SPECIAL MEETING

PUBLIC NOTICE
COMMISSIONERS COURT MEETING
WEBB COUNTY COURTHOUSE
1000 HOUSTON STREET, 2ND FLOOR
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
APRIL 27, 2020
9:00 a.m.


On March 16, at the Attorney General's request, Gov. Greg Abbott utilized Section 418.016 of the Government Code to suspend certain requirements of the Texas Open Meetings Act (TOMA) in light of the ongoing COVID-19 emergency. Tex. Gov't. Code Ann. Section 418.016 (Vernon 2017). The Governor suspended provisions of TOMA that require a quorum of the governing body and the general public to be together in a single location in order to allow videoconference or telephonic meetings.

 
Live Video Stream: http://www.webbcountytx.gov/AgendaandMinutes_Video/
Call in number for meeting: (956) 523-4640
Email address for meeting: cctpubliccomments@webbcountytx.gov
Please include in the email your name, contact information and the agenda item you are addressing.
All questions must be submitted before 9:00 a.m. CST







 
             
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, Business Office, Human Resources, Judicial Collections, Risk Management, Tax Assessor-Collector); 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. Honorable Joe Lopez, 49th District Court Judge
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within the General fund:
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 1001-1130-001-431007-010 Operational Reserve   $7,500    
To: 1001-2010-001-432001 Professional Services $7,500 $7,500 $7,500 $15,000

Issue: To cover outstanding invoice for Dr. J. Eftekhar for medical evaluation services.

Solution: Transfer of funds to complete total amount due.

Result: Payment in full to Dr. Eftekhar.
 
6. Auditor
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within Grant Funds; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Judge Jose R. Salinas, J.P., Pct. 4; (Grant Fund #2742)]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 2742-2180-001-460000 Office Supplies $3,000 $1,200 $3,000.00 $1,800.00
To: 2742-2180-001-458090-005 Travel $6,470 $1,200 $3,560.40 $4,760.40

Issue: There were insufficient funds in the budget line item for out-of-town travel. 

Solution: Make a line item transfer. 

Result: There will be sufficient funds under each budget category.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within the General fund:
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 1001-1260-001-456205 Training & Education $20,000 $10,000 $14,776 $4,776
To: 1001-1260-001-460105 Minor Tools & Apparatus $9,000 $10,000 $9,000 $19,000

Issue: Due to COVID-19, an emergency budget line item transfer was need to purchase laptops for the Auditors Office.

Solution: Programmed annual Auditors trainings were canceled due to COVID-19 and \aAccount will have the budget funds necessary to process requisition of laptops.

Result: There will be sufficient funds to purchase laptops.
 
c.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, a budget amendment of $44,000 to the District Attorney Federal Forfeiture Fund from new proceeds received from the U.S. Department of Justice Equitable Share Program in accordance with Texas Local Government Code, Section 111.0706 (Special Budget for Grant or Aid Money). [Requested by Isidro "Chilo" Alaniz, District Attorney; Fund #2162 (DOJ - Federal Forfeiture)]
 
  Account Number Account Name Amount
From: 2162-259700 Fund Balance  $44,000
To: 2162-2260-001-457006 Law Enforcement - Other $44,000

Issue: New equitable shared funds have been awarded to the District Attorney's Office and may be spent after a budget for the expenditure of the proceeds has been submitted to the Governing Body. The budget must be detailed and clearly define the categories of expenditures.

Solution: Submit a budget to the Governing Body that clearly defines the categories of expenditures to be incurred with the new proceeds.

