Commissioners Court - Regular Meeting

Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park Bond Project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park Project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Wiwin's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred, is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase...

Live from El Paso County, Texas, the veteran's capital of the USA. From inside the Alicia Chacon Commissioner's Courtroom of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse, you are watching the El Paso County Commissioner's Court Meeting.

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Today is Monday, September 21st, 2026. Commissioner's Court is meeting in regular open session. This morning, we're joined by ASL interpreters Selena Salum and Katia Garcia. Commissioner Holguin, would you like to introduce this morning's pledges person?

Yes, thank you. Good morning, everyone. So today we are actually introducing a new intern who is with Commissioner Butler's office. So we have Patricia Nevarez, who is a UTEP student and is majoring in political science. Patricia, if you want to join us up here to lead us in the pledge.

Please rise for the Pledge of Allegiance.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Honor the Texas flag. I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible.

Thank you, Patricia, and welcome.

Next, we'll be receiving an invocation from we said Davis representing join us for justice. The El Paso chapter of Americans United for separation of church and state. Good morning.

Good morning. Good morning, commissioners, and good morning to this beautiful cross-section of our community. Politics is the art or science of government, and it encompasses the processes by which groups make decisions and exercise power involving the organization of society, the distribution of resources, and the resolution of conflict for the common good. Carl Sagan once wrote, for small creatures such as we, the vastness of the universe is unbearable. It is bearable only through love. There is in the political process much to bear, especially in these trying times. Through your call to leadership, This community has asked you and invested you to serve, to serve with the obligation to work toward the common good of all who reside in El Paso County. May you individually and collectively cherish and celebrate your shared humanness, a shared capacity for reason and compassion, your wisdom, your intellect, your gifts, your love for the people of this community represented by this cross section that is before you today. May this shared love for the people of our county, for the laws and constitution of the state of Texas and the United States of America, for our love, Republic, and for our democracy, root your actions and deliberations in values of gratitude, in values of love, in reason and in compassion as you provide for the common good of El Paso County. Thank you.

Judge, do you have some opening remarks for us this morning? Yeah, thank you so much. On behalf of myself and our commissioners, we welcome you to Commissioner's Court. Standing room only today, some of the most, we're gonna recognize some of the most incredible individuals, organizations, so we're very privileged as the commissioners and myself as your county judge to have that type of recognition. I think today you'll find out, why we keep saying we're unique and we're a different community. We're a great role model for all the communities throughout the country. But I think today you'll see why we were able to claim that. The individuals, organizations that are coming together here unbelievable and we're very very proud to be able to recognize them so thank you for being here this is a great privilege for us and you know god bless each and every one of you have a beautiful day just an amazing week so thank you again for being here today at commissioners court thank you item number four is the consent agenda composed of items 4a through 4w

We have a few requests. We would like to request item number 4D from the county attorney's office to be pulled for discussion. Item 4D is postponed from September 14th, 2026, approve and authorize the county judge to sign a professional legal services agreement with Norton Rose Fulbright, USLLP, for bond counsel services, both in connection to the issuance of bonds and other public securities, and on routine matters not directly connected to the issuance of bonds that require legal advice and counsel. Contract number 20260653. We would also like to delete item number 4E for the county attorney's office. Item 4E is pursuant to Texas Local Government Code Section 262.024 , approve and authorize the use of a professional service exemption and approve the professional service agreement for executive summary services, CA number 13526-OP. Funds are available in general fund, county administration, contract services general. Opinion number 13526. We would also like to ask for a correction to item number 4S. As corrected, item number 4S should read, approve and authorize the purchase of budget management system for budget and finance department using source well number 060624GTH, awarded to GTY Technology, Unisolutions of Chicago, Illinois, for a total amount of $358,135.50. Purchasing approved on September 9th, 2026. Funding is available in General Fund Budget Contract Services General and General Fund Budget Rent Lease, I'm sorry, General Fund Budget Rent Lease Software. We also have an item for the Sheriff's Office, item number 4U, that we would like to ask to be deleted. Item 4U reads, approve and authorize the county judge to sign the intergovernmental agreement between El Paso County and the Isla Del Sur Pueblo on behalf of the Tigua Tribal Police Department, authorizing the donation and transfer of seven surplus law enforcement vehicles to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office. pursuant to Texas local government code section 81.032, contract number 20260480. Are there any other items members of the court or public would like to pull for individual discussion?

Judge, item K. And I just have a question on that.

Which item?

Item K. For the county attorney. Are they here? Well, when they get, I just want to make sure that the amendment with respect to the agreement that was put in regarding the maintenance issue was put into the agreement.

We can bring that up.

Good morning. Good morning, Judge, Commissioners, Eric, yes, Eric Ross, Austin Gaglione, Assistant County Attorney. Good morning. Yes, Assistant County Attorney Anna Schumacher had finalized that amendment, had included that provision.

I believe she's online if there are additional questions for her.

Give me one second. Commissioner, let me get back to you, but that was your only question, sir, just about whether that provision was put in? Okay, thank you.

Yeah, we'll bring it back up later.

Thank you.

Would you like to pull it for discussion, sir? Yes.

Okay.

Okay, we'll pull item K for Commissioner Coronado. And... We have a motion to approve from Judge Samaniego. Do we have a second?

I'll second.

Thank you, Commissioner Holguin. We have a second from Commissioner Holguin. The voting is open.

I vote aye, Cesar.

I vote aye. Thank you, Commissioner Holguin, Commissioner Coronado. Motion carries. Item number five, A from resolutions. approve and adopt a resolution declaring October 2026 a Special Olympics Texas El Paso Area Month in El Paso County, Texas.

Thank you. Richard, do you want to come up, please? Well, they're all very incredible resolutions, but this obviously is very special to our community, so I'd like to read it into the record. Where Special Olympics Texas El Paso area enriches the lives of children and adults with intellectual disabilities by providing year-round sports training, athletic competition, health programs, leadership opportunities, and unified experiences that inspire confidence, courage, and joy. With the Special Olympics Texas El Paso area empowers athletes of all abilities to discover new strength, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience the joy of achievement, and build lasting friendships while fostering respect, acceptance, and unity throughout our community. For us, through the dedication of athletes, coaches, unified partners, volunteers, family educators, law enforcement personnel, healthcare professionals, and community supporters, Special Olympics Texas-El Paso Area creates opportunities that promote dignity, acceptance, leadership, and meaningful participation for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Whereas participation in Special Olympics enhances physical and mental well-being, encourages healthy lifestyles, develops leadership skills, and demonstrates that every individual deserves the opportunity to achieve their personal best regardless of ability. where Special Olympics Texas El Paso area serves as a model for unity by bringing together people of all abilities to compete, volunteer, and celebrate the extraordinary talents, determination, and accomplishment of athletes strengthening fabric of our community. which El Paso County proudly recognizes the outstanding contribution of Special Olympics Texas El Paso area and its commitment to creating a unified community where individuals with intellectual disabilities are valued, respected, supported, and empowered to succeed. where El Paso County encourages all residents to recognize the achievement of Special Olympics Texas, El Paso area athletes, and to support programs and initiatives that advance acceptance, unity, and equal opportunity for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Now, therefore, it be resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner's Court hereby declare October 2026 a Special Olympics Texas, El Paso area month. and call upon all residents, school, businesses, civic organizations, and community partners to join in recognizing and celebrating the remarkable achievements of Special Olympic athletes advancing a culture of inclusion, acceptance, and unity, and reaffirming El Paso County's commitment to fostering a community where individuals of all abilities are valued respected empowered and provided every opportunity to reach their full potential and thrive sign this 21st day of september 2026 we have a motion to approve from judge samaniego a second from commissioner stout the voting is open

Aye.

Thank you, Commissioner Orguin. Motion carries.

Okay, now you can clap again, okay? Well, my good friend Richard, if you don't mind leading us into it.

Yes.

Thank you.

Good morning. Allow me to introduce Director Renee Kowinski, Special Olympics Texas for El Paso area. Chairwoman Renee Cipro for the Board of El Paso area. My name is Richard Velez. I am the Vice Chair of the Board of Special Olympics Texas in El Paso. First, let me start by thanking the Honorable Judge Ricardo Samaniego and Honorable Commissioners for granting us an audience here today. It is an honor to appear before you on behalf of Special Olympics Texas. Most important, it is an honor to be here representing the El Paso families, athletes, volunteers, and supporters that make this program such an important part of our community. Special Olympics Texas is far more than an athletic program. Through year-round sports training, competition, health initiatives, leadership opportunities, community involvement, Special Olympics Texas provides individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to develop confidence, independence, discipline, and a greater sense of purpose. El Paso has a distinguished history with Special Olympics Texas. At one time, our community was home to the largest Special Olympics in the United States. That accomplished reflected something very important about El Paso. It gave notice to the nation that when our community comes together around a common purpose, we can accomplish extraordinary things. Today, I am asking this Commissioner's Court to help us build upon that legacy. We respectfully request the county's partnership in establishing unified El Paso County Alliance supporting El Paso, I mean supporting Special Olympics Texas and expanding opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities through our community. This partnership would bring together county departments, school districts, healthcare providers, businesses, nonprofit organizations, first responders as one of our greatest supporters, the El Paso Fire Department and the Local 51 Firefighters Union, civic organizations, and community leaders coordinating resources and developing meaningful opportunities for athletics, health, education, employment, community, and participation. The objective is straightforward, to create a stronger, more coordinated system of support for our athletes and their families. We are not asking El Paso County to do this alone. We are asking El Paso County to help us bring our community together. Our athletes ask for the same fundamental opportunities that every member of our community deserves. The opportunity to participate, compete, contribute, and be recognized for their abilities. Every competition demonstrates determination. Every medal represents achievement. And every athlete that crosses that finish line reminds us of the strength of our community is measured by how we stand together and support each other. With the leadership of the Commissioner's Court and the participation of our community partners, we have an opportunity to restore El Paso's position as a national leader in Special Olympics, and more importantly, establish a lasting model of cooperation and service. I respectfully ask this Commissioner's Court to join Special Olympics Texas in developing this unified countywide alliance. Let us build upon El Paso's proud history and create a future in which every athlete has the opportunity to develop their abilities, pursue their goals, and reach their full potential. I would like to thank the Honorable Judge Ricardo Samaniego and Honorable County Commissioners for your service to El Paso County, for your consideration, and for your opportunity to work, for our opportunity to work with us on this important effort. Together, we can make El Paso stronger, more unified, and a model for communities throughout Texas and our nation. Thank you.

Thank you so much, Richard. And you want to introduce yourselves, please?

Renee Klevinsky, Executive Director of Special Olympics Texas for the El Paso community. Welcome. Thank you.

I'm Jamlyn Saparo. I am the Board Chair for the Resource Development Team here in El Paso.

Welcome. Thank you.

Bernadette Sanchez, I'm the event director for special events.

Lupita Gomez, I'm the leadership and logistic manager.

Welcome.

Good morning, Julie Baldwin-Munoz, and I'm assisting with strategy as well as community partnership.

Welcome.

Nancy McGrail, part of the board specializing in recruitment.

Thank you.

Good morning. Stephanie Rodriguez. I am the Marketing and Communications Director.

Thank you so much. And Richard and all of you, thank you so much. This is quite a unique thing that we do in El Paso, but we're trying our best as well. We have the, you know, the accessibility. We've created all accessibility parks. If you could visit the Zcarate Park, it's just amazing. Because really our philosophy and our basic understanding is that no one should be treated any different. Everybody should have accessibility to everything. No one should be limited to any of the blessings that we receive here in El Paso. So we thank you for that. So I don't know if you were gonna continue with... Are you going to do a cheer for us?

We wanted to announce today our partnership with Kentatio ISD, our first school district that has rejoined us to come back and bring Special Olympics back to this community. And I'd like to have Superintendent Borrego come forward and say a few words because many of his students and staff has come here today. And then I'll speak a little bit after Superintendent Borrego. Dr. Borrego.

Thank you, sir. Appreciate you. Thank you. Good morning. Good morning.

Judge Samenego, my name is Dr. Josue Borrego. I'm the proud superintendent of Canutillo ISD, newly minted on the job seven months, and so I'd like to thank each of the commissioners here represented as well. They represent our wonderful city. It's been such an honor to serve, and so you've done a tremendous job, and so I just want to say thank you. You know, what this opportunity represents for not only Canutillo, but for the city, uh we look forward to it so this morning i'm here to just to say thank you and to to commit uh coming with the uic resources to making sure that we have a partnership that we extend our open arms to our community this entire city and we look forward to just a tremendous partnership and um so this morning again we brought some students they may have a cheer but you know we came here this morning to seek your blessing uh because we we again OUR MOST VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES, YOU KNOW, OBVIOUSLY WE WANT TO SERVE, AND WE WANT TO SERVE THEM WELL, AND SO WE WILL START THAT PROCESS, AND OUR ARMS ARE OPEN FOR THE ENTIRE CITY.

DON'T WORRY ABOUT THE CHEER, COMMISSIONER GUERRERO WILL DO IT HIMSELF. CANUTILLO, GO EAGLES.

Excuse me, I know that we are short on time and I would like to thank you for extending this time really quick. I would just like to, as a former first responder, I would ask that our firefighters and their recruits please stand up.

Thank you, thank you.

as well as our sheriff's department. I didn't see them come in. I apologize.

Richard, anybody else that you'd like to, that came with you?

We just wanted, I wanted to thank our families and athletes. So for our families, athletes, and coaches that have made the time to come this morning, please stand and be recognized. These are many of our athletes. We'll come in the front, in the back. We have some way in the back. But as you can see, our families and the community, the fire department, all these individuals here are volunteers. I'm the only paid staff. All of this is done by community work. and dedication and belief in those with intellectual disabilities can achieve and be equal to all of us in the community. So it's my hope that we can work stronger and more collaboratively with the county in offering more opportunities for these individuals from birth all the way up into adulthood. So thank you all very much for your time today. Thank you. And I am very grateful for the showing of the support for you all to see the support that is wanted for this program in this community. So I'm so very proud to be leading that with these incredible volunteers as we bring this back to the El Paso community.

So thank you. We'll make it happen. Look at the crowd. I don't know if you... IF YOU'VE SEEN THE VIDEO, SO EL PASO, IT'S SO EL PASO BECAUSE THIS IS SO EL PASO. THIS IS WHAT WE DO. THAT'S HOW WE'RE GETTING RECOGNIZED. THAT'S WHY WE'RE ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITIES IN THE COUNTRY. SO THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU DO. WE'RE GOING TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO TAKE PICTURES WITH EVERYBODY.

I THINK WE WANT A CHEER. EVERYBODY'S ASKING FOR A CHEER.

OH, YOU'RE GOING TO DO A CHEER? OKAY, COMMISSIONER, WOULD YOU MIND?

All right, ladies, are you ready? Who are we?

All right.

Show this audience here how much you're going to do.

Go ahead.

Thank you, thank you so much. Go Foxes. Oh, I'm sorry, it's another. I totally forgot. Okay, we're gonna try to do some magic and see if we can take as many pictures in different sections, so we're gonna go down there with you.

Judge, I just wanted to point out that our State Board of Education, who also works at Canetillo ISD, is here this morning.

Thank you.

HERE.

Go ahead, Cesar.

Cesar. Item number 5B, approve and adopt a resolution declaring September 27th, 2026 as Gold Star Mothers and Fathers Day in El Paso County, Texas.

Could I have our Gold Star family, please?

I don't want to be by myself.

It's going to be hard to follow that act.

James, my goodness, my good friend. How are you? I'll go down and say hi to you in a little while. Well, thank you so much. Of course, this is very special, being part of the Gold Star family, having lost my brother in Vietnam as Captain Chito Samaniego. So this is very special. that you've extended the healing process not only to the immediate family but the entire family because it's very heartfelt and sometimes it felt lonely not to have that kind of nurturing. So thank you for that. Whereas throughout our nation's history, generations of courageous men and women have answered the call to serve in the United States Armed Forces, and some have given their lives while serving our country. Whereas the families left behind carry a profound and enduring sacrifice, preserving the memories and legacies of their loved ones while remaining an important part of our military history. and veteran community. Whereas in 1936, Congress designated the last Sunday in September as Gold Star Mother's Day as a public expression of the nation's love, sorrow, and reverence of mothers whose sons and daughters died in military service. Whereas the observance has grown to recognize not only Gold Star mothers, but also the spouses, parents, children, siblings, and other loved ones who have compromised our nation's Gold Star families. And whereas the term Gold Star traces its origins to World War I, when families displayed service flags bearing a blue star for a loved one serving in the armed forces, and a gold star signifying that a loved one had died while serving, creating an enduring symbol of sacrifice and remembrance. whose Gold Star mothers and families demonstrate extraordinary strength and resilience while carrying forth the names, stories, and legacies of their fallen loved ones, reminding all Americans that the cost of military service is borne not only by those who wear the uniform, but also the families who stand beside them. where El Paso County shares a proud and enduring bond with United States Armed Forces and is home to generations of service members, veterans, military families, and Gold Star families whose sacrifices are forever woven into the history and character of our community. which El Paso County recognizes its responsibility to ensure that our Gold Star mothers and families know that their loved ones are remembered, their sacrifice is honored, and they will always remain a valued part of our community. Now, therefore, it be resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner's Court hereby declares that September 27th, 2026 shall be recognized as Gold Star Mothers and Family Day in honor of mothers and families of our nation's fallen service members and further encourages all residents to pause in remembrance, honor the lives and service of our fallen and extend gratitude and support to their families and reaffirm our community enduring commitment that their sacrifice and the legacy of their loved ones will never be forgotten. signed this 21st day of September, 2026.

We have a motion to approve from Judge Samaniego and a second from Commissioner Coronado. The voting is open.

Aye. Thank you, Commissioner O'Reilly.

Your vote, Judge. I vote aye, please. Thank you, sir. Motion carries. Thank you. Thank you.

Thank you.

IF YOU DON'T MIND, TONY, YOU WANT TO GO AHEAD AND START US OFF? LUTHER, YOU CAN JOIN US, TOO. YOU'VE BEEN SUCH AN INCREDIBLE, WELL, ACTUALLY A PART OF EVERYTHING, LUTHER. TONY, IF YOU COULD LEAD US IN AND THEN WE COULD HAVE THE REST

Thank you so much, Judge and Commissioners. Antoinette Hunt, Veteran County Service Officer. I just want to say that I've kind of gotten close to this group behind us, and quite often they feel like they've been left behind, right? And that's something that we don't want. If something happened to me in combat, I want to know... that this community is going to take care of my family and that's how I want to treat them and I think that's how we should all treat them every day is to understand the sacrifice that they've given and support them in any way that we can. So I just want to say thank you for honoring this day and taking care of them because they're a very special group and I think This type of sacrifice is not something that goes away easily or is forgotten easily. It's something that's kind of always in the root of their heart. So thank you so much, Court, for considering this resolution.

Thank you for everything you do, Tony, and every element and aspect of veterans. Luther, you want to?

So thank you to the commissioners and judge for yourself. Tony said it all. These are the people that we really need to support. This is the people that pay that sacrifice. Our soldiers, our veterans, everyone in that community, but their families are the ones that are left behind to put the pieces back together. So thank you for that. In any way I can support, the city can support, we will. So thank you to you guys. You guys are the most important part of all of this. So we're here to support you guys 100%.

Yeah, Luther is the other counterpart for Tony from the city, so it's pretty impressive how he's been involved and kept the unity between the county and the city.

Absolutely, and that's so important, Judge. I have Dolores Ituarte Valenzuela. She's the president of the Gold Star Family Members, El Paso Gold Star Family Members Memorial. And I wanted to make sure that she gets a moment to talk, and then she can introduce the group.

Absolutely, thank you. Dolores?

Good morning, county judge and commissioners, and all the esteemed guests. My name is Dolores Ituarte Malenzuela. As president of the El Paso Gold Star Families Memorial, and as a Gold Star daughter, this resolution is deeply personal to me. My father, United States Marine Corps Sergeant Roberto Duarte was killed in action on December the 11th, 1965 in Khe Sanh, Vietnam. I sincerely thank each and every one of you for recognizing our Gold Star families and honoring the service and sacrifice of our fallen heroes. We carry an immeasurable loss, but also tremendous pride in those we love. I'm sorry. Gold Star Mothers and Families Day is a time to honor not only our fallen heroes, but also the mothers, fathers, spouses, children, and families who carry their loss every day. Their sacrifice did not end on the battlefield. It continues in the empty space left within each family. I sincerely thank you for recognizing Gold Star Families and honoring the sacrifice of our fallen heroes. May their names, their courage, and their services never be forgotten. God bless our Gold Star families, our military, and our community. At this time, thank you so much. At this time, I would like to present Ida Tovar to speak. She was instrumental in getting the resolution.

Thank you, Dolores.

