By Becky Brewster
Culberson County Commissioners met in regular session on November 9, 2020. The Court took several actions related to COVID-19 situations. First, the Commissioners appointed Senior Commissioner Cornelio Garibay to serve as the temporary signatory of the County during the absence of County Judge, Carlos Urias. The Court then authorized the Clerk’s Office to reduce the hours open to the public to 9 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. through the end of the year. County Clerk Linda McDonald also reported that her office will be closed the week of November 23-27, 2020 to encompass the three-day Thanksgiving holiday, noting the extra hours her staff worked during the election and during the pandemic in general. Finally, the Court decided to cancel the Christmas party for 2020.
The Court approved a contract with David Rivera dba ZAP’D I.T. & Communications for $15,175.00 to install cameras, conduit, and any necessary equipment to configure a surveillance system at the Culberson County Jail. The Court then considered an independent contractor agreement with Rivera to service all the I.T. needs of the County whereby he would be on-call as needed for day-to-day service. The Commissioners tabled the matter pending legal review of the proposed contract and advertising for proposals for an independent I.T. contractor.
The Court then approved an updated order of appointment for the Judges and Alternate Judges for the November 3, 2020 election to reflect the names of those that actually served at the election. The results of the November 3, 2020 election were canvassed and approved as presented, noting that there were a total of 881 ballots cast county-wide.
In other County business, the Court also:
Received an update on the CDBG Food Pantry project.
Ended the temporary employment program at the cemetery.
Heard the monthly update from the Agrilife Extension Office.
Approved continuing education hours for Precinct 4 Commissioner.
Passed a resolution to update the signature cards at the Van Horn Bank for the Culberson County Tax Assessor-Collector’s office.
Approved the bond for Constable Precinct 3.
Accepted the resignation of Maricela Garcia from the Nutrition Center effective November 25, 2020.
Approved monthly reports and Treasurer’s report.
Heard reports on various County Projects.
Approved monthly expenses and payroll.
