Commissioners Court - Regular Meeting

I'd like to welcome you to the Tuesday, September 15, 2026 meeting of the Denton County Commissioner's Court. We're glad to have so many people in attendance today and those tuning in online. Thank you for joining us. At this time, I'd like to welcome Julie Highdog, our HR Assistant Director here at Denton County. She's going to lead us in our invocation, and our pledges will be led by Sandy Marble and Denise Andrews. and Denise Andrews of the Benjamin Lyons chapter are the daughters of the American Revolution. If you'll please stand, I'll remind everybody to please stand. Turn off your cell phones. Thank you. Good morning.

Good morning. I'd like to open today by reading Psalm 23, which is probably a very familiar passage to most of us. The Lord is my shepherd. I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside quiet waters. He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his namesake. And even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil, my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life. and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Let us pray. Heavenly Father, this passage reminds us that even in our darkest times, you are with us. It reminds us that a relationship with you is the only way to rest in peace, not only for eternity, but also during our time on earth. So today we ask for your comfort. We ask for the personal peace that only you can provide amidst the turmoil and the craziness of the world we live in. We thank you for your grace and your mercy, even though we don't deserve it. May your glory fill the earth, and may you be lifted high.

Amen.

Please join me in the pledge to the United States of America. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United

Honor the Texas flag. I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible.

Good. Well, thank you all so much. It's always great to have the DAR in the house. We do not have anyone registered for item one, which is for public input for items not listed on the agenda. We'll go ahead and proceed to item 3A. If y'all would come forward. This is item 3A is approval of a, and Denise, and if y'all would like to come forward for our Constitution Week. Good morning.

Good morning.

Did y'all want to say anything before we read your proclamation? Let's speak right into that microphone.

Thank you for supporting and helping us promote the Constitution of the United States of America.

Perfect. Good. Thank you. Absolutely. So this is a court proclamation recognizing September the 17th to the 23rd, 2026 as Constitution Week. And whereas September 17th, 2026 marks the 239th anniversary of the drafting of the Constitution. of the United States of America by the Constitutional Convention, and whereas the Constitution of the United States of America, the guardian of our liberties, embodies the principles of limited government and a republic dedicated to rule by law, and whereas it is fitting and proper to accord official recognition to this magnificent document and its memorable anniversary and to the patriotic celebrations which will commemorate the occasion. It is a privilege and duty of the American people to commemorate the drafting of the Constitution of the United States of America and for all Americans to honor the rights, privileges, and responsibilities afforded to us in this unique document. And now, therefore, be it resolved that the Denton County Commissioner's Court does hereby proclaim the week of September the 17th through the 23rd, 2026, as Constitution Week. We urge all citizens to study the Constitution and reflect on on the privilege of being an American with all the rights and responsibilities that privilege provides, and further, to vigilantly protect the freedoms guaranteed to us through this guardian of our liberties, done in open court the 15th day of September, 2026, upon a motion made by the chair, second by Commissioner Mitchell. Any comments, members? Go ahead.

Thank you for the work that you do. We appreciate all that you do that's keeping this Constitution alive and well and reminding us of our duties and responsibilities. Thank you. It's been great working with you all.

Thank you. I just want to echo that. I think we far too often fail to realize how special our Constitution is. You all are helping to make sure that we all remember that. It is a document that is just foundational for our country. Thank you so much.

Ladies, I absolutely appreciate it. Unfortunately, I think we're seeing around our country where People are trying to not look at our Constitution the way it should be. They're trying to omit things, and that's not what it's about. This is our foundation, like Commissioner said, and it's unfortunate, but we really appreciate people like yourselves fighting and reminding everybody and putting it at the forefront. So thank you so much.

Thank you all for being here. Thank you for all the great historic preservation efforts that DAR does as well. Diane, did you want to say anything?

Yes. Judge, I agree with Commissioner Williams. We're seeing people all over the country in violation of our Constitution and not even realizing how dangerous and serious it is to disregard this document that has preserved us all these years. Some of the recent court cases where jury decisions were very close make us realize how important it is that all of us grow up understanding our Declaration and our Constitution. So, D.A.R., ladies, thank you so much for bringing this to our attention, and I'm delighted to vote in favor of this resolution.

All right. Hearing no other comments, all in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Thank you, all ladies.

Your Honor, we would like to thank you and the commissioners for upholding the laws of our Constitution. And we appreciate all the work that you all have done for us and our county. And we have something special for you.

All right.

Leah Hunt is not with us today, so we will do 3B after just a little bit. Okay, we have a – Stephen, could you please get our third?

Oh, Ms. Hunt is here, Judge.

Oh, I had a note that she was not here. Okay. Okay. Well, good morning. Hello, Ms. Hunt. Do you want to – Let me go ahead and read this item here, the caption, and we'll love to hear from you. So this is item 3B, approval of a proclamation recognizing September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. And good morning. If you want to introduce yourself to the court.

Good morning. My name is Bonnie Hunt. I am the vice president of Leah's Kids. We are a nonprofit that brings awareness to childhood cancer. So Leah herself is a two-time childhood cancer survivor. And she has gone all the way up to the President's House of the United States to try to get more awareness because we need more funding for childhood cancer research. Leah's Kids in Itself brings hope and joy to children that are fighting cancer through books, hospital kits, whatever it could be to just put a smile on their face help a child get through the biggest battle of their life.

