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PUBLIC NOTICE COMMISSIONERS COURT MEETING WEBB COUNTY COURTHOUSE 1000 HOUSTON STREET, 2ND FLOOR LAREDO, TEXAS 78040 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2023 9:00 a.m.
1. 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 Department reports); 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.
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. Economic Development
16. Discussion and possible action to accept the continuation grant awarded to Webb County from the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) for Fiscal Year 2023 under their Improving Criminal Justice Responses (ICJR) for a Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Grant Program in the amount of THREE HUNDRED SEVENTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($375,000.00) and for the Commissioners Court to allocate an additional FIFTY-FIVE THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED SIXTY DOLLARS ($55,260.00) from the Webb County General Fund to cover the wages and benefits payable to the grant-funded investigator/peace officer pursuant to the Webb County Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that are not covered by the grant for the current and next two fiscal years (beginning October 1, 2023 thru September 30, 2026) subject to annual appropriations; and designating the Webb County Judge as the authorized official to sign all relevant documents in all matters related to this grant and any other matters incident thereto. Thus, a line item transfer will be presented on or after April 2024 to cover the difference of $18,420.00 from salary savings. Specifically, this grant is to enhance investigations in all matters relating to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and dating violence through the payment of the salary and fringe benefits of a grant-funded Sheriff’s Office investigator and to sustain legal advocacy efforts by the Casa de Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter Legal Advocate. All required documents were sent to the Economic Development Department and were found in compliance with the Single Point of Contact (SPOC) policy. [Requested by Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff; Grant Fund #2604 ($375,000.00) and General Fund #1001-1160-001-463907-010 ($55,260.00)] Requested Budget Amount Cost per Year Total for 3 years TOTAL REQUEST (Includes Salary & Fringe Benefits-Health Insurance, FICA, Workers' Comp. Retirement, & Unemployment Insurance) $18,420.00 $55,260.00 Issue: Since 2013, the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) has continually funded a grant funded domestic violence (DV) investigator for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office and a legal advocate for the Casa Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter through this grant program. Solution: Casa Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter and the Webb County Sheriff's Office seek to continue their coordinated, collaborative efforts to assist victims of domestic violence in the local Laredo/Webb County Community. Result: Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking in the Laredo/Webb County area will continue to receive improved, enhanced services from the Casa Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter and the Webb County Sheriff's Office to assist them with needed recovery, restitution, privacy, justice, and dignity.
6. Human Resources
17. Discussion with possible action to review the current list of qualified applicants for the Capital Projects-Infrastructure Director position and to schedule interviews and/or select a candidate now, set the salary and start date; and any other matters incident thereto. (Contingent on meeting all Webb County pre-employment requirements). Issue: During the September 25, 2023, Commissioner’s Court meeting, the Commissioner’s Court was provided with an update on the application process for the Capital Projects-Infrastructure Director position. Solution: Schedule interviews, select a candidate, or reopen the position. Result: Hire the best-suited candidate for the Capital Project-Infrastructure Director.
18. Discussion with possible action to review the current list of qualified applicants for the Community Action Agency Director position and to schedule interviews and/or select a candidate now, set the salary and start date; and any other matters incident thereto. (Contingent on meeting all Webb County pre-employment requirements). Issue: During the September 25, 2023, Commissioner’s Court meeting, the Commissioner’s Court approved the initiation of the advertisement and solicitation of applications for qualified candidates for the Community Action Agency Director position. Solution: Schedule interviews, select a candidate, or request to reopen the position. Result: Hire the best-suited candidate for the Community Action Agency Director.
19. Discussion with possible action to review the current list of qualified applicants for the Fairgrounds Director position and to schedule interviews and/or select a candidate now, set the salary and start date; and any other matters incident thereto. (Contingent on meeting all Webb County pre-employment requirements). Issue: During the September 25, 2023, Commissioner’s Court meeting, the Commissioner’s Court approved the job qualification and job description criteria for the Webb County Fairgrounds Director position. Solution: Schedule interviews, select a candidate, or request to reopen the position. Result: Hire the best-suited candidate for the Fairgrounds Director.
7. Public Health Services
20. Discussion and possible action to authorize Inter-Governmental Transfer (IGT) contributions payable to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission as required under the Texas Healthcare Transformation and Quality Improvement Program/1115 Waiver in amounts not to exceed a total of Nine Hundred Thousand Dollars ($900,000) for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. IGT contributions for FY 2023-2024 may be paid out, if necessary, thru December 31, 2024, contingent upon IGT transfer dates and deadlines established by the State of Texas. [Accounts #1001-5030-001-432063-015 (Hospital Inpatient) and #1001-5030-001-432063-020 (Hospital Outpatient) from Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Budget] Issue: Since 2006, Webb County has participated as the Inter-Governmental Transfer (IGT) entity for Laredo Medical Center and Doctors Hospital of Laredo. The IGT submitted allows hospitals to receive federal matching funds that are used to offset the cost of un-compensated care that hospitals provide to Medicaid and uninsured patients. Solution: Commissioners Court approval is needed in order to submit IGT contributions on behalf of local hospitals as requested by the State of Texas. Result: The authorization of IGT will allow local hospitals to access matching federal funds for FY 2023-2024 to offset uncompensated care costs as well as receive incentive payments from the State of Texas for successful completion of 1115 Waiver requirements.
