PUBLIC NOTICE
COMMISSIONERS COURT MEETING
WEBB COUNTY COURTHOUSE
1000 HOUSTON STREET, 2ND FLOOR
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 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, 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. Auditor
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by order, a budget amendment to the District Attorney State forfeiture fund by increasing the expenditure budget by $237,019; said amount is available from seized funds pursuant to Chapter 18 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. [Requested by Isidro "Chilo" Alaniz, District Attorney; Fund #2161-2260]
 
  Account Name Account Number Amount
From: Fund Balance 2161-259700 $237,019
       
To: Payroll Cost 2161-2260-410000 $28,230
  Sick Leave Buy Back 2161-2260-414000 $27,000
  FICA County Share 2161-2260-422000 $17,014
  Retirement County Share 2161-2260-423000 $27,245
  Unemployment Tax 2161-2260-425000 $1,527
  Worker Compensation 2161-2260-426000 $811
  Law Enforcement - Other 2161-2260-457000 $110,192
  Support Assistance 2161-2260-463701 $25,000
      $237,019

Issue: New proceeds under Chapter 18 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.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by order, a budget amendment to the District Attorney Hot Check Fee Fund by increasing the expenditure budget by $5,757; said amount is available from Hot Check fees collected pursuant to Chapter 102 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. [Requested by Isidro "Chilo" Alaniz, District Attorney; Fund #2019-2260]
 
  Account Name Account Number Amount
From: Fund Balance 2019-259700 $5,757
       
To: Payroll Cost 2019-2260-001-410000 $4,654
  FICA County Share 2019-2260-001-422000 $357
  Retirement County Share 2019-2260-001-423000 $573
  Unemployment Tax 2019-2260-001-425000 $33
  Worker Compensation 2019-2260-001-426000 $140
      $5,757

Issue: There is a need to create an expenditure budget for the Hot Check Fee Fund to defray salaries and expenses of the Prosecutor’s Office.

Solution: Request a budget amendment that defines the line items for the projected expenditures.

Result: The attorney representing the State can utilize the Hot Check fees collected for the official use of his Office.
 
c.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by order, a budget amendment of $74,184 to the District Attorney Federal Forfeiture Fund from new proceeds received from the U.S. Department of Justice Equitable Share Program. [Requested by Isidro "Chilo" Alaniz, District Attorney; Fund #2162 (DOJ - Federal Forfeiture)]
 
  Account Name Account Number Amount
From: Fund Balance 2162-259700 $74,184
       
To: Overtime 2162-2260-001-413000 $60,000
  FICA County Share 2162-2260-001-422000 $4,590
  Retirement County Share 2162-2260-001-423000 $7,380
  Unemployment Tax 2162-2260-001-425000 $414
  Worker Compensation 2162-2260-001-426000 $1,800
      $74,184

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 of $55,000 to the District Attorney Federal Forfeiture Fund from new proceeds received from the U.S. Department of the Treasury Equitable Share Program. [Requested by Isidro "Chilo" Alaniz, District Attorney; Fund #2163 (Treasury - Federal Forfeiture)]
 
  Account Name Account Number Amount
From: Fund Balance 2163-259700 $55,000
To: Capital Outlay 2163-2260-001-470000 $55,000

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 expenditure budget to be utilized for law enforcement purposes in accordance with the Department of the Treasury Equitable Sharing Guidelines.
 
e.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfers) within Grant funds. [Requested by Community Action Agency]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 2530-6360-521-422000 Fica $2,077.93 $1,500 $2,006.12 $506.12
  2530-6360-521-426000 Workers Comp $969.99 $205 $949.80 $744.80
  2530-6360-521-425000 Unemployment $1,300.36 $1,200 $1,293.72 $93.72
        $2,905    
To: 2530-6360-521-410000 Payroll $6,132.51 $600 $5,170.91 $5,770.91
  2530-6360-521-421000 Insurance $389.73 $2,305 $4.73 $2,309.73
        $2,905    

Issue: Payroll and Insurance line items are facing line item shortages.  

Solution: Commissioner's Court authorizes a transfer of available funds within the grant budget. 

