Commissioners Court - Regular Meeting

Good morning. We will call this meeting to order at 8.30 a.m. and let the record reflect that all members of the court are present and so we do have a quorum this morning. We will begin with action agenda item number one to approve claims.

Judge, I move to approve the claims as presented for May the 14th, 2026. EFT is $2,707,808.63, regular claims of $3,118,339.34, for a total of $5,826,147.97. Second. There is a motion to approve claims by Commissioner Hogg, with a second by Commissioner Leacock. Any discussion or questions?

All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Item number two is a proclamation recognizing Seven Dutchmen Orchestra with the Texas Historical Commission Texas Treasure Business Award.

And the proclamation reads, whereas the Texas Treasure Business Award Program is an initiative of the Community Heritage Division of the Texas Historical Mission and created to pay tribute to the state's well-established businesses that have been in continual operation for at least 50 years. And whereas the Texas Treasurer Business Award was created in 2005, since then over 700 Texas businesses have been recognized as a Texas Treasurer Business. And whereas the Seven Dutchmen Orchestra was formed in 1975 when a group of New Braunfels High School friends got together and started playing polka music. And whereas the founder of the group, Rusty Ramp, left the band in 1977 and bandmate John Catterly took over as the band leader with a partnership initially existing among the performers until 1980 when a corporation was created. And whereas the Seven and Dutchman Orchestra have played festivals, beer gardens, dances, weddings, anniversaries, and parties all over the state of Texas from north to south, east to west, and even have performed in Mexico City, Mexico. And whereas the band has recorded albums and videos initially starting with the Seven band members in 1975, adding to the organization, and have since performed with up to 11 people and have appeared on RFD-TV's Molly B's Polka Party and Big Joe's Polka television shows. And whereas the Seven Dutchman Orchestra has been in business in New Braunfels since 1975, with John Catterly being one of the owners and the band leader, with wife Janet Catterly joining him as his first polka man to receive, and is the first polka man to receive, the Texas Historical Commission's prestigious Texas Treasurer Business Award for their historical contributions and continuous operation in Texas. Now, therefore, it be proclaimed that the Comal County Commissioner's Court hereby gratefully honors and congratulates the Seven Dutchmen Orchestra for being honored as a Texas Treasurer of Business by the Texas Historical Commission and invites all residents of Comal County to recognize the Seven Dutchmen Orchestra for their preservation of culture, history through their music and their longevity in Comal County. Judge, I move to approve the proclamation just read.

Second.

There's a motion to approve the proclamation by Commissioner Hogg with a second by Commissioner Leacock. Any discussion or comments? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. You're welcome to join us in the front.

We have a big group here. Come on forward.

Brought some other instruments.

This is Senator Campbell. Thank you for being here.

Great honor. I'm going to need some people on this side. Lots of room on this side. One, two, and three.

On behalf of everyone in the band, I want to thank you all for this great, great honor. Thanks to the Texas Historical Commission, the Camel County Historical Commission. We've got folks here from Wurstfest, from Fredericksburg's Oktoberfest. I know I'm missing other people here, but we appreciate all of you being here very, very much. It's an honor to accept this on behalf of all the folks that are up here today. and all the folks that have come before us all the way back to 1975. We've had some longtime members. We've been around a long time, and because of that, like any other family, we've had some people pass away already that have performed with us for long periods of time. It has been an honor to have everybody. Thank you all for this great award. We invite you to come out Sunday afternoon to the Unhalt Mayfest. We're going to be getting a plaque that day at 2 o'clock. There's free admission to that. We'll be performing a dance that day. We invite you to join us. Thanks again. We appreciate it.

Good morning. I'm Sally Blacksmith, and I'm here representing the Camel County Historical Commission. I would like to introduce Kelly Follis, who is here to celebrate this proclamation from Senator Campbell's office. Welcome. The Comal County Historical Commission congratulates the Seven Dutchmen Orchestra in receiving this prestigious Texas Treasure Business Award from the Texas Historical Commission. As you know, the award recognizes businesses that have operated continuously for at least half a century. Special congratulations to band member John Catterly, along with David Smith, who are both original members since 1975 and for their dedication and commitment to keeping this wonderful tradition alive. The Seven Dutchmen Orchestra holds a special place in my heart as my husband was one of the original Seven Dutchmen members in 1975, along with John and David. It's especially meaningful to see the band recognized as the only band ever to receive the Texas Treasure Business Award. It's a well-deserved honor. So come on out to On Halt on Sunday afternoon where someone from the Texas Historical Commission is going to present them their certificate. Thank you. Yes, sir.

Good to see you too. I'm telling you, that's great. We need to get a new microphone.

for that. We need to get one that doesn't, you know, is designed to not do that. I'm glad I didn't come that way.

Item number three, proclamation recognizing May 3rd through 9th, 2026 as Small Business Week in Comal County and recognizing Kevin Carroll of Christian Brothers Automotive as the 2026 Small Business Person of the Year. Thank you.

Whereas small businesses represent 99.9% of all employers in the United States. And whereas small businesses account for the majority of new jobs created. And whereas small businesses are more flexible in responding to shifting markets and can bring new products to the market faster. And whereas small businesses provide the first job for most entrants to the labor force. And whereas, in keeping with a 60-year practice, Small Business Week is proclaimed nationally for the impact of small businesses on job creation, economic growth, and innovation. And whereas, the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce each year recognizes a small business person of the year. And whereas, Como County supports small businesses and recognizes the outstanding achievements of small business men and women in our community. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that the Comal County Commissioner's Court hereby urges all citizens to acknowledge the small business man and woman of Comal County for their achievements and contributions to the economy and recognizes my neighbor, Kevin Carroll, of Christian Brothers Automotive as the 2026 Small Business Person of the Year. I move to approve the proclamation just read.

Second.

We have a motion to approve the proclamation by Commissioner Crownover with a second by Commissioner Webb. Any other comments or discussion? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Come on up. Come on forward to receive your proclamation.

Come on through.

We're going to ask everyone to squeeze in.

Really nice and tight. Okay, ready? We'll take a couple of these. One, two, three.

Okay, thank you so much. Wow, this is quite an honor. Quite a privilege. I'm kind of an emotional guy. Most people don't know that. But, you know, none of us are any good without the teams that support us, whether you're in the public or private sector. I've got an awesome team behind me. I'm a franchisee for an incredible organization. I think... Everyone that's given me and my company support to be where we are today. The Christian Brothers Automotive Foundation. I've had the privilege of being a conduit to give away a bunch of money into this community. It seems like every quarter I'm running around handing out a handful of checks to local nonprofits that... It comes from the Christian Brothers Automotive Foundation, not from me. There's 336 locations in 35 states, and we were the 100th. We opened a little over 14 years ago. I never thought that having one of these in New Braunfels would turn out to be the first or second biggest one. We're running number one or number two out of all of them in all states. And we're very grateful for that. But then again, it all goes back to the team, this awesome community we get to support. And I'm just grateful. Thank you very much.

