Contractors Selected For Curb And Gutter Work; Backhoe Purchase Put On Hold For A Month
Contractors were selected for curb and gutter removal and replacement as part of the 2022 street improvement program, while a backhoe purchase was put on hold for a month by Sulphur Springs City Council. Also during the regular March council meeting earlier this week, action was taken to cancel the May 7 City Council election.
Street Work
Assistant City Manager/Community Development Director Tory Niewiadomski told the City Council the way the bid specifications were structured for curb and gutter removal and replacement on California Street and Brinker Street. was so that the city could consider approving one bid for both projects, one for each or none of the bids submitted by contractors.
The city received five bids from contractors for bids. The way the bids came in city staff recommending awarding the projects to two different contractors, one for each street improvement project. He recommended contracting with Richard Drake Contractors for work on California Street and with Highway 19 construction for the Brinker Street project. Drake is out of Paris and Highway 19 is local.
The two low bids , $21,000 bid from Richard Drake Construction of Paris for California Street curb and gutter removal and replacement program and $45,825 from Highway 19 Construction for the Brinker Street project.
As part of the consent agenda, the City Council on March 1 also approved a 380 agreement for 306 Easy Street.
The Council held an executive session 30 minutes prior to the regular meeting Tuesday night, but reported no action was required from that session.
City Manager Marc Maxwell reported the city will hold off completing paving of Lee Street from Brinker to League Street and League Street from Bellview to Pampa Street, both of which run in front of Sulphur Springs Elementary. Sulphur Springs ISD officials contacted the city to ask that the work be completed after school is out instead of during the school year so as not to interfere with traffic during the spring semester.
“There are twice as many streets being done with the street maintenance fee. We are going to be paving 7.18 miles of road, 37,884 feet. We will be expending more than 2 million dollars on it, over half of which comes from street maintenance fee. So this is your tax dollars at work,” Maxwell told the council.
City streets which were already scheduled for improvements this year, included:
- Ardis Street, between Spence Street and Beckham Street,
- Azalea, between Hillcrest Drive to Main Street,
- Bonner Street, between Church and Davis Streets (in front of Central Fire Station)
- Brinker from Beasley Street to the dead-end,
- California Street between Church Street and Seventh Street, and
- Charles Street from College Street to Lakeshore Drive were
The street maintenance fee is expected to allow the city to also make improvements to more than a dozen additional city streets this year. Streets listed for improvements using the SMF include:
- Jackson Street, between Middle to College Street;
- Kasie Lane, between Tate to Camp Streets,
- Lee Street , between Davis (Brinker) and League Street,
- Fore Street, between Main Street to Connally Street;
- Glover, between Davis Street to Church Street
- Forrest Lane between Bell Street to Connally Street; Garrison Street between Main and Connally Streets;
- Houston Street. between Hillcrest Drive to League Street;
- Commercial Services Drive, various spots of repair;
- Como Street, between College Street and the railroad tracks;
- Dabbs Street, between Gilmer and Davis Street;
- Drexel Drive, between Broadway Street to Mockingbird Lane; and
- Fisher Street, between Spence and Lee Streets.
Construction Equipment
Initially, the City Council was asked to consider approving the purchase of a backhoe from South Star JCB using a Sourcewell Contract, using $98,000 funding budgeted for the water distribution and wastewater collection department to get a new backhoe. The amount quoted during the budgeting process has increased to over $120,000, so that has been ruled out due to cost. City staff reached out to all manufacturers that have contracts with Sourcewell, a purchasing cooperative. They received three bids in response to that request as well as one for a 2019 used backhoe.
“After reviewing the equipment that was quoted to us, James Jordan – utilities director; he could not be here tonight – is recommending that you approve the purchase of a backhoe from South Star JCB for $106,953.50,” Smith noted.
Mayor John Sellers noted that would only be an $8,000 difference from the original quote.
“Whenever we started buying Caterpillars, we started having a lot less problems . JCB is an unknown. I talked to the department head. He feels fine with it. I don’t. How would you feel about coming back later and increasing the budget so you can buy a Caterpillar?” Maxwell asked the Council.
Smith said the amount quoted for a new unit was over $120,000, so the one proposed was used. They won’t go lower on the amount.
Maxwell said it’s been the city’s experience with equipment other than Caterpillar that about 15 months after purchase, the equipment begins having problems. The city manager said he was not disparaging the company, because that might not be case with their products. However, every time the city has switched from “something else to Caterpillar, we’ve been pleased with it.” He said when it comes to such a big purchase, you want to get your month’s worth for the product.
“Can we delay it for a month to have this looked at further, to see what y’all can come back to us with?” Sellers asked.
“Yes, I just want to see if there’s any out there. If guys say, ‘Nah, nah, we don’t want to do that,’ we’ll just do the other,” Maxwell said. “If you think it might be worth looking at, then lets look at it.”
“I’m just worried if your department head has taken into account the dig depth, 20-feet, 20-inch verses the 14 on the Cat and 101 horsepower,” Place 1 Councilman Jay Julian asked.
“Oh, he has. He kind of likes the dig depth,” Maxwell said.
“I’ve always like horsepower on equipment like that. A little more horsepower comes in handy at times,” Place 5 Councilman Gary Spraggins noted, asking for the city officials to once again describe the difference in costs to make sure he understood the amounts posts.
Smith noted that the information does appear to show the Caterpillar backhoe at a a lower price, $105,000, that rate is for a used 2019 model backhoe while the $106,000 bid is for a new JCB backhoe, and only has a 36-month 1500-hour warranty that only covers powertrain and hydraulics.