Result: Payroll grant funds will be appropriately allocated to cover payroll costs.
 
f.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment/carry over budget (line item transfer) within Court Technology Fund; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by R. Quintana, Justice of the Peace; Fund account #2009]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Request Current End Bal.
From: 2009-259700 Fund Balance $14,941.79 $32,387.35 $17,445.56
           
To: 2009-2160-001-412000 Part-Time $13,182.00 $0 $13,182.00
  2009-2160-001-422000 FICA County Share $1,008.42 $0 $1,008.42
  2009-2160-001-425000 Unemployment Tax $92.27 $0 $92.27
  2009-2160-001-426000 Workers Compensation $659.10 $0 $659.10
      $14,941.79    

Issue: Effective September 1, 2019, the Justice Court Technology Fund can be used to pay for salaries. Our civil department needs part-time assistance to help with civil filings, we average 30 new filings a day, sometimes this is a larger daily number.  We are humbly requesting carry over a budget of $14,941.79 to the 2021 FY.  These funds were previously approved by Commissioner's Court on 09-14-20.  We need, Governing Body to approve rollover funds from FY 2020 to FY2021.

Solution: Submit a budget amendment to the Governing Body that clearly lists and defines the categories of part-time expenditure. 

Result: JP 2.1 can provide customer's critical timely services for civil filings.
 
g.   Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer):
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 4100-9060-001-483003-260 Capital Lease-principal $316,664 $0.37 $316,664 $316,663.63
To: 4100-9070-001-483037-260 Capital Lease-interest $52,024 $0.37 $52,024 $52,024.37

Issue: Line item transfer is needed to cover payment with correct allocation of principal and interest.

Solution: With Court approval, payment will be made timely.

Result: Sufficient funds to process payment.
 
h.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfers) within Federal Forfeiture FY 2020 funds. [Requested by Sheriff Martin Cuellar]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 2153-3010-001-455501 Drug free Campaign  $10,000 $10,000 $10,000 $0
  2153-3010-001-460105 Minor tools  $10,000 $10,000 $10,000 $0
  2153-3010-001-458000 Administrative travel  $15,000 $10,000 $10,000 $0
  2153-3010-001-432001 Professional Services  $10,000 $10,000 $10,000 $0
  2153-3010-001-456205 Training and Education  $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $0
        $45,000    
To: 2153-3010-001-443000-090 Repair Maint. Helicopter $0.00 $45,000 $0.00 $45,000

Issue: Helicopter needs repairs as per FAA. Requesting line item transfer to correct account under Repair Maintenance Helicopter.

Solution: Seeking authorization from courts to approve transfer.

Result: Transfer money to correct account so that Purchasing can issue P.O.
 
6. Bruni Community Center
 
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 October 13, 2020:
 
Slot # Title Hourly Rate
 
2345 Center Aide $11.84 - 7A/E

Issue: The employee is slot #2345 resigned in July, 2020 and the position was unable to be fill due to the County wide hiring freeze.

Solution: Approval of this request will allow the Bruni Community Center to operate effectively.

Result: The filling of slot #2345 will allow Bruni Community Center to fill a necessary position and will allow the Community Center to service Webb County effectively.
 
7. Casa Blanca Golf Course
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfers) within Golf Course funds for FY 2020:
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 6130-001-432065 Director fees/Management $66,000.00 $2,554.00 $4,250 $1696.00
To: 6120-001-463006-005 Food & Beverage Cos $38,400 $2,554.00 $80 $2,634.00
             
From: 6130-001-432065 Director Fees/Management $66,000.00 $857.22 $1696 $838.78
  6120-001-463006010 Food & Beverage NAB $26,880 $857.22 $601.95 $1459.17

Issue: There weren't enough monies to be able to place the last of the fiscal years food and beverage order. A line item transfer was needed to place orders.

Solution: Transfer as requested.

Result: There will be enough monies in both accounts to place and pay for orders.
 
8. Civil Legal Division
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to ratify a twelve (12) month (October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021) services agreement between Time Clock Plus and Webb County for software support services at a total cost of Twenty-Six Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Two Dollars and Ten Cents ($26,622.10) and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Rafael Pena, Information Technology Director; Account #1001-1280-001-443000-110 (Repairs & Maintenance Software)]

Issue: The County server was set to be replaced beginning Oct. 1, 2020 but the server is having several issues. The server is used to track employee time and if lost will disrupt the payroll of the Webb County Employees.
 