Yeah, he's trying to get you to come down. Item number four is a proclamation recognizing May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Comal County.

Whereas mental health is an essential part of overall well-being impacting individuals, families, and communities across Comal County, and whereas one in five American adults experiences a mental health condition each year, and everyone faces challenges in life that can impact their mental health, And whereas Comel Mental Health and Canyon Lake Mental Health currently serve a total of 4,754 active residents, noting that there are also many other mental health serving agencies throughout the county with their own census. And whereas despite its prevalence, mental health remains shrouded in stigma and preventing many from seeking help, And whereas early intervention and access to quality care are crucial for managing mental health conditions and improving quality of life. And whereas May is recognized nationally as Mental Health Awareness Month, providing an opportunity to raise awareness, combat stigma, and promote mental health resources. Now, therefore, it be proclaimed by Commissioner's Court of Como County that May 2026 is hereby recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month in Como County, and all residents are encouraged to educate themselves and others about mental health conditions, treatment options, and available resources. Challenge the stigma by speaking respectfully and inclusively about mental health, seeking help if they are struggling with their mental health, and encourage others to do the same. support organizations that provide mental health services and advocacy, and create safe and supportive environments for open conversations about mental health. Together, we can create a community where everyone feels empowered to prioritize their mental well-being and seek help when needed. Judge, I move to approve the proclamation. Second.

We have a motion to approve the proclamation by Commissioner Leacock with a second by Commissioner Hogg. Any discussion or comments? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Anyone here to receive this proclamation can come forward. Hi. Good morning.

I'm going to take a photo. Okay. One, two.

Hello. Thank you for recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month and for taking time to acknowledge something that impacts every single one of us in one way or another. The reality is that life is hard, being human is hard, and at some point, most of us will either struggle ourselves or love someone who is struggling. What makes the difference is community. Mental health can feel incredibly isolating when you're in the middle of it, but healing was never meant to be a solo journey. Healing happens in connection. It happens when people show up for each other, sometimes in big ways, but more often in small ones. Noticing when someone is off, checking in, offering support, or simply reminding someone that they don't have to navigate hard things alone. That's something our county does really well. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a strong network of community partners, organizations, providers, advocates, schools, first responders, faith communities, and leaders who care deeply about this work and about the people they serve. Mental Health Awareness Month is about more than awareness alone. It's about reducing stigma, increasing access, and continuing to build a community where people feel safe asking for help before things reach a crisis point. At the end of the day, you do not have to be a clinician to make a difference in someone's life. Sometimes just being the person who notices, checks in, says, hey, I'm here, matters more than you know. So thank you to everyone who is part of the support system in our community. The work matters, the connection matters, and people matter. Thank you.

Item number five was proclamation recognizing May 15th, 2026 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 10th through 16th, 2026 as National Police Week in Comal County. Whereas the Congress and President of the United States have designated May 15, 2026 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as Police Week. And whereas the International Association of Chiefs of Police has declared law enforcement officer safety and wellness a top priority. And the IACP Center for Officer Safety and Wellness promotes the importance of individual, agency, family, and community safety and wellness awareness. Whereas the members of law enforcement agencies in Comal County play an essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of county residents. And whereas it is important that residents know and understand the problems, duties, and responsibilities of their law enforcement agencies, and that members of those agencies recognize their duty to serve the people by safeguarding life and property by protecting them against violence and disorder. and by protecting the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression and intimidation. Whereas the law enforcement agencies in Comal County have grown to be modern and scientific entities that unceasingly provide vital public services. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the Commissioner's Court of Comal County that May 15, 2026 is hereby recognized as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and all residents are called upon to honor those peace officers who, through their courageous deeds, have lost their lives or have become disabled in the performance of duty. And be it further proclaimed by Commissioner's Court of Comal County that May 10 through 16, 2026 is hereby recognized as National Police Week and authorized the bell tower lights on the Comal County Historic Courthouse to be tinted blue in observance. And all residents and patriotic, civil, and educational organizations are called upon to observe the week with appropriate ceremonies commemorating law enforcement officers past and present who, by their faithful and loyal devotion to their responsibilities, have rendered dedicated service to their communities. And in doing so, have established for themselves an unviable and enduring reputation for preserving the rights and security of all citizens. What is the pleasure of the court?

Judge, I move to approve their proclamation just read.

Second.

There's a motion by Commissioner Hogg and a second by Commissioner Leacock to approve the proclamation. Any discussion or comments? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Okay, we welcome all of you toward the front.

Some of you guys are going to have to go to the back.

We need a few more on this side.

guys all guys I got pushed up here.

I just want to say thank you. We're represented by many uniforms, as you see behind me, but we are one spirit and one family. We are truly blessed and privileged to live, work, and serve in a community that supports its law enforcement. And I will tell you, I'm thinking I'm speaking for everybody up here, there is probably not a day that we don't feel the support of the community. It's not just during this week, but almost every day that we come here. So thank you to the court for the recognition, and thank you all for being here.

I know.

OK. We will move into our workshop agenda. And we will begin with citizens' comments. The citizens' comments are limited to three minutes per person. Is there anyone here that would like to address the court today? Seeing none, we will move into workshop agenda item number two, which is reports by county staff and elected officials on items of community interest. OK. We've got somebody coming.

Morning, gentlemen, commissioners. I want to give you a quick update. We are in the midst of our 2026 inspections for our roads, road inspections. We use this to establish our 27, 28, and 29 paving plans. And so we're 88% complete. And you see the average score is 6.76. So our staff is doing that right now and, again, using that for forecasting our next three years of paving plans. So I just want to update the court and the public as well. So thank you all.

Thank you, Mr. Boyd. I had a couple comments on May 2nd. We had the A&M Extension Office and the Comal Master Gardeners hosted AgriFest out at the extension property. And we had Melissa Krause and her family represent the county with the ladybug release. So these are some photos from that event. And we were just happy that they were able to represent the county at that event that day. And thanks to AgriLife Extension and all they do to promote their cause. Anyone else? OK. We'll move back into the action agendas with item number six. Discuss and consider approval of the amendment to plot of Canyon Lake Mobile Home Estates North, unit number two, combining lots 30 and 31, establishing lot 30R, and authorize county judge to sign.

Good morning, Judge, commissioners. Ms. Wells has a couple lots there. You can see lot 30 and 31. She wants to combine them. We have a good application, and I recommend approval.

Move to approve action agenda, item number six. Second.

There's a motion to approve item number six by Commissioner Leacock with a second by Commissioner Hogg. Any discussion or questions? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. If there is no opposition from the court, we need to reorder some of these items. We will begin with item number nine, which is discuss and consider acceptance of voluntary dedication of right-of-way located at the intersection of Shanethorpe Road and Montano Drive.