JCB and Case have backhoes available now. New Holland’s projection for new equipment is 4-6 months.
“In October, Capital Construction purchased a backhoe. They got the last backhoe from Holt Cat that they had on the lot,” Smith noted.
“I ask that y’all delay it,” Maxwell said.
“I say we wait, if we can get a better quality piece of equipment that’s going to outlast others… that’s more heavy duty,” Place 3 Councilman Oscar Aguilar said.
Spraggins asked how critical the need for the equipment now as opposed to waiting a month or more to make the purchase.
“James says what we have now is starting to have some electrical issues,” Smith replied. “They have a back up.”
“We’ll be fine,” Maxwell said.
“I guess they could possible see if capital construction would share theirs or either they would have to go rent,” Smith said.
The City Council declined the proposal to purchase of the backhoe from South Star JCB through Sourcewell at this time, pending further discussion and research regarding a backhoe.
Financial Reports
The general fund is positive, pretty close to what was budgeted.
The report given to the council at the March 1 meeting was through Jan. 31, 2022, reflecting property taxes collected. Any payments received after that time will be will be considered delinquent. Property tax collections are “about where they should be,” Assistant City Manager/Director of Finance Lesa Smith reported.
Sales taxes received through February were up 13.75%, a $280,000 increase over the same time last year.
Overall, in the departments for the general fund everybody is right where they should be at this time. A lot of times in the short beginning of the fiscal year, expenses are top heavy at the start of the fiscal year. So any overages are mainly due to that,” Smith reported.
She reported the one department that is slightly overbudget was the street department, which performed some drainage work this year that they don’t normally do.
A budget amendment is expected to be presented at the next City Council meeting, allowing for two readings. This would also allow the city to catch up and include any additional items which cost more than projected due largely to inflation.
Smith said she did do some research to answer a question posed by Julian at a February City Council meeting regarding sewer sales and revenue in the enterprise fund.
“I do see an account that is an issue, so we are taking steps right now to get that account fixed, and hopefully, that’s that,” Smith said. “That’s something that we are working on right now.”
Smith said the city was received $59,000 in American Rescue Act money last week for Sulphur Springs Municipal Airport. The funds will be reflected in the February financials, which the council should receive at hte April meeting. She said when the funding reimbursement request was made, the amount was based on Airport salaries.
Bids will be sought soon for construction of the basketball pavilion in Pacific Park, with submissions expected to be presented to the City Council in April for consideration. The new Grays Building opened last summer, an official opening and ribbon cutting for the new fitness court will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon Friday, March 10, in Pacific Park. Crews have been readying another area of the park for construction of playground equipment. Bids for a basketball pavilion would allow the Pacific Park improvement project to enter the next phase.
Other Business
The City Council voted unanimously to accept the certificate of unopposed candidates and order canceling the May 7 General Election to fill Places 4 and 5 on the Sulphur Springs City Council. City officials noted there was no need to hold an election as the two candidates are unopposed for the seats they are seeking.
Tommy Harrison filed candidacy and in May will be administered the oath of office, replacing Freddie Taylor who opted not to seek another term in Place 4 on the Council. Gary Spraggins, who was elected to fill the remaining term of the individual who resigned from the Place 5 seat on the Council, is also scheduled to take the oath of office to serve a full three-year term starting in May as well.
Julian asked if the program to drive buzzards out of trees in town to another area using pyro-techniques has been successful. Sulphur Springs Police Chief Jason Ricketson reported there were a lot less of the pesky birds roosting in trees in the Sulphur Springs neighborhood between Main and Van Sickle Streets, Water Oak Street and League Streets. He said he’s not sure where they relocated to, but there were only about half a dozen of them left to drive out.
Hopkins County Records – March 5, 2022
Land Deed Transactions
- Kris Childress and Lisa Childress to Joyce E. Baines and Richard A. Baines; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Dalton Littrell and Leslie Melton Littrell to Dan Higginbotham and Mark Higginbotham; tract in the JH Simpson survey
- Thomas Walters Jr. to Joel Scott Walters; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Jessy Smith and Sheila R. Smith to Maeghan Sherwood; tract in the Daniel Halbrooks survey
- 10-2-4 Ranch to John Morton and Sherry Morton; tract in the AJ Butts survey
- John Heilman and Ron Plaxco to Alan Caddell; tract in Southside Addition
- Meredith Dodd, independent executor for hte Laura Wyatt and Stephen Wyatt Estate, to Fulcrum Consulting, Inc.; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Ana E. Barcenas and Juan S. Barcenas to Sara Angelica Barcenas; tract in the E. Melton survey
- Amanda Lowe, who is also known as Amanda McDaniel, and Kevin Lowe to Efrain Rangel Corral and Aurora Rangel Corral Barriga Saucedo; tract in the John G. Procello survey
- George Irwin and Janice Irwin to Amanda Lowe, known as Amanda McDaniel, and Kevin Lowe; tract in the John G. Procello survey
- Cathy J. Wallace, and Larry T. Wallace, trustees for the Wallace Family Trust, to Gentzler Properties II LLC; tract in the Andrew S. Young survey
- Amy McGrady to Jordan Watson and Laura Watson; tract in Woodbridge Crossing
- Melanie Baier Welch and Aaron Welch to Adam Beshears and Kristin Sanders; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Garrett Cartmill, Micah E. Elmore and Danielle L. Robertson to Mi Casa Your Home LLC; tract in the FM Curren survey
- Terry D. Yates to Jeff L. Odom and Tamara R. Odom; tract in the JE Anderson survey
- Summit Ranch Investments LTD to Liberty Tierra LTD; tract in the Lucy Ann Collum survey