8. Medical Examiner
21. Discussion and possible action to enter into Interlocal Cooperative Agreements for Autopsy Services and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents with the following counties: Dimmit County Duval County Frio County Jim Hogg County La Salle County Maverick County Starr County Val Verde County Zapata County Zavala County
9. Auditor
22. Discussion and possible action to approve additional county funds in the amount of Seventy Thousand Two Hundred Fourteen Dollars ($70,214.00) to complete the total contract amount awarded of Four Hundred Four Thousand Four Hundred Ninety Dollars $404,490.00 to Anderson Columbia Co. for the Community Development Fund Contract No. CDV21-0485. This amount of Seventy Thousand Two Hundred Fourteen Dollars ($70,214.00) in addition with the previously approved Ninety-Nine Thousand Four Hundred Ninety ($99,490.00) Dollars as cash match will complete the One Hundred Sixty-Nine Thousand Seven Hundred Four Dollars ($169,704.00) as determined through Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) interim monitoring report. Commissioners Court will revise the County procurement policies and procedures to compliance with the Texas Department of Agriculture Texas and Community Development Block Grant guidelines for sealed bids and change orders requirements and will submit the corrective action plan by the due date. This item has been reviewed by Economic Development and has been found to be in compliance with Single Point of Contact (SPOC). [Requested by James Flores, Director of Economic Development Department and Rafael Perez, County Auditor; Account# 2007-259700 (Fund Balance Unreserved Undesignated)]
10. Civil Legal Division PUBLIC HEARING
23. Public Hearing on establishing a reinvestment zone, to be known as El Molino Solar Reinvestment Zone, located approximately 50 miles from Laredo in Eastern Webb County north of Bruni. CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING
24. Discussion and possible action to establish, by Order of the Webb County Commissioners Court, a reinvestment zone to be known as El Molino Solar Reinvestment Zone, located approximately 50 miles from Laredo in eastern Webb County north of Bruni; directing a proposed Tax Abatement agreement be prepared; authorizing the publication of all required notices as per statute and any other matters incident thereto.
25. Discussion and possible action to enter into a Tax Abatement and Incentive Agreement for Property in a Neighborhood Empowerment Zone with Gage & Ortega Properties, Ltd. for property located at 2201 Laredo Street, Laredo Texas and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. [No effect on county budget]
26. Discussion and possible action to enter into Third Party Agreements and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant document with the following organizations: Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association, Inc. also conducting business as Alzheimer's Association $25,000.00 Area Health Education of the Mid Rio Grande Border Area of Texas, Inc. $6,000.00 Bethany House of Laredo $10,000.00 Border Area Nutrition Council, Inc. $30,000.00 Border Olympics, Inc. $65,000.00 Border Region Behavioral Health Center $75,000.00 Boys & Girls Clubs of Laredo, Inc. $12,250.00 Casa de Misericordia $15,000.00 Children's Advocacy Center of Laredo-Webb County $50,000.00 Communities in Schools of Laredo $5,000.00 Gateway Community Health Center Inc $67,500.00 Greater Laredo Development Foundation $30,000.00 Habitat for Humanity of Laredo, Inc. $50,000.00 Kidney Foundation of Laredo, Inc. $10,000.00 Laredo Animal Protective Society $10,000.00 Laredo Cancer Society $25,000.00 Laredo Center for the Arts $8,000.00 Laredo Chamber of Commerce $150,000.00 Laredo Children's Museum, Inc. DBA Imaginarium of South Texas $10,000.00 Laredo Crime Stoppers, Inc. $3,000.00 Laredo Cultural District, Inc. $25,000.00 Laredo International Fair and Exposition $150,000.00 Laredo Main Street, Inc. $40,000.00 Laredo Philharmonic $10,000.00 Laredo Pony Baseball/Softball League $35,000.00 Laredo Regional Food Bank, Inc. $20,000.00 Laredo Stroke Support Group, Inc. $10,000.00 Laredo Tennis Association, Inc. $10,000.00 Latin American International Sports Hall of Fame $10,000.00 LULAC #12 $10,000.00 Mercy Ministries of Laredo $75,000.00 Mexican Cultural Institute of Laredo $15,000.00 Princess Pocahontas Council of Laredo, Texas, Inc. $5,000.00 RGISC, Inc. $10,000.00 Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center $40,000.00 Sacred Heart Childrens' Home, Inc. $10,000.00 Society of Martha Washington, Inc. $5,000.00 South Texas Food Bank $24,750.00 Special Olympics Texas, Inc. $10,000.00 USA Savate: Boxe Francaise & Canne De Combat Commission, Inc. (Capoeira Project) $5,000.00 USA Savate: Boxe Francaise & Canne De Combat Commission, Inc. (World Pugilist Hall of Fame) $5,000.00 Washington's Birthday Celebration Association of Laredo $5,000.00 Webb County Heritage Foundation, Inc. $20,000.00 Webb Soil & Water Conservation District #337 $5,000.00
27. Discussion and possible action to accept the in-kind charitable donation of the “Surface Estate” of Lot Numbers 1 & 2, Block 121, Western Division, Laredo, Webb County Texas, located at 920 Houston St., from the Fernando Salinas, Jr., Trust, to Webb County, Texas, for any Webb County uses and/or “public purpose uses only” and approving the naming any future Webb County facility or building located thereon in honor of Fernando A. Salinas; authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute any and all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by the Webb County Commissioners Court]
28. Discussion and possible action to reinstate and extend the Project Development and Management Agreement with the Webb County Heritage Foundation for a five month period (October 1, 2023 through February 29, 2023) and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. [Account #2004-1010-001-463518-005, Heritage Foundation MGMT]
29. Discussion and possible action to enter into Amendment #1 to the Donation and Construction Agreement for Road Improvements on Alamo Road between Webb County and EOG Resources dated September 1, 2023 to provide for the contribution of culvert piping by County to the project and for additional work to be provided by EOG to remove and replace two wooden bridge structures and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. [No effect on County Budget]
11. Engineer
30. Discussion and possible action to approve the closeout and release of retainage in the amount of $3,327.50 to ROMO Contractors LLC., for the Webb County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 Place 1 Renovation Project; and have the County Judge sign any relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-206000 (Retainage Payable)] Issue: Renovation Project has been completed. Solution: Approval of close out and release of retainage. Result: The project has been completed.