Hello, Court. Today, we honor our fallen's memory by helping to ensure the Gold Star families are remembered and their loved ones' sacrifices are not forgotten. We are also involved with the El Paso Gold Star Families Memorial, working to create a space, a place where families, the community can all come together to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. My father may be gone from my life, but he is never forgotten. Sacrifice became part of who I am and I want people to know the names of each of the fallen of their families. It's important. It's important for our community. I remember and I want everyone to remember that behind every name is a family, a family who's loved them and missed them and continues to carry that memory. On Gold Star Families Day, I hope our stories will remind the community that the sacrifice of a service member does not end when their life is lost. Their families carry that memory, their love, and their legacy forward, forever remembered and forever loved. Thank you, Court.

Thank you so much for your words. You want to introduce yourselves also? Please, thank you.

Good morning. Buenos dias. My name is Santiago Gonzalez and Roberto was my cousin. He passed away when I was 12 years old. I stayed back and took care of my grandma because nobody wanted to let her know that her Roberto no longer part of our life.

Thank you. Our veteran of the year. Yes. James.

Hello, Judd, commissioners. I'm James Green, and I am the Veteran of the Year. I'm a lifetime member.

Hello, Judge.

My name is Kay Ann Dobson Trujillo, and my dad lost his brother in Vietnam, and I remember that loss with my dad. Thank you.

Thank you. Good morning, Judge. This is Herb Valenzuela.

I'm glad to be here, and I support the Gold Star Family Foundation.

Thank you. Welcome.

Thank you, Judge. To the Judge and the Commissioners, I'm Lillian Crouch and I am the President of the El Paso Del Norte Chapter of the Gold Star Wives of America Incorporated and I'm the surviving spouse of James Crouch and I'm here today and Arlene Worthy from our chapter to support the Gold Star family.

Thank you so much.

Thank you very much.

For that and everything else you do, thank you.

Good morning, everyone, Judge. My name is Arlene Worthy, and I'm a member of the El Paso Ghost All Wives. My husband has come to it, so I'm in support of all of the families that are here. And those that don't know about it, I hope they become aware of what's going on and what can be done for them.

Thank you. Or other Veteran of the Year, Debbo, thank you.

Good morning, Judge, Commissioners. It is an honor to be here in representation of the Gold Star Families Memorial. I was beseeched by a few people, and as a result of that, I took the challenge. I'm the Vice President now standing, and I am a lifetime member. And I'm proud to be here, proud to serve, and proud to carry on the legacy of all of these that have lost loved ones. And we will be looking for your financial support. I'm coming to your pocketbook real soon. Thank you. Thank you.

You had to throw that one in, right?

I did.

Anyone else? Gil?

My name is Gilbert Blancas. I'm Vice President of Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 844. And I'm here representing them. And once a month, we honor a fallen comrade. And I was in Vietnam in 66 and 67. I made it back, and some didn't. So we honor our fallen veterans. And now that I'm here, the Gold Star family said they're going to recruit me, so we'll see. Thank you very much, Judge. Thank you, Gil.

Appreciate you being here.

The last thing we want to leave you with is on the 7th of November, we're having our anniversary, our annual anniversary dinner. You will be getting a flyer each, and we invite you all to come out and support us. Have great food, dance, shake your boom boom, and enjoy us celebrating our anniversary. Thank you.

Thank you. Dolores, you had? Yes.

Also on September the 27th on Sunday, we invite you and your families and our community. We will be having a Gold Star Mothers and Family Day event at the Elks Lodge, 2278 Treywood. and that will be from 2 to 6 p.m. We'd love to have you come out and join us. We'll be having food, a taco bar, some games. We'll be playing some loteria, bingo, just having United with our families. They work so hard during the year, and this is something that we'd like to commemorate and have our Gold Star families come out and just meet with the community as well.

Thank you so much. We really appreciate this. And like I said earlier, the inclusion of the siblings was something that hadn't happened. And we're disenfranchised grief because we've just sort of felt that it was not as important for us to go through the healing process. I myself received the notice of my brother when he was killed, the first fatality in Vietnam. And then they forgot about you, kind of. You're the sibling. It was a wife, a mom that they focused on, but the siblings didn't get the opportunity to to be part of the healing process. So expanding it to the family is very heartfelt and I know a lot of you are understanding the importance of the inclusion of the entire family going through the healing process. So on my behalf, I understand deeply what you're accomplishing and it's going to be very well received. So thank you very much.

If you don't mind taking a picture.

Yeah, I I.

Item number 5C, approve and adopt a resolution recognizing and honoring Raymond L. Tellez and Cynthia A. Tellez for their historic achievements, distinguished careers in public service, and extraordinary contributions to El Paso, the United States, and international diplomacy. Thank you.

Ambassador Tellez, you want to come in and your family can join you as well. Well, thank you. Thank you and your family for being here. This is very special. From my office, Eduardo just fell in love with the story, and he's been like obsessed to make sure that we cover it properly. And Eduardo, you've done an amazing job. Thank you for doing that. But this is very special, and I think when you hear the resolution, Each and every one of you, it'll tie you in as to why we're El Paso, the way we do things, but we've had some amazing individuals that have put us on the map, and I think you're gonna hear about two in particular that I feel we never forget. I don't know too many people you could talk about Raymond Deyes and not bring a spark in the eye, so thank you so much. So allow me to read the resolution. Whereas Raymond L. Diaz and Cynthia A. Diaz represent a distinguished family legacy of public service, leadership, and commitment to the El Paso community to strengthening relationships between the United States and its international partners. Whereas Raymond Diaz is a decorated World War II veteran who began his career in public service in 1948, when he was elected El Paso County Clerk and later made history in 1957 when he was elected mayor of El Paso, becoming the first Hispanic mayor of a major American city and breaking barriers for generations of Hispanic and Latino leaders who followed. Whereas following his service as Mayor of El Paso, Ramirez continued his commitment to public service on the international stage when President John F. Kennedy appointed him United States Ambassador to Costa Rica in 1961, making him the first Hispanic American to serve as a United States Ambassador. Whereas throughout the distinguished career, Raymond Day has served in numerous leadership roles, including his appointment by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1967 as chairman of the U.S.-Mexico Border Commission and his appointment by President Richard Nixon in 1971 to serve on the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Where Cynthia Tellez has carried forward her father's extraordinary legacy throughout decades of leadership, public service, advocacy, and dedication to strengthening communities, expanding opportunities for others. Where Cynthia Tellez has distinguished herself through her work in academia, healthcare, civic leadership, and public service, building a career centered on improving the well-being of communities and advancing greater understanding across cultures and borders. Whereas in 2022, Cynthia Tellez continued her family's remarkable diplomatic legacy when President Joseph R. Biden Jr. appointed her to serve as United States Ambassador to Costa Rica, following the footsteps of her father and making them the first father and daughter in United States history to serve as U.S. ambassadors to the same country. With the extraordinary public service of Raymond Tejas and Cynthia Tejas reflects the spirit of El Paso and demonstrates a profound impact that leaders from our community can have locally, nationally, and internationally. And was their collective legacy stands as a source of pride for El Paso County and serves as an inspiration of future generations of public servants demonstrating the importance of leadership, representation, diplomacy, and a lifelong commitment to serving others. Now, therefore, it be resolved from the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner's Court hereby recognize and honor Raymond L. Diaz and Cynthia A. Diaz for their historic achievements, distinguished public service career, an extraordinary contribution to El Paso, the United States, and international diplomacy, and further celebrate the enduring legacy of the Tellez family and its profound impact on our community. Signed this 21st day of September 2026.

We have a motion to approve from Judge Samaniego and a second from Commissioner Butler. Voting is open.

Aye.

Thank you, Commissioner Holguin.

I vote aye.

Thank you, sir. Motion carries. Thank you.

What a duo, what a duo, my goodness. Ambassador, please.

If I could, can you hear me? Sort of, yeah. Yeah. Great. First of all, well, I'm moving. I want to express my deepest gratitude to our county judge, Ricardo Samaniego, and also to his fellow commissioners for this very meaningful, meaningful recognition, particularly of my father and his work. I have, I can't tell you how proud I am of this and I know how he's with us and the spirit also feels the same way. And before I make a couple of other remarks, I wanted to also introduce some of my family that's here with me today. My son, Raymond Jimenez-Deyes. Welcome. And Joe Cardenas and Charlie Cardenas and Kevin Taggart. And I want to also thank some of our friends that are here today, from Community Nexion, from LULAC and others. And also to each person that's here, because their presence signifies really their civic engagement and their commitment to the betterment of our community. So thank you so much to all of you. My father. loved El Paso, deeply, deeply loved El Paso. And irrespective of where his career and various posts took him, whether it was Korea or Mexico or Washington or Costa Rica, Salvador, et cetera, he always carried El Paso in his heart and represented you well, I would say. And he also would always say when he was in other places that he left his heart in El Paso. He always wanted to come back. And he is here now with us. He's here and buried here in El Paso. He was also very, very proud of El Paso. And how could he not be? This is such a unique and extraordinary community, a beautiful community, also my hometown. And so, you know, he fought very, very hard for representation for the Mexican-American Latino community in El Paso, but also endeavored to ensure opportunity, both educational and employment opportunity for all. And his greatest dream was to unify this community and did also work very hard to make that happen. And I will say that there is no question that this is an amazing place. We are obviously facing some very significant challenges right now in our country. But I just know that El Paso, with its unique characteristics, its unique people, its beautiful people, can definitely chart the way in leadership and be a model for the rest of our nation. Thank you again so very much.

Thank you. You know, most of you also recognize some of the family members, so if you don't mind introducing yourself, Joe and Carlos.

No, Carlos. No, that's Charlie.

Yeah, Charlie.

Good morning, commissioners. I'm Joe Cardenas, and I'm not a Tejas, but I'm a Navarro. My mother... And my tia Delfina, Cynthia's mom, were sisters. So I grew up with knowing the achievements of my uncle, who for me, from a very young age, was a role model in community involvement. And I remember him very, very well.

Thank you so much, Joe. Appreciate your friendship. Carlos, Charlie?

Thank you, Judge. As the black sheep of the family, I am honored to accompany my cousin, Cynthia, to honor her and my Tio Raymond. I had the distinct pleasure of actually living with my Tio Raymond and Tia Delphine my first year of college when he was serving at the EEOC in Washington. He was such a mentor. Just to watch him, the way he treated people, everybody with dignity from the doorman to the driver to whoever it was. They all got his full attention and his caring and compassion. So I hope I learned a little bit from him about that because he was also the epitome of a diplomat. I mean to be appointed by President Nixon and John Kennedy says a lot on two different posts. He's a man that didn't care about political lines. He cared about people. and we could use a little bit more of Raymond Tellez in Washington, D.C. today.

Thank you. Thank you, Charlie. You're the most incredible black sheep that I've ever met in my life.

Thank you very much. While I was born in Los Angeles, El Paso is certainly a second home and spent a lot of time here growing up. I miss my grandfather every single day and being here fills my heart and it is also heartbreaking because I truly do miss him. But what I'll say is that I think he showed me that you can achieve anything you want in life and truly create history and maintain your character along the way. And if anything, those things are synergistic. uh so he's been a huge inspiration to me um we actually he lived with us for for many years also near the end of his life and um and i just really appreciate you for for for honoring him and thank you very much thank you well

My name is Kevin Taggart. I am a DAS cousin and I'm just very proud and honored to be here with my cousin today as you recognize her achievements and her father's achievements.

Thank you so much. You know, yesterday or Saturday, Ambassador DAS, Cynthia DAS, read straight from notes of his dad about what was happening at that time and it wasn't very different and we see ourselves in the same place. And so we miss these trusting voices like Ambassador Tellez, that we need that help to get us to go through one more time. Because it was like he was talking about what was going on, the lack of unity, trying to come together, making sure that we understood the challenges. And a lot of people commented on the fact that you read straight from his notes. And that was, I mean, I got goosebumps just understanding that someone was thinking about us and sort of portraying what we need to do going further. So thank you for everything. Thank you for your friendship. And thank you for being here today and giving us the privilege to recognize both of you. So thank you.

Yeah, I just want to say a few things. You know, y'all's family, just incredible, incredible legacy for El Paso and just incredible role models. And Carlos, I mean, I've known you a long time. You're not a black sheep. You're a trailblazer, just like your uncle. And he was a true trailblazer. And, you know, just... Nobody in El Paso during those times, and even now, had not heard of Raymond Diaz in terms of what he did, becoming the first Hispanic mayor, first to serve as ambassador to Costa Rica under two different administrations, serving in the federal administration. So just a great, great role model for El Paso and a true, true El Pasoan because he cared about everybody. And like you said, He was all about people, not about party lines. And so thank you all for everything that he stands for and your family stands for. Carlos, thank you.

Thank you, Commissioner. Okay, Caesar.

Item number 5D. Approve and adopt a resolution recognizing community in action and the 2026 Latino Legacy Award recipients, Nestor A. Valencia, Ambassador Raymond L. Tellez, and Dr. Roberto Azahel for their outstanding service, leadership, and lasting contributions to the people of El Paso County, Texas.

Please, if you could come up, Anna. I can't tell you how privileged, because now you're going to hear about two more that were pillars, are pillars of our community, and we get to honor all three of them.

GOOD MORNING. COMMISSIONERS, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY TO RECOGNIZE.

LET ME READ THIS INTO THE RECORD FIRST. OH, HE'S GOING TO READ THAT. YOU'RE ALWAYS ONE STEP So like I said, this is so special, recognizing these incredible individuals. What a night on Saturday. So many great friends were there. It felt like a reunion for everybody. So I thank you, Ana, for everything that you did too. But you're now going to hear about an organization that has done everything possible to recognize some of these pillars of our community. and have done such a great job of making sure that we don't forget what they've done for us and many of us are standing on their shoulders and we've gained from everything that they've done to make our life a lot easier because of what they've done and what they're doing now at this very moment in our community. So if you give me the privilege to read the resolution. Whereas Community en Acción was organized in 2010 as a 501c3 nonprofit organization with a mission of mobilizing Latino leaders to advance economic, social equality, educational opportunities, and cultural appreciation. whereas the community in Accion has demonstrated its commitment to the El Paso community through initiatives that award scholarships to area students, encouraging thousands of young people to pursue higher education through the Young Achievers Forum in partnership with the University of Texas at El Paso and New Mexico State University and preserve the region's history through efforts such as spearheading the completion of men of Company E Monument, honoring the brave El Pasoans who sacrificed their lives during World War II. Whereas Community en Acción established the Latino Legacy Award to recognize distinguished individuals whose achievement, service, and lasting contributions have created a legacy worth of recognition at the highest level. and whose community has named Nestor A. Valencia, Ambassador Raymond L. Tellez, and Dr. Roberto Azahel as the recipients of the 2026 Latino Legacy Awards. Whereas very few individuals can claim such a profound and lasting role in shaping the physical and civic landscape of our binational region as Nestor Valencia. As one of the first Mexican-American city planners in El Paso, he broke barriers and opened doors for further generations, redefining leadership in public service at a time when representation was limited. During his distinguished tenure with the City of El Paso from 1958 to 1991, Nestor led and influenced some of the most transformative projects in our region's history. His work was instrumental in the development of the Zaragoza Bridge, strengthening international connectivity, the implementation of the Chamizal settlement, a landmark moment in U.S.-Mexico relations, the planning surrounding Wyler Aerial Tramway, and the preservation and revitalization of the historic Plaza Theater. With every generation as individuals who redefine what is possible, not only through the positions they hold, but through the barriers they break for those who follow, Ambassador Raymond L. Tejas was one of the most extraordinary leaders. His life reminds us that public service is not about titles, it's about creating opportunities for others growing up in El Paso. Raymond Tejas understood both the opportunities and the challenges facing Mexican-Americans during the mid-20th century. Rather than accept limitations, he chose public service. With intelligence, humility, and determination, he earned the trust of his community and became the first Latino mayor of a major American city. His election was not simply a political victory. It became a moment of possibility for an entire generation. where Dr. Roberto Azahel is being recognized for his extraordinary contributions to medicine, immigrant health, tuberculosis prevention, and binational public health leadership. He founded Clinica Medica Internacional in 1987 and pioneered innovations such as VideoDot and the International Panel Physicians Association. Beyond his scientific and accomplishment, Dr. Asael is known for his generosity, humility, and unwavering dedication to the people of El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. He has supported cultural initiatives, community organizations, and countless efforts to improve the quality of life in our region. His work reminds us that medicine is not only about science, it is about compassion, service, and the belief that every life matters. where September 19, 2026, Community en Acción recognized this exceptional members of our community at El Paso del Norte Hotel in El Paso, Texas. Now therefore be resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner's Court congratulate these recipients and encourage our community to join in honoring, celebrating the lives and accomplishment of the 2026 Latino Legacy Award recipients. Signed this 21st day of September, 2026.

We have a motion to approve from Judge Samaniego, a second from Commissioner Butler. Voting is open. Aye.

Aye.

Thank you, sir. Thank you, Commissioner Olguin. Motion carries.

good morning good morning commissioners thank you very much for this opportunity and you know you mentioned something commissioner coronado is that these stories have to be told we do stand on the shoulders of individuals who the work that they did in the legacy they left continue to shape our community um unfortunately dr roberto had to leave uh for an appointment but i know he extends his gratitude for it for being here but i do want to give the floor oh And I'm joined, before I forget, by my board chair, Dr. Cristina Paz, my vice chair, Ruben Chavez, my board member and membership chair, George Saucedo, and of course, the team from LULAC, and also my ex, my past chair, my ex. I was your wife, no? My past chair, Javier Bañales, and of course the team from LULAC, which we really appreciate their support. But Nestor, I would like to give you an opportunity to talk. Where are you? Come on.

Thank you. Thank you, Nestor. Thank you, County Judge. Richard Sabaniego in the County Courts. I want to express my sincere appreciation for this honor. I want to present my wife, Xochitl, who has done 80% of the work on my behalf. Thank you. And I accept this honor on behalf of my parents, Prisciliana Valencia and Herberto Valencia. who gave me the values and the principles that I carried throughout my life. Let me talk a little bit about Raymond Theus, okay? Ambassador and Mayor Theus, because I had the privilege, I'm ordained myself a little bit. I had the privilege of working with him for about two years with the city of El Paso. When I first started with the city in 1958, he was already mayor, so back and forth we had some projects going and it was really an honor to be part of his administration. And the second thing is he went to Costa Rica as ambassador, which was incredibly, it was an incredible honor. And I followed years later as a professor to Costa Rica, which it was in planning administration and urban planning. But it was an honor. Throughout our lives, we kind of... State, but you know our friendship was. Pretty strong. His life and so I considered him one of my role models from the beginning. Another thing that I had with the county as a city planner for 33 years. And is that? Woodrow Bean, County Judge Woodrow Bean built the first Bridge of the Americas in 1959, 1960. So he asked me to help him with the mapping and the surveys and all that. So that's how far I go back. And then, with the El Paso County, the City and County, we got together and defeated the Sri Lanka nuclear dump, which I thought was one of our joint accomplishments, the City and County. I just want to say that I think, and I know, that the El Paso City and County are, you know, have a great future. The best things are yet to come, so let's look forward to it. Thank you very much.

You know, equally, he's an artist, amazing artist, just incredible. But just being that combination of science, so the planning records sort of the one side of the brain and the other part of the brain, and he's combined them. both hemisphere work at the same level, which is very unique. But Nestor, thank you. There's so many things here in El Paso that you've left your footprint. But true to form, what did he start doing? He started recognizing Ambassador Tellez, right? And we're honoring him, but he took the time to, and that's who Nestor is known for. The other thing that a lot of comments, and I've seen it myself, is your love for your wife. He always makes sure to bring her up to the, podium and be by his side. And so people really noticed that and I think they took heart. I think you raised a bar on a lot of people in the audience. All of a sudden they sort of got close to their significant other because you've done such a great job of that unity of both of you, the way you work together. So we thank you tremendously. Javier, do you want to say a few words? You've been such a big part of Yeah, Christina, our appointee to our Women's Commission and to our hospital as well. So thank you very much.

I love it. Good morning, Judge. Good morning, Commissioners. Thank you for having us here today. I am so proud to be a part of an organization that is built on philanthropy. and higher education and more so that we get to recognize these beautiful souls that have built a lasting legacy in our community and continue to build on what we can see for the future and still yet allowing the rest of us to stand on their shoulders Yes, Judge, you said it very correctly. On Saturday, we got to celebrate these wonderful individuals. The wine was flowing. We had a great time. And I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to you, Judge, and to you, Commissioner Butler, for attending this ceremony. So thank you again for having us.

Thank you so much.

And if you could introduce yourselves, those that have just come on. Thank you.

I'm George Salcedo and I am part of Community en Acción. I'm actually very thankful to be included in all of this and especially so because of the legends that are here and because of the legacies they've built and more so because of the legends and the legacies that are being built.

