[F. PUBLIC COMMENT: This section provides the public the opportunity to address the Commissioners Court on any issues within its jurisdiction. The Commissioners Court may not take formal action on any requests made during the Public Comment period which are not on the Agenda, but can refer such requests to County staff for review if appropriate.]

>>> MOVING ON TO ITEM F, PUBLIC COMMENT. FIRST UP, MR. TOM --.

PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU HAVE THREE MINUTES AND WE CANNOT RESPOND .

>> GOOD MORNING. I AM JOHN THE -- RESIDENT OF DISTRICT 3 AND I APPEAR BEFORE YOU TODAY REQUESTING THAT YOU TAKE A POSITION IN OPPOSITION TO A BILL IN THE TEXAS LEGISLATURE. TEXAS SENATE BILL EIGHT. IT IS CURRENTLY IN THE TEXAS HOUSE.

WHAT SENATE BILL EIGHT WOULD DO IS REQUIRE ANY COUNTY THE SIZE OF IN NO WAY SAAS, THIS SHERIFFS OFFICE -- TO PERFORM CERTAIN I.C.E. OPERATIONS. IN MY OPINION IMMIGRATION HAS SPUN OUT OF CONTROL. I.C.E. IS SPENDING $8.5 BILLION PER YEAR. TEXAS IS SPENDING $2.75 BILLION PER YEAR AND WE ARE TAKING PEOPLE OFF OF THE STREETS AND RENDERING THEM TO PLACES UNKNOWN FOR EXPRESSING AN OPINION AND HAVING SUSPECT TATTOOS. THIS WOULD BE TRIPLE

[00:25:01]

TAXATION. I PAY TAXES TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND IT PART IT GOES TO I.C.E. I PAY TAXES TO THE STATE AND IT GOES TO OPERATION LONE STAR. I WOULD BE PAYING THREE TIMES FOR THE SAME KIND OF FUNCTIONS. SHERIFF'S OFFICE PERSONNEL TIME AND RESOURCES SHOULD ADDRESS LOCAL NEEDS. NOT FEDERAL NEEDS. I.C.E.

DOES NOT DO SHERIFF'S OFFICE JOBS. THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE COMPLAINS OF SHORT STAFFING, DIFFICULTY RECRUITING AND RETAINING, LOW PAY AND OLD EQUIPMENT AND HAVING TO DEVOTE TIME TO DOING FEDERAL DUTIES IS MISUSE OF LOCAL TAXPAYER MONEY OR IT RAISES SERIOUS QUESTIONS ABOUT ALL OF THESE INSUFFICIENCIES IN THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE. IN FEDERAL MONEY RUNS OUT, AND I THINK YOU KNOW THIS WELL. WHEN THE FEDERAL MONEY RUNS OUT YOU WILL BE ASKED TO MAKE UP THAT DEFICIT. THAT SIMPLY IS A STRATEGY THAT I DON'T THINK YOU SHOULD ENTERTAIN SO I WOULD ENCOURAGE YOU TO ADOPT A POSITION IN OPPOSITION TO SENATE BILL EIGHT AND COMMUNICATE THAT TO REPRESENTATIVE TODD HUNTER AND I APPRECIATE YOUR TIME. THANK YOU.

>> THANK YOU. NEXT UP, MYRA --.

>> GOOD MORNING. MY NAME IS MYRA -- AND I AM HERE REPRESENTING CONCERNED CITIZENS OF RUBS TOWN. THE REPORT I AM -- IS TO EVALUATE THE RESPONSE ISSUED LAST MONTH. THE CONSULTANT POINTED OUT NINE PAGES OF VAGUE DATA USED IN MODELING. ISSUES WITH AIR MONITORS THAT ARE USED TO DETERMINE AIR-QUALITY. TO THE EQ LACK OF AMMONIA MONITORING CAPABILITIES. AND DENY MORE PAGES OF OTHER ISSUES. WE HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT THE COUNTY HAS NO AUTHORITY OVER THE PERMITTING PROCESS. WHAT YOU DO HAVE CONTROL OVER IS TAX ABATEMENT. WENT AND IF -- APPROACHES YOU FOR A TAX ABATEMENT DO NOT. INCLUDING TAX INCENTIVES, A WATER CONTRACT THAT GIVES THEM FREEWATER AND THE ABILITY TO ASK FOR WATER WITH NO CAP ON THE AMOUNT THAT CAN BE MADE. WHEN THE TIME COMES DON'T AWARD THE ABATEMENT SO THEY CAN INCREASE THEIR BOTTOM LINE AND PROFITS AT OUR EXPENSE. HOLD THEM ACCOUNTABLE. MAKE THEM PAY FOR EVERY CENT THAT THEY OWE. THEY SHOULD NOT BE REWARDED FOR PUTTING OUR HEALTH, SAFETY, AND QUALITY OF LIFE AT RISK. AS THE COMMISSIONERS ARE AWARE COMPANIES LIKE AVENA RETURN AFTER TAX ABATEMENT AGREEMENTS AND TO CHALLENGE THE TAX VALUE FURTHER IMPACTING THE COMMUNITY.

WHAT WE HAVE SEEN OUR CONSISTENT -- DEPLETION OF WATER SOURCES.

DON'T LET THIS HAPPEN AGAIN. >> THANK YOU.

>> IS THERE ANYONE HERE THAT WISHES TO SPEAK DURING PUBLIC

[1. Nueces County Library Advisory Board]

COMMENT THAT DID NOT HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK YET? MOVING ON TO G.1., BOARD APPOINTMENTS. NUECES COUNTY LIBRARY ADVISORY BOARD . WE HAVE TWO OPENINGS WITH A LETTER OF INTENT FROM A MEMBER THAT WISHES TO SERVE AGAIN AND TWO NEW APPLICANTS.

CRYSTAL WAS HERE. DOES ANYONE WISH TO MAKE A MOTION TO REAPPOINT THE ONE INCUMBENT, TABETHA GREENWOOD .

>> SECOND . >> WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND. ANY DISCUSSION? ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE .

>> AYE. >> AND THERE WERE TWO OTHERS.

[00:30:04]

>> WE HAVE EMOTION AND A SECOND FOR RICARDO BOSQUEZ . ANY OTHER DISCUSSION? ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE.

>> AYE >> THE MOTION PASSES. WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR THOSE THAT WANT TO SERVE ON OUR BOARDS AND VICKI HAS BEEN AT THE LIBRARY VOLUNTEERING AND WE APPRECIATE THAT. PLEASE KEEP HELPING US OUT. WE ONLY HAVE LIMITED NUMBERS AND WE APPRECIATE EVERYONE. THANK YOU. MOVING ON

[2. CONSENT AGENDA: The following Agenda Items are of a routine nature, and the Commissioners Court has received supporting materials for consideration. All of these Agenda Items will be passed with one vote without being discussed separately, unless a member of the Commissioners Court or the public requests that a particular Agenda Item be discussed. If so, that Agenda Item will be pulled from the Consent Agenda and discussed as part of the regular Agenda at the appropriate time. One vote will approve the remaining items on the Consent Agenda.]

TO ITEM 2, THE CONSENT AGENDA. DOES ANY MEMBER HAVE ANY ITEMS THEY WOULD LIKE TO PULL FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION?

>> IF I CAN GET MY MICROPHONE TO WORK. I WOULD LIKE TO PULL OUT

ITEM H.3. AND ITEM J. >> OKAY. ANY OTHERS?

>> JUDGE, I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE ITEMS WITH THE EXCEPTION OF H.3. AND J.. SO, A THROUGH I WITH THE

EXCEPTION OF H.3. >> ITEM D, COMMISSIONER CHESNEY?

>> I DON'T NEED TO PULL OUT ALL OF IT. THANK YOU FOR THE DLF.

NOT THE WHOLE THING. JUST IN THE DLF .

>> DO WE KNOW WHAT NUMBER THAT IS?

>> IT IS NUMBER THREE. >> SO YOU WANT TO CHANGE YOUR

MOTION? >> MY MOTION WOULD BE A THROUGH I WITH THE EXCEPTION OF H.3., J., AND D.3..

>> SECOND. >> WE HAVE EMOTION AND A SECOND.

ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE. >> AYE

>> THE MOTION PASSES. COMMISSIONER CHESNEY .

>> I NEED TO TAKE D.3. INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION.

>> IS D.3. WITHIN THE CONSENT AGENDA?

[H. Authorize the following Fiscal Year 2024-2025 "Outside Agency" Contracts: 1. CC Fraternal Order of Police-Lodge #27 (Shop with a Cop) - Total - $2,500 $500 - County Judge; $1,500 - Commissioner Pct. 2; $500 - Commissioner Pct. 3 2. Nueces County CPS Community Partners Board - Total - $1,500 $1,000 - Commissioner Pct. 2; $500 - Commissioner Pct. 3 3. Texas State Aquarium - $2,500 Commissioner Pct. 1 4. Youth Odyssey - $2,000 County Judge]

>> IT IS UNDER THE SPECIAL MOTIONS LIST. MOVING ON TO H.3.

>> I WOULD LIKE TO PULL THAT. I ASKED TO WORK WITH TERESA TO HAVE THE, OUR TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM ADDED TO THE LIST OF APPROVED OUTSIDE AGENCIES AND AS MANY OF YOU KNOW I HAVE SERVED FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS AS THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AT THE TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM AND WAS RECENTLY APPOINTED TO THE EXECUTIVE BOARD FOR THE SAME SALARY.

AND IF YOU LOOK AT YOUR SCREEN, AMONG ALL OF THE THINGS THAT THE AQUARIUM DOES, IF YOU LOOK AT THE PICTURES, DURING OUR LAST PHRASE -- FREEZE EVENT THESE ARE ALL OF THE TURTLES THAT THE AQUARIUM MANAGED TO RESCUE AND SAVE AND BRING TO OUR RESCUE FACILITY AND TO KEEP THEM WARM AND HEALTHY UNTIL THE WEATHER IMPROVES SO THAT THEY COULD BE RELEASED BACK TO THEIR NATURAL ENVIRONMENT. THE AQUARIUM DOES A LOT OF GREAT THINGS FOR THIS COMMUNITY AND I COULD NOT BE MORE PROUD TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH THEM. THE RESCUE CENTER IS DOING AMAZING THINGS AND WE HAVE TWO REPRESENTATIVES HERE THIS MORNING. JESSE GILBERT, THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND JESSE IS THE CHIEF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

[00:35:02]

OFFICER FOR THE AQUARIUM AND JESSE, I DON'T KNOW IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO TAKE A MOMENT TO ADDRESS THE COMMISSIONERS?

>> I WANT TO ADD TO THAT, I REACHED OUT TO THE CRAM AFTER THE SEA TURTLE RESCUE THAT THEY DID AND IT WAS PHENOMENAL. I WAS OUT THERE FOR THE SEA TURTLE RELEASE THAT THEY DID AND IT WAS JUST PHENOMENAL. THEY RELEASED 400 OR 500 THAT THEY. THEY WERE BIG ONES AND I GOT TO HANDLE ONE. THE KIDS WERE THERE AND THEY ENJOYED THAT. I HAVE GOT TO GO FIND SOME OUTSIDE FUNDING BUT I WILL BE DOING THE SAME THING AND ADDING THAT BECAUSE I REALLY DO APPRECIATE EVERYTHING YOU DO BUT ESPECIALLY SINCE HE POINTED OUT THE SEA TURTLES I WANTED TO SAY, THAT IS AN AMAZING FACILITY. WE ARE STILL PUTTING TOGETHER PLANS AND WE NEED YOU.

WE ARE GOING TO NEED YOU A LOT MORE SO I AM GLAD THAT WE PULLED THIS ENDED THIS. THANK YOU FOR INTERRUPTING.

>> THANK YOU, COMMISSIONER PUSLEY AND CHESNEY. WE ARE EXCITED TO HAVE THE COMMUNITY SUPPORT. THIS IS THE LARGEST AND THE LEADING RESCUE IN THE UNITED STATES AND WE ARE HEADED TO WASHINGTON, D.C. TO GO THROUGH THESE ISSUES. WE WERE ABLE TO SHARE THIS AT AN INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE IN DALLAS AND THANK YOU FOR THE RECOGNITION. WE ARE HONORED TO HAVE THE SUPPORT FROM THE BOARD AND THE COUNTY SO THIS FUNDING WILL GO RIGHT TOWARDS THE RESCUE CENTER AND CONTINUE TO MAKE THESE INITIATIVES

HAPPEN. >> I THINK THE COURT APPEARS UNANIMOUS IN OUR KUDOS TO YOU IN EVERYTHING THAT YOU DO. WE ARE BLESSED TO HAVE YOU IN OUR COMMUNITY AND THE RECOGNITION YOU GET, THANK YOU FOR ALL OF THE HARD WORK.

>> WE APPRECIATE IT. >> THANK YOU, VERY MUCH. I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A MOTION TO APPROVE ADDING TEXAS AQUARIUM AS OUR APPROVED OUTSIDE AGENCIES AND I ENCOURAGE THE OTHER -- AS YOU CONSIDER THE DISTRIBUTION OF OUTSIDE AGENCIES, AS COMMISSIONER CHESNEY ELUDED TO, THEY DO GREAT THINGS IN THIS COMMUNITY AND WE APPRECIATE ALL THAT THEY DO. IF YOU LOOK AT THE PICTURES OF THE TURTLES, AND I ACTUALLY WENT THERE, IT IS JUST AMAZING. ALL OF THOSE TURTLES WOULD HAVE LOST THEIR LIVES HAD IT NOT BEEN FOR THE RESCUE CENTER. WE CANNOT THANK YOU ENOUGH. THAT IS JUST A SMALL PART OF IT AND WE SINCERELY APPRECIATE IT SO I WOULD MAKE A MOTION.

>> WE WOULD LIKE TO APPROVE THE CONTRACT BECAUSE THEY ARE ALREADY LISTED AND TODAY THE VOTE IS JUST TO APPROVE THE

CONTRACT. >> THE ALLOCATION .

>> YES . >> I WOULD SECOND THAT MOTION .

