CALL TO ORDER BY THE HONORABLE TANO E. TIJERINA, WEBB COUNTY JUDGE
Discussion and possible action to nominate and approve a qualified Precinct 1 candidate to fill the recent vacancy on the Webb County-City of Laredo Regional Mobility Authority (RMA); and any other matters incident thereto. Issue: Carlos Flores, appointee of Interim Commissioner Linda Ramirez, recently resigned creating a vacancy to be filled by Commissioners Court to represent Precinct 1. Solution: The Commissioners Court needs to appoint a representative for Precinct 1 for the RMA.
Discussion and possible action to approve Commissioner Precinct 1 appointee to the County Grievance Committee.
Discussion and possible action to accept a grant award for the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Program from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for the Program Year 2015 in the amount of $488,439.00, and authorize the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. [Co-Sponsored by Juan Vargas, Executive Director for Webb County CAA and Economic Development Departments]
Report from Administrative Services regarding an explanation of current civil service procedures with regards to employee job descriptions; with further discussion and explanation of criteria used to determine whether a county employee is considered “hourly” versus “salaried”. Issue: There are many questions regarding the job description procedures for civil service employees and the criteria used to differentiate between an hourly versus salaried employee. Solution: Would like Administrative Services to explain the current county processes and criteria in place for these items. Result: This will help clarify for county employees, department heads and elected officials the job description process and criteria used to determine hourly or salaried status.
Discussion and possible action to appoint a metropolitan government committee comprised of county, city and school district officials in an effort to discuss and resolve matters of mutual interest; and any other matters incident thereto. Issue: Webb County and the City of Laredo have similar projects and issues that are of mutual concern and interest. Solution: Committee will combine representatives from both entities, including the school districts to discuss and resolve these matters. Result: The combination of county and city efforts will help streamline projects, avoid duplicity and save taxpayer dollars.
Discussion and possible action to authorize the purchasing agent to solicit Request for Proposals (RFP's) to outsource custodial services for county buildings and departments; and any other matters incident thereto. Issue: Webb County building maintenance department is not adequately equipped to provide custodial services due to shortage of staff and no permanent director. Solution: Temporarily seek out proposals to outsource custodial services for county buildings Result: To be able to keep up with needs of county departments until director issue is resolved
Presentation by Tricia Cortez, Executive Director of the Rio Grande International Study Center, regarding raising awareness and support for the “Plastic Checkout Bag Reduction” Ordinance approved by the City of Laredo on June 2, 2014, which will take effect on April 30, 2015.
Discussion and possible action to authorize a contract amendment #1 to the Chavarria’s Plumbing Inc. contract with Webb County, Texas Department of Agriculture - TCDP Contract # 713015 - “Colonia Pueblo Nuevo House-to-Line Water & Sewer Connection Project”, wherein Webb County agrees to an adjustment in the contract amount and number of homes completed as follows: A contract amount adjustment of Ten Thousand Six Hundred Ninety-Nine Dollars and Eighty-Three Cents ($10,699.83) to the original contract amount of Forty-Four Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Four Dollars and Twenty Cents ($44,324.20) for a total contract amount of Fifty-Five Thousand Twenty-Four Dollars and Three Cents ($55,024.03) and the number of homes completed from Fourteen (14) homes to Eleven (11) homes and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. The adjustment in contract amount shall be paid with grant funds at no cost to the Webb County General Fund. [Requested by Juan Vargas, Webb County Economic Development Executive Director] Issue: The Texas Department of Agriculture requires that a construction contract between Webb County and the plumbing contractor be executed prior to the identification of project beneficiaries or project houses with a contract amount based on the projected amounts of linear footage of water lines, sewer lines, and number of septic systems removed. Therefore, the current contract with a total contract amount based on projections does not match with the actual amounts of water/sewer lines installed or septic tanks removed. Solution: This contract amendment will adjust the total construction contract amount and number of homes completed to reflect actual water/sewer lines installed and septic tanks removed. The The adjustment in contract amount shall be paid with grant funds at no cost to the Webb County General Fund.
Discussion and possible action to authorize the County Attorney’s office to enter into negotiations with the City of Laredo for possible purchase of property described as "A 5.75 Acre (250,300 Sq. Ft.) Tract of land, legally described as all of Block Number Nineteen (19), Subdivision Plat of Laredo Airport, Laredo, Webb County, Texas 78041"; and any other matters incident thereto.
Discussion and possible action to approve the grant application to be submitted by the 406th District Court Drug Court Program, specifically the Specialty Drug Court Program on February 27, 2015 for Grant period: September 1, 2015 thru August 31, 2016. Grant Number: 2056408
Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of a grant application by County Court at Law #2, more specifically, the County Court at Law #2 Driving While Intoxicated (D.W.I.) Court Program to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for the grant term of October 1, 2015 thru September 30, 2018. This grant does not require any cash match by Webb County; and any other matters incident thereto.
Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of a grant application in the amount estimated at $59,858 for the salary, fringe benefits, equipment, training/travel, and supplies costs for a juvenile delinquency diversion case manager in order to divert at-risk juveniles from entering the juvenile justice system in Laredo/Webb County; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any cash match. Issue: Juvenile delinquency is a nationwide problem that negatively affects not only the delinquent youth and their families but also adversely impacts schools, neighborhoods, and the local community at large. In addition, youth at-risk for juvenile delinquency who enter into the juvenile justice system tend to face limited future career, educational, and other socio-economic prospects, especially in the South Texas area. Solution: Grant application to staff a juvenile delinquency diversion case manager in order to provide prevention, diversion, and intervention strategies through the court of the Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4 in Laredo/Webb County area. Result: Increased focus on diversion strategies to steer at-risk juveniles from the juvenile and criminal justice system.
Discussion and possible action to approve an agreement by and between the State of Texas and Webb County for Webb County Constable Pct. 1, for the receipt and use of excess property for law enforcement purposes, from the U.S. Department of Defense pursuant to Section 1033 of the National Defense Authorization Act. This has no impact to the budget and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents. Issue: There is a pending agreement between the Constable Pct. 1 and the State of Texas which would aid the department in the acquisition of additional equipment for law enforcement purposes. Solution: The approval of the agreement will allow for the Constable Pct. 1 to acquire surplus and excess property from the State of Texas, at no cost to the County. Result: Enhanced law enforcement services for the precinct and Webb County, as a whole.
Discussion and possible action to approve the acceptance of Fiscal Year 2015 Local Border Security Program (LBSP-15) grant award in the amount of $91,063.91 for overtime and all applicable fringe benefits costs associated with LBSP-related border security operations in Webb County; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any cash match. Issue: The State of Texas recognizes that border communities face urgent security challenges caused by increased activity from transnational organized criminal syndicates and their allies that are intensified by the fluidity of border crossings, heavy commercial activity, and interdependence of the international border communities’ economies. These socio-economic pressures place increased demands on law enforcement services and intensify the need for augmented public safety resources. Solution: Grant award to provide enhanced border security in Laredo/Webb County in order to fulfill State of Texas local border security program objectives, including overtime (OT) resources to suppress, deter, and reduce border-related criminal activity in Texas. Result: Enhanced/increased patrol and investigative capacity for certified peace officers working at the Webb County Sheriff’s Office.
Presentation by Tricia Cortez, Executive Director of the Rio Grande International Study Center, regarding raising awareness and support for the “Plastic Checkout Bag Reduction” Ordinance approved by the City of Laredo on June 2, 2014, which will take effect on April 30, 2015.
Communications
Discussion and possible action to accept the Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership Grant Award in the amount of $749,531, to include salary adjustments, effective March 1, 2015.
Discussion and possible action to approve the purchase of a Cisco VG204XM Analog Phone Gateway Adapter from Insight Public Sector, pursuant to Sections 271.101 and 271.102 Texas Local Government Code, Cooperative Purchasing program DIR-TSO-2542, for the Indigent Health Care Services Department at a cost of One Thousand Twenty-Two Dollars and Five Cents ($1,022.05). [Requested by Nancy Cadena, Webb County Indigent Health Care Services Director; Account #003-4101-8801 (Capital Outlay)] Issue: The Indigent Health Care Services Department receives/sends all fax communications via an analog connection which is not supported by the new Cisco IP network that has been recently implemented for the county's telephone system. If this device is not purchased, our department would have to change the current fax number. Solution: An analog gateway adaptor will allow the fax device to connect to the new IP network. Result: The purchase of the Gateway Adaptor will allow our department to keep the same number ensuring that communication via fax with health care providers and clients is not interrupted.
Discussion and possible action to purchase an electrical transformer, Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) and installation services for the Information Technology Department from Eaton Corporation, pursuant to Sections 271.101 and 271.102 Texas Local Government Code, Cooperative Purchasing program GSA Contract - GS-07F-9460G in the amount of $92,587.89. [Account #749-0500-8801 (Bond Series 2013)] Issue: The step down power transformer and uninterrupted power supply for our data and network center is close to its maximum capacity preventing the installation of additional equipment when needed. Solution: Extending the electrical installation from the first to the third floor, installing an additional step down power transformer, and installing additional UPS. Result: By adding the proposed step down power transformer and UPS to our building, we will be able to double the current power capacity for that room.
