c)(1), Local Government Code., to an unplatted 1.48 acre out of Tract 50, Las Lomas, Sec I as further described in Vol. 40, Pgs. 754-755 of the WCDR. (ID 9308).
 
Issue: Item is a regulatory compliance issue regarding real property development provisions of state law and local regulations with particular emphasis on the Model Subdivision Rules enacted for residential subdivisions.  Commissioners Court must certify to certain property conditions before utility service connections may be authorized.
 
Solution: As reflected in agenda backup, staff has verified compliance matters and recommends the Court’s approval of this certificate.
 
Result: If approved, applicant may connect property to water and sewer services.  If not approved, water and sewer connection to property is prohibited.
 
16. 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, as well as any and all Wage Plan Policies, effective January 14, 2018:
 
Slot # Title Salary
 
2085 Assistant Public Defender II $73,955.87 (23/N-V)

Issue: Slot #2085 will become vacant on January 3, 2018.

Solution: Request is being made to fill the vacant attorney slot.

Result: The filling of slot# 2085 will allow our department to continue to function efficiently and effectively.
 
             
17. Purchasing
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the Purchasing Agent to process surplus and/or salvage property in accordance with the Texas Local Government Code, Section 263.152 (Disposition) and to publish notice to public as per Local Government Code Section 263.153 (Notice) for surplus and/or salvage property being auctioned.
 
Issue: Excess County property that either is salvage property because of time, accident, or any other cause is so worn, damaged, or obsolete that it has no value for the purpose it was originally intended for and/or surplus property that that is no longer needed by the department and may have some usefulness for the purpose it was intended and would be transferred for use by another County department or auctioned online to the general public.
 
Solution: Attempt to sell the County surplus or salvage property by competitive bids or auction, dispose or destroy property that cannot be sold through auction and/or competitive bids because it has deemed worthless or dispose through and/or competitive bids because it has deemed worthless or dispose through a recycling program under which property is collected, separated, or processed and returned to use in the form of raw materials of new products.
 
Result: Generate revenue from sale of property, reduce County expenditures by transferring surplus property to other departments and make room for future assets turned in by County departments.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to approve the ranking, as submitted by the County Scoring Committee, for RFQ 2019-002 “Architectural Services for Renovations to Medical Examiner's Office” as follows:

1. Cavazos Architects
2. Redline Architecture
3. Slay Architecture
4. Sepulveda Associates Architects, Inc.
5. Mustard Design Architects
6. CLK Architects & Associates
7. Nassri-Warren Group Architects

Authorizing the Civil/Legal Department to negotiate the terms and conditions of the contract at a fair and reasonable price with the first ranked Respondent, Cavazos Architects. [Requested by Commissioners Court]


Issue: The Medical Examiner is in need of additional storage space for an evidence room, expansion of building to add additional walk in coolers and exterior improvements to include fencing and secured entrances to the facility. Commissioners Court authorized the Purchasing Agent to secure formal solicitations for architectural services for the preparation of site plans, drawings and specifications and project management for the expansion and modernization of the Medical Examiner’s Office, Morgue and Autopsy Area.

Solution: Approve the highest-ranking firm in accordance with the Texas Government Code; Chapter 2254 (Professional and Consulting Services – Professional Services Procurement Act). Seven (7) firms submitted proposals.

Result: Authorize County Civil Legal Department to start negotiations with the awarded firm.

 
 
c.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the Purchasing Agent to solicit formal requests for qualifications from Architectural firms to provide design plans, prepare construction documents and construction phase services for the Webb County Fair Grounds Project in accordance with the Texas Government Code; Chapter 2254.004 (Contract for Professional Services of Architect, Engineer, or Surveyor). [Requested by Commissioners Court]
 
Issue: Commissioners Court approved the solicitation for a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) for the construction & renovation of a new Webb County Fair Grounds. On or before the selection of a CMAR, the Government entity shall select or designate an architect or engineer to prepare the construction documents for the project.
 