>> WE HAVE EMOTION AND A SECOND. >> WE DON'T HAVE ANY OUTSIDE AGENCY FUNDS BUT I WILL ADD $1000. I WILL PULL THAT OUT OF MY SPECIAL REVENUE WITH WHAT LITTLE I HAVE LEFT. THANK YOU.

>> ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE. >> AYE .

>> OPPOSED? >> THE COUNTY ATTORNEY HAS ASKED ME TO ABSTAIN FROM BULK VOTING SINCE I SERVE ON THE BOARD SO I

WILL ABSTAIN. >> SO WE CAN SPEND YOUR MONEY? I

LIKE TO SPEND YOUR MONEY. >> GOOD POINT. SO, FOUR AYES AND

ONE ABSTAINED. ITEM J.. >> I NEED TO SEE IF JAVIER IS HERE. I KNOW YOU HAVE SOME QUESTIONS. IF HE IS NOT WE MAY NEED TO WAIT UNTIL HE GETS ON. I KNOW HE HAD A CONFLICT AND SHE DID NOT KNOW EXACTLY WHEN WE WERE COMING UP. CAN I MOVE ON

THIS? >> WE CAN GO ON TO THE NEXT AND

COME BACK. >> I WOULD RATHER HAVE HIM ON TO

ANSWER TECHNICAL QUESTIONS. >> WILL SOMEBODY LET ME KNOW AS

SOON AS HE LOGS IN. >> I WILL WATCH FOR HIM.

>> I WOULD LIKE TO GO BACK TO -- FOR MOTIONS. WE ARE TALKING ABOUT PROMOTING STUFF. I JUST WANT TO SAY, I DON'T MIND

[00:40:08]

HELPING TURTLES. I LIVE THE TURTLES AND MY KIDS LOVE THE TURTLES BUT, I WOULD LIKE TO ENCOURAGE SHOP WITH A COP. IT HELPS THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS OF CHILDREN THAT DON'T HAVE CLOTHES. SHOP WITH A COP IS NOT ONLY CORPORATE BUT ALSO IN OTHER PLACES. MAYBE 200 KIDS NOW, 1500 KIDS HERE SO I THINK IT IS A GREAT PROGRAM AND IT IS SOMETHING THAT WE MAY NOT BE AWARE OF, SHOP WITH A COP HELPS LOCAL KIDS. AND THEY ALSO HAVE THE POLICE HOW PROGRAM. SHOP WITH A COP IS A GREAT PROGRAM.

IF YOU WANT TO LEARN ABOUT IT YOU CAN COME TO THE MEETINGS AND LEARN MORE ABOUT SHOP WITH A COP. IT IS A GREAT PROGRAM. WE APPRECIATE THAT. IT IS SOMETHING THAT WAS STARTED BY CAPTAIN -- HE WAS A LOSS TO THE COMMUNITY BUT HE CREATED SHOP WITH A COP.

LOOK AT IT AND THINK ABOUT IT NEXT TIME AROUND.

>> WE HAVE SOME GREAT ORGANIZATIONS BUT THAT IS

[J. Accept the final design for Bob Hall Pier restaurant space contingent on the Nueces County Coastal Parks Board's approval.]

ABSOLUTELY ONE. IT LOOKS LIKE MR. JAVIER HAS JOINED US SO WE WILL GO BACK TO ITEM J. COMMISSIONER PUSLEY.

>> THANK YOU, YOUR HONOR. I JUST WANTED TO BRING ATTENTION TO, AND I KNOW SOMETIMES THE PLANS THAT GET SUBMITTED TO US ARE -- IN WHAT THEY ARE ILLUSTRATING PLAN OF THE RESTAURANT AT THE PIER. THE PICTURES THAT WERE SUBMITTED WITH THIS ITEM BASICALLY -- AND I REGISTERED A LITTLE CONCERNED ABOUT THIS -- THEY SHOW A BAR LOCATED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FLOOR OF WHERE THE RESTAURANT WILL BE, SO TO SPEAK.

I THINK WHAT WE NEED TO PROMOTE WITH THIS IS A FAMILY-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT. AND NOT REPRESENT THIS AS A ARE. IF YOU WILL.

>> BUT YOU ARE STILL SAYING THEY CAN SELL ALCOHOL? JUST NOT

PROMOTE IT AS A BAR. >> I THINK IT IS PERFECTLY FINE FOR THEM TO HAVE A BAR AND SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES. BUT, WHEN PEOPLE WALK INTO THIS, THEY NEED TO BE PRESENTED WITH THE FACT THAT THIS IS A FAMILY-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT. WE WANT PEOPLE TO FEEL COMFORTABLE ABOUT BRINGING THEIR KIDS AND GRANDKIDS TO THIS. AND IT IS NOT SOMETHING ELSE OTHER THAN THAT. I KNOW THAT THIS IS GOING TO BE A -- DECISION IN THE FINAL ANALYSIS AND I DID VISIT WITH COMMISSIONER CHESNEY ABOUT THIS AND HE DID ALLOW ME TO PULL THIS AND EXPRESS CONCERNS . THAT IS

ALL I HAVE TO SAY. THANK YOU. >> WE ARE AWARE OF THAT CONCERN AND THE BAR IS, I AM GOING TO SAY, IT IS AN OPTION IN THE DESIGN BUT IT IS AN ALTERNATE SO THE BASE BID OF THE PROJECT DOES NOT HAVE A BAR. AND I THINK BASED ON THE ESTIMATES THAT WE HAVE RIGHT NOW, THAT IS VERY UNLIKELY. EVEN IF IT IS CONSIDERED AS AN ITEM. IT IS GOING TO MAKE IT INTO OUR

BUDGET. >> THANK YOU .

>> I HAVE A QUESTION. I SUPPORT THE RESTAURANT. WHEN I SEE ITEM J. AND I SEE THE DESIGN FOR THE NUECES COUNTY COASTAL PARKS

[00:45:02]

BOARD APPROVAL. WE PROVIDE THE FUNDING, WE PROVIDE THE MONEY AND EVERYTHING ELSE AND I THINK WHERE DO WE GO WITH THAT RECOMMENDATION. I DON'T HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THAT BUT, I THINK WHEN WE SAY APPROVAL, WE ARE WAITING FOR HIM TO MAKE THE DECISION FOR US BUT IT SHOULD BE OUR DECISION.

SHOULD BE RECOMMENDATIONS. >> I THINK COMMISSIONER, YOU

MIGHT WANT TO ANSWER THIS. >> THEY ARE MEETING THIS AFTERNOON AND HONESTLY, THEY HAVE THE RIGHT TO APPROVE THIS BY LAW. WE USE THE WORD RECOMMENDATION AND THE WORD APPROVAL BUT AT THE END OF THE DAY THEY HAVE THE RIGHT TO DO THIS AND THEY'D NEVER DO IT WITHOUT US THAT THEY HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO APPROVE THIS IF THEY SO CHOOSE. THEY DO NOT CHOOSE TO DO IT THAT WAY BUT THEY HAVE THE RIGHT TO DO IT THAT WAY. THEY MEET THIS AFTERNOON AND WE DON'T WANT TO SLOW DOWN THE PROCESS AND WE HAPPENED TO BE MEETING ON THE SAME DAY AND USUALLY THEY DO IT BEFORE US BUT THEY DID NOT GET

TO IT TODAY. >> THANK YOU .

>> WITH THAT I WILL MAKE A MOTION TO APPROVE ITEM J.

>> SECOND. >> WE HAVE EMOTION AND A SECOND.

ANY DISCUSSION? ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE.

[1. A. Discuss and consider awarding Blue Cross and Blue Sheild of Texas, a division of Health Care Service Corporation Medical TPA Administration and related services for Nueces County’s Employee Self-Funded Group Health Program (RFP No. 3289-24); and authorize the County Judge to execute an agreement subject to review by the County Attorney; and related matters. B. Discuss and consider awarding the following non-medical benefit coverages as part of the Nueces County Employee Group Program (RFP no. 3289-24) and authorize the County Judge to execute an agreement subject to review by the County Attorney; and related matters. Delta Dental - Dental Delta Vision – Vision Aflac, Inc. – Basic Life, AD&D, Optional Life, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, Critical Illness, Accident and Hospital Indemnity coverages.]

>> AYE >> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES.

MOVING ONTO THE NEXT ITEM. A DISCUSSION AND CONSIDER AWARDING THE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF TEXAS, A DIVISION OF HEALTH CARE SERVICE CORPORATION MEDICAL TPA ADMINISTRATION AND RELATED SERVICES FOR NUECES COUNTY'S EMPLOYEES SELF-FUNDED GROUP

HEALTH PROGRAM. >> I THINK WE HAVE A PRESENTATION, POSSIBLY, SOMEWHERE. CAN YOU PULL THAT UP?

>> CONNIE, ARE YOU BRINGING THAT?

>> COMMISSIONERS, THE PRESENTATION IS IN YOUR AGENDA

PACKET . >> OH. YOU DON'T HAVE IT ONLINE

FOR US. >> IT IS ATTACHED.

>> IS THAT THE CONFIDENTIAL STUFF?

>> I DON'T THINK IT IS CONFIDENTIAL.

>> IT IS NOT CONFIDENTIAL. >> THIS 3.A.1 IS CONFIDENTIAL .

>> YOU JUST CLICK ON IT AND IT WILL SHOW IT . THERE YOU GO.

PRESENTATION. >> GREAT. SO, THANK YOU, AGAIN.

I'M GOING TO COVER SOME BACKGROUND, CURRENT PROGRAMS, VENDORS. THE EVALUATION PROCESS AND ULTIMATELY THE INSURANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION SO PAGE 3, BACKGROUND. THIS COURT BACK IN JULY AUTHORIZE THE DEVELOPMENT OF A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR THE COUNTY HEALTH INSURED GROUP MEDICAL PROGRAM AND OTHER RELATED BENEFITS SO, SINCE THAT TIME AND THROUGHOUT THE FALL WE WORKED WITH PURCHASING AND THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT ON THE SCOPE AND ULTIMATELY THE RFP WAS RELEASED IN DECEMBER. A MID DECEMBER TIMEFRAME WITH DELIVERY

[00:50:04]

DATE OF JANUARY 25TH. VENDORS HAD CLOSE TO SIX WEEKS TO PUT TOGETHER THEIR PROPOSED RESPONSE AND SUBMIT IT DIRECTLY TO PURCHASING. INCLUDING INCLUDED IN THE SCOPE OF WORK WAS SOLICITATION OF NONMEDICAL COVERAGE OTHER THAN THE MEDICAL TPA WHICH WAS BASIC AND OPTIONAL LIFE INSURANCE. INDEPENDENT LIFE IS A NEW BENEFIT THAT THE COUNTY HOPEFULLY WILL BE OFFERING.

DENTAL AND VISION INSURANCE, CRITICAL ILLNESS ACCIDENT AND INDEMNITY. I THINK WE DISCUSSED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS THE PHARMACY CONTRACT HAS ONE MORE YEAR LEFT IN ITS TERM INDUCED TO -- AND DUE TO SOME OF THE CONTRACT TERMS WE ELECTED TO ACCEPT THOSE TERMS AND NOT BID THE PHARMACY PROGRAM THIS YEAR BUT WILL BID NEXT YEAR TO ALIGN WITH THE MEDICAL PROGRAM BUT THAT WILL BE AT A LATER DATE. AS A BACKGROUND, THE CURRENT MEDICAL TPA AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES ADMITTED THROUGH BOONE CHAPMAN ADMINISTRATORS. YOU MAY REMEMBER THERE ARE TWO PROVIDER NETWORKS THAT ARE THE SIGNATURE ADVANTAGE PPO AND CHAPMAN ALSO PROVIDES COVERT ADMINISTRATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF FLEXIBLE BENEFIT PROGRAMS REFERRED TO AS FLEXIBLE SPENDING AND DEPENDENT CARE ACCOUNT ADMINISTRATION. THE DENTAL PLAN IS WITH EMERITUS.

THEY HAVE BEEN A LONGTIME PROVIDER FOR THE COUNTY AND THEY ARE ALSO PROVIDING THE VISION PROGRAM AND AFFLECK HAS THE COVERAGE BASIC AND OPTIONAL LIFE AND A DND. AND DOES A REFRESHER, THE COUNTY PROVIDES A CORE BENEFIT FOR BOTH SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE. EMPLOYEES MAY BUY IT TO AN ENHANCED. THERE ARE SUPPLEMENTAL PRODUCTS THAT ARE BECOMING VERY POPULAR. THEY HAVE BECOME POPULAR FOR EMPLOYERS AND THOSE ARE DIRECT PAY TO THE MEMBER FOR CRITICAL ILLNESS ACCIDENT AND HOSPITAL INDEMNITY COVERAGES. IF YOU GO TO THE NEXT SLIDE WE WILL SPEND JUST A COUPLE OF MINUTES HERE BECAUSE I THINK THIS PROCESS WAS HELPFUL FOR THE COUNTY, HR, THE INSURANCE COMMITTEE, REALLY BEGIN TO UNDERSTAND HOW DO WE WANT TO POSITION OUR BENEFIT PROGRAM AS PART OF TOTAL REWARDS. WHAT I HAVE LISTED ARE SOME OF THE KEY CRITERIA. ONE OF THE THINGS WE DID AT MCGRIFF IS WE LISTENED TO HUMAN RESOURCES, THE INSURANCE COMMITTEE AND WE WORKED WITH MICHAEL ROBINSON IN PURCHASING AND UNDERSTANDING THE PROCESS USED BEFORE AND WE WANTED TO MAKE SURE THAT AS WE HELPED THE COMMUNITY DRAFT THE RFP THAT IT WAS DESIGNED TO WORK WITH WHAT THE COUNTY WANTED TO DO MOVING FORWARD. COST IS ALWAYS TOP OF MIND BUT COST IS IMPORTANT NOT ONLY IN ITS ADMINISTRATIVE TERMS BUT WE ARE LOOKING FOR LONG-TERM COST CONTROL. PRICE STABILITY IF AT ALL POSSIBLE AND I THINK WHAT WE ALSO HEARD WAS WHAT I WOULD CALL PROCESS IMPROVEMENT. THE COUNTY WANTS TO CONTINUE TO STAY ON THE LEADING EDGE AND DO BUSINESS WITH VENDORS TO ENHANCE THE EXPERIENCE -- BUT ALSO THE -- CAN AFFORD AND ENJOY. LISTED HERE ARE SOME OF THE LARGE ITEMS IN TERMS OF THE SCOPE. LOOKING AS A MEDICAL TPA ONE WITH DEMONSTRATED EXPERIENCE, COMPREHENSIVE CLAIM ADMINISTRATION. BROAD NETWORK ACCESS IS SOMETHING TOP OF MIND FOR US. WE DON'T WANT MEMBERS TO LOSE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GO TO A PROVIDER JUST BY A NETWORK CHANGE SO THAT WAS TOP OF MIND BUT I THINK YOU WILL HEAR THERE IS BROAD ACCESS INCLUDING TO THE

[00:55:05]

-- NETWORK. WE ARE LOOKING AT INNOVATION IN CLINICAL MANAGEMENT AND CASE MANAGEMENT. ENHANCED DIGITAL CONSUMER TOOLS.