Result: The District Attorney's Office will add the new proceeds to its current budget to be utilized for law enforcement purposes in accordance with the Department of Justice Equitable Sharing Guidelines.
 
d.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, a budget amendment to the District Attorney State forfeiture fund by increasing the expenditure budget by $11,600; said amount is available from seized funds pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. [Requested by Isidro "Chilo" Alaniz, District Attorney; Fund #2160-2260]
 
  Account Name Account Number Amount
From: Fund Balance 2160-259700 $11,600
To: Professional Services 2160-2260-001-432001 $11,600

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.
 
e.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer):for the Sheriff's Safe Haven building by increasing the Fund Balance Account 2028-59700 in amount of $10,000.00 to complete modifications to building. [Requested by Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 2028-59700 Fund Balance $11,000 $10,000 $2,549.62 $1,000
To: 2028-1150-001-443000-020 Repair Maint Building $3,000 $10,000 $2,549.62 $12,549.62

Issue: The agreement allows for $18,000 in allowance for modifications for the new Safe Haven building. Sheriff's office needs to come up with the rest of the monies to complete project.

Solution: Seeking authorization from court to increase the fund balance under account 2020-1150-001-443000-020 to continue with project.

Result: Fund balance will be raised to $10,000 and move forward to issue out Purchase Order.
 
f.   Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, a budget amendment to the Constable Pct. 3 Department Stonegarden Grant Overtime fund by increasing $3,000 from Stonegarden Repairs & Maintenance line item. [Requested by Adrian Cortez, Constable Pct. 3; Fund #2465]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 2465-3160-001-443000-075 Repairs & Maintenance vehicles $5,000 $3,000 $3,602.98 $602.98
             
To: 2465-3160-001-413000 Overtime $36,018.00 $2,425.40 0 $2,425.40
  2465-3160-001-422000 FICA County Share   $185.87 0 $185.87
  2465-3160-001-423000 Retirement County Store   $298.70 0 $298.70
  2465-3160-001-425000 Unemployment Tax   $16.99 0 $16.99
  2465-3160-001-426000 Worker Compensation   $73.04 0 $73.04
        $3,000    

Issue: Stonegarden Grant approved Frag Order for funds awarded for Repair & Maintenance be transferred to Stonegarden Overtime fund which had a deficit of $138.45.

Solution: By ratifying a budget amendment the Stonegarden Overtime fund will no longer be on a deficit, and Constable Pct. 3 deputies will have extra Overtime funding to patrol Pct. 3 and  Webb County to deter crime and  enforce State laws.

Result: Constable Pct 3 will utilize the funding available to patrol Pct. 3 and Webb County to deter crime and enforce State laws.
 
g.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within Grant funds. [Requested by James Flores, Community Action Agency Director]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 2661-7110-521-410000 Payroll $244,731 $8,000 $112,859.14 $104,859.14
  2661-7110-521-443000-020 Repairs & Maint. Bldg $12,540 $1,500 $9,930.00 $8,430.00
  2661-7100-521-410000 Payroll $106,907 $1,800 $45,698.06 $43,898.06
        $11,300    
To: 2661-7110-521-460105 Minor Tools & Apparatus $6,276 $3,200 $793.83 $3,993.83
  2661-7110-521-413000 Overtime $35,000 $4,800 $8,828.60 $13,628.60
  2661-7110-521-460028 Janitorial Supplies  $2,500 $1,500 $1,049.57 $2,549.57
  2661-7100-521-410000 Overtime $8,074 $1,800 $1,950.24 $3,750.24
        $11,300    

Issue: El Aguila is requesting line item transfers to prevent negative balances. 

Solution: Approve requested line item transfers. 

Result: There will be sufficient funds in line items which will allow for continuation of transportation services for remainder of budget year.
 
h.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) for the 406th Judicial District Adult Drug Court Program (SAMHSA Grant No.1H79TI081059-01) from account #2353-2040-003-458000-Administrative Travel to Account #2353-2040-003-460105-Minor Tools and Apparatus in the amount of $2,400.00 for the purchase of a laptop computer to be used by drug court staff due to COVID-19 contingency. There is no impact to the General Fund. [Requested by 406th District Court]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Request: Current: End Bal.
From: 2353-2040-003-458000 Administrative Travel $2,400 $7,407 $5,007
To: 2353-2040-003-460105 Minor Tools & Apparatus $2,400 $0.00 $2,400

Issue: Additional funds are needed for purposes of purchasing a laptop computer to be utilized by the drug court staff to be able to continue to provide services to drug court participants and perform all other responsibilities while working remotely due to current circumstances and in order to prevent COVID-19 exposure. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration SAMHSA) allows for funds to be utilized for such expense due to pandemic. 