Yeah, absolutely. Well, thank you all for being here, and thank you for bringing awareness to this important topic. I'll go ahead and read this proclamation. This is a court proclamation recognizing September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and where September is recognized as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor the courageous children and families battling childhood cancer. remembering those we have lost, celebrate survivors, and acknowledge all those whose lives have been impacted by the diagnosis of a family member or friend, whereas each year thousands of children and adolescents across the United States are diagnosed with cancer, and childhood cancer remains a leading cause of death by disease among children, and whereas in Texas thousands of children and families are impacted by childhood cancer each year, facing not only the challenges of diagnosis and treatment, but also the emotional, physical, and financial burdens that can continue long after treatment ends. Whereas childhood cancer can have lifelong effects on survivors, including challenges in education and an increased risk of chronic health conditions and other late effects related to their diagnosis and treatment. Whereas Leah's Kids provides hope, encouragement, financial assistance, and meaningful experiences to children, teens, young adults, and families impacted by childhood cancer while working alongside communities throughout North Texas to ensure families know they are not alone. Whereas Leah's Kids encourages the Denton County community to join together throughout the month of September to raise awareness, honor childhood cancer fighters and survivors, and remember the children we have lost support affected families, and bring greater awareness to the continued need for childhood cancer research, resources, and support. And now, therefore, be it resolved, the Denton County Commissioner's Court does hereby proclaim the month of September 2026 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in Denton County and encourages all residents to join in recognizing and supporting children and their families impacted by childhood cancer. Done in open court, this is the 15th day of September. 20-26 upon a motion made by?

Move to approve.

Motion by Commissioner Williams, second by Commissioner Falconer. Members, would you like to say anything? Ms. Mitchell?

I just want to thank you for the work you're doing. I have had members of my family that have had cancer, but not children. And I just can't imagine how hard it is for adults, the children, to have to go through. Thank you for keeping this forefront. So we all know that, yes, children are affected by cancer because sometimes we think the children are not affected, but it affects the whole family. And so I just thank you and thank you for being the light that the kids need to let people know that we still need help. Cancer is still a problem. And I often say I'd like for it to go back to H-E-double-L because we don't need it here on earth. But I appreciate the fact that you're here and that you're making sure that we are all aware, everyone listening, that we're all aware that we still need help with cancer. Thank you. Thank you, Ms. .

Perfect. Anyone else want to add to that? Yes, Marilyn. Yes, Judge.

Yes, Judge, please.

Go ahead.

Oh, go ahead, Ryan. Judge, let me just say cancer is a horrible disease. I know several people who have suffered from it, some who have died from it. But it's especially bad when it strikes little children who really have no knowledge of what they should have been eating or doing, you know, not like adults. And so I really appreciate the work these people have done and wish them well as we continue to fight against this monstrous disease.

Yeah, it's actually very heartbreaking. Hopefully most people in here probably don't spend time in a children's hospital, but my past life I spent quite a bit of time in there. which i tried my best not to um but what's amazing is the kids are so much different than adults from the perspective of their their heart and their happiness and even in even in these horrible times the things that they're going through they will still have a smile and just try to be a kid and um if if people see that it's it's actually it's as heartbreaking as it is heartwarming to see that these innocent little children are, to your point, fighting for their life. And our government spends a lot of money in a lot of different ways, and everybody here has now heard all the ways that there's so much fraud, but this is not a fraud scenario. And it would be great to deviate a lot of those dollars, those billions of dollars, towards something that would be magical for these young kids fighting for their lives. So it's an honor what you do. It's very honorable. We wish you the best of luck and we're here to support you. Thank you for being here today.

I echo all those things. Cancer is such an insidious disease and when it attacks kids, we just can't even grapple with that. I can't imagine that situation. I only got a small glimpse. Our daughter had a tumor when she was young and the doctors had no idea if it might be and so we went several weeks wondering if she We were fortunate that we dodged that bullet, but I can't imagine the situation where that happens. So I'm glad that people are really taking that up and helping that cause.

Well, thank you for being here. Thank you for bringing awareness to this important issue. And I think, you know, sometimes we're the whole big process begins with awareness you can identify what is actually going on and so and there's always the treatment and other phases with any issue that will always say that hearing commissioners court one of the key things is that we have a megaphone and we appreciate people like yourself serving others and coming forward to help bring awareness is important topic so we can identify it in our own lives and support those our friends and family that that may be struggling with every whatever topic or issue it is and especially pediatric cancer. So thank you so much for the mission that you and your family are on, making the very best of that. So thank you so much. All right. Hearing no other comments, we have a motion to second. All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Thank you for being here.

I love the back of her shirt. Perfect.

All right, one, two, and three.

Thank you.

I love this.

We have lots of great items that come through Commissioner's Court by the thousand every year, but this is one that I especially look forward to every year. Kelsey, did y'all want to come say anything before we have our little brief concert here?

Yes, good morning, commissioners and judge. Today, we are kicking off National Hispanic Heritage Month here in Denton County. And as you see, we have some wonderful guests. And I'd like to introduce their director, Jason Molina. This is the mariachi program with Texas Women's University.

Yes, ma'am. Good morning. Thank you for having us out. My name is Jason Molina. I'm a clinical professor at Texas Women's University. Just to speak a little bit about the mariachi ensembles here in Texas, I've been fortunate enough to be a part of Denton's mariachi ensembles since the early 2000s, and this is the culmination of what has been possible there. Without too many words, we have a mariachi education track now at Texas Women's University, and a lot of these young musicians here are studying to be educators in this field directly. We have two grad students now that are pedagogy majors within a mariachi emphasis, and it's growing, and it's something that our communities absolutely need, and it's something that I think is tied to the continent of America. And thank you guys again for having us out, and let me let them play.