Am I good now? Judge, commissioners, we have a subdivision that's coming in over on Shainthill Road. You may have heard about it. Contessa, this item kind of puts together.

David.

Louder. Say again? It's hard to hear.

Yeah.

You're not speaking in the.

It's okay. And we're waiting on the county administrator. I apologize if he was not aware of this.

No. There we are.

Item number nine.

Yep.

Item number nine. So Contessa is coming in on Shanethal Road. I put this exhibit in here just to kind of tie everything together. Contessa is a large subdivision there and they needed an entrance out on Shanethal Road. Many of you are aware of this area where we reduced the speed there on Shanethal. We got Lewis Ranch. We have another Smith Ranch subdivision there. It's kind of a private subdivision. A lot of congestion going on there. So when they came to our office to look for some entrance on the Shanethal, we had a discussion about where that would happen. This is kind of their only frontage right there. You can see in the yellow kind of exhibit where the entrance would come in. The other side of this slide, you can see lot 41 kind of blocks their ability to get into Montaigneau. So it was discussed that let's look at some other opportunities and what we came up with was taking a piece of lot 41 and talking with Ms. Krause to kind of clean up this intersection. Meritage was able to do that. They did acquire the right of way from Ms. Krause and the piece from lot 41 Mr. Rowe. So we do have those documents. My recommendation is to accept these. With that acceptance, the subsequent items following this will be able to facilitate a more less congested intersection for these two. There's two large development, Lewis Ranch and Contessa and also Shanthaw Ranches. I think this makes a better intersection there and we're recommending approval.

Move to approve action agenda item number nine. Second.

Here's a motion to approve agenda item number nine by Commissioner Hogg with a second by Commissioner Leacock. Any questions or discussion?

That's great work. I mean, eventually that's going to make that so much better there. And it's nice to see neighbors working with each other on these right-of-way type things. So often that goes the other way and you can't get it done. But anyway, long-term from a transportation perspective, that's such a better intersection now, so much safer. I know the people coming from that way are going to have an extra stop sign, but getting out on the main highway is going to be a lot easier. So good job.

The loading from this new subdivision is a lot greater than the Shanthall Ranch, so it just made a lot of sense.

And I would ask, did you have feedback from Chantel Ranch neighbors or folks in the area?

Say again? I'm sorry.

Did you have feedback from or engage with the public?

We did. That's an older subdivision, and there's a lot of long-term residents in there. And we have had a lot of feedback about that additional stop. They felt like that was their county road. I've talked with a lot of them and tried to explain that it's going to make a better intersection for everybody. And in the long run of that Contessa, there is actually going to be another connection in the back that's going to facilitate them moving out of their subdivision. Right now, the people in the very back of that subdivision really have to take a bunch of turns to get out to Chametal. This new development will allow them to get out a lot quicker.

So we have a motion and a second. Any other comments or questions? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. We will go to item number eight. Discuss and consider final plot approval of the replot of lot one, Shanethorpe Ranch Subdivision, unit one, establishing lot 41R, and authorize county judge to sign.

Thank you, Tom. Thank you. This adoption of that dedication needed to be cleaned up. So if you'll notice, it was done by Meets and Bounds description. I wasn't in keeping with the subdivision regs. That happened ahead of that just to kind of make a cleaner project here. So lot 41 needs to be replatted. You can see it there. It was opted out. Everybody's getting used to that kind of turquoise-colored track there. They did opt out of the city of New Braunfels. That allowed us to facilitate this plat under our regulations. So this exhibit here you can see the final replat there. We do acknowledge the little triangle of dedication Mr. Rowe and Meredith were able to come up with an agreement to add a little bit more land So he is above the 5.01 minimum for four wells So everybody in the area was happy the HOA made made some comment to that and he wanted to stay under or stay above the 5.01 So we did that so this plat is complete and I recommend approval Move to approve action agenda item number eight second

Here's a motion to approve action item number eight by Commissioner Hogg with a second by Commissioner Leacock. Any questions or discussion? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Item number seven, discuss and consider final plot approval of Contessa Unit 1, accept the dedication of right-of-way to the public along Shanethal Road, and accept construction bond number SURU2210011827, a surety for road construction and stormwater drainage improvements, and authorize the county judge to sign.

So those two previous items were all in preparation to allow this subdivision to have better access. You can see Contessa Unit 1 there. It's kind of a long strip there. We've got County Roads proposed. The plat is many pages. So I put together this exhibit just to kind of explain what this development looks like. So they are large lots. Meritage came to us, and they wanted to do a condo regime to help further divide this property. under the condo rules. You can see there we've got large lots. They will be further divided into single-family residential homes and be on OSSF. I want to point out here's kind of the master plan showing lots of green space. That green space is going to be utilized for those systems in conversation with TCEQ. A condo regime is not considered single-family residential, even though you can see that there are little single parcels. There are going to be nice homes in there. With that being said, the OSSF will now fall underneath our more stringent rules, non-single-family residential. So this development does have to provide for the doubling of the treatment area and disposal area in these septic systems. There's no variances for these roads. They are going to be curb and gutter roads. SAWS is supplying the water to this. This plat came in prior to the expiration of the SAWS, so they're under the jurisdiction of the previous water availability report. Everything's in place. This has been long coming.

We do have the surety for for on-site and off-site Infrastructure and I'd recommend approval of this Move to approve action agenda item number seven second a Motion to approve action agenda item number seven by Commissioner hog with a second by Commissioner Leacock any discussion or questions All those in favor, please raise your right hand motion carries Item number 10, discuss and consider approval of road construction within Gatehouse Unit 3, accept the roads into the Comal County Unit Road System for maintenance, release the associated surety, letter of credit number FTFC-25004, and direct county engineer to execute PIPRO permit number 109393.

Judge Commissioner, we've had four phases of gatehouse in here many times. Unit 3 is in the final stages. We did our inspection out there. Andy Velasquez was out there recently, made sure all the signage was done. We did get paid for that signage. That was kind of the last item here. So all the streets are looking good. We do have a PIP row ready to go, and my recommendation is to accept these rows and release the surety.

We do approve Action Gen Item Number 10.

Second. There's a motion to approve action agenda item number 10 by Commissioner Webb with a second by Commissioner Crownover. Any discussion or questions? All those in favor, please raise your right hand.

Motion carries.

Item 11, discuss and consider final plat approval of the replat of Lot 1, Fernandez Subdivisions, establishing Lots 1A and 1B, approve agreement between developer and Comal County regarding private stormwater drainage improvements and cash deposit Accept Chase Bank Cashier's Check number 2133000495 in the amount of $2,500 for surety cash deposit and authorized county judge to sign.