Solution: Approve the solicitation for qualified and competent Architectural firms to compete for CMAR project architect to represent the County independently of Contractor.
 
Results: Secure qualified proposals and award to the highest qualified firm in accordance with the Texas Local Government Code.
 
d.   Discussion and possible action to approve the ranking, as submitted by the County Scoring Committee, for RFQ 2019-001 “Architectural Services for Renovations to County Property located at 1002 Farragut Street” as follows:

1. Frank Architects, Inc.
2. Redline Architects
3. Cavazos Architects
4. Sepulveda Architects
5. JHS Architects, Inc.
6. Gignac & Associates, LLP.
7. CLK Architects & Associates
8. Rose Villacorte Architecture, LLC.

Authorizing the Civil/Legal Department to negotiate the terms and conditions of the contract at a fair and reasonable price with the first ranked Respondent, Frank Architects, Inc. [Requested by Commissioners Court]

Issue:  The former HEB Property located on 1002 Farragut Street was purchased by Webb County.  Commissioners Court authorized the Purchasing Agent to secure formal solicitations for architectural services for the preparation of schematic design plans, drawings and specifications for construction documents and project management for the renovations and modernization of property.
 
Solution: Approve the highest-ranking firm in accordance with the Texas Government Code; Chapter 2254 (Professional and Consulting Services – Professional Services Procurement Act).  Eight (8) firms submitted proposals. 
 
Result: Authorize County Civil Legal Department to start negotiations with the awarded firm.
 
e.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the Purchasing Agent to solicit Request for Proposals for a Depository Bank for Webb County; current agreement with Commerce Bank terminates May of 2019.

Issue: The current bank depository contract with Commerce Bank will terminate May of 2019.
 
Solution: Authorize the Purchasing Agent to seek competitive proposals for the Courts review and selection.

Result: Secure competitive proposals, evaluate proposals, score and document final recommendation on rankings and any other requirements set by Commissioners Court.
 
18. Honorable Martin Cuellar, Sheriff
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve the payout cost of annual leave to pay Employee ID #2476 using nurse overtime (OT) from Department 4080 with the following breakdown:
 
Acct. Number Acct. Name Amount
1001-4070-001-413000-010 Overtime $1,381.30
1001-4070-001-422000 FICA $105.67
1001-4070-001-423000 Retirement $162.58
1001-4070-001-425000 Unemployment $10.50
1001-4070-001-426000 Workers Comp $24.17
    $1,684.22

Issue: For employee ID #2476, Annual Leave was not paid out when transfered to another county department in December 2014.

Solution: When approved by Commissioners Court, employee will reciev owed but pending annual leave hours to be paid.

Result: Court action will resolve pending issue.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to approve the allocation of the source of applicable fringe benefits for the overtime expenses paid through a continuous reimbursement agreement between Webb County Sheriff’s Office and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Task Force for the performance period of October 1, 2018 through September 30, 2019 for an amount not exceed $15,000. [Fund 2601] Applicable estimated fringe benefits in the amount of $3,493 associated with this overtime are not covered through this federal funding: and, therefore , will be covered by the State forfeiture funds. [Fund 2151] Thus, this continuous cooperative agreement will continue to have no impact on the general fund.

Issue: International criminal organizations deftly exploit traditional jurisdictional boundaries across geographic areas and amongst different types/levels of law enforcement agencies, such as federal, state and local agencies, in order to carry on their illicit, highly lucrative and dangerous smuggling enterprises.

Solution: The Webb County Sheriff’s Office and federal agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), seek to work collaboratively to conduct joint operational/task force objectives in order to disrupt the illegal activities regarding the illegal importations, distribution, manufacture and possession of illegal narcotics.

Result: Investigators from the Webb County Sheriff’s Office will be able to work cooperatively with ICE federal agents in conducting undercover operations, utilizing confidential informants, participating in special enforcement operations and conducting contraband smuggling investigations in order to detect, disrupt, deter, and help dismantle the illicit activities of these international criminal organizations.
 