31. Discussion and possible action to approve and authorize Summit Building & Design to use Contingency Allowance Expenditure funds in the amount of $242,939.00 for the Webb County Sheriff Office Renovation Project; and have the County Judge sign any relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #3867-7230-001-474501 (Construction in Progress) and #3905-7230-001-474501-002 (Finish Out Remodeling)] Issue: Summit Construction is requesting to use Contingency funds. This is not a Change Order and does not increase nor decrease the contract amount or the Contract's scheduled date of completion. (Please see attached Contingency Allowance Expenditure Authorization No. 1) Solution: Approval to use Contingency funds. Result: Project will continue and finish with modifications.
32. Discussion and possible action to approve the closeout and release of retainage in the amount of $6,209.08 to SAL Construction Management LLC., for the Wormser Road Extension Project; and have the County Judge sign any relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #3716-206000 (Retainage Payable)] Issue: The Wormser Road Extension Project has been completed. Solution: Approval of close out and release of retainage. Result: Project completion and safe roads for constituents of Webb County and First Responders.
33. Discussion and possible action to rescind the Commissioners Court action on September 25, 2023 Agenda Item #20 being “Discussion and possible action to approve Change Orders No. 1-8 in the amount of approximately $330,000.00 to Quantcorp Construction for the Webb County Detoxification Facility with additional approval to transfer funds from Account 3907 Interest Income to 3902-7230-001-474501 (Construction in Progress); and authorize the County Judge to sign any relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Fund #3907 (Interest Income) and Account #3902-7230-001-474501 (Construction in Progress)] and any matters incident thereto.
34. Discussion and possible action to approve Change Order #1 to the construction contract with Quantcorp Construction LLC for the Webb County Detoxification Facility Renovation Project in an amount not to exceed Eighteen Thousand Three Hundred Eighty-Eight Dollars and Seventy-Five Cents ($18,388.75) with additional approval to transfer funds from Account 3907 Interest Income to 3902-7230-001-474501 (Construction in Progress) and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign any relevant. [Fund #3907 (Interest Income) and Account #3902-7230-001-474501 (Construction in Progress)]
12. Purchasing
35. Discussion and possible action to authorize the purchase of twenty-four (24) tons of Base bind - 3X road stabilization product from Enviro Tech Services, Inc. (TIPS Contract No. 210904) for the Road and Bridge Department in an amount not to exceed $23,285.00 pursuant to the Texas Local Government Code; Sections 271.101, 271.102, Sub-Chapter F. Cooperative Purchasing Programs and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #2007-7150-001-443000-100 (Repairs & Maintenance Roads)] Qty. Unit Description / Application Rate Cust. # - CA # Unit Price Line Total 24 Tons BaseBind XXX - List Price Product $817.00 $19,608 24 Tons Tips Discount - 22% $(147.00) $(3,528) 24 Tons Freight / Pumpover Cost $300.21 $7,205 TIPS CONTRACT #210904 PO: 24 Ton Load $23,285 Delivery: 4–7 Days after receipt of order Issue: BaseBind 3X proprietary blend formula is an environmentally friendly road stabilizer that will help cut down on maintenance costs and improve the strength of road material being used. Solution: Authorize the purchase of the proposed stabilizer product from Enviro Tech Services, Inc. Vendor currently has a cooperative purchasing contract, meeting the States and County competitive bidding requires. Result: Order product to test on County roads to evaluate the effectiveness and determine if cost savings will result from application.