- Summit Ranch Investments LTD to Liberty Tierra LTD
- Plaza Street Fund 220 LLC to 4809 Lovers Lane LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Benjamin Lamborn and Moira Lamborn to Jessica Renea White and Mark Everett White; tract in the J. Procello survey
- Brandon C. Williams and Lesley A. Williams to Kathman Fellowship Trust; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Jack Maier and Tamara Maier to Carrie Lowrey; tract in the BS Tankersley survey
- Gordon C. Lee Estate, Helen Echols Lee independent executor, to Helen Echols Lee; tract in the Jasper County School Land
- Abbigail Owens and Austin Owens to April Jones and Dave Jones; tract in the Thomas Stewart survey
- TTT Limited to Glenna Bulloch Living Trust, Glenna D. Bulloch Living Trust, with Kaylyn Moss and Sherrie Prisbrey as co-successor trustees; tract in the S. Norris survey
- Laura Fair, administrator for the David P. Fair Estate, to Laura Fair and Eugenia Fair Sullivan
- Caney Creek Investment Group to Juan A. Vargas and Whitney Vargas; tract in the Ruthy Matthews survey
- H. Keith Hunt to Billy Ray Howard; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Candy C. Stasny to Jazmine Chantel Quintero and Tony Quintero; tract in the Mary Ann Bowlin survey
- Francis Scott Head to Candy C. Stasny; tract in the Mary Ann Cullom survey
- Amy Cathleen Sproles to Bobby Dell Kennelly and Lisa Jo Kennelly; tract in the Santos Coy survey
- Summit Ranch Investments LTD to Jennifer Lyn Hiatt and Darrick Shondra Scales; tract in the WP Smith survey
- Bar P. Land & Cattle LTD to Summit Ranch Investments LTD; tract in the WF Smith survey
- Bryan Sells, LJ Sells Jr. and Tina Sells to Plutus Emerald Farms LLC; tract in the P Venables survey
- Bradford & Son Land & Cattle LLC to Jennifer J. Flowers and Tracy Lott; tract in the Henry N. Quirk survey
- Jessica Haas and Vanessa Turner to Antonio Becerra and Rodrigo Becerra; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Barba Allen Romack and Hal E. Romack to Gregory Lynn Romack; tract in Green Acres
- Kathy Fulkerson, known as Kathy F. Wulf, and William J. Williams to Nick Mead; tract in the Sarah H. Norris survey
- Bar H. Concrete Construction Inc. DBA and Bar H. Investments And Farms to Nick Mead; tract in the Sarah H. Norris survey
- Phillip R. Andree to Damon Gardner Sr. and Ginger Gardner; tract in the J. Parson survey
- Dale McMahan and Sherri McMahan to Area Wide Investments LLC; tract in the E. Melton survey
- Anthony Champagne and Golden Petunia LLC to Justin Colt Nichols and Karrisa Lynn Nichols Nichols; tract in the Wm Hooser survey
- April E. Loyd Huffstickler and Sean Huffstickler to Efrain Garcia and Tina Garcia; tract in the Nacogdoches University survey
- Craig Swindler and Joe Vicars to SM Family Holdings LLC
- Jose Ernesto Alvarez to Ana Cecilia Zamora Torres
- Cecil J. Davis and Judy D. Davis to Billy W. Davis; tract in the Jasper County School Land
- Wanda Gale Cooper Estate, Angela Pipkin independent executor, to Curtis Davis Sherer and Katie Davis; tract in the E. Melton survey
- Alexa Faith Roush and Jacob A. Sexton to Tiffany Belgano and Blake Robinson; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Miramontes Properties LLC to The Queens Place Inc.; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Tami L. Dale, Winfrey Living Trust, William P. Winfrey Subtrust and William P. Winfrey trustee, to Alan Caddell, Logan Caddell and Reece Caddell; tract in the Nacogdoches University survey
- Bank of America NA to Jennifer Floren and Nils Floren
- Kelsey Williams and Todd Williams to Lynsey Elizabeth Dennis and Sean Olen Dennis; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Omega Marketing Inc. to Carol F. McKeon; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Hebert D. Jennings and Phyllis J. Jennings to Jacob W. Ray and Mallorie R. Ray; tract in the D. Padillo survey
- Diana Miller and Donnie Miller to Crystal Miller and Jimmy Miller; tract in the William Nichols survey
- Ronald K. Moore to James Larry Moore Estate; tract in the John F. Keller survey
- James Ronald Allen and Nell Spears Allen to James Brian Allen; tract in the John F. Keller survey
- Connie R. Harris to Devan Timmons and Kenneth Timmons; tract in the Irvin Chancey survey
- Connie R. Harris to Vicki Fields; tract in the Irvin Chancey survey
- Sandra Phillips Taylor to Katherine M. Ferguson and Christopher D. Taylor; tract in the J. Y’Barbo survey
Applications for Marriage Licenses
- Joshua Heath Lindley and Casey Louise Dunavin
- Sawyer Nyle Sinclair and Makayla Brooke Glosson
- Kelly Mack Holt and Steven Thomas Gallagher
- Phillip Lee Walden and Pamela Lafollette Hill
- Tyler Aaron Oakley and Tiffany Lynn Russell
- Joseph Allan Nickerson and Stephanie Elaine Thornton
- Rachel Ekitzel Wood and Elizabeth P. Bialecki
- Marvin Edward Bailey III and Faith Cheyanne Hill
- Sean Douglas Alsip and Monica Lynn Robertson
- Kevin Ray Sharp and Kacye Myriah Redfearn
Paris District Road Report for March 7, 2022
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting March 7, 2022. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
US 75, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes, bridges, and retaining walls. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91. The northbound Washington Street exit ramp is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Houston/Lamar Street exit ramp. The southbound exit ramp for Park Avenue is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Lamar/Houston Street exit. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
Northbound and Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic has been shifted onto the existing frontage road near West Staples Street and transitions back to the existing mainlanes near West Cherry Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 mainlanes and the bridge over Center Street. Within this area, the US 75 frontage road traffic has been reduced to a single travel lane, while US 75 mainlane traffic still maintains two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic are separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Center Street under US 75 are closed to traffic. To detour, eastbound Center Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Park Avenue, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Center Street. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Houston Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Center Street.
