Agreement For D6, Contracts For Legal Research, Construction Of Trusty Housing Facility Approved
A 381 agreement was approved for D6, Inc., along with contracts for legal research resources and construction of a trusty housing facility, and other items this week.
381 Agreement
Hopkins County Commissioners Court at their regular meeting this week approved a 381 agreement for D6, Inc., providing a tax incentive for the company to relocate its corporate headquarters from Oregon to Sulphur Springs, Texas and expand their manufacturing presence in the state.
The business opened a Sulphur Springs plant at the end of 2020, in the facility known locally as the old Coca-Cola plant, with plans to expand within 18-months. D6 received tax incentives at that time for the expansion and addition to the facility at that time.
D6 is an advanced design-to-shelf packaging manufacturer, using recycled plastics, and when the pandemic began shifted to making face shields and masks. The latest project will expand the business’ manufacturing presence in the state, building the first fully closed-loop recycling site for single-use PET clamshells in Sulphur Springs,
The business plans to add another 66,000 square feet to their holdings in Sulphur Springs with the move south of I-30 near the current location. The move was announced last October by Governor Greg Abbott, who noted the project is a $27 million capital investment to bring a “world-class recycling operation” that is expected to create 231 new jobs to town. A Texas Enterprise Fund grant of $1,432,200 has been extended to D6, and the company has been offered a $6,000 Veteran Created Job Bonus, Abbott announced Oct. 15, 2021.
“This is a big company and amazingly wants to settle in Sulphur Springs, which will bring some good jobs for our citizens,” Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom said at the March 28, 2022 Commissioners Court meeting. “This is a successful business. We are excited to have them here.”
Trusty Housing Facility
The Commissioners Court also agreed to a contract with Sedalco for the construction of a new trusty housing facility on county-owned property just across from the current jail facility. County officials anticipate spending $4.5 million of the $7 million allocated to Hopkins County in American Rescue Plan funding to construct a building to house male inmates who have been designated as trusties, and as such go out into the community to work daily, including on precinct crews, at schools, the Civic Center and other locations.
The trusty facility would better segregate the inmate trusties from the general inmate population at Hopkins County jail when they return from their work details. The county officials contend the measure should help reduce potential spread of COVID or other infectious illnesses from trusties who are out in the public or working alongside those who are around others in public, where they could be potentially exposed to illnesses.
By doing so, the county would be meeting the “response to COVID pandemic for public health and the health of the general inmate population of the Hopkins County jail,” an allowable use under the ARP guidelines, county officials said.
Legal Research
Newsom too presented Monday for court approval a three-year contract with Lexis Nexis for legal research. This provides online research resources – essentially an inexhaustible law library available at their fingertips – for judges and prosecutors to use in the course of business when hearing and trying local cases. The amount will increase incrementally over the three years of the contract. The local judges approved the request. The Commissioners Court also approved the contract as presented during Monday’s regular court meeting.
Local Health Authority
The Commissioners Court also recognized Dr. I.L. Balkcom IV for 25 years service to Hopkins County as the Local Health Authority with a plaque. Hopkins County noted Balkcom’s move and establishment of operation in another county leaves an opening for a new Local Health Authority. Dr. Darrell Pierce was recommended for the job.
County Fire Marshal Andy Endsley said Pierce has agreed to fill the role, but that the process for that to happen was still in progress. He said if the Court approves of the recommendation, Pierce would be available April 11 to come to court to be sworn into the position. Pierce and Balkcom think a lot alike, which should make it easier for Pierce to step in and fill the role of LHA, Endlsey said. The term is a two-year appointment. The Commissioners Court members indicated they are in favor of appointing Pierce as LHA.
Land Division
Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price submitted for the record a letter from him concerning land division in Precinct 4. He explained that a man made a request regarding some vacant lots on State Highway 11 in Ridgeway that do not fall under the county’s subdivision rules, but was checking to see if that would meet county approval. The property would have a private road through it. In a letter, it was noted the county would not be taking over that stretch or roadway, but did ask that the road be constructed at least 60 feet wide to allow emergency vehicles to safely travel and turn around.