Solution: Ratification of the approval the services by the vendor for the preservation of the employee time clock plus data.
 
Result: With the funds that were already allocated beginning October 1, 2020, the payroll department and the IT department will be able to preserve the hours worked by employees and the equipment’s daily operations.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the purchase of commercial advertisement with Gray Television Group Inc., by the Webb County District Attorney’s Office, for the “Make the Right Call” campaign. The campaign discourages drinking and driving in Webb County. There will be 110 commercial spots, starting September 2020, through January 2021, at a total cost of Fourteen Thousand Dollars ($14,000.00). The Webb County District Attorney’s Office will be featured in the advertisement and, authorizing the Webb County Judge to sign all relevant documents and any other matters thereto. [Requested by Isidro R. Alaniz, Webb County District Attorney; Federal Forfeiture Funds Account #2163-2260-001-457006 and State Forfeiture Funds Account #2160-2260-001-457006]
 
c.   Discussion and possible action to enter into a one (1) year armored car service agreement with Rochester Armored Car Co., Inc., (January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021), for bi-weekly (Wed-Fri) monetary bank deposits for Webb County Justice of the Peace Pct. 4, at a monthly fee of cost of One Hundred Seventy One and 83/100 Dollars ($171.83), and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Hon. Justice of the Peace Pct. 4, Judge Jose “Pepe” Salinas, Webb County; Account #1001-2180-001-456005 (Postage & Courier Service)]
 
d.   Discussion and possible action to enter into a sixty (60) month (July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2025) Rental Agreement between Pitney Bowes and the Webb County Juvenile Board for mail service hardware and software through the Cooperative Contract Participation Agreement No: 041917-PIT, at a cost of Sixty Five Dollars and Sixty Six Cents ($65.66) a month, for a total amount of Three Thousand Nine Hundred Thirty Nine Dollars and Sixty Cents ($3,939.60) paid over the 60 month term of the agreement, subject to annual budget appropriations and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Webb County Juvenile Justice Center, Account #1001-2450-001-444500 (Equipment Rental)]
 
e.   Discussion and possible action to approve a twelve (12) month (October 1, 2020 through September 30, 2021) Professional Services Agreement between Justice Benefits, Incorporated and Webb County for professional services in assisting the County to obtain reimbursements through Federal Financial Participation at a cost determined by reimbursement amounts which are Eleven Percent (11%) for amounts up to One Hundred Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($115,000.00) and Twenty Two Percent (22%) of amounts over One Hundred Fifteen Dollars ($115,000.00) and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Sheriff Martin Cuellar]
 
f.   Discussion and possible action to approve a twelve (12) month (September 30, 2020 through September 29, 2021) Lab Screen Agreement between Webb County for the 406th District Court Adult Drug Program and Cordant Forensic Solutions for participant drug test monitoring at costs set forth in the agreement. There is no impact to the county budget, and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents and any other matter incident thereto. [Requested by Judge Oscar Hale, 406th District Court; Account #2353-2040-003-459020]
 
g.   Discussion and possible action to authorize Webb County and Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI) to execute a one (1) year Technical Support and Software Maintenance Renewal agreement commencing October 1, 2020 through September 30, 2021  to provide software maintenance support for the Geographic Information System (GIS) Mapping and 911 software utilized by the Webb County Planning Department at a cost of EIGHT THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED SIXTY THREE DOLLARS ($8,463.00), and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by Rhonda Tiffin, Director, Webb County Planning Department; Account #2007-7020-001-457004 (GIS Mapping)]
 
9. Economic Development
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the acceptance of a FY 2020 Justice Assistance Grant award from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) in response to a grant application prepared, coordinated, written, and submitted by the Webb County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with the City of Laredo for equipment, services, and supplies for a total amount of $29,502 and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents related to this grant; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant has no match requirements; and, thus, is at no cost 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:  Supplemental equipment and supplies will allow the Webb County Sheriff’s Office to provide better and more enhanced law enforcement services.

Solution: Grant award to allow for the leveraging of federal grant JAG funds in order to provide supplemental equipment/supplies for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office.