ALL EMPLOYEES HAVE A SMART PHONE AND THE APPLICATION TO SELF-SERVE THROUGH DIGITAL TOOLS ON A SMART PHONE IS IMPORTANT.

WELLNESS ACTIVITIES. WE HAVE TALKED ABOUT IT A WHILE AND I THINK THE COUNTY IS READY TO MOVE INTO REALLY TAKE HOLD OF CREATING A VERY STRONG WELLNESS PROGRAM AND CERTAINLY SERVICE IS IMPORTANT. THE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD FOR EXAMPLE HAS A LOCAL SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE IN CORPUS CHRISTI AND WE THINK THAT WOULD ADD SOME VALUE TO NOT ONLY MELINDA AND THE REST OF THE HR TEAM BUT ALSO THE SERVICE EXPERIENCE AND AS I MENTIONED, A LONG-TERM FINANCIAL SAVINGS. NOT JUST ADMINISTRATIVE COST BUT GOOD STRONG CLAIM PAYMENT , NETWORK CONFIGURATION AND INNOVATION AND FLEXIBILITY IN PLAN DESIGNS. NEXT PAGE, WE THOUGHT ABOUT THE NONMEDICAL PROGRAMS. DENTAL, VISION, LIFE INSURANCE. WE ARE LOOKING FOR MANY OF THE SAME THINGS. A STRONG SERVICE MODEL. A MODEL THAT PROVIDES REALLY STRONG AND AN EXCELLENT SERVICE EXPERIENCE TO THE MEMBER. WE WANTED TO MAKE SURE THAT CLAIM FILES, ELIGIBILITY FILES WILL FEED APPROPRIATELY INTO THE WORK DAY SO WE NEED A GOOD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCESS. WE ARE LOOKING FOR COVERAGES THAT BENEFIT THE MEMBER AND MOST OF THE NONMEDICAL COVERAGES WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE COUNTY DISABILITY BENEFIT ON A CORE BASIS, ALL OF THESE ARE PAID BY THE EMPLOYEE OUT OF THEIR POCKET SO WE WANTED TO BE GOOD STEWARDS OF THE EMPLOYEES THAT ARE WILLING TO PAY FOR CERTAIN SERVICES THAT THEY HAVE A GOOD BENEFIT, AN ENHANCED BENEFIT IF AT ALL POSSIBLE AND THAT THE PLAN OFFERS THE LATEST INNOVATIONS IN DESIGN. MINIMAL PROVIDER DISRUPTION WHERE APPLICABLE. PRIMARILY THE DENTAL AND THE VISION PROGRAM AND COST IS TOP OF MIND AND HAVE THOSE COST THE STABLE FOR MULTIPLE YEARS AND OF COURSE WE NEED VENDORS WHO WILL PROVIDE SERVICES FOR COBRA ADMINISTRATION, FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT AND INDEPENDENT CARE ADMINISTRATION. WHEN WE RECEIVE THE PROPOSAL RESPONSES, PAGE 7, THE COUNTY RECEIVED FIVE RESPONSES FOR MEDICAL PROGRAMS AND YOU CAN SEE ON THE SCREEN, THE COUNTY ALSO RECEIVED 17 INDIVIDUAL RESPONSES FOR NONMEDICAL COVERAGE INCLUDING THE MEDICAL VENDORS THAT YOU SEE HERE AND WE HAD A COUPLE OF VENDORS WHO DECLINED TO SUBMIT A PROPOSAL BUT REGARDLESS, FROM MY PERSPECTIVE THAT IS A HEALTHY COMPETITIVE BID PROCESS AND THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT I THINK THE INSURANCE COMMITTEE WANTED ALONG WITH HUMAN RESOURCES AND PURCHASING. SO, THE BIDS CAME

IN. >> I'M SORRY --

>> BACK TO PAGE 7. OF THE FIVE THAT WE RECEIVED, ARE THERE ANY THAT ARE TOP TO WORK TOP THREE NATIONWIDE PROVIDERS? ARE THESE SECOND-TIER? OR WOULD YOU SAY THESE ARE PREMIER TIER?

>> ALL VENDORS ARE WHAT I WOULD CALL GOOD VENDORS. THE THREE VENDORS, THE TRADITIONAL NATIONAL PLAYERS ARE THE BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD PROGRAM. CIGNA AND UNITEDHEALTHCARE. AETNA COULD NOT BID BECAUSE OF THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH BOON CHAPMAN.

THEY ARE THE INCUMBENT TPA BUT, IS AN INDEPENDENT THIRD-PARTY ADMINISTRATOR. -- DID NOT BID SELF-FUNDED BUT ONLY FULLY INSURED AND I THINK AT THE END OF THE DAY THE COUNTY REALIZED THAT BEING SELF-FUNDED IS REALLY THE BEST AVENUE FOR THE COUNTY LONG-TERM. THE EVALUATION PROCESS. ONCE THE BIDS CAME IN,

[01:00:06]

PURCHASING FORWARDED TO US ALL OF THE RESPONSES. WE EVALUATED ALL OF THE RESPONSES PRIMARILY ON A QUANTITATIVE BASIS BUT WE DID LOOK AT SOME QUALITATIVE FEATURES AS WELL WHERE THEY MET THE SCOPE OF THE WORK. IF THEY HAD ANY MATERIAL DEVIATIONS, ETC. THEY INSURANCE COMMITTEE ALSO REVIEWED THE PROPOSAL SO THEY READ THEM AND HAD OPPORTUNITIES TO REVIEW THEM AS WELL. PRETTY EXTENSIVE DISCUSSION WITH ALL MEMBERS OF THE INSURANCE COMMITTEE. A LOT OF HEALTHY DIALOGUE, Q&A. THE INSURANCE COMMITTEE SELECTED FINALISTS BY LINE OF COVERAGE AND WE DID CONDUCT VIRTUAL INTERVIEWS WITH TWO MEDICAL TPA FINALISTS. WE DID HAVE FOLLOW-UP ON QUESTIONS FROM THOSE INTERVIEWS THEN WE RELEASED A BEST AND FINAL TO THE FINALIST ON THE MEDICAL AND VOLUNTARY BENEFITS THEN BRIEFED THE INSURANCE COMMITTEE AND THE INSURANCE COMMITTEE HAS RECOMMENDATIONS IN FRONT OF YOU.

>> I BELIEVE THAT COMMISSIONER CHESNEY HAS A QUESTION .

>> YES. WE HAVE PEOPLE BRING THIS TO OUR ATTENTION ON A REGULAR BASIS. YOU MADE THE STATEMENT THAT YOU HAVE COME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT IT IS BETTER TO BE SELF INSURED. I WOULD LIKE YOU TO EXPOUND ON THAT IF YOU WERE GOING TO DO THAT IN THE PRESENTATION, GREAT. IF NOT, WILL YOU DO THAT NOW. AS TO WHY YOU SAY THAT. I THINK IT IS IMPORTANT FOR PEOPLE TO HEAR AND

US TO HEAR. ME AT LEAST. >> WHEN WE LOOK AT THE FULLY INSURED QUOTES. AND WE RECEIVED FULLY INSURED QUOTES, THEY WERE SIGNIFICANTLY MORE THAN THE SELF-FUNDED PIECE. FOR THE COUNTY TO DIVEST ITSELF FROM A SELF-INSURED PROGRAM AND GO FULLY INSURED YOU WOULD HAVE TO COMPENSATE CURRENT CLAIMS. THE COUNTY WOULD LOSE ITS OPPORTUNITY FOR FLEXIBILITY IN BENEFIT DESIGN AS WELL AS PHARMACY REBATES SO, WHEN YOU ADD ALL OF THOSE UP, THE COUNTY, FROM A LONG TIME -- LONG-TERM CASH PERSPECTIVE WOULD BE WORSE OFF .

>> IT IS IMPORTANT FOR TAXPAYERS TO KNOW THAT WE ARE DOING OUR JOB AND WATCHING THEIR TAX DOLLARS. THIS COMES UP AND I HAVE DONE THIS SEVERAL TIMES. THIS IS ALWAYS THE ANSWER THAT WE GET BECAUSE WE GET FRUSTRATED WITH HOW MUCH HEALTH INSURANCE COSTS US AND THEN WE GO THROUGH THIS PROCESS AND EVERY TIME IT COMES UP THIS WAY. THAT IS JUST A FACTUAL STATEMENT. EVERY TIME I HAVE DONE THIS, I THINK THIS IS MY THIRD OR FOURTH TIME, WE HAVE GONE THROUGH THIS SO, I KNOW I MIGHT BE PUTTING YOU ON THE SPOT BUT LET'S TAKE THE WORST YEAR WE HAVE EVER HAD.

TELL ME, WITH THAT YEAR, I'M NOT GOING TO HOLD IT TO YOU IN BLOOD. IS THAT 20% HIGHER, 50% HIGHER? HOW MUCH ARE WE TALKING? WE REALLY GO THROUGH THIS ON PURPOSE TO SEE THAT WE ARE DOING THE BEST WE CAN FOR OUR EMPLOYEES AND FOR OUR CONSTITUENTS WHO HAVE TO PAY THE BILL ON THIS .

>> THE PRINCIPAL DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SELF-INSURED PROGRAM AND A FULLY INSURED PROGRAM IS THE RISK TRANSFER AND THE DOLLARS ASSOCIATED WITH RISK TRANSFER. THE FIRST THING IS MARGIN. ANY TIME YOU BUY A FULLY INSURED PROGRAM YOU HAVE TO PAY A RISK PREMIUM TO THE CARRIER. THE RISK PREMIUM CAN BE 3%-5% ON AVERAGE. THE SECOND THING IS HOLDING ONTO RESERVES OR CLAIMS THAT ARE INCURRED. ON AVERAGE THOSE COULD BE 10% OF THE CLAIM DOLLARS. SO YOU ARE ALREADY IN DOUBLE DIGITS IF YOU LOOK AT THOSE THINGS. YOU HAVE PREMIUM TAX YOU HAVE TO PAY TO THE

STATE. >> IS THAT A ONE TIME OR IS THAT

CONTINUAL? >> IT WILL BE CONTINUAL BECAUSE, AS YOU STAY AT A FULLY INSURED PROGRAM YOU ARE STILL PAYING A RISK PREMIUM FOR TRANSFERRING THE RISK TO SOMEBODY ELSE BUT WHEN YOU ARE SELF-INSURED THE RISK PREMIUM GOES AWAY BECAUSE YOU IN ESSENCE ARE THE PLAN SPONSOR AND THE ULTIMATE HOLDER OF THE LIABILITY. THAT IS THE BIGGEST PIECE. THE OTHER PIECE

[01:05:02]

THAT MAYBE HAS PLAYED OUT IS THE UNDERWRITING GAME. WHEN YOU HAVE A GOOD YEAR THE UNDERWRITING GAME GOES TO THE CARRIER. IN A SELF-INSURED PLAN, WHEN YOUR PLAN IS LESS THAN THE CONTRIBUTIONS THAT STAYS WITH THE SPONSOR .

>> HAVE WE HAD ANY OF THOSE YEARS?

>> I HAVE NOT WORKED WITH THE COUNTY THAT LONG BUT THE AIM THIS YEAR IS TO DO OUR BEST TO HAVE AN UNDERWRITING GAME AND THAT IS REALLY WHAT WE WANT TO DO AND WE HAVE HAD THIS CONVERSATION TO TRY TO MOVE THE COUNTY TO REALLY PLAN REMAINS IN THE BLACK. CONTINUE TO BUILD UP RESERVES AND I THINK WE ARE ON A PATH TO DO JUST THAT. TO CLOSE OUT, THE QUESTION YOU ASKED, THE RESERVE PIECE, THE UNDERWRITING GAME PIECE AS WELL AS THE PREMIUM TAX PIECE AS WELL AS THE PHARMACY REBATES, YOU GIVE ALL OF THOSE UP. IN A FULLY INSURED ENVIRONMENT AND I THINK THE RECOMMENDATIONS THAT THEY HAVE BEFORE YOU WITH RESPECT TO THE PLAN ADMINISTRATOR NOW BEING BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD AS OF OCTOBER 1ST, WE HAVE TALKED ABOUT PHARMACY BUT IT IS THE INTENT FOR THE COUNTY WHEN THE CONTRACT IS UP NEXT YEAR TO GO OUT TO BID FOR PHARMACY SERVICES. WHEN WE GET THOSE ALIGNED AND REALIGNED THE PLANS WITH WHAT I WOULD THINK IS A TOP-NOTCH ADMINISTRATOR I THINK THE COUNTY SETS ITS HAVE TO REALLY MANAGING THE PLAN VERY WELL. HAVING CONTROL OVER THAT.

MITIGATING AS MUCH OF THE RISK AS POSSIBLE AND DESIGN THE PLAN TO WHERE YOU STAY IN THE BLACK YEAR OVER YEAR OVER YEAR.