“Whether he does it or not, it’s not in our rules and regulations, but we did ask him to,” Price said, explaining that it’s not uncommon for someone to build, then ask the county to take over the roadway. Doing so is expensive. The person making the request, in the correspondence made it clear they county would never be asked to consider taking in the road unless it is brought up to or above county standards.
A motion to accept the request was made by Price, seconded by Anglin and approved by the Commissioners Court on March 28, 2022.
Other Business
Hopkins County Extension Agents Mario Villarino and Johanna Hicks distributed handouts to the Commissioners Court, then gave updates on many successful activities that have occurred this quarters, as well as upcoming activities the local Extension office will be involved with in the near future.
The Extension Agents noted Cumby ISD reached out to Extension regarding a possible partnership; the agents met with faculty to discuss the school’s Edu-Nation initiative. Como-Pickton also contacted the office to exhibit and provide giveaways during the school’s health fair. Villarino introduced another agent who will be partnering with the Hopkins County office in development of a program. They’ve worked with DFW area entities on an educational plan for water conservation.
The Commissioners Court for the record reported receiving written reports from the offices of the constables, District Clerk, AgriLife Extension, Homeland Security-Environmental, Homeland Security-Law Enforcement, the fire department, justices of the peace, sheriff, tax assessor/collector and treasurer.
A request from Spectrum/Charter to construct and place a meter base pole or ground mount meter base on County Road 3524 was approved, at the recommendation of Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley.
WC Kicks Off Summer Earn & Learn Program, Connecting Students With Disabilities To Meaningful Employment
AUSTIN ⎯ The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) announces the kickoff of this year’s Summer Earn and Learn (SEAL) program for students with disabilities aged 14-22. Through work-based learning, youth earn a paycheck while learning new skills and gaining professional experience. Employers participating in SEAL benefit from the addition of engaged and enthusiastic team members.
SEAL, a partnership between TWC, Workforce Solutions Boards and Texas Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWS-VRS), works with local employers who partner to create meaningful work opportunities. Students participating in SEAL attend work readiness training to prepare them for successful employment. During their work-based learning, students earn a paycheck while acquiring new skills and professional experiences.
“The Texas economy is stronger when all Texans contribute to its success,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “The Summer Earn and Learn program opens up a new talent pool for Texas employers trying to keep up with labor demands as our economy continues to grow.”
This past summer, Cassidy, a student who is deaf, gained work experience and improved her communication skills while earning a paycheck with CVS Health, a partner in Goodwill’s SEAL in Tarrant County. With the support of her job coach and a sign language interpreter, Cassidy felt welcomed at her job and her confidence grew as a result.
“I was excited and nervous, but I knew that I would rather have a job than do nothing over the summer,” said Cassidy. “I walk the aisles and when I see things in the wrong place, I pick them up and I find out where they belong. I have a scanner that I use that tells me where to put it in the right place. Sometimes, it’s tough to communicate with people and I tend to get tired pretty easily, but having interpreters here really helps with the communication barriers that I experience. CVS is a good start to my experience with work, because I enjoy what I do here.”
Watch Cassidy’s story here.
“Summer Earn and Learn provides students with disabilities the opportunity to learn and take on responsibilities associated with careers they might choose for their future,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “This program helps students return to school with positive work experiences, meaningful skill sets, and confidence that they can pursue their career goals.”
The SEAL program has grown to nearly 1,100 worksites, which have included a variety of both private and public sector employers, such as Typhoon Texas in Houston, Kalahari Resort in Round Rock, the City of Lubbock, Coastal Bend College in Beeville, Lampasas Chamber of Commerce, Sea World San Antonio and Sapling Farms in Sanger.
Employers who have participated in SEAL express positive experiences, appreciate having the additional help on their teams and broaden their perspectives from working with students with disabilities.