Thank you so much. Thank you.

I'll just keep it brief. Ruben Chavez, I am one of those that are standing on their shoulders. I'm so grateful for this community and especially people like Nestor and Ambassador Deyes and what they've done for our community. And thank you for your leadership and support. Thank you. Thank you so much.

Nothing planned. My name is Fabiola Campos-Lopez. I'm the Community Development for the Organization of Community and Accion. It's been a pleasure. I was sharing just right now with Ms. Deyes about We grew up with these people on our minds and on the news, but having them here, and especially my husband that is involved in development and architecture, having met Mr. Valencia, it's a blessing. It is having them just being so humble, but at the same time, very generous with their skills. So it's been a pleasure to meet them in person.

Thank you so much.

Amir Banales, my best chairperson of Community and Accion. Thank you very much for the presentation. We really do appreciate it. Thank you.

Thank you for, he doesn't just do one thing. He said he was going to retire, but I haven't seen that happen yet. Go ahead. Introduce yourselves, please.

My name is Ignacita Ramirez, and I'm with LULAC, and we're very excited to be here present honoring both of them, father and daughter, Mr. Valencia, who's a very great artist and community servant.

Thank you so much, thank you.

Oscar Ramirez, president of Lula Council number eight. We're very happy to have Ambassador Tayers, Nestor Valencia, and Roberto Aces. They're wonderful people. They're great role models for everybody. We need to keep this going to our younger generation. They are great examples to everybody.

Thank you. Thank you. We definitely need role models and what better? Everybody?

My name is Xochitl Valencia. Thank you. Well, everybody knows I'm next to wife. You know, I have a degree, a humble degree in science, but one of the things, and I did actually in applied science, I did 30 years of intensive care at Sierra ICU. And then I retired, and of course, later on, I had always been an artist since I was a child, just like Nestor. So we together started doing some art, taking some classes here and there. We took classes with the biggest master painters in the United States, and we were very privileged, and we learned quite a bit from them. Another thing is that that has been our coalition. That's what really put us together, work on the art, work on the projects that Nestor had. It was very exciting work in the city. Projects like the restoration of not only the plaza theater, after the plaza theater, we did a lot. We actually, in the kitchen, we did the the plans for the Plaza, Arts Plaza, that we was adjunct with to the to the Plaza Theater. However, one of the most interesting was the one at the Plaza de los Lagartos, which hardly ever know, nobody knows it was a commission of eight people that when they nest or went to the, I mean, when they were gonna approve it at the city council and they were gonna do a landscape, desert landscape and erase everything on the history of the Placita de los Lagartos. Placita de los Lagartos always was there. since 1890s, 1870s. And then I said, it cannot be erased. That was one thing that I really thought, it cannot be erased. So we went to city council and Mayor Cook was very helpful to us. And since they were gonna vote that day on doing the landscape on the On the Placita, he held a vote and he gave us a month to present a plan.

30 days.

30 days. When all the other architects had already six months. working on it, and plus $500,000. We had zero. We had a printer. We had a computer. And working until 3 o'clock in the morning, we got the plan going. And we gave it to the city. And God bless us. To the city, yeah, we gave it to the city council, and it was like, it was just like God had faith in us. And what the placita was, it was restored, and the city council bought unanimously.

For our plan.

And that's the plan that has been placed. Implemented. Implemented. We implemented it. So it was a very great. And one of the greatest stories that I wanted.

That was a team effort. It was a big team effort. What you see there in the park is what we did in the kitchen. Well, thank you.

Thank you so much. I appreciate you. Thank you. That he has done. He's the founder of Comunidad en Acción. And I hope I wasn't dismissive and not including him because he was such an incredible individual of everything that he's done for our community. So he's not here today, but just want to thank him for everything he does. It's unbelievable how much he does in such a quiet way. So thank you for Richard Castro. Thank you.

Thank you.

Judge, with your permission, could we go to item number H? Thank you, sir. Item number 5H, approve and adopt a resolution recognizing Mike Gracie and Gracie's Rescue Ranch for their outstanding partnership with El Paso County Animal Welfare and their willingness to step forward to provide care, shelter, and support for the malnourished animals recently rescued in El Paso County. Commissioner?

Yes, thank you, Judge and Commissioners. I'm going to ask our guests from Gracie's Rescue Ranch and Animal Welfare and our Sheriff's Office to join us at the podium. It is an honor to present this resolution this morning and this effort and this resolution represents what I think is exemplary of the very best of our community and El Paso County. There was a very serious and unfortunate situation a couple of months ago that occurred in relation to some some animals that were being abused and neglected in other parts of the county. And so I'll take a moment to read the resolution, but I wanted to say thank you very much to our animal welfare department, to our sheriff's office, and especially to Gracie's Rescue Ranch for stepping in and making sure those animals were taken care of. So I'll go ahead and read the resolution and then we'll hear from our guests. Whereas Gracie's Rescue Ranch is an El Paso-based 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to animal rescue, veteran support, and wildlife education by demonstrating a remarkable commitment to addressing animal cruelty and neglect by providing care, sanctuary, and a safe environment for animals in need. And whereas Gracie's Rescue Ranch has made a considerable effort to support veterans in this community by offering mental health programs such as equine therapy and providing job opportunities for disabled veterans while successfully establishing itself as an accessible education and therapy platform, for adults and children with special needs. And whereas Gracie's Rescue Ranch, located in Far East El Paso County, demonstrates exceptional commitment to its mission of providing medical services, adoption support, and eventually finding loving and caring forever homes for rescued animals. And whereas most recently, Gracie's Rescue Ranch played a crucial role alongside the El Paso County Sheriff's Office and the El Paso County Animal Welfare Department. Without hesitation, rescuing 69 horses in August from a case of severe animal cruelty involving approximately 100 animals, ultimately going from housing 40 livestock animals on their property to 140 animals overnight. ranging from horses, donkeys, sheep, goats, chickens, pigs, turkeys, peacocks, and a llama. And whereas the El Paso County Animal Welfare Department contributed to the rescue and welfare efforts by supporting the response to the animal's conditions, working towards facilitating their protection and appropriate medical care, significantly strengthening El Paso County's continuum of care by increasing capacity, for accessible services such as vaccinations, neutering, rescuing, responding to constituent calls, and advancing our community's shared commitment to the health and dignity of El Paso's animals. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the El Paso County Commissioner's Court hereby recognizes and honors the outstanding efforts taking place behind the gates of Gracie's Rescue Ranch. The court commends Mike Gracie and his invaluable ranch, as well as the El Paso County Animal Welfare Department leadership, staff, volunteers, community partners, and friends, including cowboys with lassos, for their dedication and contributions to animal well-being. Signed this 21st day of September, 2026.

We have a motion to approve from Commissioner Butler, a second from Commissioner Coronado. Voting is open.

Aye.

Thank you, Judge. Motion carries.

Good morning, Judge Commissioners. Crystal Reyes with the Animal Welfare Department. Commissioner Butler, thank you so much for this recognition. I'll keep my remarks really brief because really the spotlight should be on everybody behind me who took part in this case. This case is one of the toughest ones I've seen in my entire career here in El Paso County. So the work that they did was so amazing. One of my long-term goals for this department was strengthening our response to animal cruelty and ensuring our officers are prepared to handle these types of investigations effectively and, of course, strengthen our partnership with the Sheriff's Department. Through hard work, training, preparation and experience, this case really showed us that our team is prepared to take on anything, especially something of this magnitude. Our officers responded to the conditions they found, worked to secure animals immediately and continued working through very large and complex situations to ensure that these animals were protected. My role really is to guide them, to make sure that they have the training and the tools they need and support them. But they're really the ones doing the work behind the scenes and I could not be more proud of them. Of course, Mr. Gracie, I want to recognize Mr. Gracie, Micah and all his team at Gracie Rescue Ranch. When the call for assistance was first made, it was anywhere between eight to 10 animals. Then, of course, as the investigation progressed, that number grew to over 100 animals, so they never hesitated. They showed up with volunteers, trailers, resources, and stood alongside our teams to ensure that every single animal was removed and taken safely. and harbored safely. So partnerships like this are critical in animal welfare, especially now as we're building towards our shelter. So this operation was a great example of what can be accomplished in animal welfare in our county, our community, through law enforcement, rescue organizations, and of course our community. They have come together to help out Mr. Gracie and shared the commitment towards the animal safety. So again, thank you for the recognition. And with that, I'll turn it over to the team to introduce themselves and allow them to speak. Thank you.

Welcome. Good morning, Judge and Commissioners. Thank you guys for having us. My name is Micah Mayfield, and I am the ranch hand. And I just want to appreciate all the team here and the team here for helping us out. It was a very long day, but behind the scenes, we've been taking care of it. And yeah, thank you guys for having us out.

Thank you.

My name is Holly Mayfield, I'm a big supporter of the ranch. Mike Gracie's a long term friend of mine. What started out with an idea to create this ranch, my son ended up being the ranch manager who takes care of the animals every day, gives them all the love and support they need to heal. So it's been a beautiful thing to be a part of.

Thank you. Welcome. Thank you, Judge. Commissioners, thank you for having us out here. It's a complete honor. I'm Mike Gracie. I'm the founder for Gracie's Rescue Ranch. I just want to thank the El Paso Community, Animal Welfare Services, Sheriff's Department, everybody that made this happen. It was a huge deal for us, too. We started as a little thing, an idea to help people out and then rescue a few animals and it became a huge thing overnight. But it's been big for us in our hearts and in our minds and done a lot for us mentally and helped the community. And we're glad to have these partners on board with us.

Well, thank you so much. Go ahead and introduce yourselves, please.

Morning, Judge, Commissioners, Emmanuel Soria, Chief Deputy with the Law Enforcement Bureau. I just want to say thank you. Thank you to everybody that was involved in this complex case. It's easy on the component side of the criminal side because we get to investigate that, but the work that went behind all the individuals that came up For us, we respond, we get called out. But for those individuals that take it upon themselves, use their own resources, their own time, that speaks volumes. And without them, I don't think this case would have moved forward. They called us, we see what we have. It entails more than 100 animals. Then as a department, we're like, how do we deal with this? That's the hardest part. Crystal and her team did a wonderful job. Mr. Gracie, all his team coming together and making this thing for the noble cause of the animals. And ultimately holding those accountable that were responsible for this. So I'd like to just say thank you, thank you Commissioner Butler for recognizing this incident.

Thank you. Thank you. Welcome.

Good morning, Commander Jerome Washington, Sheriff's Office. The same, you know, I look over and I see the unsung heroes, right? I hold people in a very high esteem when they choose like a life of service to help protect others, but that extends to animals as well, and for them to actually put themselves out there to do something for someone else, including animals, I think it's higher admiration for me. I have the utmost respect. I believe in our mission to protect everyone, including all forms of life, and they are the unsung heroes, and I appreciate everything you all do. Thank you all.

Good morning. My name is David Ramirez. I'm the lead animal welfare officer for El Paso County. I just want to say thank you for this resolution. Thank you for the team. They put a lot of work during this case. It was long hours, but it was something that we needed to do, and we loved doing it. Thank you for Gracie's Ranch. They helped us a lot. They were moving quick in action when we called them. They didn't hesitate. They were there for really short notice, so it was wonderful, and thank you so much. Thank you so much for the chair's department. They were a quick response as well. They guided through us to all the criminal aspects of it. And I just want to say thank you. I appreciate it.

Thank you. Good morning, Judge, Commissioners. My name is Officer Murphy. I was the case lead officer of this whole project. I could not... be more grateful to my team. Without them, this would have never happened, including sheriffs, including Gracie's Ranch. They came to assist us on a heartbeat. This was a lot of animals. If we're still doing this, we'll probably be still doing it today without their support. So I give a lot of thanks to everybody that's behind me, including the friends back there, because they were out there helping us as well. But thank you.

Thank you. Just introduce yourself, yeah?

Hello, I'm Officer Gutierrez with Animal Welfare. I just wanted to thank you guys. It was a great experience, and it was truly nice to be out there with a lot of support.

Well, thank you.

Thank you.

Hello, I'm Animal Welfare Officer Crystal Ramos. Thank you guys so much for your support.

Thank you. Good morning, Gabriela Sanchez, Customer Relations. Thank you so much.

Thank you so much. And Crystal, thank you so much for what you do, sort of like the cog, but you talk about call for action, because I was getting the feedback, got the information when it barely happened, and it was like beyond. my understanding how that was going to be addressed. I mean, it was just extremely complicated, but thank you for exemplary, you know, El Pasoans. We came together, and you've been hearing throughout the day of, so El Pasoan, right? And this acknowledges that. The sheriff always, I mean, always have the confidence that the Sheriff's Department is going to step in, you're going to have a partner, they're going to be into the fight with you, and they're going to do exceptional. So thank all of you for being, and like I said, we're always looking for great examples of why we are so unique, and this is one more example of what makes El Paso so incredibly special. So thank you. Commissioner Butler, thank you.

Thank you again, Judge and Commissioners, and just thank you all for your selfless service and for all of the hard work that went into taking care of these animals. I've heard stories of the hours that were required when this was first discovered. all of the work that's taken place since then at the ranch to make sure that these animals were accommodated and taken care of. And I know that behind this group here in front of us, there are dozens of volunteers and passionate community members who stepped up to make sure that each of the animals were taken care of. And there have been a lot of efforts to make sure that the funding is there to feed the animals and get them the medications and the welfare that they need. So thank you to everybody who supported Gracie's Rescue Ranch since they rescued these animals. I want to thank the court. We were able to donate $2,000 from my office's public purpose funds to Gracie's Rescue Ranch. So we have a check to present to you, Mr. Gracie, today. But really, that's our way of saying thank you to you for stepping up, for volunteering to take on something that was much bigger than than I think any of us could have imagined as a challenge. So thank you all again from the bottom of our hearts. We'll go ahead and take a picture with the resolution and then put the check if that's okay. Yes.

Item number 5E. Approve and adopt a resolution recognizing the 25th anniversary of the El Paso smoke-free ordinance and its impact across El Paso County, Texas. Thank you.

Thank you.

Good morning, Judge. Good morning, Commissioner Quirk.

My name is Sandra Day. I am a civil officer. Let me read the resolution. Sorry. Go ahead.

Sure.

Thank you. Don't try to take my job, okay? It's the only one I have. Well, thank you very much. We're going to understand the importance of different initiatives for our health, and this is very special as well, so I'll read the resolution. On June 26, 2001, the City of El Paso adopted the El Paso Smoke-Free Ordinance to protect the public health, safety and welfare of residents, employees and visitors by prohibiting smoking in indoor public places and workplaces. Whereas the ordinance established the city of El Paso as one of Texas' early leaders in the advancing comprehensive smoke-free protection, demonstrating visionary leadership in creating policies that protect the health of all who live, work, and visit the region. And whereas the adoption of the El Paso Smoke-Free Ordinance helped establish a foundation for broader smoke-free policies and public health efforts across communities throughout El Paso County and the El Paso del Norte region. The ordinance was achieved through the dedication and collaboration of local residents, elected officials, public health professionals, community organizations, health care partners, businesses and advocates committed to creating healthier environments free from the harms of secondhand smoking. Where there is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke and tobacco use remains a leading preventable cause of disease and death in the United States, contributing to cancer, heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease, and other chronic illnesses while imposing significant human and economic costs on society. whereas comprehensive smoke-free environments provide the most effective protection from exposure to secondhand smoke in indoor workplaces and public spaces while also supporting tobacco cessation, discouraging youth initiation, improving health outcomes, and reducing health care costs. with local governments within El Paso County that continue to build upon this legacy by strengthening and modernizing smoke-free air protections, including addressing emerging tobacco and nicotine products such as electronic cigarettes and vaping in public places and designated outdoor areas. with local and regional tobacco prevention efforts, including those supported by the Paso del Norte Health Foundation through the A Smoke Free Paso del Norte Initiative and carried forward through the collective efforts of community partners within El Paso del Norte Tobacco Control Network. Continue to promote education, prevention, cessation, policy development, and collaboration to reduce tobacco and nicotine-related throughout the El Paso del Norte region, which the 25th anniversary provides an opportunity to celebrate the lasting impact of smoke-free ordinances across the region, recognize those whose leadership made this progress possible, and reaffirm a shared commitment to protecting current and future generations from exposure to secondhand smoke, vaping, aerosols, and other harmful emissions from tobacco and other combustible products. Now, therefore, it be resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner's Court recognize the 25th anniversary of the El Paso smoke-free ordinance and reaffirm their commitment to protecting the health and well-being of all residents through smoke-free and vape-free environments. Evidence-based tobacco health and well-being of all residents and the prevention, cessation, support, and continued collaboration among public, private, and community partners. Signed this 21st day of September, 2026.

We have a motion to approve from Judge Salmaniego and a second from Commissioner Coronado. The voting is open. Aye. Thank you, sir. Motion carries. Thank you.

Good morning. On behalf of the Paso del Norte Halal Foundation and the Tobacco Control Network, we just want to thank you for taking the time to do this resolution for us. We saw that many things were able to unfold with this city. being the first one to start in the state of Texas with this type of ordinance. And then we soon saw City of Socorro, Town of Anthony, City of Zanelli, and Town of Horizon continue to adopt their own comprehensive smoke ordinance. And so we're just very excited to be here. And as we celebrate this 25th anniversary, it's also a reflection that the environment has changed. So our work continues to be relevant and we continue to take care of our youth and hopefully delay initiation into smoking and vaping or do cessation across the board. Thank you.

Thank you so much. Introduce yourselves, please.

Hello, Commissioners, Judge. My name is Kristen Ortega, and I'm one of the facilitators of our coalition, the Paso Norte Tobacco Control Network.

Thank you so much.

And you all are invited on October 21st to our summit.

Thank you.

Hi, good morning. I'm Josefina Costa-Durin. I'm the program specialist.

Thank you.

Good morning, Commissioners and Judge. My name is Jacob Martinez. I'm an associate professor for the College of Nursing, an advocate and supporter for the joint success of the program.

Thank you.

Good morning. Dr. Gladelo San, Texas Tech Health El Paso. And like I show here, just supporting for our youth to have a great future and live their lives with a vape-free El Paso. Thank you.

Thank you so much.

Good morning, all. My name is Nadia Martinez, and I'm a community member of the coalition.

Thank you.

Good morning, judge, commissioners. My name is Victor Pineda. I'm with Socorro Independent School District. I'm the facilitating opportunities coordinator, also the first, which is the first offender program there at Socorro Independent. Without the training, curriculum, and partnership with the Paso Norte Foundation and Action for Healthy Kids, a lot of the training and curriculum that comes to Socorro Independent wouldn't be possible. So very grateful for the opportunity. Thank you.

Thank you.

Hi, I'm Kara Ordaz, and I'm with EFO Media. We help on the marketing side of things.

Thank you.

Hi, good morning. I'm Alexandra, and I'm also with EFO Media. Thank you.

Thank you.

Good morning, Judge. Good morning, Commissioners. My name is Jose Mijares. I'm the Tobacco Compliance Coordinator.

Thank you. Appreciate you.

Good morning. My name is Lizette Marquez, and I'm with the SHS, and I'm a member of the coalition.

Thank you. Well, thank you all of you just it's incredible how you all came together. Really, it's nice to also recognize the city for what they did. And just very appreciative of the health effort. One of the commitments we've all made and sure on a personal level during the pandemic and we saw all of the underlying health issues. And so our first protection against viruses or anything else is our health. That's our first line of protection. And so we thank you because this is a very, it's sort of sneaking back up right through vaping and through other forms that we forget about. They seem safer, but they're not. And if there's not organizations like yourself that would continue that fight, it was very sad to see so many people die during the pandemic because of health challenges. And you're doing something to prevent something in the future. And especially the young people, that are coming up and it looks cool, but I don't think they understand the damage that vaping does and all these others. So once again, thank you. And we always love to partner with the city. And so we're glad that we're part of this recognition. Thank you very much.

Thank you.

Item number 5F, approve and adopt a resolution declaring the week of September 20th through the 26th, 2026 as Forensic Science Week in El Paso County, Texas.

Thank you. Our forensic team, please. Well, thank you so much. This is also one of those behind the scenes of individuals that work really hard to make sure that we have a safe community. And I'm so glad when we get to get you out of sort of the shadows and get you in being recognized in public. So thank you so much. Whereas the dedicated public servants who work in the field of forensic science deserve recognition for their hard work in the field and inside the laboratory, their discipline and expertise through education. Whereas forensic analysis improves investigation of criminal cases leading to the absolution of the innocent and prosecution of the guilty. Whereas the professionals who compromise our forensic science fields deserve recognition and appreciation for their commitment to proper scientific investigations for the purpose of due process. Whereas crime scene investigators, latent print examiners, forensic examiners, and forensic scientists provide long hours of service dedicated to the unbiased, accurate, and reliable analysis of evidence throughout the nation. With the effort to continue strengthening forensic science standards requires forensic laboratories to maintain accreditation and crime scene investigators and latent print examiners to maintain certifications through the International Association of Identification. Whereas in 2019, the United States Senate passed a resolution 320 recognizing and supporting the goals and ideals of National Forensic Science Week, which professionals across the country continue to celebrate. Now, therefore, it be resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner's Court hereby recognizes September 20 through 26, 2026 as Forensic Science Week, signed this 21st day of September 2026.