All right. Good. Well, let me read this proclamation and then we'll get on to the fun stuff. So this is a proclamation recognizing Denton County Hispanic Heritage Month, September the 15th through October the 15th, 2026. And whereas each year Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September the 15th through to October 15th by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of Those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Whereas the observance started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded to Hispanic Heritage Month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. Whereas Hispanics... have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multi-ethnic and multicultural customs of their communities. And whereas the cultural, educational, economic, and political influence of Hispanics and Latino Americans in Denton County and Texas have been seen and appreciated in all aspects of our lives as Hispanics continue to be crucial in the growth of our community, And now therefore be it resolved that the Denton County Commissioner's Court Denton County, Texas does hereby proclaim September the 15th through October the 15th, 2026 as Denton County Hispanic Heritage Month and calls on the people of Denton County to share this special annual tribute by learning about Hispanic heritage and celebrating the generations of Hispanic and Latino Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society. Done in open court this the 15th day of September, 2026, upon a motion made by the chair.

Second.

Second by Commissioner Williams. Any discussion? All right. We're excited to all the activities that our Office of History and Culture has planned for this month. And we were excited to have TW here. So all in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Okay, let's hear it from y'all.

Okay. ¶¶ ? ? ? ? ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦ Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

I want to say thank you, thank you, thank you so much for being here. Let's give them another big hand. We've done Constitution Week, Childhood Cancer, Hispanic Heritage, and the United Way all in item three this morning. And so I think this is a great example of the cross-section and the rich diversity here in Denton County. We thank you all so much for being here. I've got a little something for you that the Commissioner's Court would like to give you.

I know you like to travel.

Jason has an announcement about upcoming programs.

Yes, just keep an eye on us. We're at Texas Women's, our first concert's on October 1st at the Margo Jones Performing Arts Center.

Thank y'all.

All right, see you.

I was like, they got to get back to class.

Yeah, you want to go to class? I'm not going to class. You could probably teach it.

All right, did we have a, did we vote? Okay, we did vote.

Let me share.

All right, next is item 3D. Gary, I want to see how you top that. I'm sorry, we did them before you. We'll make sure next year we reverse the order. So come on down there, Gary, your team. Next is item three, the approval of approximation recognizing September 2026 as United is the Way Month and any appropriate action. Good morning, Gary Henderson.

You underestimate my one year of middle school band, Judge. I mean, that trumpet, I could have played one of those notes, I promise you.

I bet you could.

Not in a row, though. I think we have a video we'd like to share with the court before the proclamation. Thank you.

Perfect.

Working on the volume.

We're very excited about the work we're doing together to complete that strategic plan for a mental health and jail diversion center with the support of the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute. But we're even more excited about the campaign you'll launch later this year to give county employees the opportunity to give to support this network of 17 nonprofits. Thank you, commissioners, and thank you, Judge Eads.

Well, Gary, I can't imagine Denton County without our United Way of Denton County, the The way you reach directly into the lives of individuals and families to make our overall communities and our county better is just absolutely breathtaking to see how y'all work with our partners to make sure that every dollar raised is invested in the lives of others. It's not spent. It's actually invested. And so I just want to thank you for what you do, for all your sponsors. If you saw the beginning of that video, all your corporate sponsors. But really, United Way is built on the individual donation, the individual donation, the employee giving, and the individual donation. But I want to thank members of the staff here, members of the board that are here. Thank you all for your diligence and helping execute the good vision that United Way has. So thank you all so much. Bobby, did you want to say?

Thank you, Judge. I echo what you say about the giving and the work that the United Way do. It's amazing what you all are doing. Having been a part of the United Way since the early 80s, 90s, a long time, I know the work you do. And I had somebody comment about us corporate people at a table at the United Way breakfast last week. But they don't know that those corporate people, a lot of them that are paying money and buying those tables, are making it possible for the people that need help. And the Alice community. Gary, you talked about last Thursday about that Alice community, Alice people. We all say go to work if we don't know that people are going to work. And the people that have constrained income We don't know that they're working. They're doing all they can do to make ends meet. I was amazed that, you know, there was someone, one of the scenarios, $90,000. And when we think about $90,000, when we look around the room, we think, well, that's good money. Well, it is good money for one person or maybe even two people. But when you're talking about feeding a family of four or five or six, That's not a lot of money. And that's where United Way come in also, not only for the people who don't have money, but the people who are working every day to try to make ends meet, to supplement their income. And I'm so proud of the 17 nonprofits that we have in Denton County that United Way just the one that you are supporting. There are many more. I thank you for hanging in there, Gary. I know during COVID, United Way got worked so hard. I don't apologize for that. That's what we're all here to do, is to help somebody. And when we're helping others, believe it or not, it should make you feel better if you're doing it for the right reason. I thank you and I thank your staff. I could not, Shelby, Olivia, I just can't thank everyone. I can't thank you or not if I don't call your name. it's not because I'm missing you. I'm just because I just want to thank you some things that you do, how you do it and the courtesy, the respect that you show to people that are in need. That's so important these days. You know, there are a lot of people doing COVID, especially after COVID, they went, found out how many people needed things that never told us that they needed things. But now, since COVID is over, people are coming out saying, I need this, I need food, I need clothing, I need a job. And that's where the United Way steps in. And that's what we as citizens, who have been maybe down on our luck at one time, can step up and help. Every dollar helps. You say, well, I don't have $1,000. Well, but do you have five? Can you get $5 a week, $5 a month? Whatever you have will help make somebody else's life better. And you know what? When I leave here, I want to say I made it better for somebody else. And you know what else I want to say? I treated everybody fairly. I want to thank you for the job that you do. I just can't thank you enough. Guys, take over.

I thought you were going to say when you leave you want to say goodbye.

I'm not saying goodbye. I'm saying so long.

Farewell. Commissioner Ebbetson, did you want to speak?

There we go.

Is that better?

Yes.