13. Risk Management
36. Discussion and possible action to award renewal contract to USI Southwest, Inc., for Property/Casualty, Liability Insurance, Excess Workers Compensation, Aviation Liability, Boiler & Machinery, and Terrorism and Sabotage Property Damage Insurance, Cyber Liability and Commercial Automobile. Premium amount not to exceed $1,800,000.00 through the following insurance carriers listed below, effective October 1, 2023, through September 30th, 2024 and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents. [Account #1001-1180-001-452012 (Property & Casualty Premium) and #6200-1090-001-452013 (Property & Casualty Premium)] Zurich American Insurance Company AXA XL Insurance Westchester Fire Insurance Company Travelers Casualty And Safety Company of America Lloyd's of London (Hiscox Syndicate) Safety National Casualty Corporation Lexington Insurance Company Illinois Union Insurance Company
37. Discussion and possible action to approve the 2024 AETNA Health Insurance and Aetna Dental Insurance rates for the Webb County Employees effective January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024. Co-pays for medical visits with the primary care physician remain at $10.00. Specialists co-pay remain at $20 as mandated by the court. Health Insurance Base Plan Pre Pay Period Employee Only $44.29 $20.44 Emp. & Spouse $403.62 $186.29 Emp. & Child(ren) $168.31 $77.68 Emp. Spouse & Child(ren) $445.70 $205.71 Health Insurance Buy-Up Plan Pre Pay Period Employee Only $210.39 $97.10 Emp. & Spouse $752.43 $347.28 Emp. & Child(ren) $467.29 $215.67 Emp. Spouse & Child(ren) $1,093.48 $504.68 Dental Insurance Base Plan Pre Pay Period Employee Only $0 $0 Emp. & Spouse $28.81 $13.30 Emp. & Child(ren) $21.60 $9.97 Emp. Spouse & Child(ren) $45.80 $21.14 Dental Insurance Buy-Up Plan Pre Pay Period Employee Only $26.61 $12.28 Emp. & Spouse $45.80 $21.14 Emp. & Child(ren) $45.80 $21.14 Emp. Spouse & Child(ren) $72.69 $33.55 Issue: There are no changes to the health and dental premiums for 2024. Solution: Approve rates/premiums in the best interest of the employees allowing affordable health care. Result: A balanced Health Care Plan for Webb County Employees and their dependents to have access to affordable health care.
14. Honorable Jesse Gonzalez, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 1
38. Discussion and possible action to approve the appointment of a Director at the E.J. Salinas Community Center (Slot #914), subject to any and all Wage Plan Policies, effective October 10, 2023: Slot # Title Salary 914 Community Center Director $38,402.54 - $41,891.42 $16/A-H Issue: Slot #914 is vacant Solution: Request to appoint a Director at the community center. Result: The filling of slot #914 will allow the center to continue to function efficiently and effectively.
15. Honorable Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 2
39. Presentation by Manuel Sanchez with PILLAR, People with Ideas of Love, Liberty, Accepts, Respects are proposing to provide Webb County employees with a comprehensive care model of services to promote employees physical and mental health well-being; with discussion and possible action to authorize civil legal to finalize an agreement with PILLAR for said services; authorize the County Judge to sign all relevant documents, and any other matters incident thereto.
16. Honorable Ricardo A. Jaime, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 4
40. Discussion and possible action to authorize a sixty (60) month lease agreement between Healthchek Network LLC (DBA Healthbot) and Webb County for the installation and monthly standard subscription services for four (4) Healthbot Kiosk wellness stations for Webb County employee wellness initiatives in an amount not to exceed $892.00 per month and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-1180-007-462000 (General Fund-Risk Management-Employee Health Clinic-Wellness Employee Clinic Expenditures)] Item Description Quantity Monthly Price per Kiosk Extended Monthly Total Price Healthbot Kiosk 60 month installment purchase. Healthbot Model HCK-2000 w/bp, weight, bmi 4 $179 $716 Data Subscription Monthly Standard Subscription: user accounts, population health reports digital graphics & messaging 4 $25 $100 Deliverables Freight to Webb County sites ($385), installer visit ($350), custom Webb County branding, amortized 60 months 4 $19 $76 Maintenance Repairs including parts, labor and on-site technician visits for 60 months 4 Included Included Total Monthly Payment $223 $892 Issue: The implementation of these proposed wellness health stations is a proactive measure by the Webb County Commissioners Court to help Webb County employees track their blood pressure, weight, BMI, heart rate, and is specifically designed for employee wellness programs. Solution: Approve proposed lease agreement with Healthchek Network LLC, DBA Healthbot the only FDA cleared health station designed specifically for employee health and wellness programs. Result: This wellness initiative will provide the necessary tools for Commissioners Court to drive employee participation to track their individual health needs and the ability to keep track of their health-related numbers/statistics to help decrease health issues such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes and other related health issues impacting our community.
17. Honorable Tano E. Tijerina, Webb County Judge
41. Discussion and possible action to proclaim October 8-14, 2023 as Fire Prevention Week in Webb County, Texas.
42. Discussion and possible action to proclaim the month of October 2023 as Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
18. Presentations
43. Recognition and presentation of plaque to Nourish Laredo, a teen-led nonprofit organization that is dedicated to improving our community. [Requested by Tano E. Tijerina, County Judge]
44. Recognition and presentation of plaque to Adriana Melissa Martinez for participating and completing the Ironman Triathlon, one of the most difficult one-day sporting events in the world. [Requested by John C. Galo, Commissioner Pct. 3]
Oct 10, 2023 Commissioners Court Meeting
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PUBLIC NOTICE COMMISSIONERS COURT MEETING WEBB COUNTY COURTHOUSE 1000 HOUSTON STREET, 2ND FLOOR LAREDO, TEXAS 78040 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2023 9:00 a.m.