             
19. Water Utilities
 
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 14, 2018:
 
Slot # Title Hourly Rate
 
1533 Operator I $15.15 - 12/A

Issue: This slot was vacated voluntarily on September 4, 2018. Replacement is needed to complete the full complement of required operators for the Water Treatment Facility.

Solution:  Obtain authorization to advertise and fill the position with a qualified candidate.

Result: Provide for continuous operation of the Water Treatment facility.
 
20. Honorable Raul Reyes, Treasurer
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve a Resolution Amending Authorized Representatives form for the TexPool Investment Entity and authorizing the County Judge to execute alll relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: Need to delete Ms. Delia Perales from TexPool and add Mr. Raul Reyes

Solution: To be able to have Mr. Reyes do all the necessary transactions
 
Result: Once approved Mr. Reyes will be able to fullfill investment responsabilities.
 
             
REGULAR AGENDA
 
Honorable Martin Cuellar, Sheriff
 
21.   Discussion regarding staffing issues within the Webb County Sheriff’s Office; Mental Health Unit, with possible action to increase deputies within said department to adequately handle the increasing demand for mental health consumers. [Sponsored by Tano E. Tijerina, County Judge and Jesse Gonzalez, Commissioner Pct. 1]

Issue: The Webb County Sheriff’s Office handles all mental health cases within the county.  Oftentimes deputies are tasked with transporting consumers to other counties, resulting in extended working hours for the deputies and an accumulation of comp time, annual leave and an office that is inadequately staffed.
 
Solution: Increasing deputies within this department will allow deputies to take adequate time off when traveling extended periods of time so as to avoid an accumulation of annual time and depletion of deputies within the department.
 
Result: Sheriff’s Office will be adequately staffed to keep up with the demand within the Mental Health Unit’s ever-increasing workload.
 
Economic Development
 
22.   Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of a grant application as prepared, written, coordinated, and submitted by the Webb County Sheriff’s Office to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for FY 2019 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. 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] [Co-sponsored by Hon. Commissioner Jesse Gonzalez, Pct. 1]
 
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 athletics; 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 2019 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-esteem/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.
 
Engineer
 
23.   Discussion and possible action to approve a deduct change order from the Webb County Los Botines Fire Station No. 3 construction contract between Webb County and Hydroworks, Inc., in the amount of $41,161.00 (see exhibit A) and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #3150-1020-001-470000 (Capital Outlay), 3150-1060-001-470000 (Capital Outlay)]
 
Issue: A deduct change order is requested by Contractor in order to purchase materials and/or equipment needed to finish project.  Contractor will install equipment within 10 days after arrival.  Acceptance of this deduct change order shall constitute a modification to the Contract.
              
Solution: Approval of deduct change order and purchase of materials and/or items needed through the Webb County Purchasing Department. 
 
Result: Ensure savings to the County and finish project.
 
Human Resources
 
24.   Discussion and possible action to authorize county staff to review and condense the final list of qualified applicants for the Judicial Collection Director position; and to authorize a future date for interviews and/or selection of an candidate; and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: The Commissioners Court needs to select personnel to administer the Judicial Collections Department.

Solution: Filling the position of Judicial Collection Director will enable the Judicial Collections Department to fulfill its purpose.

Result: Judicial Collections Department will be functional.
 
Purchasing
 
25.   Discussion and possible action to approve a temporary hourly rate adjustment to slot number 9815 Administrative Clerk not to exceed $2.89 per hour retroactive to January 7, 2019. Administrative Clerk will perform Buyer duties during the extended absence of employee (Buyer / Slot #880); employee currently has no accruals providing funding availability during absence of employment. The hourly rate adjustment will be paid from Slot #880 and will not exceed current approved payroll budget.
 