I certainly... echo what Commissioner Mitchell said again and again and again. The United Way stands in there for all of us who don't know who needs help or what they need. So, Gary, thank you for your great job, your board, your staff. I don't know where we'd be in Denton County without you and the United Way. Thank you.

Thank you, guys, if you want to speak. Sure, sure. You know, it's not all about just the giving of dollars and food and clothing, but it's the education side of it as well. Because a lot of these folks just need some education on how to better prepare themselves or how to manage their dollars that they do or don't have, educate themselves on where to go, also how to get a job. And those are the things that your organization does to try to serve the people. It's to really try to help them get back on their feet, not just to take care of the people that don't want to do anything. Of course, there's going to be a few of those that slide in and out. That's just part of life. But I think you guys do a good job of trying to vet the folks and don't have people that are just sitting back taking. There's a lot of takers in this world. but you're actually trying to help the people that are trying to improve themselves or maybe just got in a bad spot for a short period of time, need a little help trying to figure out how to take care of that electric bill because it's not just them, but they're taking care of a family. So, you know, where you make the ends meet to get them over those hard humps because there's not a family around that doesn't have those. It doesn't matter where you come from. At some point in time, there's a tough time in life, and that's what your organization is there to do is really help kind of bridge that gap. And so I really appreciate the time and energy you and your staff put into it. And, you know, to your point, Commissioner Mitchell, you know, a lot of people, I don't have the money. Well, so I would say go pull all the change that you have from all over the place, you know, throughout your house and in your car. And don't count it because then you'll want to keep it. But go ahead and drop that off with your organization. You may get a lot of change, but at the end of the day, that change adds up to a lot of dollars and go a long way. So So that's my plan. I'll go home and I'll find all the little nickels. And I've got a lot of that adds up. It's not as much now because, you know, the way our society is changing, everything's on a credit card or a phone. I still use a lot of cash. I'm still a cash guy. So I still have a lot of coins that I accumulate. And so I needed to do that as well and just bring it down and give it to you guys and let's see how it goes. But nevertheless, thank you so much for what you do for Denton County. Thank you.

No, I want to echo all those things. You know, we're one of the fastest growing counties in the country and we're proud of that. That's because we're a great place to come live, right? But the laws of supply and demand mean that that creates some affordability issues that you guys are right on the front lines of and we need It's something we're addressing constantly and you guys are just such a great help with that. I really want to mention what Commissioner Mitchell mentioned again about that it's not just the what, it's the how and you all are so good at that because this is, I've been in a similar, many years ago in similar situations and it's tough for the to be on the receiving end sometimes so the how is so important and you guys really do that well so thank you so much for what you do all right let me go ahead and read the proclamation which is a court proclamation recognizing september 2026 as united is the way month

And whereas United Way of Denton County improves lives by mobilizing communities like Denton County, Texas to action so that all can thrive. And whereas United is the way we create a healthy Denton County community with strengthened resilience, wellness, and financial security where everyone, regardless of age, has the opportunity to flourish. And whereas by working together to co-create solutions to people's most pressing challenges, United Way of Denton County positively impacts the lives of over 55,000 local residents annually. And whereas the United Way of Denton County leads the effort with a network of nonprofits, governments, businesses, and donors to respond to our neighbors' immediate needs and seek better solutions for larger community-wide issues. And now, therefore, it be resolved the Denton County Commissioner's Court does hereby proclaim September 2026 as United is the Way Month and proudly join United Way of Denton County in calling upon all residents of Denton County to give to one to impact many as we take action to create a future where everyone has the chance to thrive. Done in open court this 15th day of September 2026 upon a motion by the chair.

Second.

Second by Commissioner Mitchell. Gary, well, thank you so much again for all that y'all have done and continue to do. And as you move forward, do you want to make a plug for y'all's upcoming event? I'd love to get that on people's calendar.

Peterbilt's Pride in Class Truck Parade will be looping around the square again in October. And our annual signature event, our United Tribute Gala, scheduled for the third Saturday in January. We would love to see the community come out, have fun, and support that network of 17 nonprofits.

Perfect. Good. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. All right. Any other comments? Hearing none, all in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Thank you.

One, two, and.

I was trying to get your attention. It worked.

All right, next let's go to item 13E, which is approval of additional space allocation at the Denton County Courts Building for the 477th District Court, the 481st District Court, the IVD Court, Drug Courts, Sheriff's Office, Bayless, any appropriate action? The chair will move for approval. Second. Second by Commissioner Williams. Any discussion? Well, I want to thank Jody and Holly and Commissioner Falconer and Judge Hartling for all y'all's efforts in pulling this together and coordinating this. So thank y'all so much. Did y'all have any other comments?

Well, I just think this is... This is the start. That fastest growing county thing is we've got all these new courts coming on, right? And so we're in the process of building the civil courts building. But in the meantime, we had some judges that didn't have a home. And so this gives them at least a temporary home. And we have to do a little shuffling to make that happen. But thank you all so much. It's all progress.

Step in the right direction. In a positive way. That's right. All right. Hearing no other questions. comments all in favor say aye any opposed motion carries unanimously thank you thank you judge for being here we appreciate you all right so let's go back to item 2a which is approval of the order making appointments and any Number let's go back to number two which our consent agenda members are there any items you like to pull which is just basically our order makers you have a motion for approval with a motion by Commissioner Falconer second by Commissioner Mitchell any discussion all in favor say aye aye opposed motion carries your name sir judge.

I'm sorry. Oh go ahead.

