Discussion and possible action to authorize the Economic Development Department to develop and submit the 2026-2027 Fund for Veterans' Assistance (FVA) Veterans County Service Officer (VCSO) Funding Opportunity to the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) in an amount not to exceed One Hundred Seventy-Six Thousand Dollars ($176,000.00). These grant funds will extend current transportation services for grant budget period September 1, 2026 through August 31, 2027. Which we offer to Webb County veterans and their families, and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents on this application. This grant does not require in-kind or cash match commitment. The Webb County Veteran Service Office has provided all the necessary documentation to the Economic Development Department for review. The solicitation is in compliant with Webb County Single Point of Contact (SPOC) procedures. This action will have no impact on the General Fund. [Requested by David Garza, Veteran’s Office]
 
Issue: Local Webb County Veterans and families need extended transportation services to essential medical appointments to include local pharmacies, and local food pantry services for clients who do not have any transportation means within Webb County limits and outside of Webb County up to a 200-mile radius.  Services will also include to dental, mental health appointments, and transportation in support of basic needs (Emergency Clinics, community meetings, voting, court appearance, and tax offices).

Solution: Approval of Letter of Intent will allow for the submittal application of the Texas Veterans Commission Grant for Veterans County Service Officer Funding Opportunity, which will enable funding for continued services.
 
Result: Upon approval of the Texas Veterans Commission Grant for Veterans County Service Officer Funding Opportunity will provide comprehensive services to Webb County veterans and families. These services will allow transportation to medical appointments within the surrounding 200-mile radius.

Previously approved for Texas Veterans Commission Grant for Veterans County Service Officer Funding Opportunity fiscal year 2024-2025.  Veterans County Service Officer Funding Opportunity fiscal year 2024-2025.  This funding extends the current transportation services offered to eligible Webb County Veterans and their families to include out-of-town transportation to VA hospitals and clinics within the surrounding 200 miles, in areas such as Harlingen, Corpus Christi, McAllen, and San Antonio.

The Webb County Commissioner’s Court has approved a similar item for the previous 11 years.  The Project was funded and is an on-going service provided to Webb County Veterans, Surviving Spouses and veterans’ family.