Video animations of the northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch and Center Street detour can be viewed online at:
- Northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLyVQ6rYNhM
- Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Detour for the Center Street closure at US 75: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIMoHaqAFGg
Northbound and Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic has been shifted onto the existing frontage road from just north of Houston Street and transitions back to the existing main lanes south of North Travis Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 main lanes and the bridge over Washington Street. Within this area, the US 75 frontage road traffic has been reduced to a single travel lane, while US 75 mainlane traffic still maintains two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic are separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Washington Street under US 75 are closed to traffic. This closure is necessary to complete work in preparation of the mainlane detour. To detour, eastbound Washington Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Lamar Street, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Washington Street. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on North Travis Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Washington Street.
Video animations of the northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch and Washington Street detour can be viewed online at:
- Northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Detour for the Washington Street closure at US 75:
US 75, Grayson County: at the US 82 intersection. Watch for shoulder closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between North Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street as crews work on building new exit and entrance ramps. Watch for shoulder closures and lanes shifts on the eastbound and westbound US 82 main lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on building new exit and entrance ramps. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts for the frontage roads at the US 75 and US 82 intersection as crews work on construction of new frontage road lanes.
FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews are working to construct the new roadway pavement. The ultimate roadway will be a four-lane divided section with turn lanes. A reduced speed limit of 45 mph has been set for this construction project. The east side of the Washington Street intersection at FM 1417 will be temporarily closed beginning March 7 for crews to complete storm drainage work and construct the new pavement across this intersection. The closure is expected to last approximately three weeks. During the closure, motorists wishing to use Washington Street east of FM 1417 are asked to use Taylor Street.
FM 121, Grayson County: from Jim Jones Road to FM 3356. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to complete the remaining work on the project.
FM 1417, Grayson County: at the Park Avenue and Quail Run Road intersections. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to install traffic signals at these intersections.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, Grayson County: Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Thursday night. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
FM 1753, Grayson County: from FM 120 to FM 1897. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and then overlay the roadway.
FS 121 (Grayson Parkway), Grayson County: from the Collin County line to FM 121. Construction is ongoing on this new-location roadway which is west of SH 289 approximately 4 miles. The new roadway will be two lanes with shoulders and will be an extension of the frontage road of the Dallas North Tollway. Local traffic on CR 60 (Marilee Road) and Stiff Chapel Road should expect occasional road work at those intersections with flaggers present to control traffic.
FM 121, Grayson County: in Van Alstyne from Preston Avenue to John Douglas Road. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as construction crews work to install sidewalks, curb ramps, and landscape features.
US 377, Grayson County: Willis Bridge at the Oklahoma State line. Watch for occasional lane closures on the existing bridge as workers pour concrete for the new bridge structure.
US 377, Grayson County: from US 82 to FM 901. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
US 75 debris pickup, Grayson County: from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday and Wednesday during the nighttime.
The annual contract to perform bridge repairs in Grayson County is underway. The following locations will have bridge repairs performed, so travelers should expect occasional lane closures while this work is underway. US 75 northbound mainlane bridge at Iron Ore Creek, US 75 southbound frontage road bridge at Iron Ore Creek, the SH 289 bridge approximately 1.75 miles south of FM 120, and FM 1417 at Post Oak Creek.
SH 56, Grayson County, from SH 289 to FM 901. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on the roadway.
US 377, Grayson County, at the North Big Mineral Creek bridge between Bones Chapel Road and Ferguson Road. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform bridge repairs.
FM 1753, Grayson and Fannin County: from FM 1897 to SH 78. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as workers complete the remaining work on the project.
SH 34, Fannin County: from FM 64 to FM 1550. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as workers build the new SH 34 bridge over the future Lake Ralph Hall.
FM 1552, Fannin County: from SH 78 to County Road 3710. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 898, Fannin County: from the Grayson County line to SH 121. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 824, Fannin County: from SH 56 in Honey Grove to the Lamar County line. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 1550, Fannin County: from County Road 3330 to SH 34. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
SH 121, Fannin County: from the Collin County line to SH 56. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
US 82, Fannin County: from SH 121 to the Lamar County Line. Watch for slow-moving construction equipment as crews work on re-establishing vegetation on the project. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews complete the remaining work.
FM 981, Fannin County: from the Collin County line to SH 78. On March 9 crews plan to close the roadway during the day to replace a failed drainage pipe across the roadway. Message boards will be placed on site in advance to notify travelers of the culvert replacement.
