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Minutes for CC REGULAR AGENDA SPECIAL MTG

SPECIAL MEETING - April 20, 2021

BE IT REMEMBERED, that on this 20th day of April A.D., 2021, 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 EVERARDO "EVER" VILLARREAL

HONORABLE ELLIE TORRES
HIDALGO COUNTY JUDGE

COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT NO. 1

COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT NO. 2

COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT NO. 3

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:

AGENDA
CC REGULAR
HIDALGO COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS COURT MEETING
April 20, 2021
10:00 A.M.
                                          

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 video conference.  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.

 
1.
 
Roll Call (Audio Reference 08m:25s)

Judge Cortez called the meeting to order at 10:06 A.M.

All members of the court were present during the roll call.
 
2.
 
Pledge of Allegiance (Audio Reference 08m:49s)

Veteran Javier Arredondo led in the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance.


 
3.
 
Prayer (Audio Reference 09m:53s)

Honorable Judge Nereida Lopez-Singleterry of Master Court No.1, offered the prayer.
 
4.
 
Approval of Consent Agenda (Audio Reference 10m:49s)

The court proceeded to the approval of the Consent Agenda.
 
5.
 
Open Forum (Audio Reference 12m:39s)

There were 6 Open Forum participants.

Participants Imelda Olvera, Jessica Vasturo, and Jessica Preceado voiced their opinions on the availability of public internet.

Participant Gary Groves, came before the court to express his concerns on the 2021 elections.

Participant Jane Cross, came before the court to express her concerns on what she felt was dereliction of duty by the Justice of the Peace and Hidalgo County on a certain matter.

Participant Fern McClaugherty, came before the court to express her concerns on how the county was being operated under the courts’ administration during the COVID-19 pandemic, the administration of taxpayers' monies, as well as on agenda item 7.C.

No action was taken on agenda item 5.
 
6.
 
County Judge's Office:
 
A.
AI-80462
Approval of Resolution congratulating UTRGV chess team. (Audio Reference 26m:34s)

Hector Beccera, with the Public Affairs Divison, read the Resolution congratulating UTRGV chess team.

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 6.A.
                                                        
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously

Individuals from UTRGV, Richard Sanchez, Douglas Stoves, and Bartek Macieja expressed their gratitude towards the court for the recognition.
 
7.
 
Human Resources:
 
A.
 
Requesting waiver of the following, if applicable, for personnel items listed:
1. Civil Service Commission Rules - Section 3.22
2. Hidalgo County Personnel Policy Manual - Section 6.27

At the request of Erika Reyna, with the Human Resources Department, no action was taken on agenda items 7.A.1 and 7.A.2.

3. Budget Amendment Policy - Personnel Related Amendments (Audio Reference 32m:45s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 7.A.3.

Vote: 5 - 0 -Unanimously

At the request of Ms. Reyna, the court proceeded to agenda item 7.C. (Audio Reference 33m:11s)
 
B.
AI-80310
1. Discussion, consideration, and action to approve payment of certain COVID-19 related overtime hours to FLSA covered employees listed in Exhibit A in accordance with Section 7.51 of the Hidalgo County Civil Service Commission Rules and Section 8.40 of the Hidalgo County Personnel Policy Manual for overtime hours worked from April 1, 2021 through June 30, 2021. (Audio Reference 1h:02m 05s).

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra stated, and Erika Reyna, with the Human Resources Department, confirmed that there was an updated attachment for agenda item 7.B that had been uploaded prior to the court's action.

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 7.B.1.
                                                                              
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously

2. Discussion, consideration, and action to waive Section 7.61 of the Hidalgo County Civil Service Commission Rules and to approve payment of certain COVID-19 related overtime hours to FLSA non-covered employees listed in Exhibit B for overtime hours worked from April 1, 2021 through June 30,2021. (Audio Reference 1h:03m 03s).

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 7.B.2.
                                                                              
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously

The court proceeded to agenda item 21. (Audio Reference 1h:03m 03s).
Attachments:
 
C.
AI-80456
Community Service Agency (3300):
Approval to create the following full-time temporary positions for 37 weeks, effective upon Commissioner's Court approval and ending 12/31/2021, as follows:
Action Dept./Prg. Slot # Position Title Proposed Salary
Create 4 positions 901-033 T082 - T085 Eligibility Worker I $27,187.00
Create 4 positions 901-033 T086 - T089 Case Study Manager $32,115.00
Create 1 position 901-033 T090 Coordinator II $43,796.00
Create 1 position 901-033 T091 Accountant I $33,439.00

(Audio Reference 33m:11s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 7.C.

