BE IT REMEMBERED, that on this 11th day of August A.D., 2020, there was begun and held a SPECIAL MEETING of the Honorable Commissioners’ Court of Hidalgo County, Texas, wherein the following members thereof were present, to-wit:
| HONORABLE RICHARD F. CORTEZ HONORABLE DAVID FUENTES HONORABLE EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU HONORABLE ELLIE TORRES |
HIDALGO COUNTY JUDGE COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT NO. 1 COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT NO. 2 COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT NO. 4 |
and ARTURO GUAJARDO, JR., COUNTY CLERK & EX-OFFICIO CLERK OF THE COMMISSIONERS’ COURT of Hidalgo County, Texas, wherein the following proceedings were had, to-wit:
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AGENDA HIDALGO COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT MEETING August 11, 2020 10:00 A.M. |
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NOTICE is hereby given in accordance with Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, that a SPECIAL MEETING of the Commissioners Court will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom of the Administration Building, 100 E. Cano, 1st floor, Edinburg, Hidalgo County, Texas. Discussion and possible action relating to the following business will be transacted:
In accordance with section 418.016 of the Texas Government Code, Governor Abbott has suspended various provisions that require government officials and members of the public to be physically present at a specified meeting location. As a result, all or some government officials may participate via videoconference. Additionally, members of the public are encouraged to watch the meetings online, at:
www.hidalgocounty.us/HClive
To participate in public comment, please call: (956) 292-7630 and you will be given further instruction and be provided with a toll free number at that time.
All members of the Court were counted present with the exception of Commissioner Joe Flores.
Judge Richard Cortez led the Court in reciting the Pledge of Allegience.
Judge Richard Cortez led the Court in prayer.
The Court proceeded to approve the Consent Agenda.
-Fern McClaugherty expressed concerns on multiple Agenda Items as it pertained to Federal Funding, Emergency related funds and the impact it will have on the County.
Discussion and update as it relates to Hurricane Hanna.
Mr. Saldana informed the Court that the County currently has $4.7 million dollars in damages, from Hurricane Hanna, as reported by the County and other municipalities. As a result, they are working with the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley to assist with the distribution of food to the areas affected.
Eddie Olivarez, of the Health Department, then explained on how he has been working with the Precincts and cities on the most efficient way to deal with mosquitos.
1. Approval to accept the Howard G. Buffett Grant in the amount of $22,563.27, effective 04/01/2020 through 05/31/2020.
2. Approval of Certification of Revenues as certified by the County Auditor for the Howard G. Buffett Grant funds in the amount of $22,563.27 and appropriation of the same.
3. Approval for County Judge to sign the following documents as required by the grantor:
- Grant Letter
- Term and Policies Agreement
- Acknowledgment of Contribution
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote to approve items 7.A.1, 2 & 3.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
1. Approval of FY 2020 Overtime Agreement between the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office.
2. Approval to request OCDETF overtime (ot) funds in the amount of 5,000.00.
3. Authorization for Hidalgo County Sheriff, as local official, to sign agreement form and related documents.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote to approve items 8.A.1, 2 & 3.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
1. Civil Service Commission Rules - Section 3.22
2. Hidalgo County Personnel Policy Manual - Section 6.27
3. Budget Amendment Policy - Personnel Related Amendments
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote to approve items 9.A. 1, 2 & 3.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
1. Approval of the following personnel actions, effective next full pay period 08/17/2020:
| Action | Dept./Prg | Slot # | Position Title | Current Allowance Amount | Proposed Allowance Amount |
| Delete Clothing Allowance | 280-001 | 0233 | Senior Deputy Sheriff | $500.00 | $0.00 |
| Delete Clothing Allowance | 280-001 | 0403 | Deputy Sheriff | $500.00 | $0.00 |
| Add Clothing Allowance | 280-001 | 0334 | Deputy Sheriff | $0.00 | $500.00 |
| Add Clothing Allowance | 280-001 | 0128 | Deputy Sheriff | $0.00 | $500.00 |
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
2. Approval for Richard F. Cortez, as County Judge to sign Amendment documents.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
- Request of removal from program
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- First Amendment Executed
- Consideration and approval of the First Amendment to the 3 Year Cooperation Agreements
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
Judge Cortez Opened the Public Hearing for Comments.
Judge Cortez Closed the Public Hearing as no one signed up or had any comments.