FM 2029, Fannin County: from FM 409 to FM 273. On March 8 crews plan to replace a culvert pipe under FM 2029. Daytime lane closures will be in place while crews work to replace the pipe one lane at a time.
FM 1396, Fannin County: from FM 2029 west to CR 2275. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to widen the roadway.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
SH 37, Franklin County: from the elementary school to US 67. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews install sidewalk.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
SH 37, Red River County: from US 82 to Texas-Oklahoma state line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
US 271, Red River County: from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
FM 906, Lamar County: from FM 2648 to CR 47400. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 38, Lamar County: from US 82 to US 82. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and upgrade bridge rail and metal-beam guard fence.
FM 195, Red River County: from the Lamar County line to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and replace bridge rail.
FM 1487, Red River County: from FM 909 to FM 910. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews widen and rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82, Red River County: from FM 1159 to the Bowie County line. Watch for work zones and drive safely through construction areas as final work is being performed.
Loop 286, Lamar County: from FM 1497 around the North Loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures.
Loop 286, Lamar County: from US 82 West around the North Loop to US 271 South interchange. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews perform full depth concrete repairs during overnight and daytime hours.
FM 64, Delta County: from FM 128 to SH 1532. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Sidewalk and Curb Ramp Project (several counties): The contractor has set barricades at the Wolfe City, Texas, location. The contractor is currently working on Santa Fe street and is near 50 percent complete. The project has had utility issues with removing trees from AT&T lines, which we resolved. This project will improve pedestrian sidewalks and construct ADA-compliant curb ramps at these locations: Hunt County, SH 34 at Crockett Street to SH 34 at FM 816 in Wolfe City. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 903, Rains County: From US 380 to FM 1560. The contractor has set barricades and bulletin boards and advance warning signs. The contractor has begun preparing the right-of-way. The contractor reworked base and built subgrade approximately 1400 feet. The contractor poured a parallel wall.
FM 275, Rains County: from SH 19 to FM 514. The contractor has been doing the finish work on the cement treated flex base, driveways and backfilling from Lake Fork Creek to the north for one mile. The contractor will perform the ride test and lay prime coat this week. The contractor began excavating, grading and installing rip-rap at the Lake Fork Creek bridge, and has formed and poured the back wall and wings on abutment No. 1. The contractor began setting SETs on the north end of the project. Drill shaft installation has been completed and beams will be set soon. Please be aware of lane closures, detours, and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
SH 276, Hunt County: from FM 36 to SH 34 (Quinlan Bypass). The contractor has placed project barricades and has prepared and cleared the right-of-way. The contractor has performed a traffic switch for northbound and southbound traffic on Spur 264 to complete the concrete pavement on the east half of Spur 264. The contractor continues grading flex base on SH 276 from east of the bridge approach to the proposed CRCP section, fine grade embankment work on the west end of the project, and prep work for geo-grid and flex base. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
FM 1566, Hunt County: from FM 272 near Celeste to State Highway 34. The contractor has finished compacting mile six and placed prime coat up to SH 34 this week. Temporary striping was placed on the prime coat section ending at SH-34. The contractor also began scarifying the pavement using a road grader at the beginning first two miles of FM 1566, at its intersection with FM 272.
Maintenance crews in Hunt County will be performing overlay operations on FM 1570 from I-30 to SH 66, and on FM 118 from SH 224 to FM 512. Crews will be performing potholing at various locations in Hunt County. Maintenance contract crews will be performing debris removal on I-30 and guard rail repair at various locations around Hunt County. Please be careful when traveling in these areas, watch out for workers and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
Maintenance crews in Rains County will be performing seal coat prep work on the I-30 south frontage road from CR 3102 to FM 1737. Crews will be performing various sign installations, potholing, edging, and debris removal. Maintenance crews will be performing herbicide operations on various roadways. Please watch for lane closures, work zones and workers along the roadway, and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
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Wildcats Soccer Wins 3-1 Over Marshall, Keep Control of Third Place
Men’s soccer kept control of midfield and got three huge goals to win 3-1 over Marshall on Friday, Mar. 4 in Sulphur Springs.
Edgar Salazar scored on the first goal as he screamed down the far touch line and put one in thanks to an assist from Angel Andino.
Scoring the second and third goals for the brace, Alex Yanez, and assisting the sophomore were Alan Hernandez and Matthew Clarke, respectively.
“He’s a big player… he’s a big time guy,” Coach Alexi Upton said about the sophomore following the win Friday. “He seems to come up at big-time moments and help us out a lot. He’s a crucial player for us.”
A consolation goal from the Mavericks gave the game its final score of 3-1 in favor of Sulphur Springs.
The win is the second straight for men’s soccer.
“The Texas and Marshall [games] were two key ones that we had to take care of this week and win,” Coach Upton said on his team’s week getting two huge wins.
In the win Friday Sulphur Springs increases their season record to 6-14-2 overall (5-5 district).
Friday’s win allows his squad to stay in the hunt for the 3 seed, Coach Upton did not want to celebrate just yet, instead looking ahead to the next two games for men’s soccer.
“The Pine Tree and Hallsville [games] are absolutely crucial,” Coach Upton said. “We want to be third,” the Sulphur Springs coach said Friday.
Sulphur Springs has two remaining big games. Next, traveling to Longview to take on Pine Tree on Tuesday, Mar. 8. After their Tuesday contest at Pine Tree, Coach Upton’s team hosts Hallsville for what may very well end up a seeding game for men’s soccer.