“Summer Earn and Learn connects Texas employers to their local workforce talent, which includes students with disabilities, who will soon be entering the workforce,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “People with disabilities are the true problem solvers of our society, and employers seeking to add a valuable, committed, and reliable team member to their workforce will find this program incredibly valuable.”
For two years, Dallas-Fort Worth area business Movie Tavern has welcomed several students for summer employment through the SEAL Program. Terry Sullivan, General Manager of the Bedford location of Movie Tavern is appreciative of the help and has also hired two students as full-time employees.
“It’s an exciting thing for us to work with Goodwill. It’s a win-win for us and for the students who get some practical experience from working on the job and it’s extra labor for us,” said Sullivan. “They get to grow with the company. They are a great asset and a great help to Movie Tavern.”
Watch more about Movie Tavern’s SEAL students’ experiences here.
Students interested in participating in SEAL should contact their local TWS-VRS office:
Visit: twc.texas.gov/VRNearMe
Call: 512-936-6400
Email: [email protected]
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The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC and the services it offers in coordination with its network of local workforce development boards, call 512-463-8942 or visit www.texasworkforce.org. To receive notifications about TWC programs and services subscribe to our email updates.
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
Jail Inspection, LED Light Renovations, Website Service Agreement Discussed By Commissioners
LED Light renovations for three county facilities, a website service agreement, recent jail inspection, and the Texas opioid multi-district litigation settlement agreement offers were discussed this week during the regular Hopkins County Commissioners Court meeting.
Jail Inspection
The Hopkins County jail received another exceptional rating of 100 during a recent Texas Commission on Jail Standards inspection, according to Hopkins County Sheriff Lewis Tatum.
“I think we only had one technical and they had to find something bad. They added one more day to inmates that got in trouble so, they had them in there for 6 days instead of 5,” Tatum said.
The jail inspector was also very pleased with the jail’s nurse to the point they would like to use her protocols, especially handling of inmates medications, to train personnel at other jails, the sheriff noted.
When asked about a comment the inspector made as he was leaving the jail facility, Tatum said he commented that the jail “looks better now than it did when we moved into it, cleaner that it was when it was brand new.” The sheriff attributed that to Jail Administrator Kenneth Dean’s leadership.
“Congratulations, Sheriff,” Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom said.
LED Light Renovations
Grants Consultant Beth Wisenbaker told Hopkins County Commissioners Court that the county had learned the grant the county sought to help fund renovation of the historic Hopkins County Courthouse, County Annex Building and AgriLife Extension building had increased by 10% to $77,660. The county is required as part of the terms to provide a 20% match, which is a little higher than usual. The total amount would be $93,192.
“The bid we have in is $88,250, so we’re covered. Probably the most we would have to be out is $15,000, but that may come down a little. I’ve got the number to Shannah (Aulsbrook, the county auditor). so there might be a little slide in there. I might be thinking exact numbers,” Wisenbaker said, recommending that the court accept the grant and bid.
“Plus, we pay 20%,” Newsom said.
Aulsbrook noted that the only bid the county has received for the project is from National LED, the only company that attended a mandatory pre-bid meeting.
Wisenbaker said even with approval, the county is still waiting to receive a letter from Texas Historical Commission that would detract from the renovated historic courthouse or the other two buildings, which are not listed as historic.
She said essentially, THC just wants to ensure the change won’t change the overall historic look of the structure. All are aware that the courthouse did not have lighting when first constructed. THC wants to ensure the two other buildings aren’t historical, and if they are that changing the lighting in the three buildings won’t change any historic feature of the building.
Tom Glosup also reported that National LED has been in contact with Texas Historical Commission and has been told THC has no problem with the planned renovation. A letter from THC is needed, however, to move forward with the project. Local officials are still waiting for the documents granting an exemption to all three buildings to arrive. Glosup said he’d spoke with the head guy at the lighting company earlier that morning, and he indicated the company was ready to go with the product the business manufactures as soon as the documentation is dispatched properly.