I apologize Item to our consent agenda is consists of item 2 which is a port of which is approval of our order making Appointments. Okay. Yes

Do you mind doing seven I so the judge can she was wanting to make sure she was here for that one Just in case we had questions Seven I yes, sir Seven I is approval of the project budget amendment

REQUEST 2026450 FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY SERVICE TO TRANSFER $135,635 TO PROJECT PR260018, ALLOCATE FUNDING TO PROVIDE TARGETED REMEDIATION TO CRITICAL AV SYSTEM COMPONENT FAILURES IN DISTRICT, IN FIVE DISTRICT COURTROOMS. CHAIR, MOVE FOR APPROVAL.

SECOND.

SECOND BY COMMISSIONER WILLIAMS. ANY DISCUSSION?

JUDGE, DO YOU MIND COMING UP REAL QUICK AND KIND OF LETTING US KNOW HOW IMPORTANT THIS IS?

Thank you. I really wasn't expecting to speak today. I was just going to answer any questions. I'm sorry. No, when you come in here. This is pivotal. We had a capital murder trial a few weeks ago, and they go to play the body cam, and the AV system won't work. And when you're playing body cams and those type of things, it's pivotal. Additionally, I believe Ryan on several other cases in CAC cases, which are child advocacy cases or child abuse cases, He's had to sit in the courtroom on the floor and run the AV system for the entire week that the case is going on. So we are just requesting, and it's in dire need, and we really appreciate your effort to get this done for these five courts.

No. No, not me. Oh, no. I have no ability to do that. We should at least get in the chair. It's somebody that's really important, which is the gentleman that handles all the AV and spends the majority of his time at the courthouse. So hopefully this will alleviate some of that.

Yes. Perfect. Thank you, Judge.

Thank you, Judge. Appreciate your time.

All right, we have a motion and a second. Any other comments? All in favor, say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously.

Thank you, Judge. Oh, you do? Which one?

Next item is 14 a approve of the third renewal of the agreement for an alternative dispute resolution service wing didn't County Texas and the Denton County alternative dispute resolution program decap any amount of $201,504 of funding to come from Mediation Services. Order line item 1001CC201514800SC48092. The chair move for approval.

Second.

Second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? I do want to thank Holly. Thank you for your, you've worked a lot on this one too as well. So, appreciate that. Any other comments? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Thank you.

Thank you so much. We appreciate you. We appreciate you all. Thank you, ma'am.

Let's just go to item 4A, which is a public hearing on September the 15th, 2026, for consideration of the approval, approval with conditions, or disapproval of the American Equity Additional Replat. This is lot 3R block A, 13.365 acres, located in Commissioner Precinct 1. Do we have a motion to open a public hearing? Okay.

Move to open. Second.

A motion by Commissioner Williams, second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. We are in a public hearing. Is there anyone in attendance wishing to speak in favor of or opposed to the American Equity Edition replat? Anyone in attendance wishing to speak in favor of or opposed to the American Equity Edition replat? Hearing none, do I have a motion to close the public hearing?

Move to close.

Motion to close by Commissioner Williams, second by Commissioner Mitchell. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously.

Move to approve.

We have a motion for approval by Commissioner Williams, second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is item 4B. which is a public hearing on September the 15th, 2026 for the consideration of approval, approval with conditions or disapproval of the partial cancellation of the Rosebrook Phase 1 block P, lot 2XHOA 19.476 acres located in Commissioner Precinct 4. Do we have a motion to open the public hearing?

We have to open the public hearing.

Motion by Commissioner Edmondson, second by Commissioner Williams. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. We are in a public hearing. Is there anyone in attendance wishing to speak in favor of or opposed to the partial cancellation of the Rosebrook Phase 1 plat? Anyone in attendance wishing to speak in favor of or opposed to the partial cancellation of the Rosebrook Plat Phase 1? Hearing none, do we have a motion to close the public hearing?

I move that we close the public hearing.

Motion by Commissioner Edmondson. Second by Commissioner Mitchell. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously.

And Judge, I move that we accept this new plat for Rosebrook.

All right. We have a motion for approval. Second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Thank you. Next is item 5A, approval of bill report payments from CSCD Community Corrections. TAIP, Sheriff's Training, Sheriff's Forfeiture, VIT interest, and DA forfeiture funds are presented for recording purposes only. Mr. May, good morning.

Good morning. I have no changes today. Recommend approval as presented.

All right. We have a motion. We have a motion for approval by Commissioner Mitchell. Do we have a second?

Second.

Second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion. Carries unanimously. Next is item 6A, approval of the renewal of ITB 232762 fire alarm fire sprinkler kitchen hood system and radio tower building inspections and testing to allied fire protection.

Move to approve.

Motion by Commissioner. FALCONER, SECOND BY COMMISSIONER WILLIAMS. ANY DISCUSSION? ALL IN FAVOR SAY AYE. ANY OPPOSED? MOTION CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY. NEXT IS ITEM 6B, APPROVAL AWARD OF ITB 262913 FLEXBASE GRADE 1 TYPE A TO ANA AGGREGATES INCORPORATED. Motion by Commissioner Mitchell, second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is 6C, approval of the purchase of Road Tech RX600E4 track half lane cold planer from... CLOSENER EQUIPMENT COMPANY INCORPORATED IN AMOUNT OF $909,586.46 THROUGH BY-BOARD COOPERATIVE CONTRACT 78825. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER MITCHELL, SECOND BY COMMISSIONER VAUGHNER. ANY DISCUSSION? ALL IN FAVOR SAY AYE. ANY OPPOSED? MOTION CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY. Next is 60, approval of the award of CSP 262910, electrical and generator upgrades phase two to energy products, experts, LLC, and any appropriate action. Motion by Commissioner Falconer, second by Commissioner Mitchell. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is item 7A, a report for miscellaneous equipment and software services is presented for recording purposes only. Next is 7B, this is approval of budget member request 2026437 for road and bridge to transfer $10,000 from building and $2,000 from garage Supplies for a total transfer of $12,000 to Capital Equipment to allocate funding for a Freon recapture system.