Solution: Obtain the Commissioners' Court approval of the line item transfer.

Result: Staff members working directly with the 406th Judicial District Adult Drug Court Program will be able to continue to fulfill all daily operations via web and avoid exposure to virus.
 
i.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following carry over budget for the grant fund 3522 in the amount of $467,270.00, and any matters incident thereto. This is required by court policy but does not impact the grant; and therefore, does not require notification or approval by the funding agency. There is no financial impact to either general fund or the grant. [Requested by James Flores, Economic Development Director]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Amount
From: 3522-7230-330300 Grant Revenue  $467,270
       
To: 3522-1150-001-410000 Payroll $38,000
  3522-1150-001-421000 Insurance $2,000
  3522-1150-001-422000 FICA $2,000
  3522-1150-001-423000 Retirement  $2,000
  3522-1150-001-425000 Unemployment $2,000
  3522-1150-001-426000 Work Comp. $2,000
  3522-1150-001-454000 Advertisement $1,000
  3522-1150-001-461000 Materials & Supplies $1,000
  3522-7230-001-432001 Professional Services $47,270
  3522-7230-001-470000 Capital Outlay $370,000

Issue: It is required of us to carry over year end balances and have them entered into the system in order to continue availability of grant funds during the 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 for the continued availability of the grant funds.
 
j.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within Grant funds. [Requested by Virginia Aranda, Public Defender]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 2702-2280-001-422000 FICA $10,521 $1,185.73 $5,622.42 $4,436.69
             
To: 2702-2280-001-421000 Health Insurance $20,020 $770.00 $8,470.00 $9,240.00
  2702-2280-001-423000 Retirement $15,994 $415.73 $7,455.54 $7,871.27
        $1,185.73    

Issue: Extra monies will be needed to cover an upcoming deficit in the Health Insurance and Retirement accounts.
 
Solution: Approval of the line item transfer will ensure that we have sufficient funds to cover the upcoming deficit.
 
Result: We will have sufficient funds for the rest of the fiscal year.
 
7. Budget Officers
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, the following budget amendment to increase and release payments to local food banks in response to COVID-19 global pandemic, in order to complete food distribution to local community.
 
Acct. Number Acct. Name Increase
2470-7410-001-463030-005 Bulk Food for Meals $125,000

Issue: On March 23, the Commissioners Court approved the above mentioned donations to local food banks in response to COVID-19 global pandemic.

Solution: The budget increase was needed to process payment.

Result: Payments and checks were executed.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to approve payment to Marketing Depot in the amount of $5,080 for Fairgrounds Groundbreaking Event, and authorizing a budget amendment from 2031-1010-001-441205 by the said amount to 2031-1010-001-454000-030; and any other matters incident thereto.
 
8.

Building Maintenance
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, the following budget amendment by increasing fund #2470 FEMA Disaster Assistance in respond to COVID-19 emergency pandemic; and any other matters incident thereto.
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Request
To: 2470-7410-001-444500 Equipment Rental $660

Issue: Transfer funds to account number 2470-7410-001-444500 equipment rental to cover the freight charge.

Solution: Transfer funds to include freight charge on purchase order 2020-3728, Holt Cat.

Result: Provide enough funds to cover expense for equipment rental.