We have a motion to approve from Judge Samaniego, a second from Commissioner Holguin. The voting is open. Aye. Thank you, sir. Motion carries.

Welcome again. Thank you.

Good morning, Judge, Commissioners, , Chief Deputy with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office. I would like to begin by thanking you for recognizing National Forensic Science Week, and especially the dedicated forensic professionals of the El Paso County Sheriff's Office. This week provides an important opportunity to acknowledge the often unseen work of forensic professionals and investigators who stand at the critical intersection of science and justice. When a crime occurs, we often think first of patrol officers, detectives, and attorneys. However, the work of forensic professionals begins long before a case reaches the courtroom. They are the individuals who enable physical evidence, the silent witnesses to speak. Forensic science plays a vital role in preserving the integrity of the criminal justice systems. Through objective, impartial, and reliable scientific analysis, forensic professionals help exonerate the innocent, identify those responsible for criminal acts, and protect the public. I encourage everyone to reflect on the essential role of forensic science serves in our community and society. Let us take this opportunity to recognize and appreciate the unsung heroes who work diligently behind the scenes in pursuit of the truth and justice. On behalf of the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, I extend our sincere gratitude to all forensic professionals for your hard work, dedication, and commitment to conducting proper scientific investigations in the cause of justice. Thank you. Thank you.

Good morning, Commander Jerome Washington, Criminal Investigations Division Commander. I'll be brief. This section actually falls under my division. What I can say, I've said it before, some of the most amazing work I've ever seen done in law enforcement is by the professionals standing behind me. I can tell you what you've seen on TV, in the movies, it doesn't even compare to what they actually have to do in real life. meticulous effort it takes to find fingerprints, to compare them, to find evidence that's been left behind. You know, as first responders and law enforcement, we want to be able to prevent crime. The reality is that doesn't always happen. So the next best thing to do to bring these offenders to justice is with the evidence. And a lot of times it's going to be the people that you see here and across the nation. So again, thank you to the court for this resolution and thank you to all the fine professionals behind me and throughout the country.

Thank you so much. You want to introduce yourselves please?

Hi, my name is Ashley Rosiles, and I'm the Crime Scene Unit Supervisor.

Thank you.

My name is Carla Santana. I'm one of the Crime Scene Investigators.

Thank you.

My name is Sarah Ireland, and I'm a latent print examiner.

Thank you.

My name is Abigail Riquez, and I'm also a latent print examiner.

Thank you.

Good morning. My name is Carlos Cervantes, one of the crime scene investigators. Thank you.

My name is Carla Leopas. I'm one of the crime scene investigators.

Thank you.

My name is Zeya Navarro, and I'm also a crime scene investigator.

Thank you. And our good friend, Omar, please.

good morning judge commissioners uh thank you for this resolution i'm here just to support and uh to thank this amazing staff uh kind of echo what commander washington said amazing people amazing people and uh we support support them every day and uh lunches on the association today thank you thank you and i hope the community understands like the certification and the professionalism that has to go behind this and as it was mentioned if they don't do a good job

you might have someone who is a criminal who should be in jail out in the community. And that's where we, you know, we're so proud of being one of the safest communities, but that's what it takes. It's just everyone. And I just, I mean, to me, one of the most special things we do is recognize people that would typically not be recognized. As I said earlier, you're behind the scene and you do so many great things for our community. continue that certification, continue that commitment that you have. And once again, when the sheriff's involved, great things happen. And so, Maura, thank you also. I know you support the workforce and our personnel in the sheriff's department. So thank you for what you do. And Maura, we'd love to take a picture with all of you. Thank you.

Item number 5G, approve and adopt a resolution declaring September 26th, 2026 as Human Resources Professionals Day in El Paso County, Texas.

Thank you, thank you. Who else is with you? Just anybody else? Sam, bring your team. He said after this, he's taking you to Luby's, okay, so. Well, you deserve everything you do for us. We'd like to. Well, thank you so much. It's my honor, having been a HR professional in my lifetime. I truly understand the significance of the workforce, and the workforce obviously is feeling good and feeling loved and appreciated. Great things happen, and when they're not, not such great things will happen. So I'm very appreciative because we have such an incredible family here in the county. So it'll be my honor to read the resolution. Whereas human resource professionals play an essential role in supporting the employees who carry out the critical operation services and responsibilities necessary for the success and effective functioning of organizations. Whereas in El Paso County, human resource professionals serve as trusted partners to county leadership, elected officials, department heads, and employees by providing guidance and expertise in recruitment, employee relations, compensation and benefits, professional development, workplace policies, and organizational effectiveness. Whereas the Human Resource Department works diligently to recruit and retain a talented and diverse workforce while promoting a workplace culture that values professionalism, respect, accountability, and excellent public service. Whereas human resource professionals frequently work behind the scenes to assist employees throughout every stage of their county career, from recruitment, onboarding, to professional growth, career advancement, and retirement. With their commitment to supporting county employees strengthens our organization and helps ensure that El Paso County continues to provide responsive, efficient, and high quality services to our community. Of course, Human Resource Professional Day is recognized annually on September 26 as an opportunity to acknowledge the important contributions of human resource professionals and the positive impact they make within their organization. West El Paso County recognizes and appreciates the dedication, knowledge, professionalism, and service demonstrated each day by the employees of the Human Resources Department. Now, therefore, it be resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner's Court hereby declare September 26, 2026 as Human Resource Professional Day, honoring the human resource professionals who dedicate their careers to supporting our county workforce and strengthening our organization. Be it further resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner Court extends its sincere appreciation to the Human Resource Department for its continued commitment to serving county employees, supporting county leadership, and helping El Paso County remain an employer dedicated to excellence in public service. Signed this 21st day of September, 2026.

We have a motion to approve from Judge Samaniego, a second from Commissioner Olguin. The voting is open. Aye. Thank you, sir. Motion carries. Welcome.

Good morning, Judge, Commissioners. My name is Jonathan Wagner, and together with Yvette Delgado, Jose Barraza, Jessica Valdivieso, and Victoria Viggers, we have the honor of representing the El Paso Society of Human Resource Management. I'm here today on behalf of our chapter and many HR professionals throughout El Paso County. to express our sincere appreciation for this resolution, recognizing as Human Resources Professionals Day. Human resources professionals serve an important role in every organization and every community. We help employers navigate an ever-changing workplace while supporting employees, developing talent, strengthening organizational cultures, and helping make El Paso County a better place to work. Here in El Paso County, HR professionals also understand the unique character of our community. We work across industries, across generations, and across the US-Mexico border to help organizations attract and retain talent, to help organizations and their employees succeed. On behalf of El Paso SHRM, Our approximately 200 members and many more HR professionals across the borderland, we thank the El Paso County Commissioner's Court for recognizing the contributions of HR professionals in our community. We're proud to serve El Paso County and beyond, and we're grateful for the opportunity to be recognized today. Thank you.

Well, thank you. It's so nice to have not just ourselves, but Sherm recognized, so thank you for doing that. Really appreciate that. Thank you. Sam, you want to lead us off?

Sure. First off, thank you, Jonathan, for doing this. And Judge, Commissioners, thank you for doing this resolution for us and recognizing the best department in the county. So what I want to know is that- He's not biased at all, okay? So we'd like to extend our appreciation to the judge and the commissioners for this Human Resources Professional Day resolution. These are the people that work behind the scenes extremely hard, and I believe they make a significant impact to all the county operations and then ultimately to the public. So I would like to thank each member of our team here today and watching online. for the work that they do each and every day, and this resolution helps go a long way to help recognize those individuals. So thank you, John.

Thank you, Sam, for your commitment and dedication as well. So if you want to introduce each one of you, please come up.

My name is Jose Barrasen. I'm the Executive Director for Human Resources at EPCC.

Oh, thank you. Formerly from Canutillo.

My name is Victoria Vigors and I'm the Associate Director for Benefits and Risk Management.

Thank you.

Hi, Judge. I'm Jessica Valdivieso and I'm an HR Supervisor at Economy Wholesale Grocers.

Thank you.

Good morning. Actually, good afternoon at this point. Thank you for the resolution. My name is Yvette Delgado. I'm the HR Director for Economy Wholesale Grocers and the Vice President of Membership, for sure.

Oh, thank you.

Good morning, Judge and Commissioners. Yasmeen Martinez, HR Specialist.

Thank you.

Good morning, Judge and Commissioners. Priscilla Dominguez, HR Generalist.

Thank you.

Good morning, Judge and Commissioners.

Iraiz Torres, HR Specialist.

Thank you.

Good day, Judge and Commissioners. Crystal Ramos-Hall, HR Specialist.

Thank you.

Hi, good morning, Judge and Commissioners. My name is Chantal Cruz and I'm an HR Specialist.

Thank you.

Good afternoon, Judge and Commissioners. Maria Gonzalez. I am an HR Specialist.

Thank you.

Good afternoon, Judge and Commissioners. Alexa Enciso, HR Generalist with our Benefits Team.

Thank you.

Good morning, Judge, Commissioners. Ruby Munoz, Wellness Coordinator.

Thank you.

Good afternoon, Judge and Commissioners. Deborah Cole, Executive Assistant with HR.

Thank you.

Hi, good afternoon, Commissioners. Janet Cordova, Senior at the HR Office.

Thank you.

Good morning, Judge and Commissioners. Joanna Fadola, the Benefits Manager.

Thank you.

Good morning, Judge and Commissioners. Lauren Dormides, HR Specialist with the Sheriff's Office.

Thank you.

Good morning, Judge and Commissioners. Sabian Solis, your Wellness Coordinator.

Thank you.

Good morning, Judge, Commissioners. Valeria Fernandez, HR Manager, and I also serve on the SHRM Texas State Council as a Co-Director for Emerging Professionals and College Relations.

Thank you.

Good afternoon, Judge and Commissioners. Your senior deputy HR officer with the county's Human Resources Department. We truly appreciate this resolution.

Thank you so much. And we appreciate so much what you do. And as I said earlier, the strength of any organization or the people, obviously, but you've done such a great job. When we talk about our family, our county family, we really mean it. It's not just something you say, put on the wall kind of thing, but it's something very special for us. I know there's your biggest fan, well, other than myself, is Betsy. She's not here today, but I think she's doing somersaults and being very happy that we're recognizing, as most of you know, she initiated an HR and continues to show because she was in HR, continues to show that capacity of dealing with people, of interacting, of trying to figure things out. And so it's really nice to have someone at that level in a different position, but has that integration of an HR professional. And I think all of you have that trajectory that you could do so much more for the company at every moment. that you're here makes us a lot better, so we thank you for that. I hope this is a very special day for all of you, and thank you for giving us that opportunity to recognize you. Thank you.

Item number five, I approve and adopt a resolution recognizing September 27th through October 3rd, 2026 as El Paso Startup Week in El Paso County and surrounding communities celebrating the region's entrepreneurs and innovators and recognizing their contributions to entrepreneurship, collaboration, innovation and economic growth throughout the region.

Yes, Judge, Commissioners, thank you so much. I'm really excited to be able to present today's resolution in recognition of El Paso Startup Week. I know we have some representatives from our local startup support organizations and obviously our wonderful Economic Development Department. Before I read the resolution and hear from our guests and our economic development department, I wanted to highlight some of the work this court has done this year in supporting small businesses and startups and how fitting it is that we're passing this resolution this morning focusing on supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses and startups. I had the honor of being part of two organizations that worked with small businesses and supported entrepreneurs and had a front row seat to some of the wonderful work that these organizations do for many years. And I'm really excited that this year, for the first time, we created a startup seed funding program within our economic incentive policy, specifically to support homegrown domestic and international startups that want to establish or grow their businesses here in El Paso County. The policy that we adopted earlier this year identifies the kinds of things that startups actually need help with, including product development, market research, workforce training, building operational capacity, and reaching new markets. We also created a way for the county to invest in the organizations that support our entrepreneurs. That includes organizations that provide incubation, mentorship, startup workshops, pitch competitions, training, and other support to early stage businesses. We made micro, small, and medium-sized businesses an explicit part of our economic development strategy with our new policy, recognizing the role they play in innovation, creating local jobs, and building a more resilient economy. So I'm excited today that we're not only celebrating our startup community, which is robust and wonderful and very busy, but we've actually put policy and tools in place to support those organizations and to make El Paso County a place for more startups and entrepreneurs. So thank you to all of you who are here today. I'll go ahead and read the resolution and then we'll hear from our guests. Whereas El Paso Startup Week is an annual celebration of innovation, creativity, entrepreneurship, and education, bringing together entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, mentors, community leaders, educators, founders, and entrepreneurial support organizations to strengthen the region's startup ecosystem by providing resources, connections, knowledge, and mentorship needed to launch, grow, and scale businesses. And whereas El Paso Startup Week recognizes and celebrates businesses and entrepreneurs across El Paso County, showcasing the strength, resilience, creativity, and diversity of our local entrepreneurial community and its contributions to a thriving economy in the border region of El Paso, Texas. And whereas El Paso Startup Week celebrates the boundary-crossing creativity, resilience, and cultural fusion that define our borderland region, while championing innovation, entrepreneurship, collaboration, and the continued growth and forward momentum of our local economy. And whereas from September 27th through October 3rd, 2026, El Paso Startup Week will feature a variety of educational and engaging activities, including business startup fundamentals, marketing strategies, legal considerations for startups, wellness workshops, interactive panels, networking opportunities, demo days, and cross-border and interdisciplinary collaborations designed to foster entrepreneurship, accelerate innovation, and create greater economic impact throughout the region. And whereas, El Paso Startup Week honors the region's entrepreneurial spirit, adaptability, and rich cultural heritage while promoting economic vitality, inclusive growth, business development, and long-term economic sustainability throughout El Paso County and the surrounding border region. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the El Paso County Commissioner's Court hereby recognizes September 27th through October 3rd, 2026, as El Paso Startup Week in El Paso County and the surrounding communities, and encourages residents, entrepreneurs, businesses, institutions, and organizations to support and participate in the celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity. Signed this 21st day of September 26th.

We have a motion to approve from Commissioner Butler, a second from Commissioner Stout. Voting is open.

Aye.

Thank you, Judge. Motion carries.

Welcome. Thank you.

Good morning, Judge and Commissioner Zonia Sigala, Senior Analyst for Economic Development. Today I am pleased to bring this resolution forward in partnership with Commissioner Butler in recognizing September 27 through October 3, 2026 as El Paso Startup Week in El Paso County. El Paso Startup Week is an annual celebration of entrepreneurship, innovation, and education, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, educators, community leaders, and our local entrepreneurial support organizations, or ESOs. I want to thank the MCA along with our local ESOs who've been instrumental in creating free resources, opportunities for our entrepreneurs throughout the county. With that, I am pleased to introduce Nancy Lowery, Senior Director of Innovation at the Medical Center of America's Foundation and a strong champion of El Paso Startup Week. Thank you.

Thank you. Welcome.

Thank you, Commissioner Butler, Judge Samaniego, other commissioners, thank you so much. This is the fourth year our community has come together to support Startup Week. And every year the county has helped us make it a little bigger, a little better, and serve a lot more entrepreneurs. But Startup Week is about more than a week of events. It's really a celebration of entrepreneurship and of a community that surrounds and supports entrepreneurs. Starting a business is hard. It takes courage to put an idea, to put yourself out there and try to build something from scratch. It's important for entrepreneurs to know that they're not doing it alone, that their community believes in them and is willing to support them. That's really why we all do Startup Week, and it's not just the MCA, but there are 20 plus ESOs, Entrepreneur Support Organizations, that are involved in the preparation and putting on events during Startup Week. And we especially want to thank the county for taking an important step forward with the new Economic Workforce and Heritage Tourism Development Policy. We appreciate the new policy focus, supporting homegrown entrepreneurs and helping more businesses start in a region like El Paso is very important. The fact that you recognize the important role of organizations that provide the mentorship training and incubation and support to other entrepreneurs is especially important to us since that's what we do. Creating more opportunities for collaboration between the county entrepreneurs and our startup ecosystem I think is also a very important focus of the new policy and we appreciate that. We appreciate the county putting these priorities into a policy and look forward to working together to continue building a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in El Paso. We invite everyone to come out and experience El Paso Startup Week, attend an event, meet an entrepreneur, support a small business, or simply learn something new. There are events happening throughout the region from Socorro to downtown to the MCA to the Innovation Hub. They'll be all over. the county from September 27th through October 3rd, and we hope you'll join us. We want to especially invite the commissioners and everyone here today to join us for the kickoff on Monday, September 28th at noon at the El Paso Museum of Art. Thank you again to the county for recognizing our entrepreneurial community and for standing behind the people who are building what's next for El Paso.

Thank you. Thank you. Appreciate your words.

Hi, good afternoon. Emily Gomez, I'm the program and marketing event coordinator for the Medical Center of the Americas Foundation.

Thank you.

Good afternoon, Judge Samaniego and commissioners. My name is Elizabeth Terrazas. I'm the president and CEO for the El Paso Better Business Bureau. I just wanted to say thank you for your support in supporting small businesses, entrepreneurship, and the El Paso Startup Week. We appreciate it. Thank you.

Thank you.

Hi, good afternoon. My name is Alejandra Fuentes. I am the founder of the President's Lab. I just want to say thank you for the support that the county has provided for entrepreneurs to believe in themselves and take a chance on themselves and continue supporting our beautiful community. Thank you.

Thank you very much. You know, we've always said that one of the things that the county does is accessibility. And sometimes people don't realize that accessibility is, for example, an entrepreneur being able to enter the market, being successful. And as Sonia will tell you, sometimes we We recognize the Amazons, the Schneider Electrics of the world, and it seems like they're the ones that are holding our economy together. But in essence, it's the small businesses throughout and their contributions throughout that really help our economy to be what we are. And I know the county, each one of the commissioners just incredibly supports small businesses. I know Commissioner Stout focusing a lot on the healthy food and healthy opportunities that we have for entrepreneurs to get into that. So our job is really to figure out how do we let them know what is needed in the community. And then people that have those ideas and that entrepreneurship can sort of understand how do they fit into this kind of a puzzle that we have. But I hope that people do, our community does realize how much we care for small businesses and entrepreneur startups. And so this is a very important part of it, and we thank you. We just have to get them over that little hump because we know that some of the business fail because they lack information, they lack the ability to be connected to banks and financing. And if you can help them with that, they can be very successful. So that first year is very difficult, but if you give them the support and the mentorship that you're trying to accomplish here, I think we'll see a big difference. And we need them in our community. That's what makes our community be successful. So thank you very much for everything you do, and we'll make sure that we're going to be there at the event supporting it one way or the other. So thank you, Commissioner Butler, for the resolution.

Thank you. Thank you again, each one of you, for being here. And I know there are a lot of other ESOs that are part of Startup Week, and so thank everybody for your efforts. Hopefully we can attend as many events next week as possible to highlight the work that you're doing. Thank you to the MCA Foundation for all the incredible work that you do, especially. So thank you very much. We'll go ahead and take a picture.

Oh, what are you doing?

How's your baby?

Oh, she's big.

Nancy, I haven't seen you in a long time.

I'm going to have to Photoshop mine to make me look good.

Item number 5J, postponed September 14th, 2026. Approve and adopt a resolution recognizing the El Paso Rhinos 20th anniversary.