“We need to go to Pine Tree and take care of business, and we need to have a great Senior Night and beat Hallsville here so we can lock up the 3 seed,” Coach Upton said.
Tuesday’s showdown in Pine begins at 7:15 P.M.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Containers With 3 Different Types Of THC Found In Vehicle During SH 154 Traffic Stop
Celina Man Accused Of Concealing A Bag Of Methamphetamine In A Bible
Three people were jailed in Hopkins County on felony controlled substance charges following two routine traffic stops 2 days apart. An Oklahoma couple was arrested on controlled substance charges after containers with three different types of THC were found in a vehicle during a State Highway 154 traffic stop late Thursday night. A Celina man was arrested on a possession charge after concealing a bag of methamphetamine in a Bible taken with him to jail Wednesday, according to arrest reports.
SH 154 Traffic Stop
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Justin Wilkerson reported smelling a faint marijuana odor when he made contact with the occupants of a southbound Chevrolet Impala he stopped at 10:58 p.m. March 3 on State Highway 154 near the Hopkins-Wood County line for a traffic violation.
(HCSO jail photo)
Upon receiving ID information on the driver and a VIN number on the car, he requested records checks on the driver and car. A dispatcher advised the vehicle had been reported to Tulsa Police as stolen. Wilkerson had the driver and passenger, identified as 39-year-old Cassi Rebecca Hartley and 34-year-old Bryan Keith “BK” Edwards, exit the car and detained both Sapulpa, Oklahoma residents in handcuffs pending further investigation, Wilkerson noted in arrest reports.
Edwards allegedly admitted to having a marijuana pipe on him; the deputy removed it from him. HCSO Deputy Bobby Osornio then arrived to assist.
Wilkerson reported finding during a probable cause search of the car several containers with a green, leafy substance he suspected to be marijuana; several containers with THS (cannabis derivatives) inside them, including a brown wax-like substance, a brown hash-like substance and a large amount of suspected THC butter; and several items of drug paraphernalia. The Sapulpa, Oklahoma couple admitted the contraband found in the car was THC and marijuana and claimed all of it, Wilkerson alleged in arrest reports.
Dispatchers then advised Tulsa Police Department had been contacted and confirmed the car had been reported to them as stolen. Hartley, however, had claimed she bought the car from a Car-Mart dealer. So, the deputies contacted the Tulsa Police. After reviewing their records, it was determined a clerical error regarding the vehicle being listed as stolen was possible, and further investigation was needed.
Hartley and Edwards were taken into custody at 11:59 p.m. Thursday, March 3, 2022, for possession of the contraband, then transported to jail. The deputy took possession of the contraband and transported it to the sheriff’s office. The car was impounded and released to a towing service.
A deputy weighed the THC upon arrival at the jail. He alleged it weighed approximately 102 grams. Consequently, Hartley and Edwards were booked into Hopkins County jail on a possession of 4 grams or more but less than 400 grams of a Penalty Group 2 controlled substance, according to arrest reports.
Hartley remained in Hopkins County jail Friday night, March 4, 2022, in lieu of a $25,000 bond on the second degree felony charge, according to jail reports.
Traffic Stop Near FM 69 Overpass
HCSO Deputy Elijah Fite reported stopping Kevin Lamont Rushin at 1:35 p.m. March 2 after noticing that the Honda Accord he was driving on the south service road, just east of the FM 69 south overpass didn’t have a front license plate. Upon contact with the man, he noted the vehicle’s registration showed to have expired in May of 2019.
Fite noted the 59-year-old Celina man became nervous while speaking with him, so he asked to search the car. When Rushin refused, Fite asked requested a police canine to respond for an open air sniff search around the car. HCSO Deputy Drew Fisher responded with his K-9 partner, Axe. The police dog gave a positive alert on the car during the sniff search, giving the deputies probable cause to search it, Fite alleged in arrest reports.
Fisher reported finding a glass pipe of the kind commonly used to smoke methamphetamine in the car console. Fite placed Rushin into handcuffs at 1:47 p.m. Wednesday, March 3, 2022, for possession of drug paraphernalia. Rushin reportedly requested that his Holy Bible be removed from the car before the towing service arrived to remove it from the roadside. The Bible was removed and Rushin was transported to Hopkins County jail, the deputy wrote in arrest reports.
While Rushin was being booked into jail, the likely reason the Celina man wanted the Bible was discovered. Jail staff reported finding a baggy containing a crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine in the Bible, and alerted the deputy. Rushin allegedly admitted he knew what the substance was while booking documents were being completed at the book-in counter, deputies noted in arrest reports.
Rushin was charged with possession of the drug paraphernalia found in the console as well as possession of less than 1 gram of the Penalty Group 1/1-B controlled substance methamphetamine in a Bible. The 59-year-old Celina man remained in Hopkins County jail Friday, March 4, 2022, in lieu of $5,000 bond on the controlled substance charge, according to jail reports.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
Lady Cats Softball Goes 1-1 in Day Two of Royse City Tournament
Sulphur Springs went 1-1 on Friday, Mar. 4 in day two of the Royse City tournament.
Lady Cats softball fell in their first contest to Prairiland 5-1.
The Patriots pulled ahead early 1-0 in the bottom of the 1st.
While Coach Carrillo’s squad tied it up in the top of the 5th 1-1, Prairiland immediately struck back, putting in four runs as the Patriots defeated the Lady Cats 5-1.
Addison Caddell got the loss versus Prairiland, pitching all five innings and allowing five runs on six hits. Only three of the pitcher’s runs were earned. The senior walked one and struck out three in the loss.