 
 
9. Casa Blanca Golf Course
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfers) within Golf Course funds:


 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 7100-6130-001-458000 Admin Travel $19,600 $1,000 $14,340.40 $13,340.40
To: 7100-6080-001-443000-155 Repairs & Maint. Irrigation $5,000 $1,000 $117.41 $1,117.41
             
From: 7100-6130-001-458000 Admin travel $19,600 $3,000 $13,340.40 $10,340.40
To: 7100-6080-001-443000-155 Repairs & Maint. Irrigation $5,000 $3,000 $117.41 $3,117.41
             
From: 7100-6080-001-444001-025 Trees& Landscaping Sod/Seeds $5,000 $2,000 $5,000.00 $3,000.00
To: 7100-6080-001-443000-155 Repairs & Maint. Irrigation $5,000 $2,000 $407.03 $2,407.03

Issue: 1) To supplement the irrigation project there are additional parts needed to complete project. Remaining funds in the source account should be sufficient due to travel restrictions. 2) To supplement the irrigation project additional sprinkler heads and parts are needed to complete project. Remaining funds should be sufficient in source for the remainder of the year due to travel restrictions. 3) To supplement the irrigation project there are additional parts and sprinkler heads needed to complete the project. Remaining funds in the source account should be sufficient for additional seed being purchased for the bare areas.

Solution: Transfer as requested above.

Result: There will be sufficient funds in all budget line items to pay requested items.
 
10. Civil Legal Division
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to grant the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Right- Of- Entry to conduct environmental assessment on a County owned tract of land located on US 83 approximately 1 mile North of SH 255 to I-35/US 83 underpass, for the purpose of a proposed widening of existing roadway by adding two additional travel lanes.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to approve a temporary Right-of-Entry with the right of ingress and egress, between Webb County and Escondido Resources Operating Co., LLC, upon the Webb County School Land Tract, containing the Penjamo & Llano Pastures, containing approximately 8,829.57 acres of land more or less being out of Abstracts 503 & 504, Survey No’s. 1383 & 1384, located on U.S. Hwy. 44 West, in Webb County, Texas. This R.O.E., is needed to allow for Escondido’s engineering/survey crews to go on site to the WCSL tract to stake, survey and obtain a metes and bounds description for a possible gas pipeline easement project, for a term not to exceed sixty (60) calendar days, commencing April 28, 2020. Escondido, at their sole cost and expense will obtain the easement boundary survey, metes & bounds description as needed by them for possible use/acquisition of the subject property by (Escondido) for use as a possible gas pipeline easement location; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute any and all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto.
 
11. Commissioners Court
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve payments to the following vendors for advertising awareness services related to COVID-19 public awareness, and authorizing a budget amendment by said amount to the following account number; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #2470-7410-001-454000-030 (Advertising Awareness-Emergency Management Plan COVID-19)]

Cream City Magazine $2,775.00
KGNS $1,020
 
12. Community Action Agency
 
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 April 27, 2020:
 
Slot # Title Hourly Rate
 
1213 Manager Nutrition Program $24.59

 Issue: The employee that was in slot #1213 resigned effective 04/17/20.

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

Result: The filling of slot #1213 will allow the department to run on a full staff if the court grants approval.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to ratify the acceptance of a donation check (check #6622) from M.F. Gonzalez for the Webb County Community Action Agency Meals on Wheels Program-Meals for Vets Program in the amount of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. This donation does not require a County match.

Issue: M.F. Gonzalez has donated check #6622 to Webb County Community Action Agency Meals on Wheels Program-Meals for Vets Program in the amount of one hundred dollars ($100.00), in memory of cousin who served in Vietnam War.

Solution: Funding will allow for continued home delivered meals to be serviced to Veteran clients.

Result: Additional monies would become available for continued services to Veterans.
 
13. Economic Development
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the submission of a Corona Emergency Supplemental Funding (CESF) grant application to Office of the Governor, Public Safety Office Criminal Justice Division (CJD) in the amount estimated at $200,000 and as developed, written, and submitted by the Webb County Sheriff's Office for overtime, equipment, and supplies to assist the Webb County Sheriff’s Office in its continuing efforts to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus pandemic in Laredo/Webb County, and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any match; and, thus shall have no impact to the general fund. All required documents were sent for review through the Economic Development Department and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff] 

Issue: The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the lives of millions of people throughout the world and continues to cause immense physical, psychological, and economic devastation on the local community. 