Thank you, Judge. So last but certainly not least, and I know I also see Tony, if you want to come make your way up and join Corey. It's really an honor to present this resolution because I think that Rhinos hockey is something that not too many people in our community know about, but it's one of the funnest, most family-friendly events that I know of. I did not know I was a hockey fan until I went to my first Rhinos game, and now my daughter Rebecca and I WE LOVE SPENDING TIME WATCHING THE GAME. I WILL GO AHEAD AND READ THE RESOLUTION. WHILE I DO THAT, I KNOW OUR COMMUNICATIONS TEAM HAS SOME FOOTAGE FROM THIS WEEKEND'S OPENING GAMES, WHICH WERE VERY, VERY EXCITING. I WAS THERE ON FRIDAY. IT WAS VERY EXCITING. THE SCORE WAS 3-3, WENT INTO OVERTIME. UNFORTUNATELY, THE RINOS DID NOT SCORE THE WINNING POINT, BUT IT WAS STILL VERY, VERY EXCITING. I WILL GO AHEAD AND READ THE RESOLUTION. Whereas the El Paso Rhinos were founded in 2006 by former El Paso Buzzards player Corey Herman with the goal of bringing competitive ice hockey back to the Sun City. And whereas the Rhinos compete in the South Division of the North American Hockey League, USA Hockey's only Tier 2 Junior League, and have built a successful legacy that includes four Thorn Cup championships, more than 10 division titles, and numerous players advancing to NCAA hockey programs across the country. And whereas the El Paso Rhinos have helped grow the sport locally through the El Paso Hockey Association, which offers youth hockey, travel hockey, junior rhinos programs, adult hockey, figure skating, public skating, and other opportunities for residents throughout the region. And whereas the 2026-2027 season marks the 20th anniversary of Rhinos hockey in El Paso and includes 28 home games at the El Paso County Event Center, beginning with a regular season opener on September 18th, 2026. And whereas throughout the season, the Rhinos will celebrate their connection to the El Paso community through special themed weekends and events, including Dia de los Muertos, Valentine's Day, Military Weekend, and other opportunities that bring fans, families, and community members together. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the El Paso County judge and commissioner's court in recognition of the El Paso Rhinos 20th anniversary, their athletic achievements and their continued contributions to hockey and the borderland community that September 21st, 2026 be declared as El Paso Rhinos 20th anniversary day.

We have a motion to approve from Commissioner Olguin, a second from Commissioner Stout. Voting is open.

Aye.

Thank you, Judge. Commissioner Stone.

Sorry, sorry. Got ahead of ourselves.

Motion carries.

Okay, there we go. Cory, welcome.

Thank you very much for having us out here today. Yeah, 20 years, man. It's been very, very... You know, we never ever, like when we first moved into the equestrian center, you know, we transformed it from an equestrian center to where it is today. And it's all because of like the great staff we have, you know, the numerous, numerous volunteers we have and, you know, the support of the county. But it's been, I think one of the, like of all the championships and all the things that we've accomplished, You know, we have 600 kids that play youth hockey now. We have two figure skating clubs with, you know, 200 people attending and a big adult program. I think one of the biggest accomplishments that, you know, we've done is like the $3 million that we put into the equestrian center has come from sponsorship, fundraising, and just donations, which we are very, very proud of. We've never asked for any money. And we've done all that ourselves, and we're very, very proud of that. And, you know, I also think, like, without, you know, it's been, we started the El Paso Hockey Association in, pardon me, 25 years ago, and the Rhinos came 20 years ago. But without the, honestly, without the sports commission, I don't think we'd ever be here, you know, without their support, like, their unbelievable support. Because, you know, of all the things that we want to do at the event center, they've been super, super supportive, and we're very, very thankful for that. Um, but, uh, again, we, we, uh, truly, truly thank you. And, uh, you know, um, we're at a, we're at a point right now where we don't have enough ice time and we really, really need a second sheet of ice and hopefully, uh, one day we'll be able to have that. So again, thank you. Um, here's our president, uh, Corey.

Welcome. I guess good afternoon. Thanks for having us and appreciate the opportunity and without it's been a long 20 years that's for sure and if you were to ask us five year or you know year five would we be here I don't know if we would say the same thing but it's been a great ride and you know without with all the support of the county the commissioners you know the sports commission I don't think we'd be standing here so again thank you for having us and thanks for the recognition.

Well, thank you, and a great partner to you guys, Tony, on their behalf, because you've got the best view of what they do.

Tony Rodriguez with the El Paso Sports Commission. And Janet would be here today, but she's getting ready for the other icing going on this week at the Coliseum Disney on Ice. No, it's a great partnership with the Rhinos. I mean, you've seen it. I tell people, and in fact, I was telling Corey today, not to knock any other teams, but whether the Rhinos are winning or losing throughout the season, their fans show up, people show up. That building is always filled, no matter what. It's just excitement nonstop. I mean, you saw the video. I mean, that's throughout the whole game. That's not a part where anyone's sitting down taking a break. That's happening throughout the whole game. So it's a great partnership. 20 years, who would have thunk it? But yeah, I mean, like Corey's right. I mean, all the events that they do besides just the Rhinos Hockey Front, figure skating, youth hockey, learn to skate, public skating. I mean, you go there, that building's used 365 days a year. And it's not stopping. And it's on their schedule so that you can see it for yourself. It's no joke. But no, we continue. We look forward for 20 more years, hopefully more after that. But the season just started. So definitely go to El Paso Rhinos. El Paso Rhinos. So get the schedule and come on down and check it out.

Well, thank you, Tony. Thank you for that partnership. And Corey, I think it's good being by the ice because you don't look 20 years older from when you started. It's all that cold weather in there. But thank you because it's such an asset to El Paso. People go crazy, the fans, what you do. You might want to talk to the UTEP fans to be a little bit more relentless because your fans, like Tony was saying, Win or lose, they're there, they're excited. And thank you for your continued effort to make it grow. And hopefully there's a way that we can support that. That second sheet I know has been, and we had so many individuals here supporting that. I was pretty amazed at the number of people supporting the ice skating and everything that happens there. So really, speaking on behalf of myself and the commissioners, You've done an amazing job and have kept us going. And I think you do need some more support to get it to the next level.

No, we really appreciate that. And it's funny, we're not a hockey traditional market, but we lead the league in attendance. And we're very, very fortunate that 95% of our games are sold out. And over 16,000 people go through that rink every week. We're very, very fortunate. It's pretty amazing.

I'm just gonna shamelessly plug Commissioner's Court putting back on the ballot, investing in the Coliseum. It's great to do resolutions and support you. Thank you for being here for 20 years and doing all that you've done during that time. But if we're serious about supporting you, I would say we need to put that back on the ballot and ask the voters to support you as well.

We have a plan, we could do it ourselves. We'd be more than willing to do that, cuz we desperately need a second sheet of ice. Thank you, Corey.

Well, I just wanna encourage anyone who has not been out to see a Rhinos game to go watch one. Even if you don't think you're a hockey fan, believe me, you will be after you watch a game. So thank you all. And if we could have you join us up here for a photo.

I wanna see a video of Tony doing the Rhino move.

I don't even have to put on the mask.

Item number six is public comment. We have two speakers for public comment today, Judge. I'd like to get started with Mr. Sammy Carrico. I'd just like to remind speakers that public comment is limited to five minutes per person. Everybody will be timed. Thank you.

Welcome. Good afternoon, everybody. I know it's late, so let's get this over with. You guys know why I'm here today, okay? Taxes, taxes are going up. It's something that we have to take into consideration. It's gonna happen, right? There's only two things in life that are certain, right? Death and taxes. But we need to control them. Our taxes have gone up in the county. There's a lot, you have the HR department, you have a lot of departments that are doing their part to try to keep that down, but yet there's one department here in El Paso County that's not doing their part, and that's the Sheriff's Department. The Sheriff's Department's budget is, I believe the last figure, $5.9 million in the deficit, and it keeps climbing. There was a summons sent out to Sheriff Oscar Ugarte, I've seen commanders, I've seen lieutenants, I've even seen the association president here, yet we don't see Sheriff Oscar Ugarte. Why? Why isn't he out here? Why isn't he out here answering questions? He needs to be held accountable. The spending is getting out of control. And a lot of times he says, well, it's for security reasons, it's for safety, and he asks for more money, and he asks for more money. But I'd like to ask you guys, what does eating gorditas have to do with safety? Nothing. What does going to senior citizen centers have to do with safety? Nothing. One of the most recent things that you guys agreed on, approved, was money for bulletproof windows, which sounds amazing, right? It's safe. But they're useless. Why? Because if the whole vehicle is not bulletproof, that's a waste of money. Just because it's free doesn't mean you take it. And that's just one of the many examples of the purchases that have been made by Oscar Bugarte. But again, let me take a look. He's not here. Why is he not here? Now, I'm the Sammy C Show, so that means I know a lot. I play dumb, but guess what? I've been told he's not gonna be here in person, but he's gonna be on teams. Does he not have enough respect for you guys or for the taxpayers to show up in person? Come on, guys, we gotta do something. He has been here way too many times asking for money. He has been here way too many times saying, okay, he's gonna do things right. You have to understand who is behind him, and we all know who it is. It's a Congresswoman, Veronica Escobar. Now I ask you guys, this isn't political, cuz both people on the left and on the right are sick and tired of his spending. They're sick and tired of taxes going up. The people have spoken, two of you guys are gone because of that. And of course, Secretary Coronado, if you don't mind, get off your phone. Same thing every single time. Four of you guys are looking at me and listening, and we have Secretary Coronado just ignoring you, whatever. I ask you guys, I know you guys have political ties and whatever it is, but let me ask you this. Do you guys represent the Congresswoman? Or do you guys represent your constituents? Your constituents have spoken. They need help. But if you don't listen to them, guess what's gonna happen? The same thing that happened to these two guys. They're gonna get voted out. The people have spoken. We are here. We're standing up and we're speaking out loud. No more taxes. Are you guys gonna do something about it? Or are you just gonna sit here and warn him one more time? How many more warnings is he gonna get? We can't afford it. We literally cannot afford more taxes. I am asking county commissioners to hold Oscar Ugarte accountable, not just for his spending, but his unethical practices, his hiring practices. He has hired his girlfriend, bypassed hiring processes, and everybody knows this. Everybody tells me, Sammy, we know, but we can't do nothing. Why? Because the Sheriff's Department is autonomous. It runs by itself. But you guys here can publicly tell him he needs to stop. You guys can either censor him or do something. But I am here. 30 seconds. And as you know, I am a man on a mission. I'm not going to stop. I'm like a bulldog. I'm round, I salivate, sometimes I honk, I snore when I talk, when I walk. But just like a bulldog, when I latch onto something, I don't let go. And I'm not gonna let go of this. So I'm asking you guys here today, and everybody who's watching on that camera is asking you guys, do something about it. Put a stop to Sheriff Oscar Ugarte. I yield my time.

Our next speaker has submitted public comments. We have Elizabeth Crawford. She begins her comment. Good morning, Judge Samaniego and commissioners. As we know, in our nation, we have gone from the slogan, abortion safe, legal, and rare, to the rallying cry of shout your abortion. An interesting unintended consequence of the shout your abortion movement is that women in telling their stories are admitting that an abortion is not a simple disposing of a clump of cells. Even a number of women who are the loudest in shouting their abortions are publicly admitting that there was an emotional toll. Why? Because we all know that what's growing in the womb of an expectant mom is not a clump of cells. It is a little boy or a little girl. Several months back, we saw the outrage over allegations that Israeli soldiers destroyed a statue in Lebanon, an image of Jesus on the cross, using a sledgehammer. As I watched the video of it, I felt a profound sadness. Beyond an external act of allegedly smashing a statue, what about the reality of what really happened on Calvary 2,000 years ago? In the Hebrew Scriptures, written centuries before Jesus' advent on earth, we read these words that speak of a suffering Messiah, wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our inequities, the chastisement of our peace upon him, and with his stripes we are healed. He was beat to a pulp to pay for our sins. And a few verses up in Isaiah 52, 14, his visage was so marred more than any man and his form more than that the sons of men. As we think again about the abortion issue, we cannot forget that abortion's destruction in the womb is done to those whom the Lord is creating in his own image. I am so thankful that the good news of the gospel is not my body, my choice, but instead his body, his choice, his selfless choice to give his life as a ransom for many. Thank you and I hope you have a really good day. End of comment. That completes all the speakers that we have for public comment today, Judge.

We're going to go ahead and get one more item in and then we'll break for lunch.

Yes, sir. Item number 7A from the regular agenda. Receive a presentation, discuss and take appropriate action regarding the future direction, governance and implementation of the Veterans Capital of the USA initiative.

Welcome, Tony.

Good afternoon, Judge and Commissioners. I have this 20 minute brief, but if at any time you want to cut me off because you're hungry, we can get to the bottom line up front. So I want to talk about the Veterans Capital. The Veterans Capital Initiative reflects something deeply rooted in the El Paso County, our military history, our relationship with Fort Bliss, and our commitment to veterans, service members, and their families. The work that has already been done gives the county a foundation to build upon. The question before us now is where we want Veterans Capital to go next and what we want this designation to mean for El Paso County. All right, so why El Paso, the Veterans Capital ecosystem? When we talk about El Paso as the veteran's capital of the USA, we're not talking about a designation without substance. We are talking about an entire military and veteran ecosystem that already exists in this community. Fort Bliss received the 2026 Commander-in-Chief's Annual Award for Installation Excellence and was recognized by the Army as the Army's best garrison. Major General Taylor also highlighted how Fort Bliss led the Army in re-enlistments and El Paso led the nation in recruiting during the preceding year. William Boma Army Medical Center has received national recognition for patient safety and our El Paso VA healthcare system ranks number one across the nation. These achievements are connected. They tell a much larger story about El Paso County. The veterans capital gives us an opportunity to bring those strengths together under one recognizable identity. The goal is not simply to celebrate what our military and veteran partners have accomplished. It is a build upon these accomplishments and make sure The people who have served and those who support them can benefit from everything this community has to offer. That is what I believe the Veterans Capital can represent for El Paso County. We had four pillars and where we left off in 2025 was the last briefing. The 2025 plan organized veterans capital around four pillars, internal marketing, external marketing, reputation and recognition. Those pillars remain relevant and provide continuity between the original vision and where the county could take the initiative next. The opportunity now is to expand those pillars beyond marketing, and connect them to tangible outcomes, access to resources, employment and transition opportunities, veteran entrepreneurship and community engagement and recognition. The idea is not to replace the earlier work, it is to build upon it and determine what next phase should look like. Our internal marketing, the county itself is an important starting point for veterans capital message. Our county employees, departments, facilities, communications, and events all provide opportunities to reinforce what the Veterans Capital represents. The original plan included reoccurring communications and recognition of county employees who served in the military. Those efforts will continue. Through a coordinated county calendar, and clearly identified responsibilities. The county employee veteran luncheon is one example of that commitment and should remain part of the conversation as county determines future priorities and funding. All right. External marketing. The veterans capital has the greatest potential when participation extends beyond the county government. The county can provide a framework that allows the city of El Paso, Fort Bliss, municipalities, businesses, veteran organizations, and educational institutions and community partners to participate under a shared veterans capital identity. One opportunity is to establish a Veterans Capital of the USA social media pages that serve as a central location for veteran related information and events throughout El Paso County. Rather than expecting veterans and families to follow multiple organizations and to find out what is happening, VCUSA could help bring that information together under one recognizable place. For example, when the city's veterans office partnered with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and many community partners planning an expo or event, the county is welcoming home and honor flight, or when Fort Bliss is hosting a transition event, the veteran organization has an important community event, VCUSA could help amplify and share that information. We could also explore Veterans Capital YouTube channel or podcast, including short educational videos that bring more important information directly to the people who need it most. The military and veteran space can be difficult to navigate. And veterans are not the only people trying to navigate it. Caregivers and military spouses are often trying to understand programs, benefits, resources, and policy changes while also supporting their families. BCUSA could provide short, easy to understand updates specifically for those communities. This might include caregiver update explaining a change to a VA program, a military spouse update about new employment opportunities or an education opportunity, or a short explanation of legislation or VA policy that directly affects their family. We could do the same for transitioning service members, surviving spouses, guard and reserve family, and other parts of the military and veteran community. The long term goal is for the veterans capital to become a recognizable community identity for every communication to give veterans and family a useful next step. The county already has an online veterans capital presence, so we are not starting from zero. That opportunity is to develop the presence into true digital front door for veterans, military families, transitioning service members, and businesses. That could include a countywide veterans resource directory, such as the one the VAB is creating and is expanding on. Shared events calendar, veteran owned business directory, veteran friendly business listings, transition resources, and information about our military and history. There is also an opportunity to explore emerging technology and partnerships with companies such as Meta and others to determine whether interactive tools could help connect people with the veteran community in a completely different way. Imagine an interactive veterans capital map with different layers that a veteran, military family, visitor, incoming service member could select based on what they need. Veterans could easily locate the nearest VFW post, American Legion posts, DAV chapters, VA clinics, veteran-owned businesses, veteran-friendly businesses, and employment resources. We could map the more than 125 military and veteran memorials throughout El Paso County, along with the Purple Heart Trail and other historically significant locations. Additional layers could eventually include educational opportunities, events, transition resources, and connect Fort Bliss family to our local culture, such as the Mission Trail, and connect El Pasoans to what is going on at Fort Bliss. Our reputation. El Paso County has a military story that few communities can match. And Veterans Capital gives us an opportunity to tell that story much more intentionally. When we talk about building the reputation of the Veterans Capital, we already have a foundation. Fort Bliss's national recognition, our military and veteran health care institutions, our recruiting and reenlistment achievements, and the organizations serving the veteran throughout this community are all part of that same story. This story includes our history, Fort Bliss, generations of veterans who have made El Paso home, and the veterans who continue contributing to our businesses and communities today. This is where El Paso and the veterans capital can become not only something we say about El Paso County, but something residents and visitors can actually experience. Recognition provides another opportunity to turn the veteran's capital designation into community participation. A veteran-owned business directory could help residents, visitors identify and support veteran entrepreneurs throughout El Paso County. A separate veteran-friendly business listing program would recognize businesses that demonstrate meaningful support for the military and veteran community. That could include veteran hiring, Guard and Reserve support, veteran discounts, participation in veteran initiatives, or other established criteria. So the proposed structure of the subcommittee. One recommendation for the Veterans Advisory Board is the creation of a Veterans Capital Subcommittee to help develop and advance a countywide strategy The purpose is to bring together the right combination of veteran experience, governmental coordination, marketing expertise, community relationships, and historical knowledge. The proposed structure would also include five veterans, including two veterans from the Veterans Advisory Board, the County Veterans Service Officer working in alignment with the City Veterans Office, and an additional veteran representation that includes marketing and communications expertise. The structure would also include the civilian liaisons who bring valuable community stakeholder relationships, institutional knowledge, historical perspective, and other expertise important to the veteran's capital. I also want to make it important the distinction regarding my role as a veteran county service officer. The county statutory veteran service responsibilities, the day-to-day work of assessing veterans dependent survivors will remain a core priority and will not be displaced by the veterans capital initiative. This is one of the reasons a subcommittee structure is critical. While I am requesting the veteran service office as county's operational lead and fiscal administrator for the initiative, That does not mean our office would be responsible for personally executing every component of the veterans capital strategy. The subcommittee would create structure where work can be distributed among the members and the community partners based on their expertise. Marketing professionals can help with marketing. Historical community partners can help with heritage initiatives. Business partners can help with business engagement. Veteran representatives can ensure work remains responsive to the community. The Veterans Service Office would provide operational coordination, fiscal administration, and connection to the county government, while the subcommittee and community partners would actively participate in developing and carrying out the work. The goal is to create a countywide initiative that has a clear operational home without placing entire workload on one county office. Any major policy funding county commitments would continue to go through the appropriate county process and commissioners court. So this is where the four pillars begin to come together in a working strategy. The digital hub improves access to resources and information, while the VCUSA social media and potentially YouTube channel give the county its partners a way to continuously communicate to the veteran community. Think about what this could look like in practice. A partner announces an expo, we amplify it through VCUSA. Honor Flight is coming home, we promote the welcome home celebration. Fort Bliss has an event, we help connect service members and veterans and people in the El Paso community to that event. A major VA service connected compensation change affects local veterans, we help get accurate information out. A caregiver program changes, we help families understand what changed and how to navigate that program for assistance. We want service members and their families to have a positive connection with this community from the very moment that they arrive. And when their military service ends, we want them to see El Paso County as a place we're staying. That means connecting veterans with employment, education, entrepreneurship, housing, resources, businesses, events, and community before they make the decision to leave. Then we have a practical four year sequence. The county does not have to accomplish everything at once. The four year sequence allows commissioners court to establish priorities, evaluate results and match projects with available resources. 2027 would be building the foundation. The emphasis in 2027 could be strengthening the website, establishing a VC USA social media platform. exploring the VCUSA YouTube channel or podcast, completing resource and memorial inventories, developing business program standards, expanding relationships with hospitality and community partners, and establishing baseline measures. We could also begin evaluating the feasibility of an interactive map, including the potential technology partners. In 2028, we will expand our partnerships, military transition efforts, employer recognition, business participation, and development of the military heritage concept. In 2029, we're going to expand the Veterans Capital brand. The initiative could broaden the external promotion and pursue longer businesses, tourism, military heritage, and community program opportunities. In 2030, we're going to measure and sustain. By 2030, the county should be in a position to evaluate what has worked, measure participation and economic impact, and determine which initiatives should continue to expand. The important point is that we establish measures at the beginning so commissioner's court can see what the veterans capital is producing over time. So what are we requesting from the court? This presentation is ultimately about direction and establishing the structure that allows the Veterans Capital to move forward. Veteran Capital belongs to El Paso County and the Commissioner's Court has the opportunity to determine what the next phase should look like. The Veterans Advisory Board has recommended a subcommittee structure and is one way to bring together the expertise and community partnerships needed to advance the initiative. Today I'm requesting that the court approve the creation of the Veterans Capital Subcommittee as recommended by the Veterans Advisory Board and to designate the Veterans Service Office as the county's operational lead and fiscal administrator for the initiative. This would establish clear county accountability and maintain a collaborative structure needed for Veterans Capital to succeed. Communications and other county departments, the city, Fort Bliss, businesses, veteran organizations, and community stakeholders would all continue to contribute within their respective areas. With the court's direction, we can establish responsibilities, timelines, performance measures, and any future funding recommendations regarding approval. The goal is a countywide initiative with clear leadership, sharing the responsibility. and accountability with the Commissioner's Court. This is the FY25 budget. I didn't have access to the FY27 budget, but this slide provides a historical context regarding the county's investment in Veterans Capital. In FY25, planning figures totaled $11,355, with $6,000 for employee luncheon, $3,000 for lapel pins, and $2,000 for banners and giveaway. The luncheon represents a significant existing commitment and should be accounted for the county considers future veterans capital priorities. As a strategy develops, the county can then make informed decisions about which investments best advance veterans capital mission. The goal would be to connect future spending to specific objectives and measurable outcomes. That's all I have. I welcome the court's questions and direction.