Issue: One of the Buyers will be out for approximately 3 months on approved leave.  Employee has no accruals to expense.  Allowing funding availability for temporary hourly rate adjustment. 
 
Solution: Approve temporary hourly rate adjustment for the Administrative Clerk to perform both duties during the absence of employee out on extended leave.  The temporary hourly rate adjustment will fall within the approved budget and will not exceed what was originally adopted by the Court.
 
Result: Department requisitions requests will be evenly distributed and will help keep the efficiency and effectiveness of the Purchase Order process flowing with minimal interruption, without having to hire a temporary employee.
 
Honorable Raul Reyes, Treasurer
 
26.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the Webb County Treasurer’s Office to process recurring estimate, actual and difference payments for payroll operations expenditures related to the Webb County Casa Blanca Golf Course. Estimate payments will be presented for approval by the court for upcoming payrolls, while actual and difference payments will be presented on the subsequent meeting for approval by the Webb County Commissioners Court; and any other matters incident thereto.
 
Commissioners Court Administrator
 
27.   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 Organization to conduct operational business at the upcoming Menudo Bowl which will be held on Saturday, January 19, 2019 at the Laredo Fair & International Exposition (LIFE) grounds; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Cindy Liendo, Commissioner Precinct 4)
 
Honorable John C. Galo, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 3
 
28.   Discussion and possilbe action to appoint a new representative for Precinct 3 on the board of the Webb County-City of Laredo Regional Mobility Authority (RMA); and any other matters incident thereto. 

Issue: Mr. Steve LaMantia has resigned from the RMA board.

Solution: Appoint new individual to represent precinct 3 on said board. 

Result: Continued representation for precinct.
 
29.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the purchase of a Lexmark XC4140 Printer from Toshiba Business Solutions in the amount not to exceed $1,920.00; and any other matters incident thereto.  [Operational Reserve account #1001-1130-001-431007-010]

Issue: Department is in need of printer for their daily operations.

Solution: Make funding available from the operational reserve to purchase needed equipment.

Result: Functionally equipped office to run daily operations.
 
30.   Discussion and possible action to rescind Commissioners Court action taken on November 26, 2018 regarding addendum Item #1, which authorized the purchasing agent to advertise for a construction manager at risk for pre-construction and construction for the Webb County fairground facilities in accordance with the Government Code Subchapter F. Section 2269; with additional action to approve a new procurement method for the Webb County Fairgrounds project; and any other matters incident thereto.
 
31.   Discussion and possible action to determine which county departments will be occupying the recently acquired property located at 1002 Farragut Street, formerly known as the HEB building; and any other matters incident thereto.
 
Closed Session/Executive Session
 
32.   Discussion and possible action regarding pending litigation in Cause No. 2017-CVA-0003561-D3, 341st District Court, Webb County, Texas styled Juan Garcia Lino, et al; vs. V.A.L. Transport, LLC., Alfredo Gonzalez and Webb County, Texas; and authorizing hiring of outside legal counsel as necessary and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute and relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Closed/Executive Session is requested pursuant to Texas Government Code, Title 5, Subchapter D, Section 551.071 (1) (A) (Consultation With Attorney/Pending Litigation)][Requested by Webb County Civil Legal Division]
 
Presentations
 
33.   Presentation by Jay Puig, President of the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA), regarding the upcoming WBCA events with presentation of the 122nd Celebration’s Commemorative Poster to the Webb County Judge and Commissioners Court. [Requested by Tano E. Tijerina, County Judge]
 
34. Communications
 
35. Adjourn
 
           
------------------------------------------------ PAGE BREAK ------------------------------------------------------
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, 2019


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, 2019 and said notice remained so posted continuously for at least 72 hours preceding the scheduled time of said meeting.

DATED THIS ____ DAY OF JANUARY, 2019

MARGIE RAMIREZ IBARRA, COUNTY CLERK, WEBB COUNTY, TEXAS


BY: ______________________________________________
      Margie Ramirez-Ibarra, County Clerk