B. Consideration and possible approval of mandatory payment to be assessed quarterly by the Hidalgo County Health Care Funding District on the net patient revenue of an institutional health care provider and how the revenue derived from those payments is to be spent.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
C. Consideration and possible approval for the Hidalgo County Tax Assessor/Collector to collect the mandatory payment required by Hidalgo County Health Care Funding District.
Mr. Olivarez clarified to the Court that this will have No impact on General Fund and No impact on Tax Payers. He explained that these fees are strictly collected from the private hospitals.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2 EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
D. Consideration and approval to assess mandatory payment annual rate.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2 EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote to approve the 6% rate, as allowable by state law.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
E. Consideration and approval to set quarterly assessment dates.
Mr. Olivarez stated for the record: Quarterly assesment dates for collection are November 30, 2020, March 1, 2021, June 1, 2021 and August 31, 2021.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2 EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
F. Discussion and/or action, including but not limited to Health Care Funding District and/or Expenditures.
NO ACTION taken on this item.
Ms. Yvonne Ramon informed the Court that the governor issued a Proclamation where Early Voting has been extended by six days. Early Voting will start on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 and will end on Friday, October 30, 2020. Ms. Ramon further explained that another item on the Proclamation was the Mail in Ballots. She clarified anytime, after the voter has received the ballot, they can walk it into the office.
Ms. Ramon also expressed concerns with the lack of funding for the election and the lack of security in her new office location .
2. Discussion, consideration and authority for the County Judge to order the November 3, 2020 General Election.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
1. Requesting approval to accept the Health and Human Services Grant Contract HHS000804500001 in the amount of $11,323,544 for the contract period of FY 2021 October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
2. Requesting approval for County Judge to DocuSign the contract and related documents.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
1. Approval to Redistribution of Funding Notice FY 20 from the Health Human Services Commission /DSHS in the amount of $250,000.00 from the Extra Other Funding Program (024).
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
2. Approval to de-obligate $250,000.00 from Extra Other Funding (Prog. 024).
3. Approval to appropriate $125,000.00 into the IPE Program (Prog. 023) and $125,000.00 into the COVID-19 Program (Prog. 026).
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote to approve items 13.B.2 & 3.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
1. Discussion, consideration, and action to approve the ratification of necessary CARES Act Relief Fund expenditures, as listed on Exhibit A, to cover costs not accounted for in the current budget and cannot be lawfully funded by line item, allotment or allocation in connection with the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency; the Court having reviewed the Agenda Item Briefing, herein finds that such expenditure is reasonable and necessary for the intended use.
2. Approval of intradepartmental transfer.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote to approve ITEMS 16.A.1 & 2.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
Approval of Advance Funding Agreement between Hidalgo County and Texas Department of Transportation for Mile 6W from SH107 to Mile 11 North (CSJ:0921-02-286) and approval of Order authorizing the County Judge to sign agreement for said project.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
Approval of 2020 interfund transfer from Pct. 1-ICA Weslaco-M10N (M6W-FM1015), program 255 (1200) to Pct. 1-ICA-Weslaco-M10N (M6W-FM1015) (1315) in the amount of $130,500 to fund project expenditures.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
Approval of 2020 interfund transfer from R&B (1200) into TxDOT (1315) in the amount of $26,869.60 to fund supplemental #2 to WA#1.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
Approval of the following salary schedule changes, effective 08/03/2020:
| Action | Dept./Prg. | Slot # | Obj. Code | Position Title | Current Grade & Step/Allowance | Proposed Grade & Step/Allowance |
| Create Allowance Slot to Provide Longevity | 270-003 | 0004 | 113 | Criminal Investigator II | G14/S01 | G14/S01 |
| 270-011 | A047 | 115 | 0.00 | 780.00 |
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
a. Approval of Certification of Revenues as certified by the County Auditor for revenues received from the City of Weslaco for ICA Weslaco M10N (M6W-FM1015) Project.
b. Approval of appropriation and interfund transfer in the amount of $130,500 to fund Pct. 1 Weslaco ICA-M10N (M6W-FM1015) project expenditures.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote to approve items 16.G.2.a & b.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
A. FOR ANY CONTRACT(S) AWARDED AND APPROVED UNDER THIS AGENDA, EXECUTED COPIES OF THE CONTRACT(S) WILL BE AVAILABLE ON THE COUNTY INTRA-NET WEBSITE AND WILL BE FORWARDED VIA E-MAIL, FAX OR HAND DELIVERED TO HIDALGO COUNTY AUDITOR'S OFFICE.