You know, personally, I want to really thank you because we were sort of plateauing a little bit. I know the, you know, my office and a lot of support from Commissioner Olguin's office. We're not going to sort of say, okay, that's it. We're going to be very supportive because of our own relationships and the things we've, you know, with the generals, her relationship with Ford Bliss. So I really believe this is something that's gonna take us to the next level, and it was something that was really needed. Like I said, everything sort of, if you don't push it hard enough, it'll plateau a little bit, and I did feel like it was beginning to plateau. as far as, you know, there are so many other things that we needed to do. So I think this is a great plan. It does require strategic planning. A lot of great things have happened. A lot of recognition. A lot of national organizations have recognized us. And one of the things I really appreciate is that the military You know, Fort Bliss is really, really, probably we're the first to truly understand the significance of a community being named or that we would proclaim being the Veterans Capital of the United States. And it was so strong that we haven't been challenged. You know, we did so much research at the beginning, you know, Madrigal, Dr. Madrigal did so much research at the beginning to show why we were the veterans capital of the USA. There's still so much information there that I'm really asking that you go back to some of the work that was done there, for example, the 141 landmarks that were there that we've discovered, some of the people that were recognized. And so we started with this idea of, man, we have this incredible, like I've always said, I've never said that, you know, I'm the one that did anything. I said we were always the veterans' capital. I mean, you could tell, you could feel it, you could sense it. The way we did things, Flags Across America just didn't come up out of nowhere. It took a tremendous amount of courage to do something like that. And, you know, but here we are. If you ask 100 people, you ask them if they've been to Flags Across America, they haven't. I mean, very small amount have ever been there. If you ask him about the museums or the memorials and Fabens or Tornillo. So I think this is a time when we really get our own community. We're never going to be successful if our own community doesn't embrace such an amazing thing. I wish our community could see what we've done through the eyes of the generals. For some reason, the generals, because they travel all over and they're in all these different cities, and they tell us, wow. This is definitely very, very different. They actually will tell other communities, hey, if you ever want to know a little bit about taking care of veterans and making sure that you understand what that means, go to El Paso. And Eisenhower, General Eisenhower says, it's not easy to be in another community telling them about El Paso. He goes, but you guys have done such an amazing job that it's really exciting. And then they're gaining also, their recruitment has increased tremendously. As you know, there was a point that it was sort of, it had to do with our own defense and our own security as a nation of more people not going into the military. We had to slow down. Why? Well, they didn't see us honoring veterans. So why would I want to be going to the military if I was going to be just one more person? So they know that by us doing what you've talked about gets young people excited about joining the military. And that's difficult in today's world. Our new generations don't have that same kind of love for the military as all of you did. So this is something I believe... That if we do it right and we follow the strategic planning, this is not only a great contribution to our community, but a great contribution to the country of being a role model. I mean, I just, you know, we've seen it happen in probation department and our justice system when people start asking, how do you do this? You know, how do you make that happen? And that's what we'd like to be. You know, we would love other communities, so if there's any outreach to other communities, I think we have a great story to tell, an amazing story. Starting in 2019, I think every veterans group seemed to be going in every direction you could think of. I mean, they were all sort of trying to do their thing. Now it's very rare. that any of the veterans group don't tie in the veterans you know being the business capital of the usa there's a linkage and that linkage is very powerful because separately i don't think we we could we were doing as much and so tony thank you i think this is a great strategic plan and like i said i just want you to know that it's not like the you know the county's you know my my office is stepping away from it but we're going to really try everything to do to support it I know I've been very pleased with Commissioner Holguin and Javier. They've just been amazing of the things that they've done in the rural areas, the memorials and all the things that have taken place. So I think it's sort of we're coming of age. You know, we really feel like we're going to take that next leap. The other thing, obviously, is that, you know, we've talked about maybe if you could look into it a little bit, a foundation so that money can come into the foundation so that we can support veterans. It's very difficult. I've spoken to different organizations, including META, and they said it was very difficult to give money to a county, to a government. So if you create a foundation, then it's a lot easier for a lot of organizations to be able to say, well, you know, we're going to provide money for the foundation. The foundation then can cover things like, I mean, it's a kind of small thing that's a big thing, and that is that I want to be able to come back from somewhere and it says, welcome. to the Veterans Capitol of the United States of America at each one of the entrances. I mean, sometimes people feel like, well, that's not very important. But it is. If you're a veteran and you're coming back home and you see this big sign, this big place that says, welcome to the Veterans Capitol of the USA, I can just imagine how that must feel. Not being a veteran advocate, not a veteran, I would feel really great. I can imagine a veteran coming back from somewhere and seeing being welcome to come back to this community and i think so that's one of the big things i see is that we have a tremendous amount of veterans that have fallen in love with this concept but i don't think A lot of them understand it, and so I think one of the outreach is for more veterans, because what do we want? What do we want? We want a veteran to feel good about the fact that they served, that they feel good about being part of this community that's a veteran community. And I remember one time I was speaking at the very beginning. I said that we were a veteran-friendly community. And some guy comes over and he goes, what does that mean? Sitting down and having coffee with a veteran? We don't want to be friendly. We want to be ready. We want to be ready for veterans who are looking to start businesses. Ready because there are challenges. They have mental health challenges. So this idea of friendly was what most communities do. We're friendly. But we're also beyond friendly, and we're really doing something about veterans. So, I mean, I'm excited that we don't lose that traction, because a lot of people don't quite understand what it means, the significance. You know, I've always said I love being the Sun City, but I hated giving credit to the sun for us, for our community. I wanted to give credit to our veterans. And so we've taken... Big steps. And if you've noticed how, for example, going from two people at the unaccompanied funerals to 150 people, from having these breakfasts that have now, I mean, it's like standing room only to go in. So I think we've gotten that traction, that excitement of who we are. I just would love more people to feel the way you all do. about veterans and about our community. And so I think this is a sort of catapulting us to the next level. And, you know, I'm very fortunate. David, thank you. I know that everybody wants to thank their appointees, but, I mean, I really would appreciate what every one of you does. The hope there's no confusion with our Veterans Advisory Board. Because it's all kind of a, it's all working together. Tony's office, you know, our offices, the veterans, you know, and the work with the city. And I'll never stop thanking Luther for this idea. It's not easy when, you know, the idea of not invent it here. You know, it's hard. Like, if it wasn't invented in the city, they might not have that same love and appreciation for it. But thanks to Luther, he's keeping the city and us working together. It's not going to work if the city and the county don't come together. It's not going to work if we're not tied into San Elisario and their efforts and, you know, all of the different, you know, Socorro, Anthony. It all comes together, so I hope the community does realize that this is a very significant initiative that goes beyond some understanding. It impacts our economy, economic development. It impacts so many other things, and I think it's going to be up to you to make sure that we put the puzzle together and that people realize the huge impact of where we are at this point in time. so tony each and every one of you thank you for what you're trying to accomplish right now and um you know i just hope the court does support this idea of of taking it to the next level being making it part of a strategic plan and really being you know supportive to tony and what her efforts are

Judge Commissioner Melissa Carrillo with County Operations. Just to be clear for the court's knowledge, so for the past few years, the funding for this particular item has resided within the communications budget within my supervision. So this item, if approved by the court, would be transitioning that line item from the communications department directly to the veteran's officer's capacity so that they can manage and spend that money accordingly to the plan that you all approved today.

Thank you, Melissa, for that.

So I guess the motion would be to approve the creation of the Veterans Capital Subcommittee as recommended by the VAB and designate the El Paso County Veterans Service Office as the county's operational lead and fiscal administrator for the initiative with subcommittee providing collaborative support and guidance. Thank you.

I'll make that motion to approve. Second.

The voting stopped working, too. It's hungry.

We have a motion to approve from Commissioner Olguin, a second from Judge Samaniego. Voting is open. Thank you, sir. Commissioner Stout? Thank you. Motion carries.

I know that everybody's hungry, but I'd be remiss if I didn't thank my tribe. So to the city's veterans office, they're here. The American Legion's here. The VFW's here. Our Veterans of the Year are here. And then to the VAB who... They're like the best non-paying employees I've ever had. But thank you to everybody for their support. I could not do this without that.

David thought he was getting paid. No. It's a delay payment. It's a gratification for your work. Thank you, guys. Appreciate everything you do.

Judge, before we break for lunch, there's a couple things we wanted to check with the court about and make the public aware of.

Okay.

First, Commissioner Coronado, I didn't know if you wanted to ask about the election item or if you wanted to ask, if we want to ask for a short lunch period. There's an item, an executive, I know Commissioner Coronado wants to be here for the items.

So whether or not- Well, we said after lunch we'd go right into executives, and that way we could get as many of the items for Commissioner Coronado. Would that work for you?

That's fine, Judge.

And would you be open to a shorter lunch period, maybe 40 to 45 minutes? It's fine. I'm just kidding.

I'm good.

I can't time any lunch. What is it, 30?

You want to say 40 minutes? 40, it's fine. 40?

Okay, that's good.

So when we come back from lunch, then, just for the public, that we'll be going right into executive session to do those items.

But would that be when? We'll be back at 1.50? 1.50. 1.50. Okay. Okay, thank you.

Commissioner's Court will recess for 40 minutes. It is 1.09 p.m. Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park Bond Project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park Project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail Corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, WEWIN's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred, is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans. Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development. The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the tool lending library, and the small business center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Aguadulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center Campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes, printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together, these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together, we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community. Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park Bond Project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park Project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail Corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, WEWIN's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred, is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Thank you.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion and respect at the heart of everything we do, The El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development. The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the tool lending library, and the small business center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Aguadulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes, printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community. Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park bond project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Wiwin's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Come check it out! That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development. The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources. Go ahead. Commissioner's Court has reconvened into regular open session. It is 1.56 p.m. Before we move into executive session, I need to read in two items. Item number 11C, postponed from September 14, 2026, pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.0725, discuss contract negotiations regarding USDA's ReConnect grant agreement for implementation of the Cotton Valley Connect project. And item number 11D, Pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.0725, discuss contract negotiations regarding the Professional Legal Services Agreement with Norton Rose Fulbright, U.S. LLP, for Bond Council Services, Contract Number 20260653.

Judge, commissioners, Eric Rosales, Nick Agbione, assistant county attorney. We're asking that items 11C and D, those items read in by Mr. Nava, be taken into executive session pursuant to Texas government code section 551.0725. The county is currently in negotiations with first for item 11C. Insight Public Sector Inc. for a potential amendment to the agreement between the county and Insight relating to the Cotton Valley Connect broadband project. Concurrently, the county is in discussions with the USDA regarding potential RUS grant award funds relating to the Cotton Valley Connect broadband project. And then for item 11D, the county is currently in negotiations with Norton Rose Fulbright, USLLP, with regards to bond council services. The information to be discussed includes issues involving business and financial information related to those contract negotiations. and the court must be free to discuss those issues without undermining the county's position. Therefore, Assistant County Attorneys Diana Shearer and Evett Ugaz have determined that deliberation in an open meeting concerning these issues relating to the negotiations would have a detrimental effect on the position of the court if discussed in open. So we're asking for a vote that would have a detrimental effect on the position that all deliberations take place in closed session. We would further request that the commissioner's court direct the county administration commissioner's court reporters to ensure that all proceedings in closed session be recorded. A copy of the legal memos have been provided to the county administration commissioner's court reporters to be made a part of the official court records. If the commissioner's court agrees, I need a motion and second recorded vote at this time, please.

We have a motion from Commissioner Stout, a second from Commissioner Coronado. Voting is open.

Aye.

Thank you, Judge. Thank you, Commissioner Butler. Commissioner McGee?

Aye.

Thank you, Commissioner. Motion carries. Commissioner's Court will now recess into Executive Session to discuss Items 11a through 11i. Pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071, 551.072, 551.0725, 551.074, and 551.087. Commissioner's Court will reconvene to take official action. It is 2 p.m. Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park bond project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, WEWIN's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Thank you.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance neighborhood cleanup events, the Tool Lending Library, and the Small Business Center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Aguadulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Aguadulce Community Center Campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes, printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together, these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together, we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community.

you

Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park bond project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail Corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, WEWIN's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance, The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance neighborhood cleanup events, the Tool Lending Library, and the Small Business Center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Aguadulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center Campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes, printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community. Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park Bond Project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park Project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail Corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, WEWIN's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred, is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Come check it out! That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance, The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development. The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the tool lending library, and the small business center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Aguadulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Libraries In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Aguadulce Community Center campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes, printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together, these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together, we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community.

you

Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park bond project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Wiwin's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development. The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the tool lending library, and the small business center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Aguadulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center Campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together, these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together, we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community. Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park bond project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, WEWIN's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the Tool Lending Library, and the Small Business Center. resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Agua Dulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn and connect. Digital Library. In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community.

you

Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park bond project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. with operations in el paso and ciudad juarez mexico we win's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and north american supply chains the courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the Tool Lending Library, and the Small Business Center. resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Agua Dulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library. In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Aguadulce Community Center campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes, printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together, these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together, we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community.

you

Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park bond project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. el paso county economic development department congresswoman escobar and efo media provided the first public update on the small business administration funded mission trail small business support program this is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along el paso county's historic mission trail corridor The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Wiwin's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Come check it out! That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance neighborhood cleanup events, the Tool Lending Library, and the Small Business Center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Aguadulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library. In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center Campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes, printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together, these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together, we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community. Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park Bond Project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park Project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, WEWIN's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred, is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Bye.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans. Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development. The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the tool lending library, and the small business center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Aguadulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center Campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of eBooks, audio books, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community.

Thank you.

Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park Bond Project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park Project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso county economic development department congresswoman Escobar and EFO media provided the first public update on the small business administration funded mission trail small business support program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso county's historic mission trail corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, WEWIN's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance, The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development. The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the tool lending library, and the small business center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Agua Dulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes, printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community.

Thank you.

Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park bond project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. with operations in el paso and ciudad juarez mexico we win's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and north american supply chains the courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Thank you.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development. The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the tool lending library, and the small business center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Aguadulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of e-books, audio books, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes printing services, wifi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together, these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together, we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community. Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park Bond Project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park Project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Wiwin's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred, is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Come check it out! That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the Tool Lending Library, and the Small Business Center. resources that promote safer neighborhoods healthier communities and greater economic opportunity the division also operates the aguadulce community center which has served residents for more than 25 years the center provides educational programs community events meeting spaces a hygiene closet and services offered by local partners creating a welcoming place where people can gather learn and connect Digital Library. In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes, printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community.

Thank you.

Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park Bond Project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park Project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles, A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk-waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is helping El Paso County expand its ability to swiftly and efficiently remove illegally dumped waste from the desert areas and county roadways. The new vehicles will also supplement the county's flood response operations and provide additional equipment for other critical county projects. The El Paso County Economic Development Department, Congresswoman Escobar, and EFO Media provided the first public update on the Small Business Administration-funded Mission Trail Small Business Support Program. This is an ongoing initiative that has been working to strengthen and expand small businesses along El Paso County's historic Mission Trail Corridor. The initiative provides participating businesses with customized marketing assistance, business development workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance. These initiatives are designed to strengthen operations, improve access to capital, enhance digital presence, and help business capitalize on opportunities within the region's growing heritage tourism economy. El Paso County, the City of Socorro, and the BorderPlex Alliance celebrated the investment from the WeWin Corporation to expand its server manufacturing and testing operations at the Socorro Logistics Center. This expansion will create over 2,000 new full-time jobs for El Paso County residents. With operations in El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Wiwin's continued growth further establishes the border region as a strategic center for advanced manufacturing and North American supply chains. The courthouse had the privilege of hosting a culturally significant photography exhibit for the public to enjoy. Roots That Speak, Portraits of the Sacred, is a photo exhibition by Mariana Llanes, who showcases with respect and reverence the faces of community leaders from Mexico's indigenous peoples. Through every face, every gesture suspended in time, the artist draws an emotional map that reminds us of who we are and where we come from. The El Paso County Public Works Department helped facilitate the frame structures in which the photographs were displayed. The photographs will be on exhibit through the end of September on the third floor of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in downtown El Paso. It is free and now open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Come check it out. That does it for this edition of County Connects. As we head into fall, make sure to stay tuned and stay connected with El Paso County.

Every day, El Paso County works to improve the quality of life for our residents. Sometimes that work happens here at home. Sometimes it takes us across Texas, across the nation, and around the world. County leaders advocate for infrastructure, public safety, veteran services, transportation, and mental health priorities important to our residents. Through legislative meetings, funding requests, and various policy discussions, your county is working to ensure El Paso's voice is heard. Strong partnerships help bring resources, expertise, and opportunities back to El Paso County. Through collaborative efforts with our state and federal partners, our position on critical matters can be shared and heard by those making decisions at the highest levels. Participation in organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Texas Association of Counties, and other professional networks also allows county leaders to learn from successful programs across the country and bring innovative ideas back home. El Paso County's commitment to economic growth extends far beyond our borders. Throughout the year, elected officials and staff travel across Texas, the United States, and internationally to promote El Paso as a premier destination for business investment and expansion. These efforts allow us to build relationships with industry leaders, showcase our region's unique advantages, and compete for new jobs and economic opportunities. The true measure of success is not where we travel to, but what we brought home. At the midpoint of 2026, our grant portfolio remained strong and productive. To date, we have applied for a total of 50 funding opportunities, with 21 awards secured, resulting in more than $15.6 million in grant funding awarded. Every trip represents one purpose, serving the people of El Paso County. Whether advocating in Austin, collaborating in Washington, or building partnerships across borders, our mission remains the same, creating opportunities, delivering services, and building a stronger future for our community.

Every day across El Paso County, individuals, families, seniors and newcomers face challenges that can make life more difficult. That's why El Paso County is dedicated to connecting people with the services, resources and opportunities they need to build stability, improve their quality of life and create brighter futures. With compassion, inclusion, and respect at the heart of everything we do, the El Paso County Community Services Department works to strengthen our rural communities. Our work is carried out through five divisions, each playing a unique role in improving the lives of El Paso County residents. General Assistance. The General Assistance Division helps eligible households by providing emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance. The program also offers burial assistance, helping families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with dignity and compassion. For many county residents, this support becomes the bridge that helps them regain stability and move forward with confidence. Senior Nutrition Program. For more than 50 years, the Senior Nutrition Program has supported older adults by providing nutritious meals at community and senior centers throughout the county, while also delivering meals directly to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. More than a meal, these services promote health, independence, and meaningful social connection, ensuring our older adults remain supported, valued, and connected to their community. Office of New Americans Established in 2020, the Office of New Americans helps ensure every El Paso County resident, whether they've lived here for generations or are new to our community, has access to the information, programs and services they need. Through outreach, collaboration and strong community partnerships, the Office of New Americans helps residents pursue citizenship, learn English, continue their education and expand economic opportunities. Programs like PACE, which supports county employees on their pathway to U.S. citizenship, and I Speak 915, our countywide language access initiative, helps remove barriers and make county services more accessible for everyone. Working alongside schools, nonprofits, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and community partners, the Office of New Americans brings resources directly into neighborhoods across El Paso County. Community Development. The Community Development Division invests in housing, public services, and community resources that improve quality of life throughout rural areas of El Paso County. Through the Colonia Self-Help Center program, residents have access to owner-occupied home improvement assistance, neighborhood cleanup events, the tool lending library, and the small business center, resources that promote safer neighborhoods, healthier communities, and greater economic opportunity. The division also operates the Aguadulce Community Center, which has served residents for more than 25 years. The center provides educational programs, community events, meeting spaces, a hygiene closet, and services offered by local partners, creating a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and connect. Digital Library In today's world, access to technology is access to opportunity. Located at the Agua Dulce Community Center campus, Illumina Public Library is El Paso County's first all-digital public library. With a free digital library card, residents can instantly access thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, television shows, streaming services, and online learning resources. Beyond its digital collection, Illumina also offers in-person technology classes printing services, Wi-Fi hotspots, tablets, and engaging community programs that help bridge the digital divide and connect residents to education, employment, and essential online services. Together these five divisions share one common purpose, improving lives through service. Together we're building a stronger, healthier, and more connected El Paso County. The Community Services Department is in the Family Youth Services Center, located at 6314 Delta Drive, proudly serving the El Paso community. Hola El Paso! Summer is pretty much over, but El Paso County is still in full swing with activities. See what El Paso County had going on in August. El Paso County cares about the concerns of its constituents when it comes to the future of the Azcárate Park Bond Project. As a result, the county held a unique Commissioner's Court meeting at the Azcárate Park Pavilion to receive input from residents regarding the Azcárate Park Project. El Paso County wants to ensure the public's input is taken into consideration during the process of making its Crown Jewel Park a much better amenity for all residents. The El Paso County Public Works Department had the opportunity to showcase three new utility vehicles. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the addition of two tandem dump trucks and one bulk waste loader-grappler truck. These vehicles were acquired with the support of U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar's fiscal year 2024 community project funding. The federal investment is... Go ahead. Good afternoon. Commissioner's Court has reconvened into regular open session. It is 5.24 p.m. We're on item number 12A from regular session. Approve and authorize the El Paso County Hospital District to execute a lease with an option to purchase for certain real estate located in central El Paso.