1. 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 Department reports); 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.
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. Economic Development
16. Discussion and possible action to accept the continuation grant awarded to Webb County from the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) for Fiscal Year 2023 under their Improving Criminal Justice Responses (ICJR) for a Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Grant Program in the amount of THREE HUNDRED SEVENTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($375,000.00) and for the Commissioners Court to allocate an additional FIFTY-FIVE THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED SIXTY DOLLARS ($55,260.00) from the Webb County General Fund to cover the wages and benefits payable to the grant-funded investigator/peace officer pursuant to the Webb County Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that are not covered by the grant for the current and next two fiscal years (beginning October 1, 2023 thru September 30, 2026) subject to annual appropriations; and designating the Webb County Judge as the authorized official to sign all relevant documents in all matters related to this grant and any other matters incident thereto. Thus, a line item transfer will be presented on or after April 2024 to cover the difference of $18,420.00 from salary savings. Specifically, this grant is to enhance investigations in all matters relating to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and dating violence through the payment of the salary and fringe benefits of a grant-funded Sheriff’s Office investigator and to sustain legal advocacy efforts by the Casa de Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter Legal Advocate. All required documents were sent to the Economic Development Department and were found in compliance with the Single Point of Contact (SPOC) policy. [Requested by Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff; Grant Fund #2604 ($375,000.00) and General Fund #1001-1160-001-463907-010 ($55,260.00)] Requested Budget Amount Cost per Year Total for 3 years TOTAL REQUEST (Includes Salary & Fringe Benefits-Health Insurance, FICA, Workers' Comp. Retirement, & Unemployment Insurance) $18,420.00 $55,260.00 Issue: Since 2013, the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) has continually funded a grant funded domestic violence (DV) investigator for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office and a legal advocate for the Casa Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter through this grant program. Solution: Casa Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter and the Webb County Sheriff's Office seek to continue their coordinated, collaborative efforts to assist victims of domestic violence in the local Laredo/Webb County Community. Result: Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking in the Laredo/Webb County area will continue to receive improved, enhanced services from the Casa Misericordia Domestic Violence Shelter and the Webb County Sheriff's Office to assist them with needed recovery, restitution, privacy, justice, and dignity.
6. Human Resources
17. Discussion with possible action to review the current list of qualified applicants for the Capital Projects-Infrastructure Director position and to schedule interviews and/or select a candidate now, set the salary and start date; and any other matters incident thereto. (Contingent on meeting all Webb County pre-employment requirements). Issue: During the September 25, 2023, Commissioner’s Court meeting, the Commissioner’s Court was provided with an update on the application process for the Capital Projects-Infrastructure Director position. Solution: Schedule interviews, select a candidate, or reopen the position. Result: Hire the best-suited candidate for the Capital Project-Infrastructure Director.
18. Discussion with possible action to review the current list of qualified applicants for the Community Action Agency Director position and to schedule interviews and/or select a candidate now, set the salary and start date; and any other matters incident thereto. (Contingent on meeting all Webb County pre-employment requirements). Issue: During the September 25, 2023, Commissioner’s Court meeting, the Commissioner’s Court approved the initiation of the advertisement and solicitation of applications for qualified candidates for the Community Action Agency Director position. Solution: Schedule interviews, select a candidate, or request to reopen the position. Result: Hire the best-suited candidate for the Community Action Agency Director.
19. Discussion with possible action to review the current list of qualified applicants for the Fairgrounds Director position and to schedule interviews and/or select a candidate now, set the salary and start date; and any other matters incident thereto. (Contingent on meeting all Webb County pre-employment requirements). Issue: During the September 25, 2023, Commissioner’s Court meeting, the Commissioner’s Court approved the job qualification and job description criteria for the Webb County Fairgrounds Director position. Solution: Schedule interviews, select a candidate, or request to reopen the position. Result: Hire the best-suited candidate for the Fairgrounds Director.
7. Public Health Services
20. Discussion and possible action to authorize Inter-Governmental Transfer (IGT) contributions payable to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission as required under the Texas Healthcare Transformation and Quality Improvement Program/1115 Waiver in amounts not to exceed a total of Nine Hundred Thousand Dollars ($900,000) for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. IGT contributions for FY 2023-2024 may be paid out, if necessary, thru December 31, 2024, contingent upon IGT transfer dates and deadlines established by the State of Texas. [Accounts #1001-5030-001-432063-015 (Hospital Inpatient) and #1001-5030-001-432063-020 (Hospital Outpatient) from Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Budget] Issue: Since 2006, Webb County has participated as the Inter-Governmental Transfer (IGT) entity for Laredo Medical Center and Doctors Hospital of Laredo. The IGT submitted allows hospitals to receive federal matching funds that are used to offset the cost of un-compensated care that hospitals provide to Medicaid and uninsured patients. Solution: Commissioners Court approval is needed in order to submit IGT contributions on behalf of local hospitals as requested by the State of Texas. Result: The authorization of IGT will allow local hospitals to access matching federal funds for FY 2023-2024 to offset uncompensated care costs as well as receive incentive payments from the State of Texas for successful completion of 1115 Waiver requirements.