B. ANY AND ALL REQUESTS FOR PAYMENT(S) APPROVED WILL BE SUBJECT TO COUNTY AUDITORS PROCESSING PROCEDURES INCLUDING AUTHORITY FOR COUNTY TREASURER TO ISSUE PAYMENT(S)/CHECK(S).
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
Martha Salazar did state that the 1295 for this item has already been done.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2 EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
B. Requesting exemption from competitive procurement requirements pursuant to Texas Local Government Code, 262.024 (a)(7) as attached herein;
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
C. Acceptance and approval of "Sole Source Declaration" for "Lodox NA, LLC" for the purchase of eXtero-dr Digital Radiography Image System including any present and future accessories, supplies, support, service, and maintenance from CIMS (Clinical Image Management Systems, Quote #11011 in the amount of $565,550.00 to be used by Hidalgo County Forensic Center with said declaration to remain in effect while in place or until revoked by HCCC.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
D. Approval of MSA (Master Service Agreement) with CIMS (Clinical Image Management Systems) sole Texas distributor of Lodox NA, LLC products.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
E. Pursuant to the Terms and Conditions of Sale, authority for County Treasurer to issue a 20% down payment upon execution of the Agreement, 70% due upon delivery of the system, and final 10% net 30 after installation, after procurement procedure has been completed by the County Auditor's Office.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
A. Discussion, consideration and action to approve a necessary CARES Act Relief Fund expenditure to cover costs not accounted for in the current budget and cannot be lawfully funded by line item, allotment or allocation, for the Hidalgo County Office of Emergency Management for the relocation [due to lack of space at present location] to two county owned buildings in need of renovations an/or repairs to serve as Emergency Operations and Call Centers in order to assist with County functions related to the public health measures addressing the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency; the Court having reviewed the Agenda Item Briefing herein find that such expenditure is reasonable and necessary for the intended use;
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
Commissioner David Flores stepped away from the Court.
B. Acceptance and approval of a Service Agreement between Hidalgo County and Rike/Ogden/Figueroa/Allex Architects [ROFA] in connection with the project specific: Renovation/Remodeling of two county owned buildings to serve as Emergency Operations and Call Centers for the Office of Emergency Management subject to compliance with all requirements and legal counsel's final review and approval as to legal form.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 3 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 3- 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 3 - 0 – Unanimously
Commissioner David Fuentes joined the meeting.
B. Requesting to award All Valley Charters, LLC for the provisions of bus transport services commencing upon approval and expiring on 12/31/2020, subject to Form 1295.
Mrs. Salazar informed the Court that these services were needed since the "Texas Department of Corrections no longer comes to transport paper ready inmates that are ready to start serving their sentences in state prison because of Covid". Mrs. Josephine Ramirez-Solis, District Attorney's Office, explained to the Court that the Cares was not used due to the Sheriff having a "very small window of opportunity go get the inmates over to the state and they have given him 3 or 4 locations that he's gonna have to be shipping inmates to".
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
B. In accordance with Texas Government Code 791.001 - 794.003 (2) (3) requesting approval of an interlocal cooperation agreement {ILA} between Hidalgo County [SO] and the City of Alton for the mutual benefit and assistance in connection with surplus law enforcement vehicles.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
Pursuant to Texas Constitution, Article 3, Sect. 52, requesting acceptance and approval of "Public Purpose Declaration: for Fiscal Year 2020 to include the purchase through [the Requisition and Purchase Order protocol of Hidalgo County] of miscellaneous items with the affixing of any applicable identifying JP3-2 Logos [i.e. printed materials, supplies and other related items as needed] which assist in efforts in disseminating information of educational and health awareness, public safety services and programs affecting the community including, but not limited to the following: pencils, pens, color pencils, hand sanitizers, rulers, notebooks, school boxes/school pouches, cinch backpacks, crayons, calendars, lanyards, stress balls, key chains, computer cleaning cloths, table covers, tent, banners.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2 EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
B. Requesting exemption from competitive procurement requirements pursuant to Texas Local Government Code 262.024 (a)(1)(2)(7), attached herein; and
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
C. Requesting approval to purchase Disposable Lab Coat through distributor Promo Universal LLC in the total amount of $93,000.00.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
B. Requesting exemption from competitive bidding/procurement requirements under Texas Local Government Code, 262.024(a)(1) and (2) attached herein;
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
At this time, Mr. Valde Guerra requested that the Court go back to item
C. Approval to submit a Wireless Pole Attachment License Agreement between Magic Valley Electric Cooperative (MVEC), Inc. and Hidalgo County for the installation of equipment supporting the Hidalgo Count Wifi Project subject to legal review
D. Approval to submit a Wireless Pole Attachment License Agreement between American Electric Power (AEP) and Hidalgo County for the installation of equipment supporting the Hidalgo Count Wifi Project subject to legal review
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2 EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote to approve items 17.I.1.C & D, subject to legal's final review.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
1) Update on ongoing county owned building construction, relocation and/or renovation repair projects
2) Emergency situations occurring since last agenda meeting
NO ACTION taken on items 18.A.1 & 2.