The motion, made by Anglin and seconded by Bartley, to replace current lighting with LED lighting throughout the courthouse, Extension Office and County Annex Building was approved, contingent on the THC approval and grant.
Newsom asked Wisenbaker to please let him and the other members of the Commissioners Court know as soon as she hears from THC regarding the project.
“This is going to help us a lot, but we’ve go more buildings to do,” the county judge said. “We need to get all LED across the board as soon as we can.”
Opioid Lawsuit
Following an executive session that lasted about 30 minutes, called so that the court could confer with their attorney about settlement offers related to the opioid lawsuit filed several years ago and what’s come out of it so far. Newsom asked the county treasurer and auditor to join the court and attorney for the closed session.
Jack Walker, an attorney, whose firm Martin Walker, PC, in Tyler, along with Simon Greenstone Panatier of Dallas, are involved with the county in the ongoing opioid litigation.
“Today, we are here to seek three settlements that we have reached with three defendants in the case — Endo Pharmaceuticals; Teva Pharmaceuticals; and what we call the Big 3 Contributors, McKesson, Cardinal Health and AmerisourceBergen. We are seeking authorization for the settlement of the case and to authorize the county judge’s signature on a Texas release form and participation form that allows us to effectually settle it,” Walker said during the Feb. 28 Commissioner Court meeting.
With no further further discussion, the court agreed to the request authorizing Newsom to execute the order regarding settlement offers in the matter of Texas opioid multi-district litigation for the county in the matter of County Of Hopkins V. Purdue Pharma, Inc., Et Al., MDL Pretrial Cause No. 2018-63587, In The 152nd District Court Of Harris County, Texas.
Weaver Ranch Plat
A request was made for a final plat for Weaver Ranch. County Clerk Tracy Smith said her office has all of the paperwork that accompanies the request, and the person making the request has been in touch with Fire Marshal Andy Ensley and county officials regarding the request. The property is about 55-acres with no infrastructure, located off county roads, consisting of 8 lots, one of which has a home on the property. The business behind it has already receive approval from the water and electric companies, and taxes are figured. The property is north of Weaver Baptist Church on County Rod 3528.
Commissioner Wade Bartley said he’d met with the developer, and commended him for doing “everything asked of him in a timely manner” so that the final plat can be approved so the project can proceed with the vision for it.
With no further discussion Bartley then made a motion, which Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price seconded, to approve the final plat request for Weaver Ranch property as presented. The motion received approval of the members of the court present at the Feb. 28, 2022 meeting; Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker was unable to attend due to illness.
Newsom then offered thanks to the developer for building homes in Hopkins County.
Budget Amendment
Aulsbrook asked the Commissioners Court to approve a budget amendment for Precinct 4. She explained that initially, the insurance company wasn’t sure what status they would place a wrecked county vehicle on when it was put in the shop in October following a crash.
Precinct 4 received $4,674.38 in insurance funds at that time. That amount was moved back into the Precinct 4 budget in October. Since then, the insurance company has deemed the vehicle as a total loss, which resulted in an additional insurance payment of $2,575.62, increasing the total amount received from insurance to $7,250. Aulsbrook said with approval, that amount would be put back in the Precinct 4 machinery and equipment fund.
Price made a motion, which Anglin seconded, to approve the budget amendment. The motion passed.
Other Items
Another item on the agenda was for a website service agreement with Texas Association of County, CIRA (County Information Resources Agency), an organization which provides services and resources to Texas counties and local governments, including email and website hosting. Aulsbrook said she had not seen the paperwork, but TAC CIRA is who the county website is through. Bartley made a motion, seconded by Anglin to approve the website service agreement; it was approved by the court.
The court acknowledged for the official record, kept by the County Clerk’s Office, that the Pine Forest Solar farm has been purchased by a subsidiary of Clearway Energy Group.
