In a regular session of the Delta County Commissioners Court Nicki Beeler was reappointed unanimously to the Sulphur River Regional Mobility Authority Board as requested by Delbert Horton. Representatives from Delta, Hunt and Lamar counties serve on the SuRRMA board. This board was created as a conduit for the funds on this project [expansion of State Highway 24].
Horton updated the Court on the progress made on the construction expansion of State Highway 24 in Delta County.
“The rain has set back somewhat [the construction],” said Delbert Horton of SuRRMA. “The new southbound lanes should be open by Jan. 1, 2017. That’s the schedule thus far.” He noted all real estate has been purchased along the expansion and all utilities have been done. So no more money will be needed on these two items. He was very thankful for the help of the Delta County Commissioners Court and his ability to serve.
The Court pulled from the table both the credit card policy and the investment policy to once again table them following additional discussion. Delta County Attorney Jay Garrett was present and consulted.
“We must be comfortable with the way we do business here in this County,” said Delta County Attorney Jay Garrett, noting each person in each department is held accountable. He also mentioned many companies will not accept checks as a form of payment. He said good documentation for accountability protects each person with a credit card. Delta County Treasurer Bonnie Hobbs will be providing each Commissioner with another copy of the policy.
“I do not see any particular problems with this policy [Investment policy],” added Attorney Garrett.
Treasurer Hobbs also presented the Indigent Care Prescription Drug Services Agreement with Miller’s Pharmacy. The agreement was the same as last three years in accordance with the Medicaid standards.
Precinct 2 Commissioner Gary Anderson motioned and Precinct 3 Commissioner Loyd Vandygriff seconded the approval of the financial report for January 2016. It passed 4-0.
Delta County Judge Jason Murray spoke on the County’s participation in the litigation suit regarding Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.; Audi of America, LLC. He said a lawyer contacted him and informed him this would not cost the County to participate. It involved emissions testing. The firm will do a five year study to see how many of these vehicles pass through Delta County. The County will receive 65 percent of the settlement if successful for environmental funds to go into the General Fund. Attorney Garrett saw no objections to participating.
Delta County Sheriff Ricky Smith presented his report to the Court with seven inmates in the jail as of March 14, 2016. The inmate work program will be repairing the conditions of the south side steps for the Delta County Courthouse. Sheriff Smith said by the activity he and his officers could tell that Spring Break had begun. They have been busy solving several theft cases in the area.
The Commissioners opened proceedings with the payment of bills.
Court adjourned at 9:38 a.m.
The next regular session will be Monday, March 28 at 9 a.m. on the third floor of the courthouse. For more information visit deltacountytx.com.