A. County response to disaster/health emergency:
1. CARES Act Funds
a. Interlocal cooperation agreement with the Municipalities
Commissioner David Fuentes motioned to modify the interlocal with the municipalities to reflect change in due dates from August 31st to October 31st - extending it for 60 days. Mrs. Josie Ramirez wanted to clarify that Commissioner Fuentes was requesting an extension for 60 days so that the municipalities can expend the Cares Act funds that were designated to them. Commissioner Fuentes then clarified that it might be more than 60 days, which is why he reiterated until October 31st.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4- 0 – Unanimously
b. Interlocal cooperation agreement with McAllen Independent School District
Mrs. Josie Ramirez stated that she didn't believe that they had a final agreement ready. She recommended that they authorize one of the Commissioners to proceed in working out the details on said agreement. Commissioner Fuentes continued to say that they were just working on the details as to the amount and the other Commissioners agreed. The Commissioners will be bringing this item back before the Court.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT.4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4- 0 – Unanimously
B. Measures necessary to preserve public health and safety
NO ACTION taken on this item.
C. Direction regarding County government operations, including but not limited to essential functions
Mr. Valde Guerra stated that they will continue to do what they need to do to protect the health and safety of our constituents when doing business at our county facilities as well as staff and employees through facial coverings, social distancing and promoting the importance of adhering to CDC guidelines as it pertains to Covid-19.
NO ACTION taken on this item.
Commissioners' Court may go into Closed Session pursuant to Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, Sections 551.071, (Consultation with Attorney), 551.072 (Deliberation regarding Real Property), Section 551.074 (Personnel Matters) and Section 551.087 (Economic Development) to discuss the following:
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO "EDDIE" CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval to go into Closed Session.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
NO ACTION taken on items 20.A through E.
NO ACTION taken on this item.
B. Engagement with the firm of _________________________ for the "Provision of Legal Services/Representation in connection with Litigation" and authority to submit letter of engagement (subject to compliance with HB1295)
NO ACTION taken on this item.
NO ACTION taken on this item.
NO ACTION taken on this item.
Valde Guerra referred back to item 19.
Mr. Valde Guerra stated that Mrs. Josephine Ramirez' Office, DA's Civil Division, will be facilitating on behalf of Hidalgo County & Hidalgo County Health Department.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4- 0 – Unanimously
Valde Guerra requested settlement authority to make an offer in the amount of $120.00.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval.
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
Commissioners Court may reconvene into Closed Session for the discussion regarding the agenda items listed
NO ACTION taken on this item.
Commissioners Court may reconvene into Open Session for the discussion regarding the agenda items listed
NO ACTION taken on this item.
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval to Adjourn the meeting @ 12:00 p.m.
Vote: 4- 0 – Unanimously
Court, the meetings of the Commissioners' Court and the
Drainage District #1 Board are now hereby adjourned.
Dated this the 11th day of August, 2020
ARTURO GUAJARDO, JR., County Clerk
Hidalgo County, Texas
By: ______________________________
Priscilla Torres, Deputy
I, ARTURO GUAJARDO, JR., County Clerk attest that this is an accurate accounting of a proceeding of the Commissioners’ Court held on August 11, 2020.
Signed this 12th day of August 2020
ATTEST:
ARTURO GUAJARDO, JR.
County Clerk and Ex-Officio Clerk
Of the Commissioners’ Court of
Hidalgo County
By: ____________________________
(Seal) Priscilla Torres, Deputy