 Result: The Webb County Sheriff’s Office and its staff will be equipped with needed equipment and supplies.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to accept the grant award from the Texas Indigent Defense Commission for year three of the T.I.D.C. F.Y. 2021 Discretionary Grant - Webb County Integrated Defense Project for $78,699 in grant funds requiring a cash match of $118,049, and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. 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 (S.P.O.C.) policy. [Requested by Virginia Aranda, Public Defender; Cash Match Account #1001-1160-001-463909-010]

Issue: Acceptance of the Statement of Grant Award for year three of the Webb County Integrated Defense Project is required by the Texas Indigent Defense Commission for the continuation of the grant funded project.

Solution: By accepting this award, the Public Defender's Office will be able to continue with the Webb County Integrated Defense Project through year three.

Result: The Public Defender's Office will be able to continue servicing clients with mental health needs and immigration issues through the Webb County Integrate Defense Project.
 
c.   Discussion and possible action to ratify and accept the grant award for the FY 2020-2021 Apache Tree Program Grant application for the donation of trees in the Larga Vista Community Center & Park, Bruni Community Center & Park, Bruni Public Health Facility, and the Self-Help Center & Las Blancas Park in Precinct 2; 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 Apache Tree Grant Program. 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. This grant does not require cash match. [Co-Sponsored by Webb County Commissioner Precinct 2 Wawi Tijerina]
 
d.   Discussion and possible action to ratify the submission of a COVID-19 Response Grant Application in an amount not to exceed Four Million Dollars ($4,000,000.00) to the Center for Tech and Civic Life as developed by the  Economic Development Department  and authorizing the County Judge to act as the Authorized Representative in all matters pertaining to the County's request for funding. This application does not require a match. 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 Jose Salvador Tellez, Elections Executive Director]

Issue: The Coronavirus epidemic has negatively impacted the Webb County community and the unprecedented impact it will have on the upcoming primaries and November general election.

Solution: Through this proposed grant application, Webb County will expend funds allocated to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, domestically and internationally for the 2020 Federal election cycle.

Result: If awarded, the funds will provide Webb County with additional resources to protect the 2020 elections from the effects of the novel coronavirus.
 
10. Planning & Physical Development
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to issue a “Certificate of Compliance with Plat Requirements” to authorize an electrical and water service connection pursuant to Section 232.029(c)(2), Local Government Code., to an unplatted 3.1265 acs tract of land, more or less, known as Tract 57, Ranchitos Los Minerales and Annex, as further described in Vol. 4512, Pgs. 620-621, Webb County Deed Records (ID 10583).
 
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 electrical utility services.  If not approved, utility connection to property is prohibited.
 
11. 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 and/or donated as permitted by law.
 
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 authorize the purchase of one (1) 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ from bidder meeting all specifications published by the Purchasing Agent in an amount not to exceed $54,348.53 from Family Chevrolet and any other matter incident thereto. [Requested by the District Attorney’s Office; Account #2163-2260-001-470000 (Federal Forfeiture Fund)]
 
Issue: The District Attorney’s Office is in need of a vehicle to be use for law enforcement purpose.
 
Solution: Approve the purchase in accordance with the Purchasing Policy, any Capital Outlay item not budgeted must be approved by Commissioner Court.
 
Results: The Webb County District Attorney’s Office will utilize the vehicle and all available resources to continue its commitment in keeping the community safe by deterring and dismantling organized crime.
 
12. Risk Management
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to authorize the County Judge to sign the 2021 Renewal Notice and Benefit Confirmation forms with the Texas Association of Counties (AmWINS Group Benefits) for the County Silver Choice Retiree Program. There will be NO INCREASE in the retiree medical senior supplement plan which covers County retirees 65 and over and their dependents and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: Webb County presently acts as the administrator for the Silver Choice program with TAC for those retirees receiving coverage through the program. There is no cost and no contribution from the County and the Risk Management Office merely drafts the total premiums from the Silver Choice retirees' accounts and forwards the premiums to TAC.

Solution: Continue administering the program for the Silver Choice Retirees for Plan year 2021 and sign the agreement with TAC.

Result: The coverage for those Silver Choice retirees who choose to remain in the program will continue without interruption.
 