8. Medical Examiner
21. Discussion and possible action to enter into Interlocal Cooperative Agreements for Autopsy Services and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents with the following counties: Dimmit County Duval County Frio County Jim Hogg County La Salle County Maverick County Starr County Val Verde County Zapata County Zavala County
9. Auditor
22. Discussion and possible action to approve additional county funds in the amount of Seventy Thousand Two Hundred Fourteen Dollars ($70,214.00) to complete the total contract amount awarded of Four Hundred Four Thousand Four Hundred Ninety Dollars $404,490.00 to Anderson Columbia Co. for the Community Development Fund Contract No. CDV21-0485. This amount of Seventy Thousand Two Hundred Fourteen Dollars ($70,214.00) in addition with the previously approved Ninety-Nine Thousand Four Hundred Ninety ($99,490.00) Dollars as cash match will complete the One Hundred Sixty-Nine Thousand Seven Hundred Four Dollars ($169,704.00) as determined through Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) interim monitoring report. Commissioners Court will revise the County procurement policies and procedures to compliance with the Texas Department of Agriculture Texas and Community Development Block Grant guidelines for sealed bids and change orders requirements and will submit the corrective action plan by the due date. This item has been reviewed by Economic Development and has been found to be in compliance with Single Point of Contact (SPOC). [Requested by James Flores, Director of Economic Development Department and Rafael Perez, County Auditor; Account# 2007-259700 (Fund Balance Unreserved Undesignated)]
10. Civil Legal Division PUBLIC HEARING
23. Public Hearing on establishing a reinvestment zone, to be known as El Molino Solar Reinvestment Zone, located approximately 50 miles from Laredo in Eastern Webb County north of Bruni. CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING
24. Discussion and possible action to establish, by Order of the Webb County Commissioners Court, a reinvestment zone to be known as El Molino Solar Reinvestment Zone, located approximately 50 miles from Laredo in eastern Webb County north of Bruni; directing a proposed Tax Abatement agreement be prepared; authorizing the publication of all required notices as per statute and any other matters incident thereto.
25. Discussion and possible action to enter into a Tax Abatement and Incentive Agreement for Property in a Neighborhood Empowerment Zone with Gage & Ortega Properties, Ltd. for property located at 2201 Laredo Street, Laredo Texas and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. [No effect on county budget]
26. Discussion and possible action to enter into Third Party Agreements and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant document with the following organizations: Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association, Inc. also conducting business as Alzheimer's Association $25,000.00 Area Health Education of the Mid Rio Grande Border Area of Texas, Inc. $6,000.00 Bethany House of Laredo $10,000.00 Border Area Nutrition Council, Inc. $30,000.00 Border Olympics, Inc. $65,000.00 Border Region Behavioral Health Center $75,000.00 Boys & Girls Clubs of Laredo, Inc. $12,250.00 Casa de Misericordia $15,000.00 Children's Advocacy Center of Laredo-Webb County $50,000.00 Communities in Schools of Laredo $5,000.00 Gateway Community Health Center Inc $67,500.00 Greater Laredo Development Foundation $30,000.00 Habitat for Humanity of Laredo, Inc. $50,000.00 Kidney Foundation of Laredo, Inc. $10,000.00 Laredo Animal Protective Society $10,000.00 Laredo Cancer Society $25,000.00 Laredo Center for the Arts $8,000.00 Laredo Chamber of Commerce $150,000.00 Laredo Children's Museum, Inc. DBA Imaginarium of South Texas $10,000.00 Laredo Crime Stoppers, Inc. $3,000.00 Laredo Cultural District, Inc. $25,000.00 Laredo International Fair and Exposition $150,000.00 Laredo Main Street, Inc. $40,000.00 Laredo Philharmonic $10,000.00 Laredo Pony Baseball/Softball League $35,000.00 Laredo Regional Food Bank, Inc. $20,000.00 Laredo Stroke Support Group, Inc. $10,000.00 Laredo Tennis Association, Inc. $10,000.00 Latin American International Sports Hall of Fame $10,000.00 LULAC #12 $10,000.00 Mercy Ministries of Laredo $75,000.00 Mexican Cultural Institute of Laredo $15,000.00 Princess Pocahontas Council of Laredo, Texas, Inc. $5,000.00 RGISC, Inc. $10,000.00 Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center $40,000.00 Sacred Heart Childrens' Home, Inc. $10,000.00 Society of Martha Washington, Inc. $5,000.00 South Texas Food Bank $24,750.00 Special Olympics Texas, Inc. $10,000.00 USA Savate: Boxe Francaise & Canne De Combat Commission, Inc. (Capoeira Project) $5,000.00 USA Savate: Boxe Francaise & Canne De Combat Commission, Inc. (World Pugilist Hall of Fame) $5,000.00 Washington's Birthday Celebration Association of Laredo $5,000.00 Webb County Heritage Foundation, Inc. $20,000.00 Webb Soil & Water Conservation District #337 $5,000.00
27. Discussion and possible action to accept the in-kind charitable donation of the “Surface Estate” of Lot Numbers 1 & 2, Block 121, Western Division, Laredo, Webb County Texas, located at 920 Houston St., from the Fernando Salinas, Jr., Trust, to Webb County, Texas, for any Webb County uses and/or “public purpose uses only” and approving the naming any future Webb County facility or building located thereon in honor of Fernando A. Salinas; authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute any and all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. [Requested by the Webb County Commissioners Court]
28. Discussion and possible action to reinstate and extend the Project Development and Management Agreement with the Webb County Heritage Foundation for a five month period (October 1, 2023 through February 29, 2023) and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. [Account #2004-1010-001-463518-005, Heritage Foundation MGMT]
29. Discussion and possible action to enter into Amendment #1 to the Donation and Construction Agreement for Road Improvements on Alamo Road between Webb County and EOG Resources dated September 1, 2023 to provide for the contribution of culvert piping by County to the project and for additional work to be provided by EOG to remove and replace two wooden bridge structures and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign all relevant documents. [No effect on County Budget]
11. Engineer
30. Discussion and possible action to approve the closeout and release of retainage in the amount of $3,327.50 to ROMO Contractors LLC., for the Webb County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 Place 1 Renovation Project; and have the County Judge sign any relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-206000 (Retainage Payable)] Issue: Renovation Project has been completed. Solution: Approval of close out and release of retainage. Result: The project has been completed.