Senior Jadyn Harper walked twice and was the lone run versus Prairiland. Harper, Kinz Smallwood, Anahi Velasquez and Paige Seagraves all record hits in the loss.
Sulphur Springs had a one-game break prior to their second contest of the day, taking on host Royse City. Coach Carrillo’s squad got a win in their second and final game on Friday, 2-0 in a close one to the Lady Bulldogs.
Crimson Bryant got the win pitching seven shutout innings, striking out 16 batters and walking one. No batters got hits versus the junior.
In hitting Parris Pickett and Smallwood both got hits in the 2-0 win over the host Royse City. The sophomore scored two RBIs and a HR versus the Lady Bulldogs.
The win over the Lady Bulldogs concludes day two of the Royse City tournament for the Lady Cats. After two days, Sulphur Springs is 3-1 in the tourney.
Softball closes out their third and final tournament on Saturday, Mar. 5 taking on Canton at 1 P.M.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Yantis Man Receives Life Sentence For Throwing Iron Curtain Rod In Live-In Girlfriend’s Face, Breaking Her Nose
A 44-year-old Yantis man received a life sentence this week in the 8th Judicial District Court for the aggravated assault of his live-in girlfriend by throwing a heavy, iron curtain rod in his live-in girlfriend’s face, breaking her nose and lacerating her face in August of 2021, according to court reports.
On Feb. 1, 2022, Carlton Douglas Fite pled guilty to the offense of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and pled true to two punishment enhancement paragraphs. In doing so, Fite specifically acknowledged that he had assaulted his live-in girlfriend by throwing a heavy iron curtain road into her face, lacerating her face and breaking her nose. He further pled “true” to past convictions involving compelling child prostitution and aggravated robbery, the District Attorney’s Office reported.
At the time of the plea, Fite was under indictment for three separate pending felony cases: two burglary of a building cases for which he faced a possible sentence of 2-20 years imprisonment on each and a felony case for violating a protective order 2 or more times within 12 months, for which he faced a potential 25 years to life in prison.
Fite was jailed March 8, 2021, in Hopkins County on a burglary of a building charge for allegedly entering and stealing appliances from a State Highway 154 church overnight Saturday, March 6, 2021. The pastor contacted police upon discovering a stove and microwave missing. A phone left at the church was linked to Fite, who later admitted to the pastor that he had the stole items in his possession. The items were recovered from his home and Fite was jailed on a burglary warrant, deputies alleged in 2021 arrest report. Fite at that time was found to also be wanted on an outstanding Upshur County burglary warrant. He was released from Hopkins County jail on $10,000 bond per burglary charge on April 13, 2021.
On Aug. 21, 2021, Fite was returned to jail on the aggravated assault of his girlfriend by striking her in the face with the heavy, metal curtain rod. She reportedly did not contact authorities for the offense out of fear of being further assaulted. Assistance was requested for her after Fite went to sleep, deputies noted in Fite’s August 2021 arrest report.
Fite has remained in Hopkins County jail since August 21, 2021. On Aug. 25, he was served with an order revoking his bond on the church burglary charge, deputies reported at the time. And, on Aug. 30, 2021, was served with a warrant for violating a protective order 2 or more times within 12 months.
At time of the plea, he acknowledged his guilt in each of those cases and they were dismissed pursuant to 12.45 Texas Penal Code.
Chapter 12 Section 45 of the Penal Code allows a person, with the consent of the attorney for the state, to admit during the sentencing hearing his guilt of one or more unadjudicated offenses and request the court to take each into account in determining the sentence for the offense or offenses of which the defendant stands adjudged guilty. If a court lawfully takes into account an admitted offense, prosecution is barred for that offense.
After Fite pled guilty, the aggravated assault case was reset for a contested sentencing hearing before Judge Northcutt. Fite faced 25 years to life in prison based on “aggravated parole rules.”
The sentencing hearing took place March 2, 2022. Prosecutors contend that Fite’s pending cases were dismissed, but otherwise could have resulted in prison sentences that ran consecutively to any prison sentence the judge assessed in the aggravated assault case. Thus, Fite had no right to appeal the result of the sentencing hearing.
During the hearing, the victim in the case was called by prosecutors. While not fully cooperative, she reportedly told of many instances of the physical abuse perpetrated upon her by Fite.
Several witnesses, including the victim’s brother, the defendant’s mother, and Fite were called to testify for the defense. While on the stand, Fite in large part blamed the victim for his troubles; he also cited drug addiction as a source. Further, he acknowledged he had committed the third-degree felony offense of Aggravated Perjury during a prior hearing involving his bond, prosecutors reported.
While Assistant District Attorney asked that Fite receive a life sentence in prison. The nature of the offense, the Fite’s unwillingness to take accountability for all of his wrongdoings, the defendant’s reported past affiliation with a gang, and “horrible criminal history” were reportedly cited as cause for the requested punishment.
The defense reportedly asked for deferred adjudication community supervision with long term inpatient drug rehab conditions for Fite.
Ultimately, Fite (who is also known to have used the aliases Chris Watson, Christopher Douglas Spencer and Fite Carlton) received a sentence of life in prison. He will not be eligible for parole until he has served 30 “true years” in prison.
“This is a ‘win’ for peace and justice in our community. I appreciate Mr. Blackmon’s tenacity and how he fought to see that this violent man would not generate more victims. We appreciate the Judge’s ability to see through the Defendant’s manipulation and give a strong, appropriate sentence,” District Attorney Will Ramsay said following the sentencing.