Move to approve.

Motion by Commissioner Mitchell, second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is 7C. Approval of Budget May Request 2026440 for Road and Bridge to transfer $250,000 from Professional Services, $304,000 and $75,000 from Salary assistance, $155,925 from salary department heads and $199,587 from surveys, title, taxes and testing for the total transfer of $909,587 to capital equipment to allocate funding to replace a nonoperable coal planer. Motion by Commissioner Williams, second by Commissioner Edmondson. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is 7D, approval of budget request 2026443 for the Department of Technology Services. TO TRANSFER $57,254 FROM PERMANENT IMPROVEMENT FUND, UNAPPROPRIATE CONTINGENCY TO PERMANENT IMPROVEMENT FUND TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT TO ALLOCATE FUNDING FOR PROJECT PRJ260017 TO UPGRADE THE AUDIO VISUAL SYSTEMS FOR THE HUMAN RESOURCES TRAINING AND CONFERENCE ROOMS DUE TO EQUIPMENT FAILURE. MOVED TO APPROVE. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER WILLIAMS. SECOND. COMMISSIONER EDMUNDSON, ANY DISCUSSION? ALL IN FAVOR SAY AYE. AYE. ANY OPPOSED? Motion carries unanimously. Next is item 7E, approval of budget request 2026444 for the county jail to transfer $167,332 from salary assistance to overtime cash option outside of the budget amendment. In human resources policy, funds are to cover overtime for two pay periods in the month of August and for the entire month of September. Motion by Commissioner Mitchell. Second. Second by Commissioner Williams. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is item 7F, approval of budget request 2026445 for emergency management to reallocate $108,601 from technology capital TECHNOLOGY SOFTWARE SERVICES TO SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SYNTEGIC CRISIS ALERT SYSTEM AND FACILITY EMERGENCY PLAN. THIS ADJUSTMENT WILL SUPPORT COUNTYWIDE FACILITY EQUIPMENT SECURITY AND EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION CAPABILITIES, ENHANCE INSTANT RESPONSE COORDINATION AND STRENGTHEN THE COUNTY'S ABILITY TO RESPOND support critical facility security and emergency response operations the chair will move for approval second by Commissioner Mitchell any discussion all in favor say aye any opposed motion carries unanimously next to 7g approval of budget request two zero two six four four six for the Sheriff's Office to transfer a total of one hundred seventy one thousand seven or twenty dollars for various line items within the various sheriff's office budgets to address additional funding needed for overtime training, evidence expenses, and radio and radar for the remainder of the fiscal year. Motion by Commissioner Falconer, second by Commissioner Mitchell. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is 7H, approval of the Project budget amendment request 2026447 and the 2026448 for the Department of Technology Services transfer $53,723 from 2016 tax notes architect fees and 2016 tax notes technology project to reallocate funding to replace the existing project or base system at the Copeland Government Center community room.

Move to approve. Second.

We have a motion by Commissioner Williams, second by Commissioner Falkner. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimous. All right, let's go to item, we already did that. Let's go to item 8A, report from human resources regarding hiring actions of elected officials. This is presented for recording purposes only. Mr. Hernandez.

Judge, commissioners, good morning. We have one promotion in the district clerk, one promotion in juvenile probation, Two new hires in juvenile probation. Four new hires in the sheriff's office. Three of those are detention officer ones. One promotion in the sheriff's office. That is a detention officer one. And two promotions in the tax office. That's it for this week.

Perfect. Good. Thank you very much. Next is 8B, approval of the transfer of the GIS Analyst 911 Liaison from Information Technology CC10300 GISPR1055 to INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY JUDICIAL, CC 20920. THIS IS PUBLIC SAFETY IN COURTS PR 2075. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER MITCHELL, SECOND BY COMMISSIONER FALCONER. ANY DISCUSSION? ALL IN FAVOR SAY AYE. ANY OPPOSED? MOTION CARRIES. NEXT IS ITEM 8C, APPROVAL OF THE CREATION OF A TEMPORARY POSITION FOR A JUVENILE SUPERVISION OFFICER. THIS IS PAY GRADE 7 FOR THE JUVENILE PROBATION DEPARTMENT.

MOVED AND APPROVED.

MOTION BY COMMISSIONER FALCONER, SECOND BY COMMISSIONER MITCHELL. ANY DISCUSSION? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is item 9A, approval of the Health and Human Services Commission HHSC Women, Infants, and Children Revised Notice of Award for Fiscal Year 2026. Move to approve.

Second.

Motion by Commissioner Mitchell, second by Commissioner Williams. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is 9B, approval of the Health and Human Services Commission HHSC Women, Infants, and Children WIC Notice of Award for Fiscal Year 2027. Motion approved. Motion by Commissioner Falconer, second by Commissioner Mitchell. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries. Next is item 10A, approval of the request to hold a public hearing at 9 a.m. on October 13, 2026 for consideration of the approval with conditions or disapproval of the Breezy Acres Estates Replant. This is lots 10R1 and 10R2, block A. This is 4.448 acres located in Commissioner Precinct 4. Chair, move for approval. Second. Second by Commissioner Williams.

Sorry, I got my microphone back. I do move for approval.

Okay, motion by Commissioner Edmondson, second by Commissioner Williams. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Anybody opposed? Aye. Motion carries unanimously. Next is item 10B, approval of preliminary road acceptance for the rolling acres subdivision. This is located in the Commissioner Precinct 4.