31. Discussion and possible action to approve and authorize Summit Building & Design to use Contingency Allowance Expenditure funds in the amount of $242,939.00 for the Webb County Sheriff Office Renovation Project; and have the County Judge sign any relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #3867-7230-001-474501 (Construction in Progress) and #3905-7230-001-474501-002 (Finish Out Remodeling)] Issue: Summit Construction is requesting to use Contingency funds. This is not a Change Order and does not increase nor decrease the contract amount or the Contract's scheduled date of completion. (Please see attached Contingency Allowance Expenditure Authorization No. 1) Solution: Approval to use Contingency funds. Result: Project will continue and finish with modifications.
32. Discussion and possible action to approve the closeout and release of retainage in the amount of $6,209.08 to SAL Construction Management LLC., for the Wormser Road Extension Project; and have the County Judge sign any relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #3716-206000 (Retainage Payable)] Issue: The Wormser Road Extension Project has been completed. Solution: Approval of close out and release of retainage. Result: Project completion and safe roads for constituents of Webb County and First Responders.
33. Discussion and possible action to rescind the Commissioners Court action on September 25, 2023 Agenda Item #20 being “Discussion and possible action to approve Change Orders No. 1-8 in the amount of approximately $330,000.00 to Quantcorp Construction for the Webb County Detoxification Facility with additional approval to transfer funds from Account 3907 Interest Income to 3902-7230-001-474501 (Construction in Progress); and authorize the County Judge to sign any relevant documents and any other matters incident thereto. [Fund #3907 (Interest Income) and Account #3902-7230-001-474501 (Construction in Progress)] and any matters incident thereto.
34. Discussion and possible action to approve Change Order #1 to the construction contract with Quantcorp Construction LLC for the Webb County Detoxification Facility Renovation Project in an amount not to exceed Eighteen Thousand Three Hundred Eighty-Eight Dollars and Seventy-Five Cents ($18,388.75) with additional approval to transfer funds from Account 3907 Interest Income to 3902-7230-001-474501 (Construction in Progress) and any matters incident thereto; authorizing the County Judge to sign any relevant. [Fund #3907 (Interest Income) and Account #3902-7230-001-474501 (Construction in Progress)]
12. Purchasing
35. Discussion and possible action to authorize the purchase of twenty-four (24) tons of Base bind - 3X road stabilization product from Enviro Tech Services, Inc. (TIPS Contract No. 210904) for the Road and Bridge Department in an amount not to exceed $23,285.00 pursuant to the Texas Local Government Code; Sections 271.101, 271.102, Sub-Chapter F. Cooperative Purchasing Programs and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #2007-7150-001-443000-100 (Repairs & Maintenance Roads)] Qty. Unit Description / Application Rate Cust. # - CA # Unit Price Line Total 24 Tons BaseBind XXX - List Price Product $817.00 $19,608 24 Tons Tips Discount - 22% $(147.00) $(3,528) 24 Tons Freight / Pumpover Cost $300.21 $7,205 TIPS CONTRACT #210904 PO: 24 Ton Load $23,285 Delivery: 4–7 Days after receipt of order Issue: BaseBind 3X proprietary blend formula is an environmentally friendly road stabilizer that will help cut down on maintenance costs and improve the strength of road material being used. Solution: Authorize the purchase of the proposed stabilizer product from Enviro Tech Services, Inc. Vendor currently has a cooperative purchasing contract, meeting the States and County competitive bidding requires. Result: Order product to test on County roads to evaluate the effectiveness and determine if cost savings will result from application.