Vote: 5 - 0 -Unanimously 
Attachments:
 
8.
 
Urban County:
 
A.
AI-80420
Urban County Program (UCP) is requesting consideration and approval a Resolution authorization the submission of a 2021-2022 Colonia Fund: Construction (CFC) application in the amount up to $1,000,000.00; and Authorize the County Judge, Richard F. Cortez to act as the County’s Executive Officer and Authorized Representative in all matters pertaining to the County’s participation in the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Texas Community Development Block Grant Program 2021-2022 CFC application. (Audio Reference 34m:15s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 8.A.
                                                                              
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
B.
AI-80421
Subject to Compliance with HB 1295, requesting consideration and action to award and enter into a construction contract with RBM Contractors LLC, the lowest responsible bidder in the amount of $235,700.51 utilizing Edcouch Street Improvements, UCP funds from Fiscal Years FY 31, 32 & 33 (2018-2020). (Audio Reference 35m:14s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 8.B.
                                                        
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
C.
AI-80382
"Subject to compliance with HB 1295, when and if applicable." The CDBG-DR GLO 2015 Housing Program is requesting the award of bids and the approval of contracts with R G Enterprises, LLC, dba G & G Contractors & A-One Insulation for the demolition and reconstruction of the following  (pending legal review):
  1. (2) Units in the Countywide area in the total contract amount of $171,400.00 to R G Enterprises, LLC, dba G & G Contractors  
  2. (1) Unit in the Countywide area in the total contract amount of $75,500.00 to A-One Insulation. 
(Audio Reference 35m:49s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 8.C.1 & 2.

Vote: 5 - 0 -Unanimously 
Attachments:
 
9.
 
Community Service Agency:
 
A.
AI-80409
1. Discussion, consideration and possible action to open two bank accounts for each of the following grants:
Rental Relief Program and Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), with designation for Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez and CSA Executive Director Jaime Longoria as signatories on such accounts. (Audio Reference 36m:45s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 9.A.1.

Vote: 5 - 0 -Unanimously 

2. Authorization for Jaime Longoria and County Judge to sign any and all pertinent documents associated with the establishment of the accounts. (Audio Reference 40m:21s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 9.A.2.
                                                        
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
Attachments:
 
10.
 
Elections Administration:
 
A.
AI-80392
Discussion on Election Updates. (Audio Reference 40m:42s)

Hilda Salinas, Assistant Director with the Elections Department, gave an update on the 2021 City of San Juan, Sharyland ISD Progreso ISD, and McAllen ISD elections. 

No action was taken on agenda item 10.A.
 
11.
 
WIC:
 
A.
AI-80364
WIC Lactation Support Center Services (1292):
1. Requesting permission to accept the Amendment #2 to Contract No.HHS000455900001 in the amount of $200,000.00 to increase the total amount of the contract  to $600,000.00.
2. Requesting approval for County Judge to DocuSign the Signature page for Amendment #2 Contract No. HHS000455900001.
3. Requesting approval for the Certification of Revenue in the amount $200,000.00as approved by County Auditor.
4. Requesting approval of the Budget Appropriation the amount of $200,000.00. (Audio Reference 43m:08s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 11.A.1 through 4.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
12.
 
Planning Department:
 
A.
AI-80416
1. Preliminary Approval
a.  La Homa Crossing Phase II Subdivision- Pct. 3 (Red Rock Real Estate Dev. Group, LTD.) (La Homa Road & Mile 7 North Road)
 No. of Lots: 41 Single Family, 8 Commercial
 Flood Zone: X (Unshaded)
 Estimated Number of Streetlights: 8
 Filling Stations: 3
 Drainage: Yes, Drainage will be provided by storm sewer system that will discharge to detention areas and ultimately discharging into TxDot system.
 ETJ: Yes, approved by the City of Mission
 Water: Yes, provided by Sharyland Water Supply Corporation
 Sewer: Yes, OSSF’S
 Paved: Yes, La Homa Road is paved and 3 internal streets to be paved. (Audio Reference 44m:36s)

Commissioner Cantu abstained from any discussion and/or action on agenda item 12.A.1.a.