13. Honorable Martin Cuellar, Sheriff
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to approve a reimbursement agreement between the Webb County on behalf of the Webb County Sheriff's Office and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) during the performance period of October 1, 2020 through September 30, 2021 for an amount not to exceed $19,180.25 in overtime for Webb County Sheriff’s Office deputies through the OCDETF Investigation/Strategic Initiative and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. Estimated applicable fringe benefits in the amount of $4,650 for this overtime will be covered by forfeiture funds; and, thus, this agreement will have no impact to the general fund. [Fund #2151 - State Forfeiture Funds]

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

Solution: Enter into contractual agreement for the new fiscal year with federal agencies to continue local participation in joint overtime operations under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces Program.

Result: Disruption of organized crime activity along the Texas border and in Webb County.
 
b.   Discussion and possible action to ratify, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfers) within the General fund for Fiscal Year 2020:
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 1001-3010-001-443000-020 Repair & Maint. Bldg. $35,000 $2,027.47 $4,763.04 $2,735.57
             
To: 1001-4070-001-443000-035 Repair & Maint. Equip. $50,000 $1,777.47 $106.97 $1,884.44
  1001-3010-001-461006 Canine Expenditures  $15,000 $250.00 $595.89 $845.89
        $2,027.47    

Issue: Invoices are pending to be paid in both accounts. Not enough funds to cover invoices for FY 2020.

Solution: Seeking authorization from court to ratify.

Result: Funds will be transferred to pay invoices.
 
14. Honorable Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 2
 
a.   Discussion and possible action to enter into a Donation Agreement and Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement with MSLGROUP AMERICAS LLC as agent and on behalf of Proctor and Gamble Company and its brand Pampers to accept the donation of forty-five thousand Scholastic children's books and educational materials amounting to a sum of no more than Two-Hundred Sixty-Nine Thousand Two Hundred Eighty Dollars ($269,280.00) for the Larga Vista Community Center subject to final legal review and compliance with state law and any matters incident thereto and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents.
 
REGULAR AGENDA
 
Economic Development
 
15.   Discussion and possible action to approve cash match of $15,000.00 to be combined with Meals on Wheels America award of FIFTEEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ($15,000.00). The purpose is to maximize the benefit to Webb County's vulnerable population with food and care packages. All required documentation has been submitted for review to the Economic Development Department and the solicitation is complaint with Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures.  [Account #1001-1130-001-431007-010 (Operational Reserve)]

Issue: CAA Meals on Wheels is a grant-funded agency. Meals on Wheels identified Webb County Community Action Agency as a possible recipient for additional funding items needed during COVID-19 pandemic.

Solution: The match will allow us to deliver twice the amount of meals to elderly; health compromised and handicapped/disabled residents of Webb County, Texas.

Result: If approved, funding would allow us to provide twice the amount of services to eligible participants of ready meals to the most vulnerable population during COVID-19 pandemic.
 
             
16.   Discussion and possible action accept the Center for Tech and Civic Life COVID-19 Response Grant in the amount of two million eight hundred twenty thousand nine hundred sixty Dollars ($2,820,960.00); authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents and  to act as the Authorized Representative in all matters pertaining to the grant. This application does not require a match. 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 Jose Salvador Tellez, Elections Executive Director]

Issue: The Coronavirus epidemic has negatively impacted the Webb County community and the unprecedented impact it will have on the upcoming primaries and November general election.

Solution: Through this proposed grant application, Webb County will expend funds allocated to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, domestically and internationally for the 2020 Federal election cycle.

Result: If the award is accepted, the funds will provide Webb County with additional resources to protect the 2020 elections from the effects of the novel coronavirus.
 
Human Resources
 
17.   Discussion and possible action to amend the Webb County Personnel Policy and Procedures, Section 7.01, to clarify that all new hires including attorneys must be placed at the entry level of their specific Grade as per their years of experience, in accordance to the employee slot; and any other matters incident thereto.
 
Issue: Section 7.01 of the Webb County Personnel Policy and Procedures needs to be clarified in an effort to specify the intent of the Commissioners Court placing the salary of all employees at the entry level and deferring discretionary step increases for new employees until after the required probationary period.

Solution: Amending Section 7.01 will clarify the intent of the Court, placing the salary of all employees at the entry level and deferring discretionary step increases for new employees until after the required probationary period.

