Commissioners approve funds application

Shelby County Commissioners approved an application at their Wednesday, August 2 meeting to obtain a second payment from the Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Fund (LATCF) established by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

The program established $350 billion in COVID state and local fiscal recovery funds. According to the Texas Association of Counties, 254 counties in the state will receive about $5.7 billion to aid in responding to and recovering from the pandemic. 

Also approved was an increase in juror's pay. In accordance with Texas HB 3474, Article 8, juror’s pay will increase to $19 for the first day and $58 for the days that follow. The bill is set to take effect on Sept. 1. 

District Clerk Lori Oliver suggested the court increase two dollars in juror pay to make it easier for the clerks and accountants to distribute money to the jurors. The court approved and increased juror pay from the second day to $60.

The court also discussed and accepted the request from JP Tracy Broadway to discontinue his compensation for his duties as interim JP for Precinct 4, effective July 28.

Commissioners approved Chief Deputy Ruth Gonzales’ request to obtain quotes to scan the sheriff’s office records. Scanning, according to the sheriff’s office, would make it easier to keep a thorough record of all evidence, and helpful for FIO requests and court cases.

The commissioners also accepted bids and approved police responder vehicle packages for three constables.       

The commissioners extended the burn ban until next week when it will be on the agenda for a vote to continue or discontinue it. 

During the meeting, the commissioner’s court discussed and approved the weekly expenses and current payroll.

The Shelby County Commissioners Court meets every Wednesday at 9 a.m.