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 12.A.1.a
                                                                              
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
 
13.
 
Precinct #1 - Comm. Fuentes:
 
A.
AI-80449
Appointment of member to the Hidalgo County Housing Authority Board. (Audio Reference 45m:52s)

Commissioner Fuentes re-appointed Oscar Ramirez.

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 13.A on the re-appointment of Oscar Ramirez. 
                                                        
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
Attachments:
 
14.
 
Precinct #4 - Comm. Torres:
 
A.
AI-80447
1. Requesting approval to rescind action taken by (CC-03/30/21-AI-80143) and item #1 (CC-12/20/20-AI-78779) for ICA and First Amendment to the ICA between Hidalgo County and The University of Health Science Center of Houston for the “Tu Salud; Si Cuenta!” for a community outreach program/activities provided within Precinct 1 & 4. (Audio Reference 46m:11s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 14.A.1.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously

2. Requesting approval of an updated ICA document by and between the University of Health Science Center of Houston on behalf of its Department of Brownsville Regional Campus and Hidalgo County to provide: Tu Salud/Si Cuenta for a community outreach program/activities within Precinct 1 & 4, with modified commencement date, November 23, 2020, expiring, September 30, 2021. (Audio Reference 47m:02s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 14.A.2.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
B.
AI-80443
1. Acceptance and approval of an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement (ICA) between the County of Hidalgo and the City of Edinburg for road reconstruction improvements to a portion of North Mon Mack Road. (Audio Reference 47m:36s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 14.B.1.

Vote: 5 - 0 - Unanimously 

2. In accordance with Section 791.014 of the Texas Government Code, requesting approval of a road improvement project to a portion of North Mon Mack Road (North of Monte Cristo). (Audio Reference 48m:00s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 14.B.2.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
15.
 
Budget & Management:
 
A.
AI-80454
CSA-Emergency Rental Assistance Program (1287):
a. Approval to accept funds received from the US Treasury for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program. (Audio Reference 48m:20s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 15.A.a.

Vote: 5 - 0 -Unanimously 

b. Discussion, consideration, and approval of Memorandum of Understanding between Hidalgo County and Community Service Agency for administration of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program funds received, with authority for the County Treasurer to issue periodic payments to the Community Service Agency on an as needed basis after auditing procedures by the County Auditor. (Audio Reference 48m:42s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 15.A.b.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
B.
AI-80453
Discussion, consideration and approval of a short-term loan to Community Service Agency in the amount of $500,000.00 to be repaid from grant reimbursements 90 days after the expiration of the Emergency Solutions Grant - Corona Virus Program (ESG-CV). (Audio Reference 49m:11s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 15.B.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
C.
 
Budget Appropriations:
 
1.
AI-80369
JP PRSRVTN of Vital Stats (1100): 
Approval of appropriation of funds from General Fund Restricted Fund Balance - JP PRSRV Vital Sta for JP PRSRVTN of Vital Stats in the amount of $6,644.50 to fund employee background checks, the ordering of birth/death certificates and anticipated expenses. (Audio Reference 49m:35s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 15.C.1.
                                                                              
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
Attachments:
 
2.
AI-80406
Various SOA1350 (1303):
Requesting approval of Certification of Revenue by the County Auditor in the amount of $1,660,000.00 from proceeds received from the sale of the South Detention Basin and appropriation of the same. (Audio Reference 49m:58s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 15.C.2.
                                                        
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
Attachments:
 
3.
AI-80335
Justice Court Tech Fund (1242):
Approval of 2021 appropriation of funds for the Justice Court Tech Fund (1242) unassigned fund balance in the amount of $246,000.00 to fund JP Technology expenses (Audio Reference 50m:21s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 15.C.3.
                                                        
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
Attachments:
 
4.
AI-80386
A. Approval of Certification of Revenues as certified by the County Auditor for various TXDOT projects.
B. Approval of 2020 appropriation of funds for various TXDOT projects in the total amount of $20,444,321.47. (Audio Reference 50m:41s)

Budget Officer, Sergio Cruz, stated a correction to the total amount listed on the agenda item. In which, the amount should read $21,488,594.74, and not  $20,444,321.47.

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 15.C.4, with corrected amount.

Vote: 5 - 0 -Unanimously 
Attachments:
 
16.
 