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 February 23, 2015: Slot # Title Hourly Rate 2399 Center Aide $11.83 - $12.44 - 7/A-E
CALL TO ORDER BY THE HONORABLE TANO E. TIJERINA, WEBB COUNTY JUDGE
Discussion and possible action to nominate and approve a qualified Precinct 1 candidate to fill the recent vacancy on the Webb County-City of Laredo Regional Mobility Authority (RMA); and any other matters incident thereto. Issue: Carlos Flores, appointee of Interim Commissioner Linda Ramirez, recently resigned creating a vacancy to be filled by Commissioners Court to represent Precinct 1. Solution: The Commissioners Court needs to appoint a representative for Precinct 1 for the RMA.
Discussion and possible action to approve Commissioner Precinct 1 appointee to the County Grievance Committee.
Discussion and possible action to accept a grant award for the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Program from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for the Program Year 2015 in the amount of $488,439.00, and authorize the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. [Co-Sponsored by Juan Vargas, Executive Director for Webb County CAA and Economic Development Departments]
Report from Administrative Services regarding an explanation of current civil service procedures with regards to employee job descriptions; with further discussion and explanation of criteria used to determine whether a county employee is considered “hourly” versus “salaried”. Issue: There are many questions regarding the job description procedures for civil service employees and the criteria used to differentiate between an hourly versus salaried employee. Solution: Would like Administrative Services to explain the current county processes and criteria in place for these items. Result: This will help clarify for county employees, department heads and elected officials the job description process and criteria used to determine hourly or salaried status.
Discussion and possible action to appoint a metropolitan government committee comprised of county, city and school district officials in an effort to discuss and resolve matters of mutual interest; and any other matters incident thereto. Issue: Webb County and the City of Laredo have similar projects and issues that are of mutual concern and interest. Solution: Committee will combine representatives from both entities, including the school districts to discuss and resolve these matters. Result: The combination of county and city efforts will help streamline projects, avoid duplicity and save taxpayer dollars.
Discussion and possible action to authorize the purchasing agent to solicit Request for Proposals (RFP's) to outsource custodial services for county buildings and departments; and any other matters incident thereto. Issue: Webb County building maintenance department is not adequately equipped to provide custodial services due to shortage of staff and no permanent director. Solution: Temporarily seek out proposals to outsource custodial services for county buildings Result: To be able to keep up with needs of county departments until director issue is resolved
Presentation by Tricia Cortez, Executive Director of the Rio Grande International Study Center, regarding raising awareness and support for the “Plastic Checkout Bag Reduction” Ordinance approved by the City of Laredo on June 2, 2014, which will take effect on April 30, 2015.
Discussion and possible action to authorize a contract amendment #1 to the Chavarria’s Plumbing Inc. contract with Webb County, Texas Department of Agriculture - TCDP Contract # 713015 - “Colonia Pueblo Nuevo House-to-Line Water & Sewer Connection Project”, wherein Webb County agrees to an adjustment in the contract amount and number of homes completed as follows: A contract amount adjustment of Ten Thousand Six Hundred Ninety-Nine Dollars and Eighty-Three Cents ($10,699.83) to the original contract amount of Forty-Four Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Four Dollars and Twenty Cents ($44,324.20) for a total contract amount of Fifty-Five Thousand Twenty-Four Dollars and Three Cents ($55,024.03) and the number of homes completed from Fourteen (14) homes to Eleven (11) homes and authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. The adjustment in contract amount shall be paid with grant funds at no cost to the Webb County General Fund. [Requested by Juan Vargas, Webb County Economic Development Executive Director] Issue: The Texas Department of Agriculture requires that a construction contract between Webb County and the plumbing contractor be executed prior to the identification of project beneficiaries or project houses with a contract amount based on the projected amounts of linear footage of water lines, sewer lines, and number of septic systems removed. Therefore, the current contract with a total contract amount based on projections does not match with the actual amounts of water/sewer lines installed or septic tanks removed. Solution: This contract amendment will adjust the total construction contract amount and number of homes completed to reflect actual water/sewer lines installed and septic tanks removed. The The adjustment in contract amount shall be paid with grant funds at no cost to the Webb County General Fund.
Discussion and possible action to authorize the County Attorney’s office to enter into negotiations with the City of Laredo for possible purchase of property described as "A 5.75 Acre (250,300 Sq. Ft.) Tract of land, legally described as all of Block Number Nineteen (19), Subdivision Plat of Laredo Airport, Laredo, Webb County, Texas 78041"; and any other matters incident thereto.
Discussion and possible action to approve the grant application to be submitted by the 406th District Court Drug Court Program, specifically the Specialty Drug Court Program on February 27, 2015 for Grant period: September 1, 2015 thru August 31, 2016. Grant Number: 2056408
Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of a grant application by County Court at Law #2, more specifically, the County Court at Law #2 Driving While Intoxicated (D.W.I.) Court Program to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for the grant term of October 1, 2015 thru September 30, 2018. This grant does not require any cash match by Webb County; and any other matters incident thereto.