Judge Commissioner, there's a subdivision way out in the sticks out there on Rebecca Creek Road. Fernanda's been out there a few years. The owner of the property illegally subdivided this, severed out about six acres to a gentleman who wanted to do an RV park out there. That came to our attention when we had a septic permit. So we sent out the violation notice. This plat is to clean all that up to get him in position to have a final permit with the septic. Everything's in place. And answer Commissioner Crownover, it is about 28 stalls, if you'd like to. Anyway, everything's in place, and I recommend approval. This will clean up those two violations.

Move to approve action agenda item number 11. Second.

Here's a motion to approve action agenda item number 11 by Commissioner Crownover with a second by Commissioner Webb. Any questions or discussion? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Item number 12, discuss and consider the application to cancel lot 277 and 278 of Summit Estates at Fisher, Unit 1, and, if appropriate, set time, date, and place for a public hearing to consider said cancellation.

Periodically, we have a property owner that has multiple lots, or even a single lot, and they want to cancel out of a subdivision. Here you can see the Summit Estates. It's the very north part of the county, off of 32 there, and Fisher Store Road. Here's part of the plat. This is lot 277 and 278. We do have an application and there's a process for that as spelled out in Local Government Code 232 you can see here. Allows them to cancel all or part of the plat since they own part of it and they're going to do the two lots. The property owner, like I said, has an application in and today's item is to establish time and place for the required public meeting. So our recommendation is to run the notice on those dates there, May 20th, May 30th, and June 3rd, and then hold the public meeting here on June 11th at the courthouse. My recommendation is to accept this timeline.

Judge, I move to approve this as presented and set the public hearing for June 11 during our regular commissioner's court meeting at 830 on the second floor courthouse, 100 Maiden Plaza, New Braunfels, Texas.

Second.

We have a motion to approve action agenda item number 12 by Commissioner Crownover with a second by Commissioner Webb. Any further discussion or questions? As read, setting the public hearing for June 11, 830 AM, second floor courthouse, 100 Main Plaza, New Braunfels, Texas, 78130. Any discussion or questions? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries.

Thank you. Thank you.

Item 13, discuss and consider granting the following utility easements to Pernellis Electric Cooperative and authorize the county judge to sign. for A, an overhead electric line needed to bring power to a flood siren at Nichols Landing, and B, an overhead electric line needed for a transfer station located at 11301 US 281. Good morning, judges and commissioners.

The first item we are discussing is some land that we own out at Nichols Landing. We're providing power to that high water warning siren, and PEC has requested this. easement to be processed. Here's the location of showing where the private property begins. And this is the poll that we would come off of as far as the additional power. Item B is adjacent to Jumbo Ovens Sports Park. It's supporting the Hill Country Waste Solution transfer station. And they need to cross over some Jumbo Ovens property to bring three-phase power to that transfer station. And we recommend approval on both items.

Move to approve. Exchange into item number 13A and B.

Second.

There's a motion to approve action agenda item number 13 by Commissioner Crownover with a second by Commissioner Webb. I'm sorry, Commissioner Leacock. Sorry. Any discussion or questions? OK. All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Item 14 is discuss and consider approval of a variance to Section 13 of the Facility Use Agreement through the issuance of two alcohol permits for Spring Branch Tennis Association for events on July 3, 2026 and November 21, 2026 and authorize the county engineer to sign.

Judge and commissioners, we have facilities agreements with the nine entities that lease space from the county at these two different parks. All the leases, with the exception of CRC, have a provision for no alcohol. And so when an event comes forward that a leaseholder wants to have alcohol in an event, they need to come forward and get a variance through this process. And so this is pretty standard, and we recommend approval.

Move to approve extra agenda item number 14. Second.

There's a motion to approve action agenda item number 14 by Commissioner Crownover with a second by Commissioner Leacock. Any questions or discussion? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Item 15, discuss and consider approval of the submission of a grant application under the Texas Federal Land Access Program through the U.S. Department of Transportation in the amount of $1,190,000 to support the Comal County floating dock installation and authorize the county judge to sign.

Judge and commissioners, this is a grant application that we applied for a couple years ago. It's to install floating docks at four of our boat ramps. We did not get the funding last time, so we're reapplying. And so at three of our ramps right now, we have floating docks, and this would add additional floating docks at four additional locations. Here's an example of one at boat ramp eight where we would put a concrete walkway and abutment and then have the floating dock that would provide access to the lake when the water does come back up.

Move to approve action agenda item number 15.

Second.

Here's a motion to approve action agenda item number 15 by Commissioner Crownover with a second by Commissioner Leacock. Any discussion or questions?

These are going to be a great addition out there when things do finally get back going. Yes, ma'am.

All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries.

Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Boyd. Item 16 is discuss and consider acceptance of the updated feasibility report for Comal County Jail Expansion Update from HDR Architecture, Inc.