I move approval.

Motion by Commissioner Edmondson, second by Commissioner Mitchell. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is item 13A, approval of resolution requesting permission TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION FOR THE 2026-2027 TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITIES LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE GRANT PROGRAM PROXIMATELY $32,000. ANY APPROPRIATE ACTION? THE CHAIR WILL MOVE FOR APPROVAL.

SECOND.

SECOND BY COMMISSIONER FALCONER. ANY DISCUSSION? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is 13B. Approval request to accept the fiscal year 2026 year two Texas Veterans Commission fund for veterans assistant grant funds in amount of $327,000. This is a grant number VTC27V0 and any appropriate action? Motion by Commissioner Mitchell, second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is 13C, approval of request to accept the Texas Division of Emergency Management of the TETM Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, DR4781, project number 0165, award for the Denton County Safe Room Rebate Program. A total project amount of $996,000, consisting of a 50% federal share of $498,000 and a $50,000 Present non-federal share of $498,000 to authorize the county judge to execute the associated award documents and grant terms and conditions and any appropriate action. The chair will move for approval. Second. Seconded by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next is item 13D, approval of the proposed... 2027 Sheriff and Constable fee schedule is recommended by the Constable Michael Truitt and approved by the Sheriff and Constable fee committee in any appropriate action. Motion by Commissioner Williams, second by Commissioner Mitchell. Yes.

Okay, thanks.

Thank you Commissioner.

Thank you for your help.

And thank you Holly for pulling that together as always. All right. We have a motion and a second. All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? The motion carries unanimously. We're almost there. Next is 14B. I'm going to go ahead and get a drink here a second. Approve an interlocal cooperation agreement between Denton County, Texas and the City of Denton, Texas establishing procedures governing municipal building permit requirements applicable to county-owned buildings and for Facilities located within the city of Denton and authorization for the county judge to execute the agreement on behalf of Denton County the chair move for approval second by Commissioner Falconer any discussion All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. I want to thank you, Jody, for your good efforts on that. Next is 14C, approval of interlocal cooperation agreement between Denton County, Texas and the Smiley Road Water Control Improvement District Number 2 for property tax assessment and collection as recommended by the Denton County Tax Assessor Collector.

So moved.

Motion by Commissioner Mitchell. Second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Thank you. Ms. Way for being here. Nexus 14D approval of the Alton Bridge Stabilization and Bridge Scour Agreement ITB 262915 between Denton County, Texas and the Knight Erosion Control DBA Knight Engineering and Construction. An amount not to exceed $845,303.95. Inclusion of a Contingency allowance of $121,592.20 to come from WDF 1020CC 85100PR 8570 Ledger 5900SC 59020. So moved. Motion by Commissioner Mitchell, second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries. June Amson, Excess 14E, approval of the... In a local cooperation agreement between Denton County, Texas and the Smith County, Texas, the purchase allowing the purchase of goods and services from vendors selected through the cooperative bidding process as authorized by Section 791.025 Texas Government Code and any appropriate action.

Move to approve.

Motion by Commissioner Williams, second by Commissioner Falconer. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Next, did I get everything so far, Bianca? Okay, next let's go to item 17, which is our community updates. We'll start with Commissioner Precinct. I want Commissioner Williams.

Thank you, Judge. I have just a couple things here. Congratulations to the Oak Point Fire Department for being recognized recently by Medical City Denton with a STEM Emmy. Oak Point Fire Department answered a call that quickly became a life-threatening heart attack. Crews alerted the hospital. with a STEM alert to allow for quick care upon arrival. The fast-acting crew's activation time was two minutes, and the STEM is a serious type of heart attack. So congratulations to them, and obviously that's wonderful news that this individual was saved. The next thing is I want to say thank you to emergency services. Everybody knows we've had a lot of fires in and around the state, and our emergency services obviously is extremely recognized as a first-class organization, so they get asked to help out quite a bit. So thank you to that organization. and what a fabulous job is done. And then, uh, Eva and Eric Gildersleeve is, is, uh, asked to come out quite a bit to do radio communication, uh, concerns for these type of, uh, situations. So thank you, Eric. Obviously he's very well respected in the industry as well, which says again, a lot about our county. It seems like we get called to everything. you notice, which is, again, a very big compliment to us. And then I've got the Aubrey Peanut Festival is Saturday, October the 3rd, 2026. Go have a blast at that. Last but not least, we talked about the Mariachi Band, what a cool experience that is. It's entertaining. Uh, but, uh, it's always cool to have one of our own in a sense. And so I want to congratulate, uh, Carolina Eads for being the captain of the cast, uh, that she's now on for the Disney cruise. That's pretty, that's pretty special too. So it's again, it's not very often we get to recognize our own folks for such great accomplishments and it's a little hard to do it if you're the own parent. So I'll do it for you.

Oh, thank you.

Congratulations. That's all I've got. Thank you.

Thank you. Your agent. That's good. All right. Thank you, Ryan. Commissioner Falconer, go right ahead.