13. Risk Management
36. Discussion and possible action to award renewal contract to USI Southwest, Inc., for Property/Casualty, Liability Insurance, Excess Workers Compensation, Aviation Liability, Boiler & Machinery, and Terrorism and Sabotage Property Damage Insurance, Cyber Liability and Commercial Automobile. Premium amount not to exceed $1,800,000.00 through the following insurance carriers listed below, effective October 1, 2023, through September 30th, 2024 and authorizing the County Judge to execute all relevant documents. [Account #1001-1180-001-452012 (Property & Casualty Premium) and #6200-1090-001-452013 (Property & Casualty Premium)] Zurich American Insurance Company AXA XL Insurance Westchester Fire Insurance Company Travelers Casualty And Safety Company of America Lloyd's of London (Hiscox Syndicate) Safety National Casualty Corporation Lexington Insurance Company Illinois Union Insurance Company
37. Discussion and possible action to approve the 2024 AETNA Health Insurance and Aetna Dental Insurance rates for the Webb County Employees effective January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024. Co-pays for medical visits with the primary care physician remain at $10.00. Specialists co-pay remain at $20 as mandated by the court. Health Insurance Base Plan Pre Pay Period Employee Only $44.29 $20.44 Emp. & Spouse $403.62 $186.29 Emp. & Child(ren) $168.31 $77.68 Emp. Spouse & Child(ren) $445.70 $205.71 Health Insurance Buy-Up Plan Pre Pay Period Employee Only $210.39 $97.10 Emp. & Spouse $752.43 $347.28 Emp. & Child(ren) $467.29 $215.67 Emp. Spouse & Child(ren) $1,093.48 $504.68 Dental Insurance Base Plan Pre Pay Period Employee Only $0 $0 Emp. & Spouse $28.81 $13.30 Emp. & Child(ren) $21.60 $9.97 Emp. Spouse & Child(ren) $45.80 $21.14 Dental Insurance Buy-Up Plan Pre Pay Period Employee Only $26.61 $12.28 Emp. & Spouse $45.80 $21.14 Emp. & Child(ren) $45.80 $21.14 Emp. Spouse & Child(ren) $72.69 $33.55 Issue: There are no changes to the health and dental premiums for 2024. Solution: Approve rates/premiums in the best interest of the employees allowing affordable health care. Result: A balanced Health Care Plan for Webb County Employees and their dependents to have access to affordable health care.
14. Honorable Jesse Gonzalez, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 1
38. Discussion and possible action to approve the appointment of a Director at the E.J. Salinas Community Center (Slot #914), subject to any and all Wage Plan Policies, effective October 10, 2023: Slot # Title Salary 914 Community Center Director $38,402.54 - $41,891.42 $16/A-H Issue: Slot #914 is vacant Solution: Request to appoint a Director at the community center. Result: The filling of slot #914 will allow the center to continue to function efficiently and effectively.
15. Honorable Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 2
39. Presentation by Manuel Sanchez with PILLAR, People with Ideas of Love, Liberty, Accepts, Respects are proposing to provide Webb County employees with a comprehensive care model of services to promote employees physical and mental health well-being; with discussion and possible action to authorize civil legal to finalize an agreement with PILLAR for said services; authorize the County Judge to sign all relevant documents, and any other matters incident thereto.
16. Honorable Ricardo A. Jaime, Webb County Commissioner Pct. 4
40. Discussion and possible action to authorize a sixty (60) month lease agreement between Healthchek Network LLC (DBA Healthbot) and Webb County for the installation and monthly standard subscription services for four (4) Healthbot Kiosk wellness stations for Webb County employee wellness initiatives in an amount not to exceed $892.00 per month and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #1001-1180-007-462000 (General Fund-Risk Management-Employee Health Clinic-Wellness Employee Clinic Expenditures)] Item Description Quantity Monthly Price per Kiosk Extended Monthly Total Price Healthbot Kiosk 60 month installment purchase. Healthbot Model HCK-2000 w/bp, weight, bmi 4 $179 $716 Data Subscription Monthly Standard Subscription: user accounts, population health reports digital graphics & messaging 4 $25 $100 Deliverables Freight to Webb County sites ($385), installer visit ($350), custom Webb County branding, amortized 60 months 4 $19 $76 Maintenance Repairs including parts, labor and on-site technician visits for 60 months 4 Included Included Total Monthly Payment $223 $892 Issue: The implementation of these proposed wellness health stations is a proactive measure by the Webb County Commissioners Court to help Webb County employees track their blood pressure, weight, BMI, heart rate, and is specifically designed for employee wellness programs. Solution: Approve proposed lease agreement with Healthchek Network LLC, DBA Healthbot the only FDA cleared health station designed specifically for employee health and wellness programs. Result: This wellness initiative will provide the necessary tools for Commissioners Court to drive employee participation to track their individual health needs and the ability to keep track of their health-related numbers/statistics to help decrease health issues such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes and other related health issues impacting our community.
17. Honorable Tano E. Tijerina, Webb County Judge
41. Discussion and possible action to proclaim October 8-14, 2023 as Fire Prevention Week in Webb County, Texas.
42. Discussion and possible action to proclaim the month of October 2023 as Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
18. Presentations
43. Recognition and presentation of plaque to Nourish Laredo, a teen-led nonprofit organization that is dedicated to improving our community. [Requested by Tano E. Tijerina, County Judge]
44. Recognition and presentation of plaque to Adriana Melissa Martinez for participating and completing the Ironman Triathlon, one of the most difficult one-day sporting events in the world. [Requested by John C. Galo, Commissioner Pct. 3]
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