>> SO, JUST GIVE ME A GENERAL. EITHER DOLLAR OR PERCENTAGES. I WANT PEOPLE THAT ARE WATCHING THIS COMPELLING PRESENTATION TO HEAR WHAT WE ARE TALKING ABOUT. ARE YOU DOING PERCENTAGES OR DOLLARS? WHAT DO YOU THINK WE ARE SAVING?

>> I WOULD SAY, CONSERVATIVELY, 7-10% BUT PROBABLY IT COULD BE A BIT MORE WHEN YOU ADD IN PHARMACY REBATES. FROM A DOLLARS PERSPECTIVE IT COULD BEACH BETWEEN $1 MILLION AND $2 MILLION. THAT IS THE COUNTY STABLE WORKFORCE IS STABLE AND WHERE THE INSURANCE COMMITTEE REALLY FOCUSED ITS EFFORTS ON, HOW DO WE MOVE OUR PLAN AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE BEST ADMINISTRATORS IN THE BUSINESS PLAYING WITH THE LATEST CLINICAL TERMS, CLINICAL INNOVATIONS AND ETC. TO GIVE US THE BEST CHANCE OF SUCCESS AND THEY REALLY THINK THAT IS WHERE THE COMMITTEE

LANDED. >> THANK YOU.

>> JUST TO WRAP UP, AS YOU SEE BEFORE YOU, BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF TEXAS, THE RECOMMENDATION FOR THE MEDICAL TPA. BEGINNING OCTOBER 1ST 2025. THEY ARE VERY EXPERIENCED ADMINISTRATOR AND A STRONG BRAND NAME. STRONG NETWORK ACCESS AND NO DISRUPTION TO MEMBERS. THIS NETWORK TEST COUNTY FOR FUNDS FOR TRANSITION AND THIS IS ALWAYS IMPORTANT. THEY WILL OFFER THE COBRA ADMINISTRATION AS WELL AS FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT ADMINISTRATION AND AS I MENTIONED BEFORE, WE ARE ALSO PROPOSING THAT THE COUNTY MIGRATE TO A TRADITIONAL COMPLIANCE PLAN AND DROP THE GRANDFATHERED STATUS. THERE IS NO REASON WHY THE COUNTY SHOULD REMAIN GRANDFATHERED. YOU HAVE ADOPTED ALMOST ALL OF THE ACA PROGRAMS EVEN THOUGH YOU ARE STILL GRANDFATHERED. THERE ARE SOME THINGS WE WILL HAVE TO WORK THROUGH. THERE WILL BE A MORE DEFINED APPEALS PROCESS FOR APPEALS AND GRIEVANCES. YES, THERE WILL BE OUT-OF-POCKET LIMITS THAT THE PLAN WILL NOW HAVE TO ENFORCE BUT TODAY THE OUT-OF-POCKET IS SIGNIFICANTLY LESS THAN THE ACA REQUIREMENTS AND THAT REALLY IS NOT AN ISSUE. ALL IN ALL IT IS THE WISE MOVE AND IT ALLOWS MORE FLEXIBILITY IN WELLNESS PROGRAM -- PROGRAMMING AND I THINK THE COUNTY WILL BE BETTER OFF MOVING FORWARD. WITH RESPECT TO THE DENTAL AND THE VISION, THE

[01:10:01]

COMMITTEE DECIDED TO PACKAGE THE DELTA -- DENTAL AND VISION TOGETHER WITH DELTA DENTAL. THEY OFFERED A REDUCTION IN THE PREMIUM OF 10%. I THINK IF A MEMBER HERE AT THE COUNTY DID NOT SIGN UP FOR VOLUNTARY DENTAL AT SOME POINT IN TIME THEY CAN GET OUT -- IN WITHOUT ANY EVIDENCE OF INSURABILITY AND THAT IS A BIG ONE. THE VISION PLAN USES THE SAME NETWORK THAT IS USED TODAY WHICH IS VSP SO THERE IS NO VARIANCE IN THE VISION NETWORK AND THE FRAME ALLOWANCE, WHEN YOU GO IN AND RECEIVE YOUR FRAMES IS INCREASED TO $150. MEMBERS CAN GET FRAMES, LENSES, CONTACTS EVERY 12 MONTHS SHOULD THEY SO CHOOSE. THERE WAS A STIPULATION WHERE FRAMES WERE ONLY AVAILABLE EVERY 24 MONTHS UNDER THE CURRENT PROGRAM. UNDER LIFE INSURANCE, WE ARE STAYING WITH AFLAC. WE WILL MODIFY THE SUPPLEMENTAL LIFE RATES TO H BANDED RATES. SO YOUNGER EMPLOYEES WILL PAY LESS THAN OLDER EMPLOYEES AND WITH THAT CHANGE THAT ALLOWS THE COUNTY TO LOCK IN ALL AFLAC COVERAGES FOR THREE YEARS AND THAT I THINK IS AN EXCELLENT TRADE-OFF. THE COUNTY IS CHANGING LIKE ALL OTHER EMPLOYERS. THE WORKFORCE IS GETTING YOUNGER. IT IS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT TO BRINGING PEOPLE TO THE COUNTY. THE DISABILITY PROGRAM, NO CHANGE THERE. NO CHANGE IN RATES AND WE ARE NOT SUGGESTING ANY CHANGE AT THIS POINT. FOR THE CRITICAL ILLNESS AND ACCIDENT INDEMNITY, A THREE-YEAR BENEFIT WITH A GUARANTEED RATE. WE WERE ABLE TO REDUCE THE ACCIDENT AND HOSPITAL INDEMNITY RATES BY EIGHT AND 3% RESPECTIVELY. SOME OF THE RATES CAME DOWN AND ARE LOCKED IN FOR THREE YEARS. SO, I WILL TAKE ANY ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS BUT I THINK YOU HAVE THE RECOMMENDATION IN FRONT OF YOU THAT WAS PROPOSED.

>> ARE THERE QUESTIONS? >> WE GOT THESE MICROPHONES ON SALE AT WALMART, I THINK. HAVE WE DETERMINED YET WHAT THE COST INCREASE IS GOING TO BE FOR THE BUDGET YEAR?

>> WE HAVE NOT BUT WE ARE OPTIMISTIC.

>> I SHOULD NOT ALREADY PUT INCREASE IN THAT QUESTION. IS IT GOING TO BE MORE OR LESS THAN WHAT WE HAVE BEEN PAYING?

>> I DON'T THINK IT WILL BE MORE. I THINK ONE OF THE REASONS THAT CHANGES GOOD IS THE COUNTY IS ABLE TO HOLD THE COST DOWN.

WE HAVE NOT RUN THE FINANCIALS AND SET THE PREMIUM RATES NOW FOR FUNDING BUT OPTIMISTICALLY THERE IS NO CHANGE IN THOSE RATES. THERE WILL BE SOME SLIGHT MATERIAL CHANGES ON THE BENEFIT DESIGN BECAUSE WE ARE MOVING FROM ONE ADMINISTRATOR TO ANOTHER BUT HOLISTICALLY THE BENEFITS REMAIN THE SAME. WE ARE NOT EXPECTING CHANGES OF A MATERIAL NATURE. I HAVE COMMENTED TO HR AND THEY -- COMMITTEE THAT THERE ARE THINGS WITHIN YOUR DESIGN THAT YOU MIGHT WANT TO LOOK AT, TO TWEAK, TO INCENTIVIZE BETTER CHOICES FOR MEMBERS. TO INCENTIVIZE PEOPLE TO RECEIVE CARE AT A MORE APPROPRIATE PLACE, FOR EXAMPLE.

THAT IS GOOD STRATEGY IN TERMS OF MANAGING A GOOD BENEFIT PLAN SO WE WILL HAVE SOME SLIGHT RECOMMENDATIONS THAT THE COURT SHOULD CONSIDER BUT HOLISTICALLY, NO HOLISTIC CHANGE IN THE BENEFIT DESIGN AND I AM OPTIMISTIC THERE WILL NOT BE A CHANGE. THE COURT MADE A BIG STEP LAST YEAR, WHICH I THINK WAS VERY PRUDENT AND NOW I THINK YOU ARE ON TERRY TO SORT OF BE

[01:15:02]

ABLE TO KEEP YOUR FINANCIALS RELATIVELY STABLE. INCREASES WILL HAPPEN. THE MEDICAL TREND IS STILL ON AVERAGE 5-6%. WE JUST CANNOT ESCAPE AND WE CAN DO EVERYTHING THAT WE CAN TO SORT OF MITIGATE THAT THROUGH SMART PLANNING.

>> THAT IS GOOD NEWS. I HAVE LOOKED THROUGH THE MATERIAL AND THANK YOU FOR THE INFORMATION. THIS LOOKS LIKE A GOOD PLAN FOR OUR EMPLOYEES AND A GOOD STEP FORWARD BUT AS COMMISSIONER CHESNEY ELUDED TO OUR CONSTITUENTS WHO PROVIDE THE TAXES, THEY PAY FOR THIS. THANK YOU. THAT IS ALL I HAVE.

>> THANK YOU. COMMISSIONER MAREZ .

>> I APPRECIATE THE WORK DONE FOR US. I THINK IT KEEPS, THE MINDSET IS TO TRY TO KEEP THE COST DOWN FOR EVERYONE AND WE AS USERS ARE GOING TO HAVE TO MAKE SURE THAT WE ARE MORE RESPONSIBLE. THAT IS GOING TO HELP BRING COST DOWN. THAT IS THE MESSAGE THAT WE ALL NEED TO TAKE. I DO APPRECIATE THE WORK THAT YOU HAVE PUT INTO THIS AND I THINK YOU HAVE SOME FAMILIARITY WITH THAT FOR OUR USERS BUT ALSO, POTENTIAL COST SAVINGS FOR THE COUNTY IS MOST IMPORTANT. WE HAVE BEEN STUCK IN A CYCLE FOR SO LONG AND -- COUNTY IS DOING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER SO I APPRECIATE THE WORK YOU HAVE DONE TO GET US OUT OF THAT. I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS AND JUDGE, I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A MOTION TO I GUESS, WE HAVE TWO MOTIONS. I WILL MAKE A MOTION FOR THE FIRST ITEM TO AWARD BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF TEXAS AND AS AND AUTHORIZE THE COUNTY JUDGE TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY THE COUNTY ATTORNEY;

AND RELATED MATTERS. >> SECOND.

>> WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY

AYE. >> AYE.

>> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES. >> THE SECOND ONE, AWARD THE FOLLOWING NON-MEDICAL BENEFIT COVERAGES AS PART OF THE NUECES COUNTY EMPLOYEE GROUP PROGRAM (RFP NUMBER 3289-24) AND AUTHORIZE THE COUNTY JUDGE TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY THE COUNTY ATTORNEY; AND RELATED MATTERS.

>> SECOND . >> WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE.

>> AYE. >> ANY OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES UNANIMOUSLY. THANK YOU, MR. BASS AND THANK YOU COMMISSIONER MAREZ. THE INSURANCE COMMITTEE , THE MEETINGS, YOU MADE YOURSELF AVAILABLE TO US. I WAS NOT ABLE TO ATTEND EVERY ONE OF THEM BUT WE SPENT LOTS AND LOTS OF TIME ON THIS AND WE REALLY RELIED ON HIM AND WE APPRECIATE HIS DEDICATION TO THE EMPLOYEES HERE. WE APPRECIATE ALL OF

[2. Discuss and consider inventorying and evaluating Nueces County real-property assets, including buildings and properties, and all related matters.]

THESE. >> MOVING ON TO ITEM NUMBER TWO.

DISCUSS AND CONSIDER INVENTORYING AND EVALUATING NUECES COUNTY REAL-PROPERTY ASSETS, INCLUDING BUILDINGS AND PROPERTIES, AND ALL RELATED MATTERS. I WANT TO SAY THAT PAITYN HAS DONE A LOT OF WORK ON THIS AND I WILL LET HER TAKE

OVER . >> I WERE HOPING YOU WERE GOING TO TAKE IT FROM HERE, JUDGE. I HANDED OUT A PACKET THIS MORNING AND THIS IS THE FINAL LIST. I DOUBLE AND TRIPLE CHECK LAST NIGHT AND FOUND A FEW STRAGGLERS. THE ONE ATTACHED TO THE AGENDA SHOULD BE GOOD TO GO. EACH PAGES BY PRECINCT 1 THROUGH FOUR AND THE LAST TWO PAGES ARE PROPERTIES THAT I FOUND WITH OUR APPRAISAL DISTRICT THAT I HAD QUESTIONS ON. EITHER THAT WE MAY OR MAY NOT ON IT OR I'M NOT ABLE TO FIND IT IN THE DATABASE

[01:20:03]

BUT THEY SENT IT TO ME. WE NEED WORK ON THE LAST FEW PAGES. I'M NOT SURE HOW TO FIND PHYSICAL ADDRESSES ON THAT.

>> AND YOU HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH DIFFERENT ENTITIES ON THE SO WE ARE AT THE POINT WHERE WE DON'T KNOW WHO WE SHOULD CONTACT TO GO ABOUT SEARCHING FOR THAT. SO I DON'T KNOW IF WE ACTUALLY DO HAVE THE TITLES TO THESE.