Purchasing Department - Notes:
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).
 
A.
 
Hidalgo County
 
1.
AI-80432
Requesting approval to award to sole responsible bid received from vendor,  "Cemex" for RFB:2020-543-03-24-JJR  titled: "Purchase of Concrete Mix and Delivery." (Audio Reference 51m:11s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.A.1.

Vote: 5 - 0 -Unanimously 
 
B.
 
Pct. 3
 
1.
AI-80461
A.  Requesting exemption from competitive bidding requirements under Texas Local Government Code 262.024(a)(4) for professional service; (Audio Reference 51m:58s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 3, EVERARDO “EVER” VILLARREAL, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.B.1.A

Vote: 5 - 0 - Unanimously

B.  Presentation of scoring grid, for the purpose of ranking by HCCC, of firms graded through the County's Pool of Engineering Professional Services for Traffic & Safety Studies; 
  KCI Technologies, Inc. R. Gutierrez Engineering Corporation SDI Engineering, LLC
Evaluator 1 98 95
92
Evaluator 2 99 96 89

(Audio Reference 52m:17s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 3, EVERARDO “EVER” VILLARREAL, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.B.1.B, as ranked.

Vote: 5 - 0 - Unanimously

C.  Requesting authority for the HC Purchasing Department to negotiate a Professional Engineering Services Agreement commencing with the number one ranked firm of KCI Technologies, Inc. (Audio Reference 52m:53s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.B.1.C.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
2.
AI-80424
Requesting approval of "on-call" agreement between Hidalgo County and Professional Appraisal Services, Inc. - C-21-0437-04-20 for the provision of "On-Call Appraisal Services for projects located within Precinct 3. (Audio Reference 53m:11s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.B.2.

Vote: 5 - 0 -Unanimously 
 
3.
AI-80422
Requesting approval of "on-call" agreement between Hidalgo County and J & R Engineering, LLC. - C-21-0436-04-20 for the provision of "On-Call Engineering Services for projects located within Precinct 3. (Audio Reference 53m:30s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 3, EVERARDO “EVER” VILLARREAL, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.B.3.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
 
C.
 
Pct. 4
 
1.
AI-80425
A. Requesting approval of professional engineering services agreement with GDJ Engineering, LLC for Project-Specific  Civil Engineering Services for the Design of Beacon Lights on 10th Street (Chapin & Rogers Rds.) for Pct. 4 as approved for negotiations by CC on 03/23/21. (Audio Reference 53m:51s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.C.1.A.

Vote: 5 - 0 - Unanimously 

B. Approval of Work Authorization #1 for the Design of Beacon Lights for 10th Street (Chapin & Rogers Rds.) in the amount of $24,362.00. (Audio Reference 54m:21s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.C.1.B.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
D.
 
IT Department
 
1.
AI-80380
Approval of vArmour Networks, Inc. Mutual Nondisclosure Agreement to allow exploration of a possible business relationship. (Audio Reference 54m:38s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.D.1.
                                                        
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
 
E.
 
Health & Human Services Dept.
 
1.
AI-80381
Requesting consideration and approval of the Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between Hidalgo County and Progreso Independent School District for the purpose of effectively responding to public health threats and emergencies. (Audio Reference 55m:01s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.E.1.
                                                        
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
F.
 
Sheriff's Office
 
1.
AI-80407
A. Pursuant to Texas Local Government Code, 263.152, discussion and approval to declare as "surplus" Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office Vehicles as listed on Exhibit "A" including authority to remove said personal property from the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office inventory list; (Audio Reference 55m:25s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.F.1.A.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously

B. In accordance with Texas Government Code 791.001- 791.003 (2)(3) requesting acceptance and action to enter into an interlocal cooperation agreements [ILAs] between Hidalgo County and:
  •       City of Palmview
  •       San Manuel Volunteer Fire Department
for the mutual benefit and assistance in connection with surplus vehicles. (Audio Reference 55m:55s)

Assistant Purchasing Director with the Purchasing Department, Dina Trevino, stated approval subject to legal review.