Judge, commissioners, as you know, we commissioned a feasibility study with HDR architects to look at possible options for expanding our jail due to the need to add more capacity at that facility. That report is complete, and it has been distributed. In fact, I have a copy of it right here. And if this gets approved today, it will be on our website immediately so the public can look at it. But I do want to spend a few minutes and go through what's in this report and with some of the details. One of the things that we need to look at is the population growth in our area. This exhibit shows that we're in an area where there's a lot of increased population for various counties along the I-35 corridor. One of the things I want to point out on this particular exhibit is that there is an incarceration rate of 2.3 persons per 1,000 people. And it's kind of interesting. If you look back in history, and this is statewide, it's actually 2.2. to one, so it's pretty close. But our county has had this rate for a long time. So jail capacity, or the number of people that are in our jail, is directly proportional to our population. So as the population grows, it's almost guaranteed that with this 2.3 people per 1,000, we're going to need more capacity. So if you look at some of the information that's in this report, they have compiled from four different sources, population projections for the county. And they're fairly consistent. You can see that in 2030, we're projected to go to somewhere between 233,000, 260,000 people. Pretty significant growth from where we are now. At the time this report was originally put together, the jail capacity was at 88%. 90% is considered at capacity. I believe we have drifted into full capacity just recently. There are 583 beds available in the current facility, and you can see how they're broken down into various types of facilities. On the right hand side, it's a little bit complicated graph there, but what it's trying to tell you here is, I guess, better described in this paragraph at the bottom. I just want to go through that. Current capacity is 853 beds based on the modeling functional capacity calculations, a 274 bed and a 548 housing addition results in new capacity range of 800 57 to 1,131. Based on the chart above, the additional beds would take care of detention needs until 2036 or 2046, depending on which option the county approves. And I will now go through the various options that they presented within this report. The first is option one, and this is an expansion of the jail. You can see the kind of blue-looking area. That would be the expansion area. This was our original plan, actually. When we built our jail, we designed the admin area, the booking area, the kitchen and laundry facilities to accommodate two additional housing units to be added on. So we have the existing four, and this particular option more or less tracks our original design, which would add a 274-bed addition, taking us to 857. These are nice little graphics here. They're a little bit complicated, but I'd like to just kind of describe how they work. You will notice on the lower left hand side, there's a TTL total construction costs of 63. And then there's a TTL project cost, which includes all the soft costs like architectural and other things. So there's a range there from 74 million to $75 million. to build this particular plan to add 274 beds. You will notice that it will, on that little chart there underneath the image, it shows a little graph showing that the facility can be occupied in 2030. And then actually, according to this, in 2032, we would begin expansion planning already to be ready for 2036. You know, these types of facilities take about a year to design or a year and a half to design and maybe two years to build. So there's about a four year time period to get the facility ready for use. So under this plan, we would be already planning the expansion in 2032 to be ready for 2036 when this particular facility would hit capacity. The next option would be to provide some future growth where we would build the exact same thing, but then provide a second level that would be shelled out. Shelled just means it's empty space, and then it could be loaded in with cells later on when they're needed. It provides some additional flexibility, I guess, and kind of prepares us for the future expansion. Uh, but again, this particular option only provides the 274. The construction cost is a little higher. It goes up to $105 million. Uh, again, you'd be doing that shell expansion in 2033, uh, and trying to, you know, get it up to the full capacity where we would have four additional housing units added to the existing four. Option 2B is to actually complete those four units. So this particular unit would add 548 beds, taking the capacity to 1,131, and at a cost of roughly $160 million. provides what I call these housing units we have an existing for housing units it would add for new housing units taking us to that capacity and then looking at that little chart on the bottom it would say that it would take us to 2046 as far as capacity goes and our design work would have to begin in 2042 The other option that we looked at, and this was actually a change during the preparation of this plan, we started thinking that maybe we should provide some additional future expansion in this area and possibly go to more of a tower type arrangement, which is fairly common in jail construction. This first one provides the two additional housing units and at a cost of $105 million with the two levels shelled out. Again, the completion of the next levels would begin in 2033. The next option just simply goes with three of those floors, leaving one shelled out, and then the final one just provides the whole tower to be built with the four housing units stacked right there. This is the most expensive one. This is $172 million for this particular option. But it does provide a space for another tower beyond that into the future. So that actually completes my presentation on this. This has been kind of a long, hard report that we've gone through. I think it's providing really good information. It basically gives us I guess the way I look at it, it gives us two options, more or less, to add capacity to go to roughly 2036 or, with the larger option, go into 2046. So our recommendation is to accept this report as it's finally completed. And this will allow us to close out our architectural agreement with HDR and take future action on this matter.

Move to approve action agenda item number 16. Second.

Here's a motion to approve action agenda item number 16 by Commissioner Webb with a second by Commissioner Crownover. Discussion or comments?

Want to go? I like two of these plans. I'll just point at two of them. I think our biggest issue that we need to watch is growth. We know it's here. We know it's not going to stop. Some of these numbers that they have provided, I'm not sure that they're accurate. I'm sorry. Sometimes that growth is more than what was expected, and I think we've already seen that. And I think we need to look forward to really look at, how do we best manage this? Because that's what it basically is. How do we manage this? And if we do some of these options, I think we're going to be in a constant building mode. By the time one of the options is built and it gets filled, we're going to be turning right back around and building, adding on to that option. I don't like that part of it. And I know that our current jail that we're in right now, this jail that you just showed pictures of, It's right at capacity. In fact, Commissioner Webb told me this morning that he was told that we've already started shipping prisoners out of this jail to another county. And it's only 15 now. But you talked about years that it's going to take to get this completed. And it's not 18 months. It's not two years. It's four years. That's a long time. And if we don't build big enough, by the time we get to that four-year time, when we bring those prisoners back that we're housing out of county, and right now it's pretty easy to do, but I can assure you that many counties are going to be in this position where they're looking for places to go, and those places are going to fill up. So we're going to have prisoners in who knows how many different county jails across the state of Texas. We're going to be zigzagging back and forth across the state of Texas to get those prisoners delivered and pick them back up as we need them back here. And then when we finish the jail and we bring back another 150 or 200 inmates at that point in time, what we've built is half full already. What have we accomplished? And that's what I think we really need to look at. We don't want to put ourselves where we're at right now. And I was astonished when we built this bill, when we moved into this jail in 2020, that it's already full. And I looked at those numbers, and, you know, when we moved into this jail, we moved in, it was, we brought in 320 employed, I mean, 320 people in the jail, into that jail, and that filled half the jail up almost already from day one. So that's what I'm looking at moving forward.

Not only that, land is becoming harder and harder to find. And I think we know we're looking at this and how to manage the need for capacity and construction costs are not going down by any stretch. And the cost of land is not going down as well. And I think it's imperative that we We're mindful of that as we continue to look at all these options. And then one of my biggest fears, I know we're running into other situations with another building at the mental health facility's foundation and how supporting this facility. And I know I want to make sure that we're covering with HDR the additional costs or what's involved with it that might directly affect some of these options is supporting that structure and the additional fees and construction costs that are associated to carrying the facility on that ground next to the creek.

So thank you. You or me. I want to say something about the initial jail that we built with the ability to expand it. I think that was a very smart thing that we did. And then looking at these options, going vertical is going to be able to allow us to more efficiently use that space. It is at a bigger expense, but then when you offset what different property would cost if we were to have to go off of this site, and the uproar that it would cause in the community, I think we need to be able to use this space as effectively and efficiently as possible so that we aren't put in a position to have to find more land So that offset in the cost, I mean, if you think about where is that other land, what would it cost if we were to have to have a jail on another site? And then the battle it would take in the community to try to sell the idea. This is a lot smarter, in my opinion, to go vertical.

I need to clarify. I heard that, and then I checked on it, and it seems like we're on the verge of shipping prisoners out. I think that's an accurate way to put that. I'm for whatever gets us furthest down the road. I think the lesson that we've learned multiple times in these facilities is that if we do something that will get us by for a few years, that we might as well just bang our head on a wall because we're going to be building and building and asking the taxpayers for more money and more money. And so even though right now this is a bigger ask, I think it's necessary, and in the long term, it will pay us back. Well, I don't know. Jails are kind of a place where money goes and goes. It's kind of like getting socks at Christmas. It's something you've got to do. But, you know, every time we get one of these reports, I say, great, let's go, let's do it. And then we get into the whole how hard it is to build consensus around things and our other priorities and all that kind of stuff. This isn't one of those things, though. This is something that we have a measurable cost every day that it's going to cost us that we don't take action. And it's irresponsible. I'm pretty convicted on this. I'm mad at myself that we have not... It's nobody's fault. But we're in this situation today. We knew this was coming. And we have done everything we can for a long time here to... The public expects us to use all our facilities fully until it costs more, what we're doing costs more than a new facility. And we're at that point and it looks like we're going to be at that point for several years. And so I want to ask the county administrator's office to work with our auditors and our financial counsel to, as soon as possible, put an item on here to get this thing financed, design and construction. Because I think that it's one of the things that we are absolutely taxed with taking care of. And I hope that we can do that as soon as possible. I'm talking about summertime. So we'll have an idea of what the implications with the tax rate would be. I would hope that we could do something without having an impact on that. But I don't know if that's going to be the case. I think we might be able to. But this is something we have to do. And there's some other things out there. other facilities, JP offices, and courtrooms, and all these other things we need to work on, transportation bonds, stuff like that. I think we should go to the public on those things. This thing here, though, I think we need to move forward on as soon as possible. And that means issuing COs. And that's what I'm going to propose here in a few weeks. And I think the administrator's office and our law enforcement guys for putting up with us on all this stuff. But it's time to move.