Result: This action will require all new employees be placed on a probationary period at the entry level of their specific Grade.
 
             
Emergency Management 
 
18.   Discussion and possible action to approve the following budget amendment (line item transfer) in order to fund the 25% cash match required by FEMA (Fund 2470) in the amount of $91,011.14 for expenses incurred for Fiscal Year 2020; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-1130-001-431007-010 (Operational Reserve)]

Issue: Fund 2470 requires a 25% cash match to all reimbursable expenses dealing with COVID-19 global pandemic.

Solution: Fund will be allocated from the Operational Reserve account.

Result: County Contribution will be met.
 
Pre-Trial Services
 
19.   Discussion and possible action to approve the posting and filling of the following Slots, subject to the availability of payroll funds and any applicable Civil Service guidelines, effective October 19, 2020:
 
Slot # Title Hourly Rate
 
2092 Judicial Bond Officer $16.12 - 12/A-E
2095 Administrative Clerk $13.07 - 9/A-E

Issue: Slot #2095, became vacant on June 11, 2020, and this department was not able to fill it due to the financial interruptions caused by the COVID19 pandemic, in budget year 2019-2020. Slot #2092, became vacant on October 5, 2020. Pre-Trial Services is currently operating on a reduced staff force and is in great need to fill the vacant slots.

Solution: Filling the vacant slots will allow this office to operate efficiently and service the judicial courts.

Results: Working with a full staff will not delay the judicial process in the court system.
 
             
Road & Bridge
 
20.   Discussion and possible action to approve the following title change for Slot #686 with applicable salary changes to be determined by the Civil Service Commission and approve the posting filling of the slot, subject to the availability of payroll funds:
 
  Slot Title Hourly Rate
From: 686 Heavy Equipment Operator $15.92
To: 686 Truck Driver / Equipment Operator TBD

Issue: The R&B Dept. is in need of a driver/equipment operator to attend maintenance issues on County Roads.

Solution: With having a Driver/Equipment Operator R&B Dept. will be able to transport and operate the equipment by the same employee. 

Result: Repairs and Maintenance of County Roads will be performed in a faster and more efficient manner with fewer employees.
 
Water Utilities
 
21.   Discussion and possible action to approve the purchase (2) New Peterbilt 567 WALKER Water Combos for the Las Presas Water Dispenser Improvements from RUSH Truck Center in the amount of $365,710.52; pursuant to Sections 271.101 and 271.102 of hte Texas Local Government Code, Cooperative Purchasing program; Buy Board 601-19, and to identify funding source; and any other matters incident thereto. [Co-Sponsored by Jesse Gonzalez, Commissioner Pct. 1; Account #3869-7230-001-474501-025 (Construction in Progress Las Presas)]

Issue: This new Built Water Dispenser will require water hauling from the Rio Bravo Water Treatment Plant Permit Number 2400022 required in the T.C.E.Q. letter of approval.  We have no units available to haul water to this location.

Solution: Granting the purchase of the Combo Units.

Results: Water will be transported from the Rio Bravo Water Treatment Plant to the Las Presas Water Dispenser.
 
22.   Discussion and possible action to approve Change Order No. 1 for Trac-N-Trol Inc. in the amount not to exceed $50,000.00 as an addition to the original award amount of $1,299,300.00 approved by Commissioner's Court on August 12, 2019, for the Contract Award to Trac-N-Trol for SCADA Improvements Project, pursuant to Section 262031 of the Texas Local Government Code, Changes in Plans and Specifications, and further authorize the transfer of funds from Fund 7220-7280-001-432001 - Professional Services: $18,000.00 and other matters incident thereto. [Construction in Progress/Requested by Tomas Sanchez Jr. Webb County Utilities Department Director; Funding Source under the 2016 Bond 7220-7280-001-474501 (Construction in Progress)]

Issue: Development of T.C.E.Q. Compliant Operations and Maintenance Manuals and SCADA Analysis and Reporting (SOP) has been required by T.C.E.Q. for the past few years

Solution: Award Change Order to the SCADA Improvements Project

Result: The Rio Bravo Water Treatment Plant will now have hands on Sequence of Operations Manual (SOP) on hand as required by the T.C.E.Q.
 