We need a motion to approve, please.

We have a motion from Commissioner Holguin. You want a second, Judge? Would you like to be the second? Yes. Okay. We have a motion from Commissioner Holguin, second from Judge Samaniego. The voting is open.

Aye.

Sir? Commissioner Stout is absent and Commissioner Coronado is absent. The motion carries.

Thank you so much.

I'd like to move on to item number 8A from Public Works. discuss and take appropriate action to approve the water and sewer rates for the El Paso County Water System, doing business as East Montana Water System, and authorize the fees to take effect November 1st, 2026.

Good afternoon, Judge, Commissioners, with the infrastructure services. We had presented, I guess, in executive session some of the water rates and we also provided and back up the concerns or comments that we had provided for the questions that were pending. I'm not sure if you all would like us to proceed with the presentation or if you would like to take the vote on the recommended rates that we are proposing.

I think we should go through the presentation. Okay. I prefer that.

Then at this time, we'll turn the presentation over to the auditor's team. Sorry, lost you there.

Good afternoon, Commissioners. Michael Llamas, First Assistant County Auditor. We have a couple of questions that were asked last time and we just are going to go through department by department answering those questions. So first off, starting with the county auditor. Oops, sorry about that. The first question we received was regarding the El Paso Water contract, 91% of payments are direct payments. Does the administration fee also fall within that 91%? The answer was yes, 91% of payments are direct operational charges from El Paso Water, and the administrative fee is included within that calculation. Some of the remaining expenditures cover our internal salary expense, which we had up until recently, some excavation safety costs, water system fees, and other miscellaneous fees. But again, the majority does go to El Paso water. Second question we received, we are required to pay a percentage water loss. Is this requirement only for East Montana water system or for the entire water system? And what is that total water loss percentage? So right now we currently pay a rate of 16.73% for water loss. And this rate is updated every April along with our new water rate fees and sewer rates, sorry. The 16.73 is not an independently calculated water loss rate for our system. It's for the overall system for El Paso water. And they calculated by comparing the total water production to total billed water. This 16.73% rate is then applied to our monthly usage to determine the final billing for the county. Our next question that we have is, do we have year-over-year data from El Paso Water showing how many accounts were delinquent or disconnected? As for El Paso Water, as of the end of August, we have, out of a total of $326,000 balance due, we have 17% past due, with 60 days being 10%, 90 days, 3%, 120 days, 1%, and over 120 days being 3%. And just for your information, the balance has to be over $150 for collection severance process to start. After a due date, they have a grace period, a two-day grace period. If the payment is not made, the severance process will begin after that. And as far as write-offs, the system converts the balance to a write-off after a year if that customer did not pay that final balance. And here we have a chart showing some of the same information from the past slide, as you can see. At the bottom we also say the past due amounts include 66 disconnected account balances. As far as year to year increases, why are we proposing another increase to our customer? Each year we evaluate the East Montana water system operating cost to ensure that the system remains financially stable and compliant with requirements. The proposed increase is driven by higher system-wide costs, including El Paso Water's updated water loss percentage, increased wholesale water rates, and rising operational and maintenance expenses. These adjustments are necessary to ensure we can continue delivering safe, reliable water service and maintain the long-term sustainability of the system. Again, for your information, the county does not profit from the water system and relies on rate increases to cover cost increases. And again, the water system is separate from the county's general fund. Another question we received is why is our base rate different from El Paso water's base rate? Our base rate is different from El Paso water's base rate because the East Montana water system operates under a wholesale purchase model. EP water charges the county as a wholesale rate for the water and the county then adds the necessary cost to operate the system. These additional costs include system maintenance, repairs, regulatory compliance, and any other long-term infrastructure needs. As a result, the East Montana water system base rate reflects both the wholesale water cost and expenses required to run the local system, which makes it different from the El Paso Water Standard retail base rate. Why is it more affordable for El Paso Water to offer water services compared to the county? El Paso Water can offset water services at a lower cost because of the size, infrastructure, and operational efficiencies that they have. They are a large municipal utility and they benefit from economies of scale, meaning that they can spread costs across a much larger customer base. They also have established maintenance teams, equipment, supply contracts, and long-term capital resources that reduce the per customer cost of service. In contrast, our system has a smaller customer base and relies on wholesale water purchases from El Paso Water. And this limits our ability to absorb rising costs. This makes the overall cost of operating the system higher compared to El Paso Water's citywide operations. However, please note that El Paso Water charges properties located outside of the El Paso city limits 1.15 times the rate for the same service to customers whose properties are inside city limits. We also received a question on paying off the debt sooner than recommended on the debt portfolio. Yes, we could pay off the debt sooner. However, currently our advisor stated that it's not beneficial due to the smaller amount under East Montana. And additionally, those funds would be better utilized in fund balance or as operational contingencies to support the system if needed. And with this, if there's no questions, I'll pass it on to Public Works.

I apologize for the change in, I guess, the slides here. But we did find out that our consultant is about to, I guess, be unavailable after six. So we'd like to push to his side of the slides first. Andrew, if you're available, you can kind of. Andrew, can you hear us? Sorry.

Yes, can you hear me?

Yes, now we can hear you. Thank you.

Thank you, Andrew. If you could jump towards the end, I think where my slides are at. So I've got a handful of slides. There's a few questions that the Auditor's Office and Public Works wanted me to address specifically. But kind of before I get to those, we ran, and this is also to address the questions, We've got basically five different water rate adjustment options where we've looked at not just next year but through fiscal year 31. So the five options are the 10% or what was initially proposed and recommended within our analysis and the report and the initial presentation provided towards the end of June. IN THE MOST RECENT MEETING, WE WERE ASKED TO LOOK AT 8% INCREASE, A 5% INCREASE, AND THEN NO INCREASE JUST FOR FISCAL YEAR 27 OR THE UPCOMING YEAR. A FIFTH ONE IN THE MIDDLE IS 6%, AND THIS IS BASICALLY A BREAK EVEN, AS WE'LL SEE WHEN I GET INTO KIND OF ADDRESSING OR ANSWERING SOME OF THE QUESTIONS. Everything else being equal, you know, as we've got a little bit lower on the front end for the other options that, you know, don't start out with a 10% increase, we, you know, basically have higher rate adjustments required thereafter. So next slide, please. It's difficult to, I'm sorry, go back to where the bill is shown, previous slide. Okay, I guess this got deleted. There was a slide that cumulates the impact, so it's a little easier to tell cumulatively what happens to the bill over time, as I don't always compound percentages well in my head. But we'll see some of this as we address and answer some of the questions later. I guess, and I'll provide my kind of, you know, assessment there. So, oh, there it is. So this just gives an indication of the kind of cumulative impact as we go through and in kind of different years. Everything else being equal, you know, we got to catch up. So the sort of, there's a compounding effect with doing nothing this year. And then otherwise, the differences between the 10% and the 8% and the 6% and the 5% as translated to a typical customer bill is certainly less significant within a dollar or two. And those differences kind of expand and then come closer together over time as shown here. And just from my perspective, and we'll see in a later slide, 0% INCREASE JUST ISN'T VIABLE BECAUSE OF THE FINANCIAL RESULTS AND THRESHOLDS. SO I'D CERTAINLY PROPOSE SOMETHING 5% OR ABOVE. NEXT SLIDE, PLEASE. So this is a question, you know, what would the impact on the fund balance be if rates were raised by 0% as shown in the green bars, 5% as shown in the red bar, and the 8% increase in kind of the gray or lighter shaded bar. What this shows is the water fund end of fiscal year cash balance. against the target, which is the same in all options, and the target we can see with the line that crosses through. So, I mean, ultimately, we're a little bit below our targeted cash reserve with no increase until the final year in fiscal year 31 when we catch up. And, you know, like any kind of target, we're a little bit above or below initially. drawn reserves down until 2029, when all plans, we start to accumulate reserves. And this is after the Far East elevated tank is constructed and debt service starts to come in to play. And then, you know, we're able to increase our cash balances and get things at or just under the target in the final two years.

Next slide, please.

So, you know, this was asking about a break-even point to recover existing losses. What I'm showing here is the annual debt service coverage. So certainly cash reserves, as we were looking at in the previous slide, is one of our financial planning thresholds where we've got a target above, you know, zero and trying to meet or exceed that target each and every year. uh we we have an annual debt service coverage test that uh existing debt and future debt you know it's a it's a test that's in place um anything below one says that we don't have enough revenues after operation and maintenance expenses but before debt service or any other capital and so We see 0% increase in fiscal year 27 before subsequent adjustments. We're below one, which means that we don't have enough revenue after O&M to even pay the full amount of debt service. And we'll be drawing from reserves if this will end up being the case under this plan. The 5% increase, we're below our target, and so that's where I'm indicating that I believe a 6% is really kind of the lowest that allows us to sort of stem our losses on the cash reserve, start to rebuild those, and then exceed this other important metric, our target of 1.5 times annual debt service, that allows us to pay debt service and some money to flow down uh to fund capital or you know address reserves and in this case draw less from our reserves in the early years uh also shown are the other options that have been developed the eight percent or the ten percent and kind of what where those are um beyond fiscal year 27 all of them are kind of above the minimum i know the question is really this upcoming fiscal year um but you know as those kind of uh future adjustments get identified and and in place, this metric is reasonably strong, even including additional debt that we may take on with this far east elevated tank project. Next slide, please. So this was what is the exact impact to the fund balance if we were to reduce the proposed rate of increase? So the blue bar, again, is the 10% scenario, and that's the recommended plan that was initially presented. The rest are the four other scenarios. And again, we track against our target, very similar to a couple of slides. We just have a couple of the additional alternatives that weren't in the first question being shown. And the general trend is we're drawing reserves down through fiscal year 28. even as we're adjusting rates in all or some years in the case of the no increase plan in fiscal year 27. And then they start to rebound and this target goes up because our expenses go up or what it's pegged against. So that's why it's tilted upwards is our operation and maintenance expenses, most notably the charges from El Paso Water are increasing each year and anticipated to increase each year. So this just kind of shows the end-of-year cash balance or kind of that exact fund balance, if you will, against the target for all options. And that was the last of the slides that I had prepared around the updated scenarios, results, and addressing the three questions that were asked that I address.

I don't know if there's any specific questions for Andrew now or? Okay. Thank you, Andrew. And I guess now we can go back to the public works.

Good afternoon, Judge and Commissioners. The following are the questions to Public Works. So the first question is, have we explored other options or alternative solution to their rate increase? Yes. In addition to evaluating rates, the county can continue pursuing outside funding for eligible capital improvement. a controlling operating cost and water loss, maintaining appropriate reserves, and evaluating other long-term operation alternative. The original USDA grant agreement requires that the county adjust its operating costs and service charges as necessary to provide adequate operation and maintenance emergency and reserves debts. Therefore, grants can reduce the capital burden of the operation and maintenance of the system. The second question is, is it true that El Paso Water can apply for grants? Has anything changed regarding their eligibility? To our understanding from the talk between us and El Paso Water, El Paso Water may be eligible to apply for certain grant programs. However, eligibility specific to each funding opportunity and the proposed project factors may include the type of applicant, population, and the service area, financial need, ownership, or control of the infrastructure and other program specific requirement. To our understanding and from speaking with USDA previously, USDA Rural Development eligibility for grant assistance is more restrictive and depends on both the applicant and the area of the project that being served. Therefore, El Paso Water eligibility should be evaluated for each specific funding opportunity. At this time, we are not aware of any general change that make El Paso Water eligible for all grants program availability to the county but we know that we qualify for more grants from usdrd than el paso water el paso water qualifies for more loan instead of the grants have we confirmed the third question have we confirmed the el paso water why they cannot or do not pursue grants what is preventing them from doing so From what we know, El Paso Water do pursue grants. And yes, based on the county's review and coordination to date, El Paso Water's eligibility for certain grant program is limited by the specific requirements for each funding source. Again, for example, under USDA RD program, road development, El Paso Water may qualify for loan financing, but not grant assistance. But for the EDA program, El Paso Water identified that EDA has been identified as one of their potential grant funding source for which El Paso Water are eligible for, and they've been utilizing those EDA funds. Again, grant eligibility program specific, The grant eligibility is specific, is program-specific. Therefore, future funding opportunity will need to be evaluated individually based on the applicable agency's requirement eligibility criteria of the grant itself. Fourth question, what additional option can we consider for long-term? I mean, when we spoke about it, there's multiple things that we can do to support this. It's through combination of appropriate rates and operating revenue, cost management, water loss reduction, advocate reserve, asset management, and capital planning, and pursuing of outside funding for eligible improvement. The county also continue to evaluating long term operation alternative where they provide financial or service benefit. These strategies should be considered with the system existing USA financing requirement including maintaining sufficient revenue and reserve to support operation debt service, emergency and long term financial visibility of the system. So the other question commissioners ask is how many areas still pending to be connected to the East Montana water system? So when we looked at the question is like if we're talking specific about the East Montana water system or the colonias, we know as of right now we have 47 colonias still lack water. If you look at those 47, 21 are in the Waco tanks area. and I believe eight or nine on the far west area of Fabens. So again, it's all over west, prison one, three, and four, those areas. You look about 10,188 lots. Of those, based on the quick assessment we did, we're looking at 641 occupied lots and with population of around 1,800 residents. Again, not all of these areas can be served simply by connecting to the existing East Montana water system. A lot of evaluation needs to happen. Again, it depends on the location, additional infrastructure, distribution infrastructure, system capacity, improvement, and coordination with the applicable water service provider may be required. Like we spoke in executive, we are limited on the number of water meters allocated for each area. So we have to make sure that El Paso Water, the provider of the water, have the capacity to pump or provide water to these areas. That's one requirement we need to be looking into. Should we continue operating our own water system? I mean, this is a Commissioner's Court policy decision for Commissioner's Court and should be evaluated. after considering the East Montana water system financial conditions, customer impact, capital need, outstanding debt, and existing federal obligation. A potential transfer would need to be addressed both by the federal interest associated with the original United States Department of Agriculture funded East Montana water system facility and subsequent USDA financing requirements. In particular, the health risk letter of condition requires the county to maintain the applicable water CCN for as long as it remains in debt to USDA. USDARD should be consulted before the county commit to transferring East Montana water system, federally assisted property, or the applicable CCN. How would transferring our water system to another provider benefit the county? It could potentially reduce the county's future responsibility for operating and maintenance and making capital investment in the East Montana water system. But the actual benefit depends on what obligation are transferred with the system. Because the original East Montana water system facility received USDA grant assistance and later improvement received additional USDA financing and transaction would need to address federally assisted property outstanding debt, the CCN, and the responsibility assumed by the receiving utility. USDA regulation contemplate transfer of grant-funded facilities under certain conditions, including continued use of the same purpose and compliance by the transferee with applicable grant requirements. Therefore, the benefit should be evaluated based on the net responsibility and liabilities remaining with the county after the transaction. How long does it take to transfer a water system to a different provider? A reliable timeframe cannot be established until the proposed transaction is defined. A transfer of East Montana water system would need to address the federal interest associated with the original USDA grant-funded facilities, USDA debt and security, CC and applicable regulatory requirement, and the responsibility to be assumed by the receiving utility. USDA servicing regulation provide processes addressing grant funded facilities as well as sale of security property and transfer of assumption of USDA loans. The timeframe would depend substantially on the transaction structure and the required agency's approval. If we sell the water system, will cost be transferred to the new areas or spread across all existing water users? In looking into the USDA agreement, it does not establish the rates or rate of classification that EP water or another receiving utility would apply to East Montana water system customer following a transfer. That would depend on the receiving utility rate structure and the terms of the transaction. Therefore, evaluating the customer impact of transfer, the county should obtain confirmation from a potential receiving utility regarding the applicable base rate, consumption charges, surcharge, connection charges, and any other applicable customer classification. That was the last question for Public Works. We're happy to answer any questions you have relating to Public Works, if you have.

No, thank you very much, Munzer. So I have a few comments and it's more of a statement. I don't have any questions. I've asked a lot of questions and thank you very much to everybody who has taken the time to dig into this issue over the last several months. So I want to start by thanking our public work staff and our administrator and our auditor's office and Mr. Ream for all of the work on this item. We've postponed this decision for several months now, three times, because, well, I personally wanted a clearer picture of of the finances behind our East Montana water system and the impact on our customers before we make a decision to increase rates. And I think we've gotten all of the information that we've needed. We've, I think, turned every single stone in this conversation and I appreciate everybody's diligence in doing that. And I also recognize that doing nothing is not an option. We can't not make sure that we're being responsible with this system that has real operating costs and debt obligations and reserve requirements, as well as increasing costs from El Paso Water. That doesn't mean that I think we should automatically jump to a 10% increase that is projected to stay at 10% year over year for the next five years. Through this process, we've learned that El Paso Water has increased the wholesale water rates to El Paso County by 15.5% over the last year, and has increased the wastewater rates by nearly 12%. And those rate increases are costs that are passed on to our customers. We also know that El Paso Water maintains and operates our water system. And so we really are in a lot of ways just to pass through for El Paso water to our customers in the East Montana water system. Because those rates continue to increase year over year, I think it's easy to justify increasing our own rates. But when we step back and look at the affordability of that year over year, I think that's where a lot of these questions started to arise. It's not sustainable nor affordable in the long term for our rate payers, which is why I'm really thankful that today we are seeing some alternative options that we're able to consider and the fiscal impact it's going to have to our system. I personally am in favor of the 6% as the lowest recommended water rate option. That from the presentation shows that it'll cover our fund expenses and meet our debt service target and maintain the water fund reserve target. I think it strikes the appropriate balance for this year and it gives us additional revenue for the system while staying within the lowest option, recommended option. And it also ensures that we meet our legal obligations with our grantors. I understand that we might be in the same place next year where we're asking our rate payers to pay even more, but I'm hoping that we can get ahead of that and start having meaningful conversations about the long-term sustainability of this system in partnership with El Paso Water. I think that, as I said, we've learned a lot through this process over the last several months, and I think that we owe it to our rate payers to have those conversations about what's in the long-term best interest for everybody who Is connected to the water system and deserves to be connected to the water system I'm glad that we have a number that we could point to almost 2,000 people in El Paso County that aren't connected to potable water Which means there's a lot of work yet to be done and water is not cheap as we know Water infrastructure isn't cheap. So I definitely don't want to cut off our nose to spite our face you know with with this this action and But I think that, again, we have to be able to strike that balance and have those conversations with El Paso Water about how we're able to provide water to those who need it without pricing them out of that system as well. So I appreciate again the work that went into this. I think that we should have those conversations about transferring to a different water operating system and what the pros and cons of that would be, making sure that affordability is really the prime factor and consideration there. And I understand there's a lot of different legal requirements with our grantors and our outstanding debt and our Assets and CCN that we would have to go through, but I think that if we start those conversations now, hopefully by the time we're in this position to have this discussion again next year, we'll have some. Some more direction and options. And so again, I want to. I want to thank you. Thank everybody who has who has been part of this discussion and and my motion would be to approve the 6% increase for second that motion. In addition to the rate increase motion, would it be appropriate, Betsy, to ask staff to begin those discussions, or would we want to have that as a separate motion in a different agenda?