That's all I got.

Commissioner Webb, before we continue to, we want to, I know what my option would be, and I'm happy to say that this morning. Go ahead.

Well, let's just say this. When I'm making this request, I'm saying we take whatever the highest option is here, and that's what we try to finance, because I think we might find some things out during the design process as well that may change that a little bit. And also, let's say we went to design right now. If we, you know, that's going to be about 10% or whatever these costs are, we'll incur those costs here pretty quickly, but the actual construction costs wouldn't happen for another year or two. So I would say take whatever the highest option is, let's look at financing that, and if we decide something differently, then we could back up from there.

I think that's a great idea. Thank you.

Yeah, and that keeps us from having this exact same conversation the minute we open it up. The other point, too, is the significant cost of sending inmates to other places. That adds up fast. And there was a significant cost before we opened up this jail. And when we did have a little bit of extra capacity, people were sending their inmates here. which basically reimbursed us for sending ours out within a year. And that was extremely encouraging. So this would put us in that same position because you still have staffing standards and everything else that are closely monitored by the state and those ratios. And so you have to have that staff there anyways. And then if we can fill those beds with other counties, it helps those other counties that are in the same predicament. But it also helps us recoup our costs. So going in this bigger option, we're not having the same conversation 10 minutes after the doors open. And we're also recouping costs on it. So I think it's a smart stewardship of our taxpayer money.

Any other comments? So we have a motion to approve action agenda item number 16 by Commissioner Webb with a second by Commissioner Crownover. All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Okay, motion carries. Thank you for your comments. Item 17 is discuss and consider approval of a resolution 2026-12 regarding the establishment of additional data centers in the state of Texas.

I'll go first.

I've got a couple of comments on this. We've been asked a number of times. I don't know if there's anybody here from the public that wants to address this either, but we've been asked several times about data centers and doing a resolution like this, asking the state to take certain actions. I want to say a couple of things. For me, this isn't a comment on any of our neighboring counties or other entities and how they're dealing with these things. Everybody's got their own situations, and it's certainly not a comment on anything else that's gone on anywhere. This has been on our radar for... several months now before these other things even happen. There's not a request in here for additional authorities for counties. I think that in regard to these things, these are state matters. These are things that the state controls, and we don't. What this does is it asks the state to take a look at these things and give some direction, especially in areas where folks have PIGMAs like we have in the county here. because we hear from a lot of people that these are really intense water users, and I know there's another side to that story, but this kind of takes it and says, hey, folks at the state, give us some guidance on these things, and please take care of the aspects of this that you control. And then it asks for research on some of the other aspects, and potential community impacts of these data centers. I've had input from folks that say that what this does is a part of a Chinese plot to keep us from developing AI centers. I've had other people tell me that data centers are enormous surveillance devices and they're part of the the sort of dark, deep state that's trying to control everything. So we've had a gamut of input on these things. What I'm concerned about is saying, state, hey, we're in an area where we have serious water constraints. And we're told by some parties that this will have a very negative impact on that. Please take a look at these things. and let us know what the real impacts are, because we've heard from all sides on this thing. And again, these are state issues, and we're asking them to take a look at it and take care of it.

Yeah, I would like to echo the sentiments from Kevin and also the fact that there's other counties across the state that are asking for this help as well. So this helps provide that consensus to our legislators, who are the rule writers and we're the administrators of those, to take a serious look at it. Because right now, it seems that there's a lot of incentivizing for these things, but then there's not a lot of accountability that we can hold at the local level. So by putting together this resolution, it shows our legislators that this is an important matter to us. And like I said, a lot of other counties are doing it, too, because with land rights, the way that the laws are in Texas, Joe Developer has every right to do whatever he wants within the law and on the property that he buys. So there's not a way for counties to limit this. But with our particularly fickle resources and limited resources that we have in this county, it is a huge concern. So maybe these are not a good fit for this county, but developers find a way. So I'm glad we're doing this. It shows that we are bringing attention to this issue, and I hope that the state considers it seriously as well.

I think the state already is well aware of what these data centers are doing and what some of the problems are. There's a data center being built right now in Abilene, and there's many more in the process of being built. And that's probably not going to stop there. And honestly, I don't think the state knows these issues. I don't know that they're going to change it. They haven't changed it already. There's been many counties that it has contacted them already. What is this resolution really going to do for us? We already know that the state is 100% behind these data centers. Are we just going to go butt heads with the state? How do you think that's going to work for us? I don't think this resolution is going to do anything for us. But hand somebody a piece of paper, and I think a couple of y'all have been up to Austin before talking about a resolution, and you didn't like what the person told you about that resolution.

Well, it doesn't mean we stop trying. I mean, we're here to represent our citizens and our communities, and this is a huge concern, and this is a thing we can do. Yeah, it's not binding, but at least it puts it out there that we have grave concerns about this.

And are you going to do this for all the rest of the concerns that are being tossed out there with the wastewater treatment plants, the quarries, the concrete batch plants, because there's concerns about those two. And they are all living with the rights of the private property rights. And I think that's what we need to watch for. They have private property rights. As long as what they do is legal, they're legally to do that. They're able to do that.

Well, I don't disagree. But the people who live here have rights, too. And the impact of these facilities, you could argue that it is definitely infringing on the property right to the people who live here. And I think that's part of the point, is taking that into consideration. Yeah, the state can take this and do something with it, or they can tell us to pound sand, which they do sometimes too. But at least we're trying. At least we're putting our stuff itself out there. And yeah, there's probably some other resolutions we'll need to put together to encourage smart legislation in the next sessions. But if we're doing nothing, then that's hard to justify too.

I do recognize a slippery slope on hog farms or concrete batch plants or whoever folks are mad at next. Yeah, I do see that. One aspect of this I do not care for that the state's doing is the sales tax break that they're getting. And that's mentioned in here. And so I don't know that that's necessary for them. I think at one point they were trying to develop that business and bring more of them in because it was something that was necessary. I think a lot of the stuff that happens now is Bitcoin mining and stuff like that. So it's an ask for them to take a look at that.

