Commissioners on Monday approved a contract with D&H Petroleum Environmental Services for a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment at 300 W. Broadway for a little more than $2,000.
The inspection is required by the HOME Grant program because of potential contamination that may exist in underground storage tanks at the site.
Although the tanks are no longer in use, they fall within a 2,500-foot radius of the proposed new home construction, said Adrian Hinojos. Mr. Hinojos explained that it is unknown whether the underground tanks are lined, and if they are not, it is possible that the tanks may be leaking gasoline, oil or contaminated water.
Once a Phase I assessment is completed, then the county can proceed to a Phase II inspection. According to Mr. Hinojos, a Phase II assessment costs between $6,000 and $10,000. However, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) would likely cover the cost.
In other action, commissioners:
Approved an interlocal agreement between Culberson County and the Culberson County Hospital District for the procurement of an ambulance;
Approved a resolution declaring April as Fair Housing Month;
Approved a resolution to authorize signatories on Van Horn Bank accounts;
Authorized payment of Draw No. 1 for the administration of grant services;
Discussed security issues for the courthouse requested by 394th District Court Judge Roy Ferguson for security cameras inside the courtroom, a deputy to be on hand during court sessions, a working panic button, and an audio system for the courtroom;
Approved transferring funds into the Cemetery budget to finish painting the curbs;
Approved the participation of the county in golf tournament on May 17 between the Town of Van Horn and Culberson County;
Adjusted the Nutrition Center rates for rental to $250 including kitchen facilities, or $150 without using kitchen facilities with a $100 deposit for either option;
Discussed contract with Cesario Alvarado to compete the remodeling of the Nutrition Center;
Tabled an agenda item for landscaping at the courthouse.