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.F.1.B, subject to legal review.
                                                                              
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
2.
AI-80400
Authority to purchase law enforcement uniforms for  the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office with Galls, LLC. under our membership/participaion with Buyboard contract 587-19 through requisition 428399 in the amount of $57,594.40. (Audio Reference 56m:33s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.F.2.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
Attachments:
 
3.
AI-80388
Recommendation by HC Sheriff's Office & action to reject bid received for RFB No. 2021-004-03-10-TDL - Emergency and Non-Emergency Medical Transportation for Inmates, as bid received, was over budget. (Audio Reference 56m:54s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.F.3.

Vote: 5 - 0 - Unanimously 
Attachments:
 
G.
 
District Attorney
 
1.
AI-80391
Requesting acceptance and approval of Work Authorization No. 3 with an estimated cost of $7,025.70 as submitted by Raba Kistner, Inc. through On-Call Professional Engineering Services Agreement (C-20-687-12-29) for Construction Materials & Geotechnical Testing Services for the HC Forensic Center Project. (Audio Reference 57m:17s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.G.1.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
2.
AI-80357
A.)  Presentation of Evaluation Committee's scoring grid results for RFP No. 2020-553-02-24-ABV Psychological Evaluation for Defendants (Competency) for CC to approve the respondent's as "Qualified" to proceed to the negotiation phase of the process [as HC has option for multiple awards]; (Audio Reference 57m:49s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.G.2.A

Vote: 5 - 0 - Unanimously 

B.)   Authorization for the Purchasing Department to commence negotiations with both "Qualified" participants for the aforementioned project:
  • Gregorio Piña, III PhD
  • Mid Valley Behavior And Psychological Services (Audio Reference 58m:24s)
On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.G.2.B.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
H.
 
Co. Wide
 
1.
AI-80431
A. Requesting discussion, consideration and applicable action to exercise a one (1) year extension option to the current awarded vendors below for Disaster Recovery Services with an current expiration date of 08-26-21:
  Contract No. Awarded Vendor
Primary C-19-074-08-27 Ceres Environmental Services, Inc.
Secondary C-19-074a-08-27 CrowderGulf, LLC
Tertiary C-19-074b-08-27 DRC Emergency Services, LLC

No action was taken on agenda item 16.H.1.A.

OR;

B. Requesting approval to publish a new RFP procurement packet with any changes/modifications proposed by CC members. (Audio Reference 58m:49s)

The court made a motion to select agenda item 16.H.1.B as follows:

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES to modify the RFP procurement packet, and include the chiefs of staff as part of the process, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 16.H.1.B.
                                                                              
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
17.
 
Executive Office:
 
A.
 
Presentation for discussion of the following:
1) Update on ongoing county owned building construction, relocation and/or renovation repair projects
2) Emergency situations occurring since last agenda meeting (Audio Reference 1h:00m 47s)

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra, stated that no action was to be taken on agenda items 17.A.1, nor on 17.A.2.
 
B.
AI-80472
Requesting authority for County Judge to sign the Request for Inspection Form from Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation for Hidalgo Co. Pct. #1 New Tax Office (Audio Reference 1h:00m 52s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 17.B.
                                                        
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
Attachments:
 
C.
AI-80419
Approval to accept settlement check from Pronto Insurance in the amount of $920.00 to settle auto accident claim with County vehicle. (Sheriff Office) (Audio Reference 1h:01m 07s)

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 2, EDUARDO “EDDIE” CANTU, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval on agenda item 17.C.
                                                        
Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously

The court proceeded to agenda item 19 - Closed Session (Audio Reference 1h:01m 19s)
 
18.
 
Discussion, consideration and possible action regarding:
A. County response to disaster/health emergency:
1. CARES Act Funds (Audio Reference 1h:05m 00s).

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra, stated that no action was to be taken on agenda item 18.A.1.

B. Measures necessary to preserve public health and safety (Audio Reference 1h:05m 11s).

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra, stated that no action was to be taken on agenda item 18.B.

C. Direction regarding County government operations, including but not limited to essential functions (Audio Reference 1h:05m 17s).

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra, stated that the county will continue to follow CDC guidelines to ensure the safety of all the constituents and county employees conducting business at county facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

No action was taken on agenda item 18.C.

The court proceeded to agenda item 24 - Adjournment (Audio Reference 1h:05m 45s)
 
19.
 
Closed Session:
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: (Audio Reference 1h:01m 30s)

The court proceeded into Closed Session at 11:00 A.M.

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 proceed into Closed Session.

Vote: 5 - 0 – Unanimously
 
A.
 
Real Estate Acquisition

Reference agenda item 21.A.
 