The state can do what they want to do with their portion of the sales tax money that's coming in, but we don't have to agree with that. We can put ours in ours. I talked to one of the commissioners over in Guadalupe County, and I was astonished. I was floored by what these data centers pay in property taxes. It is astounding. And that can have a big effect on all of our residents here in this county hopefully being able to get lower property taxes, too. And I look at it this way. Would you rather have a 500-acre development with 10 buildings on it with 10 people or 20 people in each building, or do you want a 500-acre piece of property with... however many houses they can cram in there. What's the difference?

That's part of what I'm asking here, is I want to know what the real, because I get all kinds of different information on the water use of these things, and so I'm very curious about that. I really want to know, and this is asking those questions about, hey, can we study this and really understand what the impacts of these are? That's a major part of what I'm asking for here, because I have the same questions. But if the question becomes, Property tax revenue versus a crazy water user? I'm probably going to side on not wanting the water user. I understand why a neighboring, I heard the numbers. It's crazy. Yeah. Especially when you're talking about school districts. I think that's what that was based on. Yes. Like hundreds of millions of dollars in property tax over the years. I mean, I get that. But I just want to understand what we're dealing with here. And I want the state to handle that. I don't want the county to have to go out and figure out what's going on with this stuff and then lobby because this thing goes south in the future. I would like for them now to go, hey, we're going to make these folks do closed loop and all this kind of stuff so they can be good neighbors. So if they are going to come in and give us a bunch of property tax money, great. But we're not selling our water resources at the same time.

The one in one of the neighboring counties is going to do a closed-loop water system, which, to my understanding, is a lot less water. It's almost like a radiator in your car. It just circulates that water back and forth and through the whole system. It keeps things cool. And at some point in time, they have to drain it, and they just refill it and do it again. And I think that's a big difference in the water consumption. And power consumption, it all depends on, there are several things. And some of this is just completely way out there as they're going to be one of these data centers that's going to eventually bring in some type of nuclear reactor to power. Look what has happened in San Antonio, Base Joint San Antonio. They have brought in some nuclear reactors to power their entire system in San Antonio. And I saw a picture of it. It would fit on the back of an 18-wheeler. And to me, that's amazing. That is just amazing. And look what that will do for that base there in San Antonio. They will have power. They don't have to worry about power coming from somebody else. They're going to have power. And I think at some point in time, these data centers are going to realize that, and they have enough money that they can spend on it and push it forward. So I'm just worried about going forward with resolution after resolution after resolution. At some point in time, you get numb to it. They're going to get it, and they're going to say, another resolution. Here you go.

Go ahead. The important thing is here, I think, that we're asking for facts. I mean, you know, we're talking open-loop system, closed-loop system. You know, we're kind of, I feel like maybe some things have been built, not necessarily understanding all the different aspects and implications as they are built, as it affects local citizens. And, you know, we're charged with representing the local systems, and they have a lot of questions. And, you know, we don't have all the answers. And And for us to be able to do that research is not, I think, where it gets dumped on us to do all the homework instead of maybe the people that are incentivizing some of this growth. It would be nice to have those facts presented to us, and maybe we can then go to bat or present those facts to the citizens that have the questions. So as we, you know... you know, we don't have anything for consideration as it comes to data centers, but in the event that something like this happens, I want to be able to understand what those facts are and what the implications of the centers are. Is there noise? What's the water use? What is the company presenting to us for consideration and how to best work to negotiate through that situation? Because when it comes down to it, we have, you know, our residents are the ones that are are deeply concerned about something that could end up in their backyard. So when it comes down to it, I think one of the most important things on here is the state of Texas has the authority to regulate these matters, and the county does not. So we're here to listen to our citizens and do our best that we can with the facts we have presented. So to have the facts and ask for that information presented to us to what the implications of the facility would be on the local citizens, I think, is part of the due diligence of these projects.

What we've done in the past with our economic development incentives is we make sure that they don't use too much water. And if they use too much water, we're not going to give them incentive. But they can still build. How are we going to keep them from building out there? Are we going to wipe away the private property rights and say, you can't build out there? That's not going to happen, and the state is not going to change that. And I don't blame them, because I want my private property rights too, as everybody else in this room should also. So our chips in this game is when we talk about the incentive. If you want incentive for us, you have to do A, B, C, and D. or whatever those incentives are. And then we have the bargaining power. And if they say, we're not interested, They're going to go build their data center. We're not going to incentivize them.

Well, sure. And we have that option. But the thing that we're up against is that the state is handing out incentives to these people like candy. So they're actively looking for places to come. And so they can come regardless. But we're just trying to have a better understanding and demand some higher standards for these places that they fit where the developers want to put them. And with our very limited resources, that needs to play into their conversation.

I have one ministerial note. What was provided originally in the packet is different from what's being considered today, and that's what's highlighted in yellow here. There's an extra paragraph there with other environmental and community resource concerns that was added after the packet went out. So that's what we're considering is what's on the screen now.

We'll also fix the typo of whereas. I share concerns on both sides of it. You know, I feel that there's a lot of misinformation or lack of information around a lot of the things like development, water treatment plants, even our current water supply, and we're all scrambling to get the answers. We want to know. We're demanding it from those authorities. I am... I am concerned about this resolution stating that the commissioner's court takes the stance against property rights. But I really don't know that it actually says that. And I think that it's just asking for the state to do their due diligence and to consider the impact of these things, like a lot of other things that we have to agree to as a court, as a county. I do believe, I share your concern, Commissioner Hogg, in that we will just continue to pass these resolutions one after the other. I am hopeful, and my desire would be that the court, over time, ahead of the next session, could come together and present maybe legislative priorities for the next session to Senator Campbell and to State Rep. Isaac that would maybe eliminate the need for these individual resolutions. something that we could all agree upon potentially to send up to the state as our wish list or desires and requests. I appreciate the work Commissioner Webby did on this to ensure that we're not trying to infringe on property rights, but instead ask questions and and hope that if they are incentivizing these, that they do understand the long-term impacts. And like a lot of things that happen in the county and the unincorporated area, the state, and they come in with their rules, and the county is left with sort of how to clean it up or how to answer questions to our constituents. And so education is important, getting the facts out, and I think this helps with that.

Do we have a motion and a second?

We do, yes. Oh, no, we don't. No. But first, we wanted to offer, is there anyone here that would like to address the court public comment on this item? OK.

I think we wore them out.

Wore them out, yeah. OK. What is the pleasure of the court?

Move to approve action agenda item number 17. Second.

There's a motion by Commissioner Crownover to approve action agenda item number 17 with a second by Commissioner Leacock. Any other further discussion or questions? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Those opposed? Thank you. Motion carries. Item 18 is discuss and consider approval of an order number 561 granting the disposition of salvage or surplus property. Good morning, Mr. Davidoff.