Solution: Through this proposed grant application, the Webb County Sheriff’s Office will be able to obtain supplemental resources to help continue preventing the spread of the coronavirus, preparing for its short and long term impacts, and responding to the increased needs in the local community. 

Result: The Webb County Sheriff’s Office will have additional resources to help serve and protect the local community.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to ratify a supplemental award in the amount of $530,000 from the Office of the Governor Homeland Security Grants Division for the Border Prosecution Grant #2466309. This action will also extend the period of performance to the current existing grant to August 31, 2021. The supplemental funding will be utilized to pay for the salaries of three prosecutors, one investigator and one paralegal. This formal request shall authorize the County Judge to act as the County's Executive Officer and Authorized Representative in all matters pertaining to the County's participation in this grant. There is no match requirement for this grant. All grant 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 Isidro "Chilo" Alaniz, District Attorney; Fund #2739-2260]

Issue: There is a need for resources to prosecute felony cases, provide technical assistance and training to law enforcement agencies and prosecute border crime cases along the Texas-Mexico Border. The Office of the Governor of Texas has provided available resources through a supplemental award to enhance prosecution in the area of organized crime/criminal enterprise cases.

Solution: Accept the supplemental award as set forth above to ensure that the Border Prosecution Unit at the District Attorney's Office can continue to successfully prosecute border crime cases along the Texas-Mexico Border.

Result: The District Attorney's Office will have the opportunity to receive additional resources to continue prosecution specifically in the area of organized crime / criminal enterprise cases.
 
c.   Discussion and possible action for authorization to submit a budget amendment to the Texas Indigent Defense Commission (T.I.D.C.) for an increase in grant funds in the amount of $3,405.15 for year three of the grant funded Webb County Integrated Defense Project due to an increase in fringe benefits. This increase will impact the County's cash match commitment by $2,043.09 (60%) and the remaining $1,362.06 (40%) will be funded by T.I.D.C., effective October 1, 2020. [Account #1001-1160-001-463909-010 - Public Defender Integrated Defense Project, Requested by Virginia Aranda, Public Defender]

Issue: The projected increase in the fringe benefits for our two grant funded positions is $3,405.15 for year three. Additional funds from T.I.D.C. and Webb County will be needed to cover this increase, and will be subject to the grant/cash match scale agreed to in the original grant. This budget amendment is being requested for the 2020-2021 fiscal year.

Solution: Request is being made for authorization to submit a budget amendment to the Texas Indigent Defense Commission for an increase in grant funds to cover the additional cost of fringe benefits.

Result: The increase in funds will allow us to cover the fringe benefits for year three of the grant.
 
d.   Discussion and possible action to submit the 2021 Webb County Resolution for year three of the Webb County Integrated Defense Project, and the 2021 Improvement Grant Program Intent to Submit Multi-year Grant Renewal to Texas Indigent Defense Commission (T.I.D.C.). The renewal includes the additional $3,405.15 in which Webb County will provide 60% of that amount, and T.I.D.C. will provide 40%, effective October 1, 2020. [Requested by Virginia Aranda, Public Defender]

Issue: Amount awarded and approved for year three is $77,337.06 from T.I.D.C. (40%) and $116,005.60 from Webb County (60%). The $3,405.15 is in addition to the grant award. These additional funds will cover the increase in cost for fringe benefits for both positions. The new amount for year three will be $78,699.12 from T.I.D.C. (40%) and $118,048.69 from Webb County (60%). Therefore, the new commitment for year three for Webb County will increase by $2,043.09 and $1,362.06 for T.I.D.C.

Solution: Allow to submit the grant renewal form and resolution for continuation of this grant funded program.

Result: Will be able to continue with the Webb County Integrated Defense Project.
 
e.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the development and submission of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) FY 2020 County Transportation Infrastructure Fund (CTIF) Program in a minimum amount of $5,711,300, 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 application. This grant application requires a 20% in-kind/cash match or a minimum of $1,142,260 based on the minimum amount requested. All required documents were sent for review to the Economic Development and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by James Flores, Economic Development Director]

Issue: Webb County roadways located in areas affected by increased oil and gas production are in need of repair and improvement to ensure the safety of all drivers and the public.