>> JUDGE -- >> WHERE'S THE BLUE PART? THANK YOU, ALL, FOR THE WORK ON THIS. I WAS JUST GOING TO ASK HOW YOU WANTED TO PROCEED ON THE ITEM. BUT THANK YOU FOR ALL OF YOUR

WORK ON THIS. >> TO BE CLEAR, WE WENT ABOUT THIS IN THE HOPES OF INTENTIONALLY COMING BACK WITH SOME ITEMS THAT WE MIGHT HAVE FOR DISCUSSION TO PUT UP FOR SALE SINCE OUR LIMITED RESOURCES TO CUT BACK ON THE STRAIN ON THE EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF THESE PROPERTIES AS WELL AND NUMBER TWO, MORE IMPORTANTLY, TO HELP WITH RESERVE FUND BALANCES AND FOCUS ON EMPLOYEE SALARIES AND THINGS LIKE THAT THAT ARE CRITICAL. THE LIST, WE JUST NEEDED TO WORK ON THE LIST AND I THINK SHE MET WITH EACH OF YOU. I THINK WE HAVE SOME IDEAS OF WHAT WE MAY POTENTIALLY WANT TO DO BUT I THINK NOW IS WHEN WE GO BACK TO EACH OF YOU, UNLESS YOU HAVE SOMETHING IN YOUR PRESENTING -- PRECINCT THAT YOU KNOW WE COULD POTENTIALLY PRESENT. I THINK THERE HAVE BEEN THREE OR FOUR PROPERTIES THAT THEY WANT TO LOOK AT. WE LOOK AT PROPERTIES IN THE FUTURE, THIS IS NOT FIRESALE AND NOT GETTING GOOD PRICES FOR POTENTIAL REAL ESTATE. THIS IS TO HELP OUR BUDGET AND TO NOT HAVE TO RAISE TAXES ON TAXPAYERS WITHIN THE COMMUNITY AS WELL BUT WE HAVE THESE PROPERTIES SITTING HERE THAT COULD HELP US AND, WE DON'T WANT TO CROSSHAIRS WITH ANYONE OVER ANYTHING BUT I FEEL LIKE THIS IS SOMETHING THAT WE CAN DO THAT SERVES TWO PURPOSES.

OUR PUBLIC WORKS TEAM, OUR COASTAL PARKS, PEOPLE HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF THESE PROPERTIES. THEY HAVE TOTAIN THEM WHETHER IT IS BUILDINGS, MOWING. WE REALLY NEED TO BE COGNIZANT OF THE BURDEN THAT WE LAY ON THOSE DEPARTMENTS AS WELL. IF SOMETHING IS NOT BEING UTILIZED, IF IT IS SITTING THERE, THOSE ARE THINGS I THINK WE SHOULD BE DISCUSSING. WE ARE NOT TRYING TO KICK ANYONE OUT OF BUILDINGS THAT ARE BEING UTILIZED OR THROW PEOPLE OUT TO THE CURB. THESE ARE JUST MY THOUGHTS ON IT.

>> YOUR HONOR, THANK YOU, VERY MUCH AND I APPRECIATE YOUR REMARKS. I THINK THIS IS SOMETHING THAT I THINK WE SHOULD DO ALMOST ON A YEARLY BASIS. GO IN AND REVIEW THE PROPERTIES. I KNOW CORPUS CHRISTI IS GOING THROUGH THIS AS WE SPEAK. AND THEN EVALUATING THE PROPERTIES TO SEE IF WE NEED TO CONTINUE TO CARRY THEM. AND THEN HAVE THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT OR WHOEVER IS MAINTAINING THEM DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO KEEP THESE UP. AS YOU ALSO ELUDED TO, ONE OF THE THINGS WE HAVE IS TO TRY TO BUILD THE RESERVE FUND UP AS MUCH AS WE CAN AND IF THERE ARE PROPERTIES WE CAN DIVEST OURSELVES OF, I THINK THAT WOULD BE A GREAT MOVE FORWARD AND IT SHOWS THE COMMUNITY THAT WE CARE ABOUT HOW MUCH MONEY WE ARE SPENDING AND HOW WE ARE SPENDING IT AND THIS IS ONE WAY THAT WE CAN ACCOMPLISH THAT. I WOULD SAY, AS WE MOVE FORWARD WITH THIS. I KNOW EDWARD AND I WENT THROUGH THIS TOGETHER ONCE BEFORE ON A PIECE OF PROPERTY THAT THE COUNTY OWNS, IT GETS A LITTLE COMPLICATED WHEN YOU GO FROM OWNERSHIP BY THE COUNTY TO PRIVATE OWNERSHIP. WE MAY WANT TO, IF WE CAN DEFERRED TO THE COUNTY ATTORNEY AND ASK FOR A

[01:25:03]

LITTLE GUIDANCE, WE MAY WANT TO SEEK THE ADVICE OF AN ATTORNEY THAT SPECIALIZES IN THIS KIND OF REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION TO GIVE US ADVICE ON HOW THAT PROCESS WOULD WORK AS WE GO FROM OWNERSHIP BY THE COUNTY OR GOVERNMENT AND TO PRIVATE

OWNERSHIP . >> I THINK WE CAN INSTRUCT THAT

TO BE DONE TODAY . >> IT WOULD BE GREAT TO PUT IT BACK ON THE TAX ROLL. LET'S NOT SELL IT TO A COMPANY.

>> I THINK THIS IS A GREAT STEP FORWARD AND SOMETHING WE SHOULD PROBABLY DO ON A YEARLY BASIS .

>> THANK YOU. COMMISSIONER MAREZ .

>> I COULD NOT AGREE MORE. I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU TO PAITYN . WE KNOW OUR PRECINCTS PRETTY WELL BUT EVEN SOME OF US OUR SCRATCHING OUR HEAD LIKE, I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHAT THIS PROPERTY IS. THERE IS A LOT THAT HAS BEEN LOST ON THE WHY AND THE HOW BUT FOR THE MOST PART WE HAVE A GOOD WORKING LIST AND I THINK THIS SHOULD BE DONE EVERY YEAR BUT THIS SERVES THE PURPOSE YOU INITIALLY SET SO BUSINESSES THAT CAN MAKE USE OF THE PROPERTY, LET'S DO THAT. SOME A REGULAR SMALL SHAPED PARKS WERE SOLD AND PUT INTO PERSONAL PROPERTY. I THINK THIS WAS THE RIGHT STOP AND WE NEED TO CAUTION THAT WE KNOW THERE ARE PEOPLE LOOKING FOR LAND. WE CAN'T PUT STIPULATIONS ON AS FAR AS WHAT THEY CAN DO BUT THAT WOULD BE MY ONLY CONCERN. THERE ARE PROJECTS THAT ARE CONTROVERSIAL AND I DON'T THINK WE HAVE PROPERTIES THAT ARE THAT MASSIVE. I THINK THESE ARE SMALLER PROPERTIES BUT THIS IS A GOOD STEP FORWARD AND WILL BE HELPFUL FOR US AND I DO THINK THAT WE SHOULD GET RID OF PROPERTIES WITH WHAT COMMISSIONER PUSLEY SAID. IT TAKES AWAY COST. THE MAINTENANCE ON THESE PROPERTIES, WE WON'T HAVE TO MAINTAIN BECAUSE WE TECHNICALLY OWN THEM. IF THERE IS ANYTHING, I GUESS WE WILL HEAR BACK FROM THE COUNTY ATTORNEY ENCORE NEEDING AND GETTING THAT SET UP WITH THE LAND ATTORNEY BUT DEFINITELY LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING ON THIS IN THE FUTURE AND REVITALIZING PROPERTIES THAT WE CAN SELL AND GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY. THANK YOU.

>> ANY OTHER COMMENT? >> I WILL JUST ECHO A LITTLE BIT AND MOVE FORWARD. I HAVE ONE PROPERTY, IT IS THIS HOGAN PARK THAT WE CAN FIND NO USE FOR IT AND IT IS A PIECE OF PROPERTY THAT WE COULD NOT GIVE AWAY. SOME OF THIS HAS MARKET VALUE AND SOME DOES NOT. SOMETHING LIKE THIS MIGHT NOT HAVE VALUE.

I KNOW THEY REACHED OUT TO ME A MONTH AGO AND SAID --. I THINK AT ONE POINT WE ASKED THE SCHOOL IF THEY WOULD LIKE IT FOR A NATURE PRESERVE OR SOMETHING THEY COULD DO WITH IT. BUT THE SUPERINTENDENT DID REACH OUT TO ME AND ASKED ABOUT THAT PIECE OF PROPERTY FOR THE SCHOOL DISTRICT BECAUSE, THAT IS NOT WHEN WE PUT BACK ON THE TAX ROLLS BUT I DON'T KNOW THAT ANYBODY WILL ALWAYS TAKE THAT PROPERTY AND DO ANYTHING WITH IT AND IF THEY ARE, LET'S LOOK AT IT AND SEE BUT THERE TO -- THERE COULD BE PROPERTY IN OUR AREA. WE HAVE TALKED ABOUT THE JUDGE GETTING WITH THEM , PROPERTY THAT COULD BE DESIGNATED TO THEM. SOME MAY NOT BE DESIGNATED PARK LAND. I THINK THIS IS A GREAT STARTING POINT AND WE NEED TO START DIGGING THROUGH IT AND OBVIOUSLY, I DON'T WANT TO SELL THE PARK OR THE PIER .

>> WE ARE NOT TALKING ABOUT THOSE .

>> LET ME MAKE SURE WE ARE CLEAR ON THAT THOUGH. NOBODY IS TRYING

TO DO THAT. >> WE ARE LOOKING AT YOUR OFFICE

THOUGH . >> OKAY. WHATEVER.

>> I THINK THE DIRECTION TODAY WOULD BE WITH THE COUNTY ATTORNEY TO FIND OUT HOW WE START THE PROCESS AS EACH OF YOU IN YOUR PRECINCTS AND I KNOW COMMISSIONER CHESNEY WE TALKED ABOUT WE NEED TO GO OVER AND TALK TO -- AND IF YOU HAVE

[01:30:05]

SOMETHING IN YOUR PRECINCT THAT WE COULD POSSIBLY SEND TO JENNY AND TO THE INDIVIDUAL PROPERTY. SO, IF YOU KNOW SOMETHING YOU THINK WOULD BE POTENTIALLY GOOD FOR US TO LIST I WOULD SEND THAT TO --. A GREAT POINT ABOUT DOING THIS ANNUALLY. I WAS SURPRISED THAT WE HAD SO MANY DIFFERENT LISTS AND THIS NEEDS TO BE KEPT UP. THERE WERE PROPERTIES THAT WERE GIVEN TO US. DID THOSE MAKE

IT ON HERE? >> THE ONLY ONE THAT WAS NOT ON WERE SOME OF THE ARPA PROPERTIES DONATED TO US. AND THE RETENTION

BOND -- RETENTION PONDS. >> THAT IS HOW QUICKLY THINGS

CHANGE ON THE LIST. >> THAT IS A GOOD POINT. WE NEED

TO ADD THAT. >> THAT JUST TELLS YOU HOW HARD THIS PROCESS IS. COMMISSIONER MAREZ.

>> PAITYN, THIS LIST, YOU MENTIONED THAT THERE WERE CHANGES TO THE LIST THAT WE GOT SO I GUESS ON THE FUTURE AGENDA WE WILL HAVE THIS UPDATE BECAUSE I KNOW PEOPLE WILL WANT TO MONITOR WHAT PROPERTY THEY ARE BUYING OR WHATEVER. I KNOW I HAVE A AN UNSOLICITED OFFER ON A SIGNIFICANT PIECE OF PROPERTY IN

PRECINCT THREE.. >> IS THAT YOUR HOUSE?

LAUGHTER ] >> WE HAVE GOTTEN A COUPLE OF CALLS IN OUR OFFICE ASKING ABOUT DIFFERENT ONES WHEN THEY SAW THIS ON THE AGENDA. I CANNOT FINALIZE THOSE ON THE LAST FEW PAGES BUT I WOULD BE HAPPY TO PUT IT ON CONSENT SO IT IS ON

THE COURT RECORD. >> PERFECT. THE ONES THAT YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT, COULD THAT POTENTIALLY GO TO THE ATTORNEY YOU MIGHT CONTACT FOR CLARIFICATION? BECAUSE, WE HAVE EXHAUSTED, PUBLIC WORKS, APPRAISAL DISTRICT. WE REALLY DON'T KNOW WHERE ELSE TO GO LOOK.

>> I THINK EVERYBODY IS TIRED OF ME ASKING ABOUT LAND. I WILL SAY

THAT . >> SOME OF THESE JUST NEED AN ADDRESS BUT THE ONES THAT ARE STILL IN QUESTION, WE MAY HAVE POTENTIALLY 10 PROPERTIES THAT WE NEED CLARIFICATION ON. IF SOMEBODY SAYS WE OWN ONE AND SOMEBODY SAYS WE DON'T, IT PROBABLY NEEDS TO GO TO AN ATTORNEY.

>> WE WILL COURTNEY. >> JUST ONE MORE QUICK COMMENT,

IF I COULD . >> GO AHEAD.

>> I KNOW THAT THIS WAS A REAL CHORE AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR HARD WORK ON THIS AND TO EMPHASIZE THE COMMENT THAT WAS MADE, WHEN WE SOLD THE PROPERTY, THE COURT SAT DOWN AND CAME UP WITH A LIST OF RESTRICTIONS AND I KNOW WE PUT THAT ON THE PROPERTY BEFORE WE SOLD IT SO IT COULD NOT BE TURNED INTO SOMETHING WE DID NOT WANTED TURNED INTO AND I THINK THAT IS AN APPROPRIATE PROCESS TO GO THROUGH IF WE NEED TO ADD

RESTRICTIONS TO THEM. >> THAT MIGHT BE INDIVIDUAL PROPERTIES AS WELL INSTEAD OF --

>> THIS IS A TOUGH DEAL, AS HE SAID, YOUR HONOR. WE WOULD NOT HAVE KNOWN THAT THE COUNTY OWNED 1.7 ACRES IN NASH COUNTY IF THE RESEARCH HAD NOT BEEN DONE FOR A PIECE OF PROPERTY AND IT TURNED OUT THAT THE COUNTY OWNED THAT PROPERTY SINCE THE 1930S. IT WAS NOT ON THE RECORDS ANYWHERE. WE PROBABLY COULD HAVE DISCOVERED MORE LIKE THAT. THIS IS GREAT WORK.

[3. Discuss and consider authorizing and approving Supplemental Agreement No. 4 with Richter Architects for Hilltop Community Center Renovations in the amount of $52,700; and related matters.]

>> THANK YOU. >> MOVING ON TO ITEM THREE.

DISCUSS AND CONSIDER AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT NUMBER 4 WITH RICHTER ARCHITECTS FOR HILLTOP COMMUNITY CENTER RENOVATIONS IN THE AMOUNT OF $52,700; AND RELATED MATTERS.