Girls Powerlifting Finish 8th at Regional Meet, At Least One Lady Cat Moving On To State
Women’s powerlifting had themselves a solid outing Thursday, Mar. 8 with all seven Lady Cats placing 8th or higher at the Regional meet.
Machelle Allen moves on to state and likely will be joined by sophomore Haylee Schultz.
Caelyn Pilette of 97 placed 4th, squatting 130 and benching 85 pounds.
Schultz (105) got 3rd and is first alternate for the state meet. The sophomore squatted 200 pounds and bench pressed 110.
Brooklyn Shackelford of 123 placed 8th with squats and benches of 185 and 125 pounds, respectively.
Anna Adair in the 148 designation finished 5th squatting 300 and bench pressing 160 pounds. Also in 148, Max Bailey placed two spots behind Adair at 7th.
In the 259 weight class, Reese Offutt like Bailey finished 7th as she squatted 255 pounds and benched 200 on Thursday. Rounding out Lady Cats powerlifters, Machelle Allen of 259+ got 2nd and moves on to the state meet held two weeks from now.
Sulphur Springs finished in the middle of the pack at the Regional Meet held in Longview, placing 8th and compiling 11 points at Pine Tree.
Next up, Machelle Allen and possibly Haylee Schultz as well head to the State Powerlifting Meet held in Corpus Christi.
The three day competition stretches from Thursday, Mar. 17 and runs through Saturday, Mar. 19.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Miller Grove ISD Earns District 23-A OAP Honors
On Wednesday, Miller Grove ISD students competed in the District One-Act Play. Their rendition of “Dear Papa” received the highest ratings in the District 23-A competition. Four members of the high school cast also earned honors for their performances.
Names to the District 23-A, All Star Cast were Katie Cotts, who portrays Miss Huxtable and Addison Stanton, as Esther Trimble. Also receiving District 23-A Honorable Mention for his performance as Alan Harper was Gabe Hayden and for her performance as Emmaline Harper was Bailee Shipp.
Congrats Miller Grove One-Act Play for an outstanding performance!
4 SSMS Destination Imagination Teams Win Top Honors At Region, Advancing To State Contest
Sulphur Springs Middle School had a great weekend at the East Region Destination Imagination Tournament in Mesquite. Four of the five SSMS Destination Imagination teams placing at the regional contest came home with first place honors in their contest and have qualified to compete with teams from all over Texas at the Lone Star DI Finals in Arlington on March 25-26.
The Technical Team won first place, High Instant Challenge, and received a DaVinci Creativity Award. They will be advancing to the state DI contest.
The Technical Challenge this year was called “A Daring Escape” and required each team to build two devices that use technical methods to overcome hazards, create and present a story about a daring escape from a hazardous situation, and include a feat of skill that helps in the daring escape.
The Technical Team coached by Bryan Cole and Kelly Shutt consists of Nathan Bilyeu, Austin Wantland, Cara Batterton, Hayden McCoy, Sawyer Shutt, Hannah Speed, and Tyler Scott.
The Scientific Team won first place and High Instant Challenge, and will also be advancing to the State DI contest later this month.
The Scientific Challenge this year was called “Up Close” and required teams to research the science of microscopy, create and present a story about a character who encounters a mysterious object while in a microworld, design and build scenery that brings the microworld to life, and design and create a visual effect that enhances the mysterious object, then, reveals it with technical methods.
The Scientific Team is coached by Brooke Howard and consists of Kannon Gibson, Luke White, Anderson Grimes, Abbey Williams, Lucy McKenzie, Jackson Palmer, and Kessler Moss.
The Fine Arts Team won first place and High Instant Challenge, and will be advancing to the Lone Star DI Finals.
The Fine Arts Challenge this year was called “Tricky Tales.” Teams were required to research trickster characters and how they have been portrayed in literature, theater film or mythology; create and present a story about a trickster who attempts to overcome a tricky situation; design and create a costume that goes through a costume transformation; and design and create an illusion that enhances the story.
The SSMS Fine Arts team coached by Adrienne Lilley and Beth Cole consists of Brooks Burgin, Claire Monk, Paige Batterton, Piper Lilley, Sara Ferguson, Johni McClung, and Tabitha Cummings.
The Improv Team won also won first place and High Instant Challenge, and will be advancing to State.
The Improv Challenge was called “Festival Frenzy.” Teams were required to research festivals from around the world, create and present a two-act improvisational skit about a goal a character is trying to achieve at a festival, choose between two options to help the character to attempt to achieve the goal and enhance the skit with a set of boxes.
The SSMS Improv team is coached by Jeffery Denton and consists of Rhett Williams, Robert Denton, Jessica Reed, Kegan Edwards, Zackary Young, and Kyla Navarro.
The SSMS Engineering Team won fourth place at Regionals this year.
The Engineering Challenge was called “Roll With It.” Teams were required to design and build a structure that can roll down a ramp and collide with the structure tester, test the structure by placing weights on it, create and present a story about how a character becomes a legend, and design and build a rotating device that is integrated into the story.
The Engineering team coached by Alysia Butler and Gerson Salvatoreh consists of Justin Chen, Anthony Small, Julie Ann McCoy, Aiken Grimes, Tyler Dubose, Grace Dyer, and Kaden Pierce.
Congratulations to each of their these SSMS Destination Imagination Teams on their achievements in these challenging competitions. KSST wishes the state qualifiers the best of luck and are excited to hear of your successes at state as well.