To be in the discussions with the transfer of the system?

Yes.

To ask that your staff be involved?

No, no, no, that our public works staff begin those discussions.

Okay, yes. I think just the direction is clear for us. to be involved in those discussions. So I don't think we need a separate motion. And we also need, so before they vote on this motion, could we, it says approve the water and sewer rates in the motion that you just put up, Cesar. So I want it to be clear that approve a 6% water rate, correct, increase? Yes. And the 5% wastewater.

Yes, yes.

So it's not 6% for both. OK. One is only at 5. 6% rate for water and 5% for sewer.

Increase, not rate.

Mm-hmm.

So we need a couple more changes on that. Okay. We needed to say 6% rate increase for water. For water. And 5% increase for sewer rate.

Thank you Okay, the motion is from Commissioner Butler second from Commissioner Dean voting is open Commissioner Coronado is absent the motion carries Thank you.

Thank you judges

Do you want to just continue down the line?

Unless you want to go back to 4D, pulled from consent. Okay.

Okay, item number 4D, pulled from the consent agenda by the county attorney's office, postponed September 14th, 2026. Approve and authorize the county judge to sign the, actually, I'm sorry, there is a correction to read in with this item. Okay, the item should read, approve and authorize the county judge to sign a professional legal services agreement with Norton Rose Fulbright, USLLP, dated September 14th, 2026, for bond counsel services, both in connection to the issuance of bonds and other public securities, and on routine matters not directly connected to the issuance of bonds that require legal advice and counsel. Contract number 20260653. Funds are available in various bond proceed accounts and general fund, general administrative, professional services, legal commissions.

Judge, commissioners, Eric Rosales, Negaglione, assistant county attorney, we're asking for a motion to approve this item, please.

we have a motion to approve from judge samaniego as corrected a second from commissioner butler voting is open commissioner coronado is absent motion carries we also have item number 4k that was pulled by commissioner coronado Item number 4K is to ratify the First Amendment between El Paso County and the Town of Horizon City to the tax increment reinvestment zone number one, interlocal agreement, to expand county participation to expand area A1, dedicate the county's tax increment to the development of the Greater Horizon City Regional Sports Park, and subsequently redirect the county's tax increment to support the future county office facility project. Further ratify the corresponding order approving the First Amendment to the El Paso County Agreement regarding the TURs, contract number 20260526.

Good afternoon, Judge and Commissioners, Anna Schumacher, Assistant County Attorney. So earlier, Commissioner Granada just wanted to make sure that we had included limiting language so that the expenses that we were contributing were limited for construction costs. So it's very clear we've gone through the entire agreement to say that those are exclusively for construction costs. We also included the language requested for Commissioner Butler with regards to our limited use of the park, which we included for up to six days a year without rental fees.

And we did brief Commissioner Coronado before he left, and he was fine with the item proceeding in his absence. Thank you, Ms. Keller. Yes.

Thank you.

So we're just looking for a motion to ratify both the agreement and the order, please. Thank you all.

We have a motion from Commissioner Ollin, a second from Commissioner Butler. The voting is open. Commissioner Coronado is absent. Commissioner Stout votes no. Motion carries. Item number nine, grant applications. Item nine A and nine B. Postponed September 14th, 2026. Grant application. Approve and ratify the submission of the Texas Department of Transportation FY27 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program application for the Office of the Constable Precinct 4 from October 1st, 2026 to September 30th, 2027 in the amount of $51,809.34. County matching the amount of $9,150.32 is required and will be requested through fringe benefits. Contract number 2026-0643. And item B, postponed September 14th, 2026, grant award. Approve and authorize the county judge to accept the Texas Department of Transportation FY2027 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program grant award for the Office of the Constable, Precinct 4. from October 1st, 2026 to September 31st, 2027 in the amount of $43,777.79. A county match in the amount of $7,725.49 is required and is being requested from General Fund General Administrative Transfer Out Grant Match Further approve and authorize the county judge to sign the accompanying signature authorization document, contract number 20260644. At the request of the Constable Precinct Forest Office, they have asked for these items to be postponed one week. If we could have a motion to postpone, please. Motion from Judge Samaniego, second from Commissioner Stout. The voting is open. Commissioner Coronado is absent. Motion carries. Item number 10A from Budget and Finance. Receive a presentation on the fiscal year 2026 Sheriff's Office budget.

Good evening.

Good evening. Good evening, Judge, members of the court, Carmen Arete Candelari, Director of Budget and Finance for the county. I'm gonna be going over our presentation here for the Sheriff's Office. So first and foremost, this is through September 14th information. So here you see a summary information ranging from the adopted budget all the way through the remaining budget and the activity contained in between. I'm going to be going over each section of this information, starting first with the budget transfers to date. So here we have the adopted budget of $136,423,023, and our revised budget to date is $144,147,249, or a difference of $7,724,000. So just bringing your attention to this increase from our last presentation, from our last presentation last week, the budget did increase by $1,558,674, and this is due to the approved meal contract budget increase that was requested by the Sheriff's Office in order to cover meal expenses for inmate meals for both the jail annex and the detention center. So that was the change that occurred between the last presentation and today's presentation. Everything else has remained the same. So you can see that reflected where it says net budget transfers for operating expenses of 2,129,225. Included in that number is that $1,558,000 change. On the expenditures to date, So the expenditure to date from the last presentation did increase by $7,137,718, and that was primarily due to the payroll that occurred during that timeframe. So here you're seeing, again, that revised budget of $144,147,249. Salaries and fringes to date is $110,879,307. And then operating expenses of $25,028,074 for total actuals year to date of $135,907,381. So 94.42% of the total has been spent as of 9-14. 77.32% is salaries and 17.10 is operating expenses. 98.54% of salary and benefits budget has been spent, typically would expect to see a target of 92.31% at this point in time given the payrolls that are here today. Most overtime expenses, excuse me, budgets have been exceeded as of 9-15 with a very small amount for one of the maintenance divisions. But again, the change that you see here is just in the normal course of operations, $7,137,718, primarily due to payroll. Our encumbrances to date, you do see some of the encumbrances that have been paid. So once encumbrances occur, then they transfer over to expenditures. So here we have a total of $399,195,000. So the change in the presentation is a reduction of $1,635,031. Again, we still have $2.7 million, almost $2.8 million of medical jail detention contracts that still make up primarily that encumbrance number. So here is our projected year end, projected spent at year end as of 9.30. We're approaching that, two weeks out, or actually one and a half weeks out. So here we have our total spent committed to date of $139,306,576, and what the remaining budget is $4,840,673. So look to the operating amount that's available of $4,732,093. And we still have salaries to expend for the remainder of the year in the amount of $6,973,829. And then we project that we still have some overtime expenses to expend for the rest of the year of $864,095. So Commissioner Butler had requested last time that we go ahead and analyze what could be the estimated operating expenses year to date. And so we went through and we estimated that at $2,796,229. The projected deficit for the SO at the end of the fiscal year is projected to be $5,903,861. Now remember, in the prior presentation, we had been increasing as expenses had been occurring. We had done the analysis for the salaries and the overtime, felt pretty comfortable about that. Now we've incorporated, and see, we would have been expecting us to continue to increase, correct? And so now we've done the analysis and we think there's still another $2.8 million in expenses that need to occur and that's what we're projecting here. We've also taken into consideration the known ARPA and grant salary transfers to be made. That's going to reduce that number and that's been incorporated into that $5.9 million. Again, it's still based on current key assumptions, still subject to change, and of course all of the entries that the auditor makes in order to finalize her final numbers. With that, are there any questions with regards to this? Before I go, I did want to let you know that we did meet with the sheriff and his staff. We went over this presentation and went over the numbers and we did discuss the particulars with regards to this number. So feel very comfortable with the numbers as they've been presented today.

Okay.

Are there any questions with regards to the presentation?

Carmen, can you give us a breakdown of some of the larger amounts for the estimated operating expenses, the 2.8 million? I'm assuming fuel for the patrol vehicles, utilities at the jail, but do you have maybe some of what those larger, the more significant amounts are?

Sure. The more significant ones are the meal contracts. So remember, those are not encumbered. We have Stilk Utilities. We have, and I had that written down, Utilities Communications. I have a breakdown. Let me look through that while I understand. I can get you that breakdown really quickly.

Thank you. So Carmen, just to confirm, this $5.9 million number is intended to be more accurate projection for the end of the fiscal year. That includes operating expenses because formally We were doing it week by week and weren't projecting through the end of the fiscal year.

That is correct, Commissioner. Okay.

Okay. Thank you. I appreciate that.

And this is already taking into account some of the ARPA and other grant transfers?

That we know of. That we know of. That we know and has been approved to date. There are still ‑‑ there is some opportunity for us to be able to offset some of these costs. We won't know that until later on in the year, in the calendar year. And when we, ARPA money is supposed to be expended by the end of December. So we'll know more refined number by then.

So on that, that is not a given. We could offset, that's the court's choice. So that, we could offset constables. We could offset bailiffs. That is not a given to any elected official. That is us recouping ARPA. from prior years. And that's using the ARPA funds that we didn't utilize. So that is definitely not a given for this budget.

And we do bring those back to the court for approval. And that's what you approved, I think it was in July. That's what I incorporated. It was $271,000 that the court approved. My understanding is that comes back to the court for approval, so at that time you can have that for your consideration.

And normally we try to do that. As a matter of fact, we're working to try to do that next week or the week after because we try to sweep it back to the unallocated recovery line item, not to the department's budget.

But the amount that potentially might come out to is 271? That's already been done. That's already been done.

Yes, ma'am. That has been done. You approved that in July of this year, and that's why I included it.

But there's another opportunity for an additional amount?

That additional amount, Commissioner, is not because of the Sheriff's Office. Yes, no, just in general. But it could be done to the Sheriff's Office. it could be swept back into the sheriff's budget. We generally do not recommend doing that as a sweep to offset any department's budget. You're normally sweeping that and putting it back to your general fund unallocated recovery line item. Which is the recommendation we're bringing back in the next couple weeks.

And do you have an idea, Betsy, what that amount might be?

I don't have an idea on the amount. I know Christian's working to try to finalize a couple pending ARPA items to see if we can't do them in the next couple weeks.

Thank you. And I understand the sheriff is online for you all, too. If there's any questions, I'll turn it over to him.

Good evening, County Judge, Commissioners, Oscar Ugarte, Sheriff. I understand your concerns regarding the Sheriff's Office budget. And as Sheriff, I take responsibility for the decisions being made within the Sheriff's Office. But also with that responsibility comes the responsibility of supporting my staff, giving them the right resources, the right staffing levels so they can serve this community. After our April meeting with Commissioner's Court regarding the Sheriff's Office budget, we did go back, we did some assessments, and we projected that we would need an additional $6 million to finish off this fiscal year. After that meeting, we have been looking at ways to reduce overtime. We currently reassigned a commander to take a look, a deeper dive into operations, job assignments, to try to figure out and find additional ways to reduce overtime. We welcome the outside assessment. I want to thank the court for funding this assessment. I believe this assessment will show that the Sheriff's Office needs help, that we are understaffed, But we continue to work with county departments that have requested information regarding the sheriff's office and operations to get through this hurdle. And we are here to answer any questions or concerns that the court might have.

Well, I just want to say thank you, Sheriff for speaking to us. And I know that we're in very regular communication with you in my office and with your staff as well. And you're very responsive to all of our questions. related to the budget. So I'm glad that you're here to answer any questions that the court may have. I really wanted just to make the statement that we're on the same team, I think, and we're all here to make sure that our community can continue to be the safest place that it can be. I know that you're working diligently to make sure that our jails are safe as well. I understand the challenges that the sheriff's office has. And I've seen the difference on the patrol side in the level of safety and responsiveness that is being given to the unincorporated areas of the county. So I definitely want to thank you and your team for for really prioritizing community-level safety in all aspects. That being said, I think that I was hoping that in April, when we understood that we might be looking at a $6 million deficit, that it would be enough time to turn that tide and to start shifting that. That that that boat really and unfortunately that doesn't seem to have been the case and so. Hopefully with more time now for the next fiscal year will be able to turn that tide and find a balance between the needs of the Sheriff's Office as well as the budgetary and fiscal constraints that we have, not just for the Sheriff's Office, but for the county as a whole.

Commissioner Stout.

Thank you, Commissioner. Thank you, Sheriff, for joining us this afternoon. I know we've been working with you since you've been in office. You've come to us and let us know what your assessment is of the needs within the department. And as I've said before, I think that as part of this conversation, the court needs to be very serious about looking at what to do with the jail downtown because it is supremely inefficient and it is inefficient because of the way that it's laid out and the way that laws are these days when it comes to line of sight when it comes to the number of officers per Inmate and you know we had the opportunity back in 2018-2019 to look at this. We did a study that would have reduced our costs in the jail, reducing the need for so much personnel. And I brought it back up a couple of years ago as well and was shot down by members of the court and they didn't want to, discuss that item but I think it again it is very important for the public to understand that we've had these opportunities and we've given them away and in my opinion any conversation moving forward regarding staffing at the Sheriff's Department within our jails must also include a serious look at knocking down that jail and rebuilding something that is more efficient, that will provide us the opportunity to not have to have, to increase our staffing table by even more now. I think it may not be the silver bullet, it may not be the only answer, but I think it's a huge part of this equation. It's a huge part of this equation. We could have reduced our need for close to 200 detention officers over the next 20 years or so if we had decided to go forward with the project when it was presented back in 2019. Obviously that wouldn't have been a reduction in force all in one fell swoop. It would have been through attrition and it would have paid for itself. Now I'm not sure if that's the case. It might be because now the cost of housing people in our downtown jail is probably twice as much as it was back then. I think back then it was $80 or $90 a night and now it's $150, $160. So I still think that it's... It's important for this court to look at that option. I know that I think that it would save taxpayers immensely and it would also really dig into this problem that we're having right now and the needs that you have and the lack of resources that we have. Thank you, Commissioner.

Commissioner O'Geen.

Thank you, Judge. Good afternoon, Sheriff, and thank you for being so amenable to meet with the county attorney, county administration. I know that we're all working to try to find solutions. We definitely don't want to find ourselves in the same situation next year. As Commissioner Butler said, we are all on the same team. And it is about finding that balance between keeping our community safe and what it's going to take to do that, but then also being responsive to the concerns of our taxpayers. So thank you for your willingness to continue to work with county administration as we try to work our way through that. I'm glad that you're here and I want to give you the opportunity to address maybe some of the concerns that we've heard from the public regarding maybe some changes that may be made to, for example, we've heard about concerns staffing at community events that may not necessarily be related to public safety and maybe any potential changes, whether or not those events are funded with overtime, which we know is one of the biggest drivers of the exceeding of the sheriff's budget. Maybe if you could address the concerns that we've heard from constituents regarding maybe some purchases that may or may not be completely necessary. We've heard concerns about the badges and uniforms and vehicles and things like that. If you could maybe just tell the community maybe any changes that you may be implementing in this next fiscal year to address some of those community concerns?

Yes, as far as community events, when I was asking the community of El Paso to support me to run for sheriff, one of the biggest concerns when I knocked on over 50,000 doors, the concerns and the issues that the community had were drunk drivers, illegal dumping, animal cruelty, and the disconnect between law enforcement and the community. They felt there was no trust between local law enforcement and the community. That's why these are the issues where I focused my resources. And as far as that false narrative that overtime is being used for these community events, But if you look at the pictures of the individuals that come out in this community events, it's members of my command staff that are under salary. They do not get overtime. I do not get paid overtime. Members of my community services section. This section is not something that I implemented community services. section and COPRIPS have been part of the staffing table for many, many, many years. This is nothing new, but I like to be more transparent, you know, telling the community what I'm doing with these resources. These individuals flex their schedules when there's a community event. They go out there and they work night shift or evening shift regarding on what we have scheduled for that week. To me, it's very important, you know, for the community to see us. Most of the time when the community makes contact with law enforcement, it's when they're going through a crisis, when they're involved in a crash, when they're involved in family violence. In these community events, the community gets that opportunity to meet us one-on-one and ask us those questions. And when I'm out there, I ask questions, any concerns that they have, and they get to speak directly with command staff, with myself as the sheriff, for any concerns that are out there. That's one aspect. As far as also this false narrative that I'm spending millions of dollars changing the uniform, changing the badges, that is false information being spread. Like I said, I told the community when I did a press conference that the uniforms were changing. This is through transition. No new uniforms are being purchased and old uniforms being thrown away. When a uniform needs replacement, we issue a new uniform. That is the process we are taking. We currently do not have enough funding in our uniform budget to outfit everybody per contract. We're supposed to give each deputy five shirts and five uniforms. If we were to do that right now with the current staffing tables, that would take approximately a million dollars a year to replace uniform. Our current uniform budget yearly is about 130,000. I mean, so the numbers are not there. Even if I wanted to change and transition, those numbers are not there. As far as the units and the decals, all the decals, when you see an older unit with new sheriff's office decals, That tells you that that unit has been involved in an accident. When that unit is repaired because of that accident during the paint job, we transition to the new decals in those vehicles. As far as this false narrative about buying 4x4 vehicles or trucks or using other vendors, all this process is through a county procurement process where we involve County auditors in our County purchasing our fleet managers. So there's a process even us as a sheriff as an elected official. There's many processes that have been in place for many years that I have to follow and continue to follow and and we are here, you know, ask me any questions all these false narratives that are being put out there to the community. We are here to answer those questions.

Thank you for that share.

Well, Sheriff, thank you. I think if one thing we've learned is that really quickly, you know, we've said it over and over, we're one team. We all want the same thing, you know, safe community, making sure that people feel comfortable. People don't realize that a lot of the businesses that come in base their decision on that we're a safe community. And so balancing that, you know, trying to balance your budget and making sure that, you know, we have to deal with inflation. Commissioner Stout talked about the inefficiencies in an older jail. So I think one of the things I've learned is that we quickly need to be on the same page. Sometimes there's some information that we didn't know and maybe we conveyed it differently. But I think all of us, we've tried to show the community the complexity of running a jail, of running, you know, being able to, that detention and all the things that have to happen. But I hope the community does realize we're not in an adversarial relationship. We just sort of figure out we have to do something about it and we have to come together And I think we're in a really good point, and I think the community likes that confidence that we're all looking at the same thing, and that is have a really safe community. It helps us economically. It helps us to sell El Paso. I mean, the first thing they ever say is, we're really surprised that you're such a safe community. Well, that didn't come... by just not doing anything, you know. And so I think we're at a great point now where we can have these discussions today. You clarified some things that I didn't know myself. And so I think we need to be more open to the community, let them know where we're at and be able to show the support that we're all, you know, we're all together trying to make the best we can. So the best of luck to your team and everyone that's here as well. And of course, the support from Commissioner's Court, I think putting it all together, we're a community that needs to continue to be united. And we're not united when there's false information out there. And especially, not listen to the few, but listen to, like in your case, you said you knocked on 50,000 doors. So, I mean, you have much more information about what the community wants than a few that would like to, you know, sort of destroy the relationship between you and Commissioner's Court. So I think we've learned a lot and we're at a great place to continue going in the right direction. So once again, thank you for your cooperation, especially your team has always been very supportive and loyal to your vision. So thank you. Corman?

Yes. Thank you, Judge. Commissioner, again, in response to your question, the majority of that projection is for our meal contracts. Again, those are not encumbered. And so there's $1,300,000 that hasn't not yet been spent. And there's jail and detention center medical costs, inmate transportation, rent, utilities, vehicle operating expenses, and communication expenses in that number. So just wanted to offer that.

But it sounds like meals is the biggest portion.

Yes, it is.

Okay.

ITEM 12B FROM REGULAR SESSION. POSTPONED SEPTEMBER 14, 2026, Approve and authorize the county judge to sign the grant agreement with United States Department of Agriculture's Rural Utilities Service for an award to the county in the amount of $2,850,000 for the development of a community wireless broadband project in Fabens and Tornillo, a project also known as Cotton Valley Connect. Further authorize county staff to complete, sign, and submit as appropriate any auxiliary documents required to effectuate grant closing. No county funds are needed. Contract number 2024-0771. No action. Okay, no action for item 12B. Item number 12C. Postpone September 14th, 2026. Discuss and take action on litigation styled Christopher Bracken versus El Paso County, Texas. Cause number 2025, DCV4115. County attorney case number 000526LD.

Judge, commissioners, Eric Rosales and Gaglioni, assistant county attorney. We're asking for no action on this item at this time.

No action for item 12C.

And that completes all the items on our agenda, Judge. Thank you, Cesar, and everyone else. Have a great week. I think we had some amazing resolutions this morning. Very proud of how we support and recognize these great individuals. So thank you. Everybody have a great week. Our legal team, class leaders, promotion team, thank you. Thank you.