Pecos County Commissioners Court Regular Session Summary – September 23, 2024

By Josiah Carrasco

The Pecos County Commissioners Court held its regular session on Monday, September 23, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in the County Courthouse located at 103 W. Callaghan Street, Fort Stockton, Texas. This session was presided over by County Judge Joe Shuster, with a number of key items on the agenda, spanning budget allocations, infrastructure needs, and a review of county services.

Opening Prayer and Initial Comments

The session began with an invocation, followed by comments on the day’s agenda from court members. These opening discussions provided a framework for what would be a detailed examination of current issues facing Pecos County, including budget management, public infrastructure improvements, and coordination with external agencies such as the USDA and Weaver & Tidwell LLP.

Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes

The Commissioners swiftly moved to approve the minutes from previous sessions. Regular approval of minutes is vital to maintain transparency and keep a clear record of the court’s activities. The minutes also allow the public to stay informed about decisions and discussions that might affect county governance.

Election Services Contract

One of the primary actions taken was the approval of an Election Services Contract between Buena Vista Independent School District (ISD) and the Pecos County Election Administrator for the upcoming election to be held on November 5, 2024. Such agreements ensure that local elections, including those affecting school districts, are efficiently administered and legally compliant with state and federal regulations.

Request for New Vehicle for Precinct 1

Precinct 1 presented a request to purchase a new Ford F250 Crew Cab Pickup from Rockdale Country Ford. The purchase would be covered through the precinct’s budgeted funds. Heavy-duty vehicles like the F250 are essential for precinct operations, often used for maintenance of county roads and other public services. The court deliberated the necessity of this vehicle and confirmed it would be paid out of the current budget.

Acceptance of Furniture Donation

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension donated thirteen file cabinets, four desks, and chairs to Precinct 1, a move that highlights collaboration between county departments and state-run entities. This donation will likely be a significant cost-saving for the precinct, which can now repurpose existing funds for other infrastructure or operational needs.

Water Tap Requests

Two separate requests from Pecos County Water Control and Improvement District (WCID) #1 were reviewed, both involving cuts for water taps—one on W. 51st Lane in Precinct 1 and the other on Industrial Road in Precinct 4. The installation of water taps is a key infrastructure project, ensuring residents and businesses have reliable access to water, which is critical in West Texas where water resources are often scarce.

2022 Pecos County Audit and 2023 Audit Engagement

The Commissioners accepted the 2022 county audit, as presented by the accounting firm Weaver & Tidwell LLP. Audits are a routine yet vital function in county governance, providing oversight and ensuring that financial operations are conducted transparently. Following the approval of the 2022 audit, the court also agreed to engage Weaver & Tidwell LLP for the 2023 audit.

Predator Control Report from USDA-APHIS

The court also heard a Predator Control Report from the USDA-APHIS Wildlife Services. Predator control is a significant issue for many rural counties, where livestock and agricultural interests can suffer from wildlife encroachments. The USDA’s involvement ensures that proper, humane methods are employed to protect both the agricultural economy and the environment.

Emergency Management and Sheriff’s Office Vehicle Purchases

The court considered two large purchases scheduled for after January 1, 2025. The Pecos County Emergency Management Coordinator requested the purchase of repeaters, essential for emergency communication systems, while the Sheriff’s Office put forth a request for four 2025 Chevy Tahoes. Both purchases had been previously approved in the budget, with funds allocated accordingly.

Fuel Bid for Diesel and Gasoline

Fuel bids for #2 Diesel and Unleaded Gasoline were reviewed, covering the period from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Fuel contracts are a vital part of county operations, particularly for transportation and infrastructure maintenance across the county. The court discussed the best options to ensure cost-effectiveness and efficiency in meeting the county’s fuel needs over the next year.

Budget Adjustments for Precinct 4

A request to utilize budgeted funds from the Coyanosa Water Tower project to cover a Spring Branch Water Well invoice was brought forward by Precinct 4. Budget reallocations such as these are often necessary to ensure that critical infrastructure projects are completed without overspending.

County Financial and Auditor Reports

Both the County Treasurer and Auditor presented their reports. The Treasurer’s office reviewed the county’s financial situation and overtime payments, while the Auditor sought approval for line-item transfers, budget amendments, and the approval of county office reports. These reviews are part of the county’s effort to ensure fiscal responsibility and proper allocation of resources.

Public Discussion and Adjournment

The session closed with an open discussion, allowing both the public and the media to ask questions or make comments regarding the day’s agenda. This transparency is a cornerstone of local government, ensuring that decisions are made with input from the community.

The meeting adjourned after a thorough review of all agenda items.

The September 23, 2024, session of the Pecos County Commissioners Court covered a wide range of topics, from election administration to infrastructure improvements and financial audits. The court’s ability to address such diverse issues reflects the complexities of county governance and the importance of strategic planning and resource allocation in maintaining the county’s operations.

Sources:

Pecos County Commissioners Court Agenda – September 23, 2024