COMMISSIONER PUSLEY . >> THIS IS FOR THE ADDITIONAL ARCHITECTURAL FEES AND ENGINEERING FEES TO MODIFY THE

[01:35:04]

PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE HILLTOP RENOVATIONS AND I HOPE THAT THIS IS THE LAST TIME THAT WE EVER HAVE TO DO THIS. BUT, WE NEED TO DO THIS SO THAT WE CAN GET THE PLANT MODIFIED AND WE CAN GO IN VERBATIM AND EVERYTHING IS NOW SET UP TO DO THAT AND THIS IS WHAT THE MECHANICAL ENGINEERS ARE GOING TO CHARGE US FOR THE PLAN MODIFICATION.

>> IN THIS COMES OUT OF THE FUNDS DEDICATED TO --

>> I'M JUST GOING TO TAKE THIS OUT OF THE FUNDS ALLOCATED FOR THE PROJECT. AND THERESA, THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP ON THIS. YOU STEPPED FORWARD AND HELPED PUT THIS TOGETHER AND -- WE HAD A LOT OF CONSTERNATION OVER WHICH PROGRAM WE WERE WORKING ON. I WOULD MAKE A MOTION TO APPROVESUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT NUMBER 4 WITH RICHTER ARCHITECTS FOR HILLTOP COMMUNITY CENTER RENOVATIONS IN THE AMOUNT OF $52,700; AND RELATED MATTERS.

>> SECOND. >> WE HAVE EMOTION AND A SECOND.

[4. Discuss and consider allocating funds necessary to build the road previously washed out by the storm and parking lot by Bob Hall Pier per The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and safety requirements from the City of Corpus Christi for fire and ambulance services. This is contingent on the Texas General Land Office (GLO) final approval. The design for this has already been allocated by Road District 4 and this is the final element of that design.]

ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE. >> AYE

>> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES. UNANIMOUSLY. NEXT, DO WE HAVE

ANY ITEMS TO TABLE? >> THERE IS A ROAD DISTRICT COMMITTEE MEETING. I WOULD LIKE TO TABLE THAT.

[5. Discuss and consider TXU Grant Funds in the amount of $10,000, for the Veterans and Social Services Department, and all related matters. ]

>> SECOND. WE HAVE EMOTION AND A SECOND. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY

AYE. >> AYE .

>> OPPOSED? >> THE MOTION PASSES..

>> ITEM NUMBER FIVE. DISCUSS AND CONSIDER TXU GRANT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $10,000, FOR THE VETERANS AND SOCIAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, AND ALL RELATED MATTERS. IS GRANTS HERE?

>> I MAKE A MOTION TO APPROVE .

>> I SECOND. >> WE HAVE EMOTION AND A SECOND.

ANY OTHER DISCUSSION? THE ONLY REASON THIS WAS PUT ON IS, VETERANS SERVICES THIS EVERY YEAR, RECURRING AND WHEN WE MOVE THIS TO ONE DEPARTMENT, THIS IS A GRANT THAT THEY WERE RECEIVING AND SOCIAL SERVICES IS NOT ONLY FOR VETERANS. IT IS EVERYBODY.

DO YOU WANT TO CLARIFY A BIT, JJ? WE LOOKED THROUGH THE MINUTES AND EVERYTHING FOR VETERAN SERVICES CONTINUED BUT SINCE THIS GOES TO BOTH I JUST WANTED TO BE UPFRONT WITH EVERYONE AND BRING IT TO THE COURT TO MAKE SURE THAT EVERYONE

WAS AWARE. >> THESE FUNDS CONTINUE AND WE WERE GRANTING THESE OUT TO NUECES COUNTY AND WE ARE REQUIRED TO PROVIDE TXU A MONTHLY REPORT. THEY SAW THE FUNDING WAS RUNNING LOW SO THEY SUBMITTED ANOTHER CHECK FOR $10,000 TO CONTINUE THE GRANT. WE WANTED TO BRING IT TO THE COMMISSIONERS COURT TO SEE IF YOU WANTED TO CONTINUE AND TO

ACCEPT THE FUNDING. >> YES. WE HAVE EMOTION AND A SECOND. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE.

>> AYE >> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES, UNANIMOUSLY. ITEM NUMBER 6. DISCUSS AND CONSIDER AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-CORPUS CHRISTI (TAMU-CC) FOR THE INSTALLATION, OPERATION, AND MAINTENANCE OF GROUNDWATER MONITORING WELLS IN DESIGNATED NUECES COUNTY INLAND PARKS, AND ALL RELATED MATTERS.

>> YOUR HONOR, SINCE THIS IS GOING TO REQUIRE THAT WE VOTE ON AN AGREEMENT THAT IS A CONTRACT, IF YOU WILL, I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE A DISCUSSION ABOUT THIS IN EXECUTIVE SESSION.

>> YOU WANT TO TAKE IT TO EXECUTIVE?

>> YES. PLEASE. >> ?

[7. Discuss and consider authorizing and approving the Statement of Work No. 4 with Strada U.S. Professional Services, LLC for post-implementation clean-up services through May 31, 2025 in an amount not to exceed $217,480, and related matters.]

>> YES. >> MOVING ON TO ITEM NUMBER SEVEN. DISCUSS AND CONSIDER AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING THE STATEMENT OF WORK NUMBER 4 WITH STRADA U.S. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, LLC FOR POST-IMPLEMENTATION CLEAN-UP SERVICES THROUGH MAY 31, 2025 IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $217,480, AND RELATED MATTERS. THIS IS PHASE ONE OF TWO AND THE

[01:40:01]

COUNTY ATTORNEY HAS TO APPROVE THIS .

>> JUDGE, THESE ARE FUNDS THAT ARE BUDGETED?

>> YES . >> I WOULD MAKE A MOTION TO

APPROVE. >> SECOND.

>> WE HAVE EMOTION AND A SECOND. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE.

>> AYE >> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES.

ITEM NUMBER EIGHT. DISCUSS AND CONSIDER UPCOMING COMMISSIONERS COURT MEETING DATE(S), WORKSHOP DATE(S), AND RELATED MATTERS. IF

[1. Discuss and consider the submission of a grant contract with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services in relation to the Title IV-E County Legal Services Contract. ]

THERE ARE NONE, WE WILL MOVE ON TO B 1. GRANTS. WE DO HAVE ONE TO DISCUSS. WE WOULD APPRECIATE YOU BEING HERE TO EXPLAIN. DO WE WANT TO COME BACK? OR, IS SHE ONLINE? DISCUSS AND CONSIDER THE SUBMISSION OF A GRANT CONTRACT WITH THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY AND PROTECTIVE SERVICES IN RELATION TO THE TITLE IV-E COUNTY LEGAL SERVICES CONTRACT. WE HAD A MEETING ABOUT THIS WITH THE COUNTY ATTORNEYS AND THE COUNTY ATTORNEYS OFFICE UTILIZES THIS GRANT QUITE A BIT BUT THERE WAS A CLARIFICATION BEING THAT THERE WAS ONLY A PERCENTAGE THAT GETS REIMBURSED. THERE IS A COST TO THE COUNTY AND WE WANTED YOU ALL TO BE AWARE OF THAT.

>> THEY HAVE BEEN WORKING HARD BETWEEN THE AUDITORS OFFICE AND MY OFFICE TO MAKE SURE THAT WE ARE -- THERE SHE IS. THANK YOU.

>> JUST TO MAKE SURE THAT WE ARE LETTING THEM KNOW MORE ACCURATELY HOW MUCH THE COUNTY PUTS TOWARDS THESE SERVICES SO, I KNOW THEY ARE HOPING TO INCREASE THE REIMBURSEMENT. BUT THAT IS THE UPDATE THAT I HAVE. I KNOW WE ARE WAITING ON MORE

INFORMATION . >> SO IS THIS NOT READY?

>> SO, -- B.1. IS NOT READY? >> I THINK THERE ARE SOME DATA POINTS THAT NEED TO BE FILLED IN. BUT I DON'T THINK THAT

AFFECTS WHAT HAPPENS TODAY . >> NO .

>> SO, THIS IS ALREADY BUDGETED?

>> THE CONTRACT, IT SAYS THIS CONTRACT IS UP TO 2032. FOR EIGHT YEARS BUT WE BRING IT EVERY YEAR SO WE ARE GOING TO PROVIDE THE SERVICES THAT WE DO FOR LEGAL AND THEY HAVE ATTORNEYS THAT ARE WORKING ON THIS NO MATTER WHAT.

>> SO THIS IS BUDGETED? IS THIS COSTING US MORE IF WE DO THIS? OUR POLICY HAS BEEN TO NOT GO AFTER ANYTHING?

>> IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN A COST. >> IT IS ALREADY BUDGETED AND WE ARE TRYING TO GET BACK IS MUCH AS WE CAN. THESE ARE STATUTORILY REQUIRED DUTIES OF THE COUNTY AND THE OFFICE. OUR OFFICE IS REIMBURSED FOR SOME OF THE WORK THAT WE DO AND WE TRIED TO LET THEM KNOW AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE WHAT GOES TOWARDS THE STATUTORILY REQUIRED THINGS THEN THEY HAVE A FORMULA THAT THEY

APPLIED. >> I HAVE A BREAKDOWN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024 IF YOU WANT TO SEE THAT.

>> IS THERE ANY ADDITIONAL COST RELATED TO THIS IF WE APPLY?

>> ADDITIONAL? OR IS THIS THE SAME?

>> IT IS IN THE GENERAL FUND. EVERYTHING IS IN THE GENERAL

FUND. >> NO ADDITIONAL REQUEST OF

ADDITIONAL FUNDING. >> IT IS JUST WHAT WE GET

REIMBURSED IS NOT 100%. >> HOW LONG HAVE WE DONE THIS

GRANT? >> A LONG TIME.

>> A LONG TIME. WE HAVE DONE THIS A FEW YEARS.

>> THAT IS WHY IT IS GENERAL FUND AND NOT ASSIGNED TO A GRANT

DEPARTMENT. >> THERE IS NO BUDGET. IT JUST COMES OUT OF THE GENERAL FUND AT THE END OF THE YEAR.

>> THE SUPPLIES THAT THEY PURCHASED THROUGH THE GENERAL FUND, WE GET THOSE RECEIPTS AND WE SEND THEM IN.

[01:45:01]

>> PART TWO IS THE ONE THAT TAKES US TIME TO GET REIMBURSED?

NOT THE FIRST ONE. >> DO YOU WANT TO SEE A

BREAKDOWN OF THE LEGAL? >> MY QUESTION IS, I REALIZE THIS CONTRACT WAS APPROVED IN 2018. BUT, I SEE THE THERE IS AN ANNUAL RENEWAL OF THIS CONTRACT BUT CAN IT BE EXTENDED FURTHER SO WE DON'T HAVE TO COME BACK? WE ARE GOING TO HAVE TO DO IT EVERY YEAR BETWEEN NOW AND 32. IS THERE A WAY IT COULD BE REWRITTEN OR AMENDED AND DO ANOTHER SEVEN YOUR CONTRACT OR

TERM? >> THE CONTRACT WITH THE STATE IS EIGHT YEARS BUT THEY WILL REQUEST US TO PROVIDE CERTAIN DOCUMENTS EVERY YEAR AND IF WE WANT TO CONTINUE WITH THE SAME BUDGET WE CONTINUE WITH THE SAME BUDGET AND IF WE WANT TO REVISE IT THIS IS THE OPPORTUNITY SO THAT IS WHY WE DO IT EVERY YEAR.

WE USUALLY CONTINUE THE SAME BUDGET.

>> IS THE PROBLEM THAT YOU ARE NOT GETTING THE RECEIPTS TO BE REIMBURSED? IS IT A PAPERWORK PROBLEM? WHAT WAS THE ISSUE THAT

BROUGHT IT. >> IT IS JUST THE CONTRACT HAS

TO BE APPROVED BY THE COURT. >> SO WE ARE JUST AGREEING TO DO THIS FOR THE LENGTH OF THE CONTRACT INSTEAD OF COMING BACK

EVERY YEAR. >> I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A MOTION THAT WE APPROVED THE CONTRACT FOR THE NEXT EIGHT YEARS.

>> AND THE FORMS THAT ARE BROUGHT IN EVERY YEAR, THOSE ARE USUALLY SIGNED BY THE COUNTY AUDITOR.

>> ARE WE REQUIRED TO DO THIS? WE ARE TRYING TO DO THINGS WE ARE STATUTORILY REQUIRED TO DO. IS THIS SOMETHING THAT WE HAVE

TO DO? >> I WAS TOLD WITH THE CHILD WELFARE WE ARE NOT STATUTORILY REQUIRED.

>> THEY UTILIZE THE COUNTY ATTORNEYS.

>> IS STATUTORILY REQUIRED? >> I NEED TO GET NICOLE RUSSELL -- IN MY OFFICE HAS BEEN WORKING ON THESE. IF I COULD HAVE A MOMENT TO BREAK DOWN WHICH IS AND WHICH IS NOT, IF WE COULD

GET BACK TO YOU. >> I AM A LITTLE CONFUSED ON WHAT WE LEGALLY HAVE TO DO. I'M NOT TRYING TO SAY WE SHOULDN'T BUT I'D JUST WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT IF WE ARE NOT STATUTORILY OBLIGATED, WHY ARE WE DOING IT? IF WE ARE, OKAY BUT IF WE ARE

NOT, >> MY BOSS, WE SAW THESE FUNDS FOR THE REASON REGION AND IT HAS A LEGAL COMPONENT. THIS IS SOMETHING THAT HELPS THE END-USER, THE FAMILY, THE CHILD.

I WOULD ADVISE, I GET THERE IS A CAUSE.

>> WE ARE RECOUPING MOST OF IT IF NOT ALL OF IT AND IT IS FROM THE STATE SO, THE STATE IS ALWAYS GIVING US MANDATES AND I AM THANKFUL THEY ARE NOT JUST PUTTING ON US TO COVER AND THAT WE ARE ABLE TO RECOUP SOME COST.

>> YOU HAVE 2024, WHAT IS THE COST TO THE COUNTY IN 2024?