Solution: The Texas Department of Transportation released applications for the 2020 County Transportation Infrastructure Fund for the construction of, reconstruction of, or maintenance of transportation infrastructure including roads, bridges and culverts, intended to alleviate degradation caused by exploration, development or production of oil and gas.

Result: If awarded, improvements to county roads will ensure the sustainment of our energy industry and enhance the safety of all drivers and the public.
 
f.   Discussion and possible action to approve 2019 Community Services Block Grant  Discretionary Contract Number #611900003256 from Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for the Program Year 2020, in the amount of TWENTY NINE THOUSAND THIRTY EIGHT DOLLARS ($29,038.00). The Contract shall commence on March 26, 2020 and shall end on August 31, 2020. This action will not have impact to the General Fund and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. All required documents were sent for review through the Economic Development Department and the solicitation with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by James Flores, CAA Executive Director and Economic Development]. [Account #2368-5170-330300-030- Grant Revenue Federal]

Issue: The Contract is to provide direct client assistance to low income households economically impacted by COVID-19.

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

Result: This Contract will help economically low income households impacted by COVID-19.
 
g.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the development and submission of the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) Public Assistance COVID-19 Streamlined Project Application in an amount of $250,000.00 and authorization of 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 application. This grant application requires 25% cost share. All required documents were sent for review to the Economic Development and the solicitation is compliant with the Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. [Requested by James Flores, Economic Development Director]

Issue: Webb County has declared a local disaster due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and with the rapid changes our community endures, Webb County has increased activities to address this pandemic. 

Solution: Through this proposed grant application, Webb County will be reimbursed for no less than 75% of expenditures related to emergency protective measures conducted as a result of COVID-19 pandemic. 

Result: If awarded, FEMA will assist Webb County in reimbursing unforeseen expenditures utilized to address COVID-19 Pandemic.
 
h.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfers) within the General fund:
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 1001-6010-001-458000 Administrative Travel $10,000 $774.70 $8,411.12 $7,636.42
             
To: 1001-6010-001-443000-075 Repairs & Maint.Vehicles $625 $283.00 $567.00 $850.00
  1001-6010-001-443000-035 Repairs & Maint. Equip. $2,500 $491.70 $108.30 $600.00

Issue: Funds are needed in repairs & maintenance-vehicles and repairs & maintenance-equipment to cover necessary expenditures for the remainder of the fiscal year.

Solution: By Commissioners Court approval, account will have funds to cover expenses until end of fiscal year.

Result: With funds available, the department will be able to complete both future County projects as well as projects under development.
 
             
14. Engineering
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve Change Order #1 in the amount of $6,300.00 to ROMO Contractors, LLC., for the Webb County Los Botines Fire Station Water Tank enclosure, and; authorize the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #3150-1060-001-470000 (Capital Outlay)]

Issue: Additional project improvements needed.

Solution: Approve Change Order #1 for the replacement of chain link fence with a fence made of wrought iron, including gate (38' wide), which will be installed on the outside of existing concrete with concrete footings.

Result: Project will be completed as detailed under the proposed change order.
 
15. Human Resources
 
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 April 27, 2020:
 
Slot # Title Hourly Rate
 
2427 Human Resources Generalist $18.46 - 16/A

Issue: Slot became vacant April 16, 2020.

Solution: Fill the vacant position.

Result:The filling of the position will alleviate work overload in the department.
 
 
16. Indigent Healthcare Services
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfers) within the General fund:
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 1001-5030-001-432063-015 Medical Services Hospital Inpatient $680,000 $17,700 $580,496 $562,796
  1001-5030-001-432063-020 Medical Services Hospital Outpatient $472,500 $12,300 $337,459 $325,159
             
To: 1001-5030-001-432063-030 Medical Services Optional Services $20,000 $30,000 $1,616 $31,616

Issue: There has been an increase in the number of eligible indigent clients being assisted with surgical or other outpatient procedures rendered at Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASC)

Solution: Approval of requested funds will allow our office to continue assisting clients in obtaining their necessary medical treatments.

