Discuss, consider and take appropriate action on creating an Associate Judge position and a Court Reporter position to support County Court at Law #4, required to address the increase in mental health cases due to the COVID-19 pandemic, funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Williamson County has seen filings and proceedings in mental health-related matters skyrocket.  The COVID-19 pandemic has created an increase in mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety.  Civil mental health cases are handled in County Court at Law #4.  Mental health matters are in addition to the Judge's normal docket of Probate, Civil and Family cases.  Compared to 2014, in 2021 we have seen an increase of 342% in Applications for Temporary Mental Health Services, and 875% in Applications for Forced Medication, which includes inmates at the Williamson County Jail. It is extremely challenging and typically there is a lengthy wait to get an inmate a State bed for competency restoration.  This is a part of the increased need for Forced Medication hearings.  Each application for mental health services must be reviewed, considered and decided upon by a judicial officer within very strict time requirements, to preserve the right of proposed patients.  This currently requires the Judge to leave the bench to handle mental health related cases, within the required time.  An additional Associate Judge and Court Reporter could handle mental health cases, under the purview of Judge McMaster, allowing him to continue his regular docket without interruptions.  This would greatly increase efficiency and case capacity.  The Court Reporter will be roving and be able to work in both County Court at Law and District Courts, thereby avoiding the necessity to reschedule trials when a Court Reporter cannot be found, due to illness, vacation, etc.  Judge McMaster will oversee the Associate Judge and will work with the District Courts to provide additional support for them, when the Associate Judge and Court Reporter are available.