B.
 
Private consultation and advice of counsel concerning pending, potential and/or contemplated litigation, settlement offers, and/or legal matters subject to the attorney-client priviledge under the authority of the Open Meetings Act Section 551.071, Government Code.

Reference agenda item 21.B.
 
C.
 
Consultation with Legal Counsel regarding Legal Action due to emergency situation

Reference agenda item 21.C.
 
D.
AI-80475
Deliberation regarding the following Economic Development Negotiations pursuant to Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, Section 551.087: Project Camp

Reference agenda item 21.D.
 
E.
AI-80428
Cause No.CL-19-2490-A; Gabriel Garcia Espinoza v. Hidalgo County

Reference agenda item 21.E.
 
F.
AI-80395
Claim of Frontier Communications 

Reference agenda item 21.F.
 
20.
 
A. Requesting exemption from competitive bidding requirements under the Texas Local Government Code, Section 262.024(A) (4) "a Professional Service" for the "provision of legal services/representation in connection with litigation."
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) (Audio Reference 1h:04m 50s).

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra, stated that no action was to be taken on agenda items 20.A, nor on 20.B.

The court proceeded back to agenda item 18. (Audio Reference 1h:05m 00s).
 
21.
 
Open Session: (Audio Reference 1h:02m 00s).

The court returned from Closed Session at 12:00 P.M, and proceeded to agenda item 7.B.

Judge Cortez did not return from Closed Session.
 
A.
 
Real Estate Acquisition and appropriation for same (Audio Reference 1h:03m 03s).

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra stated that no action was to be taken on agenda item 21.A.
 
B.
 
Pending and/or potential litigation (Audio Reference 1h:03m 46s).

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra stated that no action was to be taken on agenda item 21.B.
 
C.
 
Discussion, consideration and possible action regarding response to public health emergency (Audio Reference 1h:03m 50s).

Reference agenda item 18.
 
D.
AI-80476
Deliberation regarding the following Economic Development Negotiations pursuant to Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, Section 551.087: Project Camp (Audio Reference 1h:03m 57s).

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra, stated that there was no specific action to be taken, and the administration will proceed as directed.

No action was taken on agenda item 21.D.
 
E.
AI-80429
Cause No.CL-19-2490-A; Gabriel Garcia Espinoza v. Hidalgo County (Audio Reference 1h:04m 12s).

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra, requested the court to entertain a motion for the mediated settlement agreement in the amount of $42,500.00.

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval as stated above on agenda item 21.E.
                                                                              
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously
 
F.
AI-80396
Claim of Frontier Communications (Audio Reference 1h:04m 36s).

County Executive Officer, Valde Guerra, requested for settlement authority to make an offer in the amount of $735.00

On motion by COMMISSIONER PCT. 1, DAVID FUENTES, seconded by COMMISSIONER PCT. 4, ELLIE TORRES, the Court made a UNANIMOUS vote of approval as stated above on agenda item 21.F.
                                                                              
Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously

The court proceeded back to agenda item 20 (Audio Reference 1h:04m 50s)
 
22.
 
Closed Session:
Commissioners Court may reconvene into Closed Session for the discussion regarding the agenda items listed

The court did not proceed into Closed Session - agenda item 22.
 
23.
 
Open Session:
Commissioners Court may reconvene into Open Session for the discussion regarding the agenda items listed

The court did not proceed to agenda item 23 - Open Session.
 
24.
 
Adjourn (Audio Reference 1h:05m 45s)

The meeting was adjourned at 12:04 P.M.

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.

Vote: 4 - 0 – Unanimously

There being no further business to come before said

Court, the meetings of the Commissioners' Court and the

Drainage District #1 Board are now hereby adjourned.


Dated this the 20th day of April, 2021

ARTURO GUAJARDO, JR., County Clerk
Hidalgo County, Texas


By: ______________________________
Carolyn Thornton, Deputy


I, ARTURO GUAJARDO, JR., County Clerk attest that this is an accurate accounting of a proceeding of the Commissioners’ Court held on April 20, 2021.

Signed this 21st day of April 2021




ATTEST:
ARTURO GUAJARDO, JR.
County Clerk and Ex-Officio Clerk
Of the Commissioners’ Court of
Hidalgo County


By: ____________________________
(Seal) Carolyn Thornton, Deputy