Result: Clients will be able to continue to have services rendered at Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) as an alternative to outpatient surgery at hospitals, especially due to current restrictions in place due to COVID-19.
 
17. Information Technology
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within the General Fund:
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 1001-1280-001-456205 Training/Education $20,000 $200 $20,000 $19,800
To: 1001-1280-001-464005 Books & Subscriptions $68,072 $200 $0.00 $200

Issue: Transfer needed to cover dues on books and subscriptions that are annually budgeted.

Solution: Account will have the funds necessary to cover the remainder of the year.

Result: There will be sufficient funds to pay dues in a timely manner.
 
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 April 27, 2020:
 
Slot # Title Hourly Rate
 
2386 Applications Support Analyst $22.50 - 20/A

Issue: Slot is vacant.

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

Result: The filling of the slot will allow our department to continue to function efficiently and effectively.
 
18. Purchasing
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within the Purchasing Agent's general fund budget:
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 1001-1310-001-443000-075 Repairs & Maint. Vehicles $4,000 $300 $3,700 $3,625
To: 1001-1310-001-456005 Postage & Courier Service $200 $300 $500 $256

Issue: Line item transfer required to cover current and anticipated postage expenditures for remaining of fiscal year.

Solution: Approve ratification of line item request by the department. 

Result: Availability of funds to cover current and future postage expenses related to the Purchasing Department operation.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the purchase of Twenty-Two (22) APX 4000 Portable Radios from Motorola Solutions in an amount not to exceed $79,023.82 (HGAC Contract #17724) for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office in accordance with the Texas Local Government Code, Sub-Chapter F. Cooperative Purchasing Program; Section 271.102 (Cooperative Purchasing Program Participation) and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #2609-3010-001-460105 (Minor Tools and Apparatus; BJA Gulf States Law Enforcement – Sheriff’s Office)]
 
Issue: Through a federal grant, funding is allocated for the purchase of portable radios to be utilized for multi-jurisdictional law enforcement operations.
 
Solution: Proceed with the purchase of portable radios.
 
Result: Supplemental communication tools will be acquired for the enhanced safety of deputies and the general public.
 
c.   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 263.153 (Notice) for surplus and/or salvage property being auctioned. 

Issue: Excess county property that either is salvage property that has no value for the purpose it was originally intended for and/or surplus property that is no longer needed by the department and could be transferred for use by another county department or auctioned online to the general public and/or donated as permitted by law. 

Solution: Attempt to sell the county surplus or salvage property by public auction, dispose or destroy property that cannot be sold through auction 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: Process all surplus or salvage property in accordance with state law and Webb County Procurement Policy.
 
d.   Discussion and possible action to approve the ratification of the purchase of Seventeen (17) Microsoft Pro Laptops and corresponding software from Gov-Connection, Inc. DBA Connection for use by the Webb County Courts as permitted by State Law, pursuant to Article 102.0173 of the Texas Criminal Traffic Judicial Code of Criminal Procedure and in accordance with Sections 271.101 and 271.102, Texas Local Government Code, Cooperative Purchasing program in an amount not to exceed $41,477.00. [Account #2009-2180-001-460105 (Court Technology Fund); #2009-2290-001-460105 (Court Technology Fund; District Clerk)]
 
Issue: District Courts, County Court of Law Courts and Justice of the Peace, Pct. 4 Court requested on an emergency basis laptops to assign to their respective staff members and for Judges use to work remotely in response to the Corona Virus situation and to further practice social distancing.
 
Solution: Approve the ratification of purchase.
 