Yes, thank you so much, Judge. So a couple of things for Carrollton Farmers Branch ISD, and congratulations to them. During the 2026 Economic and Mobility Summit, they were recognized for their efforts to transition high school graduates into post-secondary degrees and other technical programs. And then to the Frisco ISD, congratulations to the 120 students named National Merit Semifinalists. That's the highest number of semifinalists among school districts across Texas. Very impressive. And then just a few items on the upcoming events. Carrollton's doing job search jumpstart. That's the 22nd from 1030 to 1 at the Josie Ranch Lake Library. Frisco has their cycle, the City Dominion Trail. That's the 19th, from 8 to 9.30, starting at Northeast Community Park. Little Elm has Autumn Fest. I guess autumn is coming, even though it's 101 outside. Autumn Fest, September 17th through the 20th at Little Elm Park. And then Shady Shores has a place for peace, meditation, garden dedication. So that dedication is happening at four 57 shady lane, and that's the 19th from nine to one. They're also having a community garage sale on the 19th from nine to one, um, at town hall, the colonies having fishing one Oh one. So we learned the basics of fishing and that'll be at Stewart Creek park on the 19th from nine to noon and bow. Wow. Luau at Hawaiian waters. That means you've got to bring your, your, your furry puppy. They get to dive into the pool at the party. So that's the 20th from 1 to 5 Yeah, that's right no kitty kitty cats allowed They don't want to go in the water anyway That's all I got good.

All right. Thank you Commissioner Mitchell going to see the SpongeBob movie. Search for SquarePants in Flower Mound on September 18th at 7.30 p.m. from Spinks Road, Hurch's Park. Then I'm going to go on to Twin Coves Park Family Campout on September 19th, 3 to 8 p.m.

In spirit. Yeah. That's right.

I like SpongeBob, y'all. Then Holland Village is going to have a paper shredding day on September 19th. 2 p.m. to 5 at Orchard Hill Road, Pollock and Old Park. Then Lake Dallas is going to have SNAP benefits navigation with the Tarrant Area Food Bank on September 17th, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lake Dallas Public Library. Pediatric first class, first aid class, September 22nd, 11 to 2 at the Lake Dallas Public Library. Remind everybody the North Texas Giving Day, 9-17, so you can... Give online or you can give in person. On Wednesday, 9-23 at 8 a.m., we're going to have the 11th annual See You at the Station in Hickory Creek honoring our first responders. And that's all I have.

All right, Commissioner Edmondson.

OK. Yeah. We've also got some good things to announce. For example, we have two National Merit Semifinals from Argyle High School. Not as many as what Commissioner Mitchell, no, Commissioner Falconer was bragging about, but we do have two here. In Trophy Club, we're going to have breakfast with Tiffany, which is a continuation of their meeting with their mayor over coffee. And that will be on September 21st from 9 to 10. And Argyle, they have a trading post, 1881. And it's going to be from 10 to 2 on the 19th. This is going to have a variety of antique vendors. And I believe they mean vendors of antiques rather than vendors that are antiques themselves. Or both. And that will be in. It could be both. You're right. And that will be at the Seaton Club from 10 to 2 on that date. And I would like to also do a shout out to the Denton County residents and first responders who raised money with the stair climb in Pecan Square hosted by Northlake to honor those who lost their lives on 9-11. Their efforts raised $16,000 for building homes for heroes. So that was a wonderful way to remember 9-11. Let us never forget that. Thank you, Judge.

Judge, I have two more.

Thank you. Yes, Commissioner Mitchell.

I have the fifth annual Law Enforcement and Mental Health Summary that's going to be on the 18th at the Embassy Suites in Denton. So Friday, September 18, 8 AM to 12 PM. And then I'm going to Paris. with the Louisville Chamber of Women Convention also on the 18th at 11.38 a.m. Thank you.

I'm done.

No. All right. A couple quick shout-outs. We have one of my favorite days of the year here in North Texas is our the North Texas Giving Day. And that is going to be, it's the 18th annual. I can't believe they've been doing that 18 years. And it's going to be this Thursday, September the 17th. And so this is an opportunity to donate to nonprofits across our region simply by going to their website and locating your preferred nonprofit. So last year, North Texans donated $78 million on this one day to give to 3,500 nonprofits. And so Since 2009, $712 million have been raised on this initiative. So you can get online, the North Texas Giving Day. Click on that, and then you can scroll down through your area of interest that's important to you. And you can definitely find a nonprofit to assist. And I will tell you what. One of the ways they've been really successful is having different challenge opportunities and matching grants on and off throughout the day and different goals to meet. So pay close attention. You might be able to actually leverage your dollars. And this Friday, September the 18th at 11 a.m., our Office of History and Culture will be having its annual fall garden tour. Our historical park there at 317 West Mulberry. So come out and tour the gardens and learn all about native plants and beneficial insects. So I think that would be great. and the 28th annual Denton Blues Festival. It's going to be one day only. It's a Saturday, September the 19th, beginning at 10 a.m. and lasting until 10.30 p.m. It's the annual Blues Festival located in Denton at the Quakertown Park. So admission's free, and I encourage everybody to show up and attend. So next let's go to our executive session.

We have a couple of items today, which is one of the...

Our first item is 15A, Texas Government Code 5510711. A, consultation with an attorney. And a, close meeting when a governmental body seeks the advice of its attorney about pending or contemplated litigation regarding Martin Corley and any appropriate action. 15B, Texas Government Code 551072, deliberation regarding real property. Close meeting to deliberate the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property. If deliberation in open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the governmental body in negotiations with the third person. And it is 1027, and we are in executive session. 11 40 and we have reconvened from executive session and there will be no let's go to item 15 a 15 a the chair moves to one assigned legal representation on behalf of denton county texas to the law firm of matthews shields not eden davis and beanland llp in the Notice of Claim and Demand for Settlement. Number two, exempt contract of employment with the law firm of Matthews, Shields, Knott, Eaton, Davis and Beanland LLP from the requirement established by Texas Local Government Code Section 262.023 if applicable. And three, authorize the Denton County Judge to sign a contract of employment with the law firm of Matthews, Shields, Knott, Eaton, Davis and Beanland LLP in any appropriate action.

Second.

Second by Commissioner Williams. Any discussion? All in favor say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. There will be no action on 15B. There will be no action here. No other items before the court. We are adjourned. Thank you.