Good morning, Judge and Commissioners. This order is just authorizing us to go ahead and send to auction all the items presented in the attached PDF document. We have some vehicles on there, old police equipment, election equipment, IT equipment. So if anybody has any questions, I respectfully request approval of this agenda item.

Move to approve action agenda item number 18. Second.

There's a motion to approve action agenda item number 18 by Commissioner Leacock with a second by Commissioner Hogg. Any questions or discussion? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Item number 19, discuss and consider award of bid 2026-1108, flexible base type A, grade 2 with A, Colorado Materials LTD as the primary, and B, Martin Marietta as secondary, an authorized purchasing agent to execute all related documents. Good morning.

Good morning. We received the responses to bid 2026-1108. And we are recommending award to Colorado Materials as primary for delivery and Martin Marietta as secondary for delivery.

Move to approve action agenda item number 19A and B. Second.

Here's a motion to approve action agenda item number 19A and B by Commissioner Leacock with a second by Commissioner Hogg. Any questions or discussion? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Thank you, guys. Item number 20, discuss and consider approval of a temporary part-time warehouse specialist position within the purchasing department for up to 25 hours per week for a period of four weeks. No budget amendment is necessary.

Judge and commissioners, when we moved into the building, we knew that we were going to have some challenges because in the old building in Goodwin, the receiving area and everything was together with the purchasing office, so we would cover for each other when our warehouse personnel were not available. Now that the warehouse is in the back of the building, we're in the first, second floor, and the on the opposite side of the building, it makes it more difficult to cover for the warehouse personnel as they take off vacation and whatnot. And we learned that when we had one of our warehouse men earlier this year take off for vacation, so now I have to move buyers around to go cover the warehouse for deliveries because we get deliveries all day long. So we have another warehouse man going on vacation. Rocky is going to the national competition for power lifting that we presented to the court. So learning what we learned back then is that I need to have somebody in the warehouse to receive packages again, because we get deliveries all day long. And now Carlos is going to have to take that delivery every morning, which three times a week is three to four hours out. On Tuesday and Thursday, he has to go to Sadler and Boulevard. So that's a five, usually out for five hours. So I need somebody in that warehouse other than a buyer, because once I lose a buyer, then I don't have them doing their delivery. normal routine work that I need them to do, especially right now during budget time. So I respectfully request approval of this agenda item.

Move to approve action agenda item number 20. Second.

There's a motion to approve action agenda item number 20 by Commissioner Webb with a second by Commissioner Crownover. Any discussion or questions for Mr. Davila?

Yeah, and I just wanted to kind of reiterate the point that you brought up earlier in conversation about this, is that you could shift your people from their office work to that, but then they don't always have the skills and certifications to do what needs to be done in the warehouse. And I think that's a big part of the point of this, is that the forklift certifications and all of those safety things that we have to cross our Ts and dot our Is, that you really do need somebody who has all of that. that it's not as easy as just sending somebody down there for a few hours to cover while deliveries are being made. So it's a little bit more complex than just that. So I wanted to make that point of why I see it as being warranted.

Thank you. And you see this as being something that, you know, going forward we're going to end up having to consider supporting, you know, having support staff inside the warehouse to do this. And I guess further, is it a half-day type of thing where you have deliveries typically in the morning, or is it a full-time impact to the warehouse and operations?

I think on that one, Commissioner, we're kind of victims of our own success. As we've grown and the Amazon delivery, we grew the Amazon platform, we get at least 15 delivery drivers that show up every day, all day long. What this is going to allow me to do, at least cover that morning shift where Carlos now has to make that drive and leave the warehouse, because we're not going to have a temp drive our county vehicles because he won't be under our insurance. Now I'm going to lose him. So I just need somebody there. But again, I spoke to you earlier about what's coming. We've got Red Cross is going to start using our place as a cash store, emergency supplies. Public Health is going to store all their stuff they have at the road department right now. So the whole personnel needed for the warehouse is going to expand because of the amount of work we have coming. Again, if somebody ever calls in sick, and luckily they haven't to date, that's an automatic, I need to grab somebody from my office and stick them out. And I've done it myself. I mean, I'll say I do it myself, too. I came up through a warehousing environment. I love everything about it. So I've actually done it, too. When Carlos left, I went down there and I was, you know, driving around in the forklifts and whatnot, you know, trying to remember what I used to do. So I jump out there, too, because, you know, but again, we're going to get to that point where I'm going to need a third body down there just to help just cover the amount of time and what's coming in the future, expectations of everything that we have right now. It's a lot. It's a lot.

Any other discussion? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries.

Thank you.

Thank you. Item 21, discuss and consider approval of a line item transfer from administration cost contingency personnel and extension services salaried personnel to extension services auto allowance, FICA, retirement, workers' compensation, and unemployment to provide funds for auto allowance and associated fringe benefits for four extension agents.

Judge, Commissioners, during the preparation of the 2026 budget back in the summer of 2025, the county was working on an arrangement with Texas A&M AgriLife to change the way we fund that extension service and their employees out there. We were working on an interlocal agreement with Texas A&M. Took way more time than was planned. We had other things happen during the process. So we never were able to actually get this interlocal agreement completed. And here we are in the beginning of 2026. And so what this budget amendment does is it basically puts it back to the funding arrangement, back to the original idea or the original plan or the original method that was used prior to this thought about doing this interlocal agreement. We may finally get this interlocal agreement done within the next few months. But in the meantime, this budget amendment just restores our old funding arrangement.

Move to approve action agenda item number 21.

Second. There's a motion to approve action agenda item number 21 by Commissioner Leacock with a second by Commissioner Cranover. Any questions or discussion? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Item 22, discuss and consider approval of a line item transfer and child safety fund from program expenditures, intergovernmental transfers, to administrative fees to provide additional funds for child safety fund administrative fees.

Judge and Commissioner, so we just need to do a small tweak between the two. The administrative cost part of doing this was a little bit more than what we had originally budgeted, and we just need to make this change.

Move to approve action agenda item number 22. Second.

There's a motion to approve action agenda item number 22 by Commissioner Leacock, with a second by Commissioner Hogg. Any questions or discussion? All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Item 23, discuss and consider approval of a line item transfer in coma, I'm sorry, county court at law, court number three, from mental commitments to psychiatric evaluation criminal to provide additional funds for psychological evaluations. What is the pleasure of the court? Seeing no motion, would you like to present?

No, I would just like to say that there are invoices that are needed to be paid. And this line of transfer is needed to pay those invoices.

Move to approve action, did item number 23. Thank you, Ms. Roth. Second.

There's a motion by Commissioner Webb with a second by Commissioner Leacock to approve action agenda item number 23. Any discussion or questions?

Thank you for filling in the blanks for us there.

Thank you. All right. All those in favor, please raise your right hand. Motion carries. Thank you. That concludes our agenda for this meeting. We will be going into recess as there's no need for executive session. We'll see you next Thursday.