Discussion and possible action to approve the submission of a grant application in the amount estimated at $59,858 for the salary, fringe benefits, equipment, training/travel, and supplies costs for a juvenile delinquency diversion case manager in order to divert at-risk juveniles from entering the juvenile justice system in Laredo/Webb County; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any cash match. Issue: Juvenile delinquency is a nationwide problem that negatively affects not only the delinquent youth and their families but also adversely impacts schools, neighborhoods, and the local community at large. In addition, youth at-risk for juvenile delinquency who enter into the juvenile justice system tend to face limited future career, educational, and other socio-economic prospects, especially in the South Texas area. Solution: Grant application to staff a juvenile delinquency diversion case manager in order to provide prevention, diversion, and intervention strategies through the court of the Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4 in Laredo/Webb County area. Result: Increased focus on diversion strategies to steer at-risk juveniles from the juvenile and criminal justice system.
Discussion and possible action to approve an agreement by and between the State of Texas and Webb County for Webb County Constable Pct. 1, for the receipt and use of excess property for law enforcement purposes, from the U.S. Department of Defense pursuant to Section 1033 of the National Defense Authorization Act. This has no impact to the budget and authorizing the County Judge to sign and execute all relevant documents. Issue: There is a pending agreement between the Constable Pct. 1 and the State of Texas which would aid the department in the acquisition of additional equipment for law enforcement purposes. Solution: The approval of the agreement will allow for the Constable Pct. 1 to acquire surplus and excess property from the State of Texas, at no cost to the County. Result: Enhanced law enforcement services for the precinct and Webb County, as a whole.
Discussion and possible action to approve the acceptance of Fiscal Year 2015 Local Border Security Program (LBSP-15) grant award in the amount of $91,063.91 for overtime and all applicable fringe benefits costs associated with LBSP-related border security operations in Webb County; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require any cash match. Issue: The State of Texas recognizes that border communities face urgent security challenges caused by increased activity from transnational organized criminal syndicates and their allies that are intensified by the fluidity of border crossings, heavy commercial activity, and interdependence of the international border communities’ economies. These socio-economic pressures place increased demands on law enforcement services and intensify the need for augmented public safety resources. Solution: Grant award to provide enhanced border security in Laredo/Webb County in order to fulfill State of Texas local border security program objectives, including overtime (OT) resources to suppress, deter, and reduce border-related criminal activity in Texas. Result: Enhanced/increased patrol and investigative capacity for certified peace officers working at the Webb County Sheriff’s Office.
Presentation by Tricia Cortez, Executive Director of the Rio Grande International Study Center, regarding raising awareness and support for the “Plastic Checkout Bag Reduction” Ordinance approved by the City of Laredo on June 2, 2014, which will take effect on April 30, 2015.
Communications
Discussion and possible action to accept the Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership Grant Award in the amount of $749,531, to include salary adjustments, effective March 1, 2015.
Discussion and possible action to approve the purchase of a Cisco VG204XM Analog Phone Gateway Adapter from Insight Public Sector, pursuant to Sections 271.101 and 271.102 Texas Local Government Code, Cooperative Purchasing program DIR-TSO-2542, for the Indigent Health Care Services Department at a cost of One Thousand Twenty-Two Dollars and Five Cents ($1,022.05). [Requested by Nancy Cadena, Webb County Indigent Health Care Services Director; Account #003-4101-8801 (Capital Outlay)] Issue: The Indigent Health Care Services Department receives/sends all fax communications via an analog connection which is not supported by the new Cisco IP network that has been recently implemented for the county's telephone system. If this device is not purchased, our department would have to change the current fax number. Solution: An analog gateway adaptor will allow the fax device to connect to the new IP network. Result: The purchase of the Gateway Adaptor will allow our department to keep the same number ensuring that communication via fax with health care providers and clients is not interrupted.
Discussion and possible action to purchase an electrical transformer, Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) and installation services for the Information Technology Department from Eaton Corporation, pursuant to Sections 271.101 and 271.102 Texas Local Government Code, Cooperative Purchasing program GSA Contract - GS-07F-9460G in the amount of $92,587.89. [Account #749-0500-8801 (Bond Series 2013)] Issue: The step down power transformer and uninterrupted power supply for our data and network center is close to its maximum capacity preventing the installation of additional equipment when needed. Solution: Extending the electrical installation from the first to the third floor, installing an additional step down power transformer, and installing additional UPS. Result: By adding the proposed step down power transformer and UPS to our building, we will be able to double the current power capacity for that room.
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 February 23, 2015: Slot # Title Hourly Rate 2399 Center Aide $11.83 - $12.44 - 7/A-E