Result: The use of the laptops has provided Judges and their respective staff members to work immediately from their homes or other remote areas to practice social distancing and continue to run the judicial operations required.  The current conditions and availability of laptops are getting more complicated due to high demand and the shipment of these laptops were readily available.
 
e.   Discussion and possible action to approve the ratification of the purchase of one (1) Lenovo ThinkPad, four (4) Lenovo Think-Stations and software from SHI Government Solutions through DIR Contract #DIR-TSO-4092 for use by the Webb County Courts as permitted by State Law, pursuant to Article 102.0173 of the Texas Criminal Traffic Judicial Code of Criminal Procedure and in accordance with Sections 271.101 and 271.102, Texas Local Government Code, Cooperative Purchasing program in an amount not to exceed $18,473.97. [Account #2009-2180-001-460105 (Court Technology Fund; JP4); 2009-2290-001-460105 (Court Technology Fund; District Clerk); 2009-2310-001-460105-007, (Court Technology Fund County Court at Law #2)].
 
Issue: District Courts, County Court of Law Courts and Justice of the Peace, Pct. 4 Court requested on an emergency basis laptops to assign to their respective staff members and for Judges use to work remotely in response to the Corona Virus situation and to further practice social distancing.
 
Solution: Approve the ratification of purchase.
 
Result: The use of the laptops has provided Judges and their respective staff members to work immediately from their homes or other remote areas to practice social distancing and continue to run the judicial operations required.  The current conditions and availability of laptops are getting more complicated due to high demand and the shipment of these laptops were readily available.
 
19. Water Utilities
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve final payment and release of retainage in the amount $12,680.90 to Sal Construction Management for the completion of the El Cenizo Control Valve Improvements Project and authorize the County Judge to execute all relevant documents; any other matters incident thereto. [Account #7220-206000 (Retainage Payable)] 

Issue: Final retainage payment to contractor in the completion of project scope in full.

Solution: Approval of payment. 

Result: Issue final payment and close project.
 
20. Honorable Martin Cuellar, Sheriff
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to Ratify, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) within the General fund:
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 1001-4070-001-450001-035 Contract Services Maverick $100,000 $59,100 $92,432.00 $33,332
To: 1001-4070-001-443000-075 Repair Maint. Bldg. $80,000 $59,100 $46,868.38 $105,968

Issue: This is an emergency request to prevent COVID-19 at the Webb County Jail.

Solution: Seeking authorization from court to transfer money so that temprite Mechanical can install 2 Exhaust fans.

Result: Funds will be available to proceed with project from Temprite Mechanical. 
 
             
REGULAR AGENDA
 
Economic Development
 
21.   Discussion and possible action to approve the 2020-2021 Third Party Application, set submission dates and deadlines for Third Party funding; and any other matters incident thereto. 

Issue: Third Party Applications must be submitted with ample time in order to review and approve/deny funding and prepare for the next fiscal year's budget.

Solution: Set date (s) to solicit Third Party Funding Applications in order to have enough tine to review and approve/deny funding and prepare for next fiscal year's budget.

Result: Webb County shall provide Third Party Funding eligible organizations that provide a purpose in the community.
 
Honorable Jesse Gonzalez, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 1
 
22.   Discussion and possible action to accept the donation from the City of Laredo of a 1,782 square foot modular building that is currently located at 1600 Orquidia Lane in Rio Bravo, Texas to Webb County; and authorizing the Civil Legal Division and County staff to finalize any matters related to transfer and acceptance, including insurance coverage, utilities transfer, etc…and any other matters incident thereto. It is of the understanding that this building will remain in its current location and be used to benefit Webb County and the Rio Bravo Community.
 
23. Communications
 
24. 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 APRIL, 2020


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 April, 2020 and said notice remained so posted continuously for at least 72 hours preceding the scheduled time of said meeting.

DATED THIS ____ DAY OF APRIL, 2020

MARGIE RAMIREZ IBARRA, COUNTY CLERK, WEBB COUNTY, TEXAS


BY: ______________________________________________
      Margie Ramirez-Ibarra, County Clerk