>> WE NEED TO LOOK AT THIS FROM AN ANALYSIS -- IF THIS IS A MANDATE WE NEED TO HAVE A DISCUSSION ON THIS BECAUSE IT IS COSTING US -- I THINK IT IS COSTING THIS COUNTY A LOT OF

MONEY. >> IS OUR COST FOR 2021 -- 2024,

IS THAT $41,000? >> THIS IS THE FIRST TIME WE

HAVE SEEN THIS BACKUP. >> THEY WANTED MORE EXPLANATION SO THEY WORKED ON THIS BEFORE. AFTER I SUBMITTED THE AGENDA ITEM SO THE FIRST COLUMN IS THE RECEIPTS AND THE COST THAT WE SUBMIT AS TOTAL REIMBURSEMENT REQUEST AND THE POPULATION RATE IS WHAT THEY PROVIDE US. IT IS MANDATED BY THE STATE AND IT HAS BROKEN DOWN WHAT IS ALLOWABLE BEEN THERE IS THE OTHER

[01:50:01]

PERCENTAGE. THE FEDERAL SHARES WHERE WE RECEIVE BACK. SO -- WE SUBMITTED COST OF $341,000 FOR THE YEAR AND WE RECEIVED BACK

$41,000. >> THAT IS NOT A SMALL AMOUNT OF MONEY. I KIND OF NEED TO GET SOME TIME TO DIGEST THIS. WE LITERALLY JUST GOT HANDLED THIS TWO MINUTES AGO, 10 SECONDS AGO AND WE ARE LOOKING AT IT FAST BUT WHAT YOU ARE TELLING ME IS THE ANNUAL TOTAL THAT WE PAY, THAT WE SPENT,

>> 3:41 IS SPENT ON THE GENERAL FUND AND DID WE RECEIVE RECEIPTS

>> WE DID THIS JUST TO APPROVE A CONTRACT .

>> ANYBODY THAT TOUCHES THE CONTRACT, IT IS A PERCENTAGE. IT IS 5% OR 2% OF THEIR INCOME FOR THE QUARTER.

>> A PERCENTAGE OF THE WORK THAT IS DONE .

>> I WOULD LIKE TO SOMEHOW FIGURE OUT HOW TO PAUSE THIS TO DETERMINE WHAT WE ARE STATUTORILY OBLIGATED TO DO AND WHAT WE ARE PAYING AND WHAT WE ARE GETTING REIMBURSED. IT LOOKS LIKE IT IS COSTING US $300,000 PER YEAR TO DO SOMETHING THAT WE MIGHT NOT BE OBLIGATED OR REQUIRED TO DO.

>> THIS IS ONLY LEGAL. >> DO YOU HAVE THE LIST FOR THE NEXT ITEM? CAN WE BRING THIS BACK TO THE NEXT MEETING? CAN WE

BRING IT BACK? >> THEY ARE LATE PAYING US SO I

THINK THEY UNDERSTAND -- >> THEY ARE LATE PAYING US?

>> WE HAVE NOT BEEN REIMBURSED FOR ALL OF THIS YET. WE

SUBMITTED. >> THAT IS FROM 2024 .

>> THE YEAR ENDING 2024. >> THE NEXT ONE IS LIKE A YEAR AND A HALF OR SOMETHING LIKE THAT ON REIMBURSEMENTS.

>> ARE YOU GOING TO TELL ME THE SAME THINGS ON TWO AND THREE?

>> YES . >> SO THERE WILL BE MORE THAT WE ARE SPENDING AND NOT GETTING REIMBURSED? DO YOU HAVE THIS

KIND OF SHEET FOR THE NEXT ONES? >> I THINK WE NEED TO BRING IT BACK TO THE FIRST MEETING. WE ARE JUST GETTING PAPERWORK AND

BRINGING IT BACK . >> I WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE TWO THAT YOU HAVE. DOES THAT MEAN ANOTHER CHUNK OF CHANGE THAT WE

ARE NOT GETTING? >> IF THE COURT WANTS TO --

>> AGAIN, IT IS ANOTHER $119,000 AND WE ARE ONLY GETTING $20,000 REIMBURSED SO THAT IS ABOUT ANOTHER $100,000 SO IT IS COSTING THE COUNTY $400,000 FOR THESE ITEMS THAT WE ARE NOT SURE WE ARE STATUTORILY OBLIGATED TO DO. IS THAT CORRECT?

>> THERE IS A BREAKDOWN, IF YOU CAN PULL THIS INTO EXECUTIVE, I CAN GIVE YOU A BREAKDOWN OF WHICH PARTS ARE STATUTORILY REQUIRED AND THOSE THAT HAVE JUST BEEN DECIDED ON BY THE COURT TO PERFORM. WE CAN PROVIDE THAT UPDATE TODAY IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE THAT AND HAVE THE ITEM ON THE NEXT AGENDA BUT I WOULD HATE TO LEAVE IT OUT THERE FOR TOO LONG.

>> THIS IS A PRETTY BIG NUMBER. SO.

>> ON THE CHILD WELFARE THERE WAS A POSITION THAT WAS UNDER

GENERAL FUND >> THERE WAS A POSITION FOR THE

CHILD WELFARE. >> THIS IS ALL PART OF IT. THIS IS A POSITION THAT WAS FOR THE CHILD WELFARE TITLE 4 E.

[01:55:01]

>> IT IS A PERCENTAGE OF THEIR WORK. ANYONE THAT TOUCHES IT SO 100% WAS THE SOCIAL SERVICE PERSON AND ANYBODY, THAT THE AUDITORS SIGNS, MICHELLE THAT DOCUMENTS EVERYTHING THAT PUTS IT TOGETHER AND SUBMITS IT. ANYBODY THAT TOUCHES IT, THERE IS A PERCENTAGE OF THEIR SALARY. THIS IS YOUR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2024. THESE NUMBERS ARE FOR THE YOUR ENDING SAID NUMBER 30,

2024. >> WHEN I READ THESE, BEFORE THE MEETING, I HAD THE SAME CONFUSION. I KNOW THE COUNTY ATTORNEYS OFFICE DEALS WITH JUVENILE ASSISTANCE. SO, I THOUGHT, ARE THE SERVICES THAT YOU ARE STATUTORILY REQUIRED TO PROVIDE? AND IF IT IS, WE ARE GETTING SOMEBODY BACK ON SOMETHING AND WE ARE STATUTORILY REQUIRED TO DO THAT. WHAT ARE WE REQUIRED TO DO AND WHAT ARE WE NOT REQUIRED TO DO?

>> I AGREE WITH COMMISSIONER CHESNEY. WE PROBABLY OUGHT TO TABLE THIS SO THAT WE HAVE A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT WE

ARE DOING HERE. >> AND -- SPOT AND YOU TELL THEM

-- >> NICOLE HAS BEEN WORKING ON THIS AND SHE CAN PROVIDE AN UPDATE .

>> DO YOU STILL WANT TO DO IT IN EXECUTIVE.

>> YES. >> YES, PLEASE.

>> GOOD MORNING, COMMISSIONERS AND JUDGE. I DID NOT QUITE HEAR ALL OF THE QUESTIONS THAT YOU WERE DISCUSSING. I WAS MULTITASKING ON THE WAY DOWN HERE. ON THE LEGAL SERVICES GRANT, ANY MONEY THAT WE CAN RECOUP IS GOOD FOR THE COUNTY.

THE FAMILY CODE THIS GOES TO THE DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY AND PROTECTIVE SERVICES. IT IS A FIXED AMOUNT OF MONEY THAT WE GET SO ANY MONEY THAT WE CAN GET ON THIS IS GOOD.

>> THANK YOU . >> WERE THERE ANY OTHER

QUESTIONS? >> THAT IS ALL OF THIS? WHAT IS STATUTORILY OBLIGATED? THERE ARE SOME THINGS THAT WERE NOT

STATUTORILY OBLIGATED . >> ON THE LEGAL SERVICES GRANT THAT ONLY PAYS FOR OUR LEGAL SERVICES SO ALL OF THAT IS STATUTORILY OBLIGATED, REQUIRED. WE DO HAVE TO PROVIDE THOSE

SERVICES TO THE STATE. >> THERE ARE SOME OTHER THINGS

IN HERE. >> I THINK THERE IS A QUESTION WITH THE CHILD WELFARE SERVICES GRANT. THAT IS A SEPARATE GRANT.

>> THAT IS THE SECOND ONE? >> YES.

>> SO, >> DO WE WANT TO GO AHEAD WITH

THE FIRST ONE? TXU SIX -- B.1. >> I JUST WANTED WONDERED IF WE

WANT TO DO A MOTION TO PASS. >> MONEY THAT WE DON'T COME GET BACK FROM THE STATE WE WILL HAVE TO KICK IN AS A COUNTY.

>> AND WE ARE REQUIRED TO DO THAT .

>> RIGHT . >> WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND TO APPROVE. ANY OTHER DISCUSSION ON B.1. ? ALL IN FAVOR SAY AYE.

>> AYE . OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES.. THE OTHER ITEM, B.2. ,

[2. Discuss and consider the submission of a grant contract with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services in relation to the Title IV-E County Child Welfare Services Contract. ]

IS THAT THE ITEM YOU WOULD LIKE TO BRING BACK?

>> YES. >> I DO. WE ARE NOT STATUTORILY OBLIGATED TO FUND CHILD WELFARE SERVICES LIKE THE MONEY THAT WE GIVE TO FOSTER KIDS. THIS IS A BUSINESS DECISION OF THE COURT

[02:00:04]

BUT IN LOOKING AT THE SPECIFICS UNDER THE GRANT, A LARGE PORTION OF THE GRANTS, I KNOW THAT ANNA WAS SAYING, THERE IS A LARGE PORTION OF THE GRANT THAT GOES TO MONEY WE WOULD ALREADY BE SPENDING. WHEN WE LOOK AT THE COST-BENEFIT ANALYSIS WE WANT TO BE FOCUSING ON THE PROGRAM FUNDS THAT WOULD NOT BE SPENT BY THE COUNTY IF WE DID NOT HAVE THIS A GRANT. FOR EXAMPLE, A PORTION OF THIS GRANT GOES TO PAYING THE AUDITORS OFFICE. THAT WOULD BE GETTING PAID BY THE COUNTY EITHER WAY. SO, THAT IS NOT PART

OF THE COST . >> IS THAT THE SALARY?

>> YES. >> HAVE YOU LOOKED AT THE SHEET?

>> I LOOKED AT THE ONE THAT WAS PROVIDED TO ME LAST WEEK. WE ARE

WORKING ON THE NUMBERS. >> LISA HAS A COMMENT.

>> THE SALARY FROM MY STAFF IS THE INDIRECT RATE. NOT THE

SALARY THAT IS ON THE -- >> IT IS.

>> SO, IT IS? IT ISN'T? WHAT'S THE ANSWER?

>> YES, IT IS INCLUDED. THE INDIRECT COST IS ALSO INCLUDED IN ADDITION TO THAT BUT THE SALARIES ON THE ADMINISTRATIVE, THERE IS 1% TO THE AUDITOR AND 5% OF THE ACCOUNTS PAYABLE. 20% FOR MICHELLE THAT DOES THE WORK. SO WE ARE PAYING THEM AND WE ARE TRYING TO GET SOME OF THAT. ANYBODY THAT TOUCHES ANYTHING ON THE REIMBURSEMENTS OR THE MANAGEMENT OR ANY OF THAT GETS

THE PERCENTAGE PUT IN . >> SO NOT OF THIS GOES TO ANYTHING OUTSIDE OF NUECES COUNTY PEOPLE? I DON'T

UNDERSTAND. >> THE SALARY AND THE --.

>> THE CHILDREN ARE >> IS THERE ANYTHING OTHER THAN CLOTHING? EXPECT THE INCIDENTALS, THE SCHOOL

SUPPLIES. >> SO I WOULD SAY 80% OF THIS IS GOING TO NUECES COUNTY REIMBURSEMENT OF SALARIES?

>> YES . >> OKAY. THAT MAKES IT DIFFERENT. YOU HAVE TO DO IT. WE HAVE TO DO THESE THINGS ANYWAY.

IF NICOLE WOULD HAVE BEEN HERE EARLIER WE WOULD HAVE BEEN DONE.

>> WE NEEDED SOME QUESTIONS ANSWERED. SO -- WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND TO APPROVE ITEM B.2. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE.

[3. Discuss and consider authorizing execution of a Renewal and Extension Agreement for Professional Services with Justice Benefits, Inc. (“JBI”) for auditing and consulting services related to Federal Financial Participation, and related matters.]

>> AYE >> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES.

ITEM NUMBER THREE. DISCUSS AND CONSIDER AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A RENEWAL AND EXTENSION AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES WITH JUSTICE BENEFITS, INC. ("JBI") FOR AUDITING AND CONSULTING SERVICES RELATED TO FEDERAL FINANCIAL PARTICIPATION, AND RELATED MATTERS. THAT IS YOURS, ANNA.

>> WE HAVE THAN THE SEARS, SINCE 2009 AND JBI GETS 15% OF THE AWARD. THE INFORMATION COMES FROM THE -- AND THE AUDITORS

OFFICE. THIS IS A REGULAR -- >> YES.

>> YES. >> THE COST TO THE COUNTY ON THIS ONE OR FUNDING, WHATEVER WE GET, WE SPEND AND THE PERCENTAGE

COMES OUT. >> THE FUNDS THAT ARE RECEIVED

GOAD TO THE SHERIFF'S. >> SO MOVED .

>> I MADE THE MOTION ALREADY. >> I'M SORRY .

>> WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY

[1. Discuss and consider approval of Change Order No. 1 for the Nueces County Jail and Courthouse Sewer Improvement ARPA Project in the amount of $8,186.20, which will be allocated from a decrease in contingency allowances and all related matters. ]

[02:05:04]

AYE. >> AYE

>> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES. ITEM C.1. . DISCUSS AND CONSIDER APPROVAL OF CHANGE ORDER NUMBER 1 FOR THE NUECES COUNTY JAIL AND COURTHOUSE SEWER IMPROVEMENT ARPA PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,186.20, WHICH WILL BE ALLOCATED FROM A DECREASE IN CONTINGENCY ALLOWANCES AND ALL RELATED MATTERS. THANK YOU,

JUAN. >> SO MOVED .