Budget Officer
 
23.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) to transfer funds between the Land & Building Fund, Series 2013, and Debt Service Fund. [Funds 3175 and 4100]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 3175-7220-001-470000-100 Capital Outlay - Land Acquisition $2,000,000 $2,000,000 $2,000,000 $0
To: 4100-9080-391000 Transfers In $1,475,911 $2,000,000 $1,475,911 $3,475,911

Issue: Budget line item transfer is needed to transfer funds available in Series 2013 to Debt Service in order to cover cash contribution needed for Limited Tax Refunding, Series 2020.

Solution: With Court approval of budget line item transfer, transfer of funds will be covered for Debt Service payments.

Result: There will be sufficient funds to cover cash contribution payment for Limited Tax Refunding, Series 2020.
 
24.   Discussion and possible action to approve, by Order, the following budget amendment (line item transfer) to transfer funds between General Fund and Debt Service Fund, Local Government Codes 111.070 and 111.0705. [Funds 1001 and 4100]
 
  Acct. Number Acct. Name Adopted Request Current End Bal.
From: 1001-259700 Fund Balance   $1,100,000    
To: 1001-9080-001-485005-065 Transfer Out- Debt Service $1,411,811 $1,100,000 $1,411,811 $2,511,811

Issue: Budget line item transfer is needed to transfer funds out of General Fund to Debt Service in order to cover first payment for County cash contribution for Certificates of Obligation, Series 2020.

Solution: With Court approval of budget amendment, transfer of funds will be available in Debt Service to cover first payment.

Result: There will be sufficient funds to cover County cash contribution first payment for Certificates of Obligation, Series 2020.
 
25.   Discussion and possible action to approve a transfer in the amount of $37,022.16 from the Payroll Reserve Account #1001-1130-001-431007-005 to cover payroll deficits in various county departments for fiscal year 2020; and any other matters incident thereto.

Issue: Several county departments closed the end of year with a shortfall in payroll.

Solution: The transfer will cover the deficits.

Result: The Auditor's office will close out books.
 
26.   Consideration and approval of an Order authorizing the issuance of "Webb County, Texas Certificates of Obligation, Series 2020"; authorizing a purchase contract and a paying Agent/Registrar Agreement; Delegating to certain County Administrative staff and Officials the authority to approve all final terms of the Certificates, and approving other matters relating thereto.
 
27.   Consideration and approval of an Order authorizing the issuance of the "Webb County, Texas Limited Tax Refunding Bonds, Taxable Series 2020B"; entering into a Bond Purchase Agreement, a paying Agent/Registrar agreement, and an Escrow Agreement; delegating to certain County administrative staff and officials the authority to approve all final terms of the Bonds; and any other matters related thereto.
 
             
Closed Session/Executive Session
 
28.   Discussion and possible action authorizing the Civil Litigation Division to negotiate, compromise and settle the claim of Laredo Outlet Shoppes, LLC pursuant to the Commissioners Court authority under Chapter 89, §89.004, Texas Local Government Code and any matters incident thereto. [Closed Session/Executive Session may be requested pursuant to Texas Government Code §551.07, Consultation with Attorney, pending or contemplated litigation]
 
29.   Discussion and possible action regarding invoicing presented by Hanson Professional Services, Inc. and any matters incident thereto. [Closed Session/Executive Session may be requested pursuant to Texas Government Code §551.07, Consultation with Attorney, pending or contemplated litigation]
 
Presentations
 
30.   Discussion and possible action to proclaim the month of October, 2020 as Dyslexia Awareness Month. [Requested by Tano E. Tijerina, County Judge] [Co-Sponsored by John C. Galo, Commissioner Pct. 3]
 
31.   Presentation from Bobbie Ramirez, United Way President, regarding annual United Way campaign kickoff and services to the community. [Requested by: Commissioner Liendo, Precinct 4]
 
32. Communications
 
33. Adjourn
 
           
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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 OCTOBER, 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 October, 2020 and said notice remained so posted continuously for at least 72 hours preceding the scheduled time of said meeting.

DATED THIS _____ DAY OF OCTOBER, 2020

MARGIE RAMIREZ IBARRA, COUNTY CLERK, WEBB COUNTY, TEXAS


BY: ______________________________________________
      Margie Ramirez-Ibarra, County Clerk