By Becky Brewster
Culberson County Commissioners met in regular session last Tuesday to learn the results of the County’s audit. According to Rick Knapp, outside auditor for the County, the County is again in “a solid cash position.” Knapp presented the audit report for the fiscal year ending Sept 30, 2019, noting that the County had “a good year” with an “unqualified opinion.” He reported that there were no significant difficulties, the cash position was better than last year, and the debt was low. He reviewed areas that need to be “cleaned up,” but noted that there were no material weaknesses. Knapp expressed appreciation to County Auditor Mark Cabezuela and County Treasurer Adrian Hinojos for their efforts in completing the audit during the transition year in the Treasurer’s office.
Gilbert Garcia from El Paso Recycling, Inc. (EPR) offered to set up a demo area in the County to test their recycled road repair product in an effort to get the County to consider using the product, noting that the Town of Van Horn has already tested the product on First Street. EPR’s goal is to keep as much recyclable material out of our landfills as possible, and to this end has been managing construction waste to develop products such as the road repair product, playground mulch, and materials for erosion control and stormwater ponds. Garcia noted that their focus is on providing needed help to large counties with small tax bases at an affordable price.
Zach Schaefer, County Extension Agent, reported on the successful Livestock Show and expressed appreciation to the community. He noted that the 4-H will be doing monthly community service activities, and will begin doing fundraisers since they are basically at “ground zero.”
Adrian Hinojos reported that his office will begin implementing new office hours. Hours Monday through Thursday will be 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on Friday. This will still provide for a 40-hour workweek.
In other County business, the Court also:
- Heard report from the grant administrator that the Food Pantry bids will be due March 5.
- Approved various contracts and documents for financing the new election equipment.
- Approved payment of a bill for Cyber Defense consultation for the election network.
- Approved a bond for Angelica Flores in the Treasurer’s Office.
- Approved an actuarial study for health insurance for retirees.
- Approved monthly reports.
- Heard reports on various County Projects.
- Approved monthly expenses and payroll.