[2. Discuss and consider approval of Change Order No. 2 for a $185,054 increase for the Medical Examiner Renovations ARPA Project, funded by $125,000 Pct. 2 ARPA funds, $16,248 Pct. 2 2016 CO's and $43,806 Medical Examiner Equipment ARPA funds. Change Order No. 2 includes a decrease of $33,064 in contingency allowances and all related matters. ]

>> SECOND. >> WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE.

>> AYE >> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES.

ITEM C.2. . DISCUSS AND CONSIDER APPROVAL OF CHANGE ORDER NUMBER 2 FOR A $185,054 INCREASE FOR THE MEDICAL EXAMINER RENOVATIONS ARPA PROJECT, FUNDED BY $125,000 PRECINCT 2 ARPA FUNDS, $16,248 PRECINCT 2 2016 CO'S AND $43,806 MEDICAL EXAMINER EQUIPMENT ARPA FUNDS. TERESA WORKED ON THIS.

>> SO MOVED. >> SECOND.

>> WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY

AYE. >> AYE

[1. Approve Budget Amendment No. 08 for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. ]

>> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES. ITEM D.1.

>> GOOD JOB, JUAN . >> MOVING ON. D.1. APPROVE BUDGET AMENDMENT NUMBER 08 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025.

>> SO MOVED . >> SECOND.

[1. Discuss and consider authorizing the termination of the Agreement with HireRight, LLC (“HireRight”) for background screening services, and begin using Texas Department of Public Safety (“DPS”) background screening, and all related matters.]

>> WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY

AYE. >> AYE

>> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES. ITEM DISCUSS AND CONSIDER E.1.

[4. EXECUTIVE SESSION: PUBLIC NOTICE is given that the Commissioners Court may elect to go into an Executive Session anytime during the meeting to discuss matters listed anywhere on the Agenda, when authorized by the provisions of the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. To the extent there has been a past practice of distinguishing items for public deliberation and those for executive session, the public is advised that the Court is departing from that practice, and reserves the right to discuss any listed agenda items in executive session when authorized by law to do so. In the event the Commissioners Court elects to go into Executive Session regarding an agenda item, the section or sections of the Open Meetings Act authorizing the Executive Session will be publicly announced by the presiding officer. In accordance with the authority of the Government Code, Vernon’s Texas Codes, Sections 551.071, 551.072, 551.073, 551.074, 551.0745, 551.076, 551.086, 551.087, the Commissioners Court will hold an Executive Session to consult with attorney(s) including matters related to litigation; deliberate regarding real property, prospective gift(s), personnel matters, including termination, county advisory bodies, security devices, and/or economic development negotiations and other matters that may be discussed in an Executive Session. Upon completion of the Executive Session, the Commissioners Court may in an open session take such action as appropriate on items discussed in an Executive Session.]

AUTHORIZING THE TERMINATION OF THE AGREEMENT WITH HIRERIGHT, LLC FOR BACKGROUND SCREENING SERVICES, AND BEGIN USING TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY BACKGROUND SCREENING, AND ALL

RELATED MATTERS. >> SO MOVED .

>> SECOND. >> WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND. ALL THOSE IN FAVOR SAY AYE.

>> AYE >> OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES.

ALL RIGHT. EXECUTIVE SESSION. PUBLIC NOTICE IS GIVEN THAT THE COMMISSIONERS COURT MAY ELECT TO GO INTO AN EXECUTIVE SESSION ANYTIME DURING THE MEETING TO DISCUSS MATTERS LISTED ANYWHERE ON THE AGENDA, WHEN AUTHORIZED BY THE PROVISIONS OF THE OPEN MEETINGS ACT, CHAPTER 551 OF THE TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE. TO THE EXTENT THERE HAS BEEN A PAST PRACTICE OF DISTINGUISHING ITEMS FOR PUBLIC DELIBERATION AND THOSE FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION, THE PUBLIC IS ADVISED THAT THE COURT IS DEPARTING FROM THAT PRACTICE, AND RESERVES THE RIGHT TO DISCUSS ANY LISTED AGENDA ITEMS IN EXECUTIVE SESSION WHEN AUTHORIZED BY LAW TO DO SO. IN THE EVENT THE COMMISSIONERS COURT ELECTS TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING AN AGENDA ITEM, THE SECTION OR SECTIONS OF THE OPEN MEETINGS ACT AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE SESSION WILL BE PUBLICLY ANNOUNCED BY THE PRESIDING OFFICER. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AUTHORITY OF THE GOVERNMENT CODE, VERNON'S TEXAS CODES, SECTIONS 551.071, 551.072, 551.073, 551.074, 551.0745, 551.076, 551.086, 551.087, THE COMMISSIONERS COURT WILL HOLD AN EXECUTIVE SESSION TO CONSULT WITH ATTORNEYS INCLUDING MATTERS RELATED TO LITIGATION; DELIBERATE REGARDING REAL PROPERTY, PROSPECTIVE GIFTS, PERSONNEL MATTERS, INCLUDING TERMINATION, COUNTY ADVISORY BODIES, SECURITY DEVICES, AND/OR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEGOTIATIONS AND OTHER MATTERS THAT MAY BE DISCUSSED IN AN EXECUTIVE SESSION. UPON COMPLETION OF THE EXECUTIVE SESSION, THE COMMISSIONERS COURT MAY IN AN OPEN SESSION TAKE SUCH ACTION AS APPROPRIATE ON ITEMS DISCUSSED IN AN EXECUTIVE SESSION. A. CONSULT WITH THE COUNTY ATTORNEY REGARDING LEGAL MATTERS RELATED TO THE MARCH 23, 2025 DEMAND BY JANIE GIFFORD; AND RELATED MATTERS (TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 551.071); DISCUSS, CONSIDER, AND TAKE ACTION IN REGULAR SESSION IF NEEDED. B. CONSULT WITH COUNTY ATTORNEY REGARDING LEGAL ISSUES RELATED TO PROPOSAL FROM CPS ENERGY (CITY PUBLIC SERVICE BOARD OF SAN ANTONIO) AND CITY OF SAN ANTONIO (COSA) FOR TAX EXEMPTION SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS FOR THE NUECES BAY POWER PLANT AND THE BARNEY DAVIS POWER PLANT; AND ALL RELATED MATTERS.

DISCUSS AND CONSIDER IN REGULAR SESSION IF NECESSARY. (551.071).

C. CONSULT WITH COUNTY ATTORNEY REGARDING THE STATUS OF THE EASEMENT AND HISTORICAL DESIGNATION OF THE HISTORIC 1914 COURTHOUSE (TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 551.071); TAKE

[02:10:02]

ACTION IN OPEN SESSION IF NECESSARY. ITEM D 3 FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA. AND IN THE REGULAR AGENDA, 3.A.6. DISCUSS AND CONSIDER AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-CORPUS CHRISTI (TAMU-CC) FOR THE INSTALLATION, OPERATION, AND MAINTENANCE OF GROUNDWATER MONITORING WELLS IN DESIGNATED NUECES COUNTY INLAND PARKS, AND ALL RELATED MATTERS. , TRAIN 84. B.1. AND TXU EIGHT

-- B.1. AND >> THERE WE GO, THANK YOU.

[A. Consult with the County Attorney regarding legal matters related to the March 23, 2025 demand by Janie Gifford; and related matters (Tex. Gov’t Code § 551.071); discuss, consider, and take action in regular session if needed.]

>> EMOTION WOULD BE TO DENY THE CLAIM MADE.

>> WE HAVE A MOTION AND SECOND, ALL THOSE IN FAVOR? ANY OPPOSED?

[D. Authorize payment of bills - Special Motions List - American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dated April 24, 2025. ]

THE MOTION PASSES UNANIMOUSLY. ON ITEM D 3 FROM THE CONSENT

AGENDA. >> JUDGE I WOULD MAKE A MOTION TO APPROVE THE PAYMENT AS LISTED TO DLF AND TO DIRECT DLF TO PROVIDE WRITTEN PROGRESS REPORT AND SCHEDULE OF PAYMENTS MADE BY THURSDAY, MAY 1 AND PRESENT TO THE INLAND PARKS DIRECTOR FOR CIRCULATION TO THE COMMISSIONERS COURT.

>> WE HAVE A MOTION AND A SECOND BY COMMISSIONER GONZALEZ ALL THOSE IN FAVOR? ANY OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES UNANIMOUSLY AS

[6. Discuss and consider authorizing and approving the execution of an Agreement with Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC) for the installation, operation, and maintenance of groundwater monitoring wells in designated Nueces County Inland Parks, and all related matters.]

WELL. 3A6, I BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MOTION.

>> BEFORE WE COULD I WOULD REQUEST WE TABLE THIS TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING TO GIVE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THE COUNTY ATTORNEY TO BRING BACK MORE

INFORMATION. >> MOTION AND SECOND TO TABLE TO THE NEXT MEETING MAY 14, ALL THOSE IN FAVOR? ANY OPPOSED? THE MOTION PASSES. I BELIEVE THAT IS ALL OF THE ACTION ON OUR AGENDA.

[ Adjournment in Memory (upon request)]

UNLESS YOU CAN REMIND ME IF I FORGOT ONE OF YOUR ITEMS PLEASE LET ME KNOW NOW. OTHERWISE DO WE HAVE ANY ADJOURNMENTS IN MEMORY? COMMISSIONER CHESNEY YOU CAN GO FIRST.

>> THIS IS THE OBITUARY FOR AND HE PASSED AWAY PEACEFULLY SURROUNDED BY FAMILY AND FRIENDS IN HOUSTON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2025, AT THE AGE OF 78, HE WILL BE REMEMBERED AND MISSED BY HIS WIFE AND CHILDREN. DARRELL'S IMPRESSIVE LIST OF PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS INCLUDE RECOGNITION AS A FELLOW FROM THE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF TRIAL LAWYERS AND ACADEMY OF TRIAL LAWYERS, THE TEXAS BAR FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING TRIAL LAWYER OF THE YEAR, LIFETIME OF EXCELLENCE AND ADVOCACY AWARD 2023 FROM THE ASSOCIATION OF CIVIL TRIAL APPELLATE SPECIALIST, SENTINEL BY THE BOARD OF TRIAL ADVOCATES AND SO MANY OTHERS. I WILL SAY ON A PERSONAL NOTE, THERE IS NO UP ITINERARY THAT WOULD EFFECTIVELY DISCUSS THE ACHIEVEMENTS THAT HE HAD IN HIS LIFE, PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS AND THE KIND OF PERSON AND FRIEND HE WAS, OUTSTANDING LAWYER, A GOOD MAN AND HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY IN THIS COMMUNITY. HE WAS DEFINITELY A DEFENSE LAWYER

[02:15:01]

DELUXE. HE WAS QUITE THE GUY SO CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY ON THE

LOSS OF DARRELL BARGER. >> THANK YOU.

>> I HAVE ONE , BORN JANUARY 28, 1933. A GRADUATE OF ROBSTOWN HIGH SCHOOL, ATTENDED BUSINESS SCHOOL IN CORPUS CHRISTI. WORKED WITH GRACE AND INTEGRITY THROUGHOUT HER LIFE. FROM HER EARLY DAYS WITH THE SELECTIVE SERVICE SYSTEM KNOWN AS THE DRAFT BOARD, COASTAL BEND LEGAL AID AND LATER AS A TRUSTED STAFF MEMBER TO STATE REPRESENTATIVE.

AND BOOKS. SHE WAS A LOVING DAUGHTER, WIFE, MOTHER, SISTER, GRANDMOTHER, GREAT-GRANDMOTHER AND FRIEND WHO WILL BE DEARLY MISSED BY ALL OF HER YOU FAMILY AND FRIENDS. UNTIL THE END OF HER LIFE SHE WAS A STRONG WOMAN OF FAITH, WHO INFLUENCED MANY LIVES TO HER LOVING KINDNESS . SERVICES WILL BE HELD AT 7:00 P.M. ON SUNDAY, APRIL 27, 2025. AROUND FUNERAL HOME IN ROBSTOWN, TEXAS. FUNERAL SERVICES WILL BE HELD AT 11:00 A.M. ON MONDAY MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2025 AT THE RAMON FUNERAL HOME. FOLLOWING AT THE COASTAL STATE CEMETERY IN CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS WHERE SHE WILL BE LAID BESIDE HER BELOVED HUSBAND. BY NOW, THEY'RE BOTH HOLDING HANDS, WALKING THROUGH HEAVEN'S GATE'S. NOT ONLY WAS SHE A MOTHER , A GRANDMOTHER, A SISTER AND FRIEND, THE FAMILY ALSO BROUGHT INTO THIS WORLD FIVE CHILDREN, 13 GRANDCHILDREN, 27 GREAT-GRANDCHILDREN, ONE GREAT-GREAT-GRANDSON. SHE WAS A WONDERFUL BEAUTIFUL LADY, VERY CARING AND MOTHER TO MY ASSISTANT. SHE WILL BE MISSED BY ALL, BLESSINGS TO THE FAMILY AND

MY STAFF. >> ABSOLUTELY. ANY OTHERS? I HAVE ONE , I FAILED TO DO LAST MEETING AND I APOLOGIZE. TERESA, THIS IS HER NIECE. MAY 6, 1983, SUNSET FOR HER WAS MARCH 17, 2025. THE DAUGHTER OF EUGENE CARMICHAEL AND THE NIECE OF OUR BELOVED TERESA MACKLE MORE. HER LIFE WAS A BLESSING, MEMORY A TREASURE, LOVE BEYOND WORDS AND WILL BE MISSED BEYOND MEASURE, FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS. WHAT A GREAT WRITE UP ABOUT YOUR NIECE AND, FOR ALL FAMILIES, THE LARGER FAMILY, TOO. SANDERS MOTHER, THE FAMILIES, OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO EACH OF THESE FAMILIES. IF THERE

* This transcript was compiled from uncorrected Closed Captioning.