Newsom also recognize on record Homeland Security Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator Kristy Springfield and Fire Marshal Andy Endsley for successfully completing the Pipeline Emergency Response and Damage Prevention Training Program held January 12, 2022, in Sulphur Springs. Springfield also completed a Spotter Training Program presented by the National Weather Service on February 18, 2022.
The Commissioners Court also approved as part of the consent agenda the meeting and special work session minutes from Jan. 24-Feb. 14, 2022; a request from Farmers Electric Cooperative Inc. to construct electrical power distribution facility across County Road 1155, south of County Road 1118 in Precinct 1; a request from Spectrum Gulf Coast LLC to construction power distribution facilities in the County Road 1120 right-of-way and County Road 1142 in Precinct 1; and a request from Spectrum/Charter to construct and place an underground conduit on County Roads 1117, 1127, 1123 and 1125 in Precinct 1, as well as on County Road 4719 in Precinct 4.
Hopkins County Seeking Funding For 2 Ventilation Fans For Fire Department
Hopkins County Commissioners Court this week gave the go-ahead to the fire marshal to apply for funding for two ventilation fans for the county fire department, renaming of a SH 11 west spur and taking it on a county road, accepted fire protection agreements from volunteer fire departments submitting them by the Feb. 3 deadline, and consolidated voting centers for May elections.
Voting Center Consolidation
Hopkins County Clerk Tracy Smith asked the Commissioners Court to consider approving consolidation of voting centers for the May 7. This would simply cut in half the number of voting centers available for Hopkins County residents to cast ballots at on Election Day.
The election is a special election counties would not ordinarily have. (Typically, only schools and municipalities hold elections in May). Texas Governor called the special election for voters to consider two propositions which, if approved, would change the state constitution, Smith explained to the court. All of the necessary steps were not reached in time for the November 2021 Election, so the special election was called.
Hopkins County will also be contracting with the City of Cumby, Winnsboro ISD, Yantis ISD and Sulphur Springs ISD, entities scheduled to hold elections in May as well. Overall, there will be 6 instead of 12 voting centers for the May 7, 2022, Election.
The four members of the Commissioners Court present during the regular Feb. 14, 2022 meeting unanimously approved, on a motion by Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley and seconded by Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price, the request to consolidate to six voting centers in Hopkins County on May 7. Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker was unable to attend the meeting.
SH 11 Spur
Price noted that when state contractors built a bypass around the old S-curve on State Highway 11 west, straightening out the highway where numerous auto crashes have occurred in past years. The county was asked to take over the old part of SH 11 west, which is about 0.7 of a mile and has become a spur since the highway was moved to improve visibility and safety on that section of road west of Sulphur Springs.
The Precinct 4 Commissioner asked that the Commissioners Court agree to take on that spur, which would become County Road 4824. Bartley seconded the motion for that section of road, which Price estimates due to its construction should last longer than most county roads, to taken over by the county. The four member-court gave unanimous approval to the request.
Ventilation Fan Program
Hopkins County Fire Marshal Andy Endsley asked the Commissioners Court to allow the fire department to take advantage of the annual Homeland Security grant funding period to apply for assistance in attaining two 20-inch positive and negative ventilation fans that are battery operated so no additional carbon monoxide will be introduced into burned or burning buildings by Hopkins County Fire Department. The fans could also be used by the combined city-county Special Response Team (known as SWAT) if agents are introduced into a structure, to clear the building so law enforcement officers can enter. The fans could be potentially place in explosive environments and used without igniting.
The grant would be a for $13,250, and would pay 100 percent of the cost for the two ventilation fans, with no matching funds or in-kind match required by the county. They are much more powerful that a standard 20-inch box fan; the batteries alone for the ventilation fans cost approximately $1,000 per fan.
Typically, the grant process takes about 1 year. For instance, last year, the county submitted application for thermal imaging cameras. The month after the devices were purchased by the county, the funding was reimbursed.
Endsley noted that while the grant selection process takes about a year, getting the fans if approved shouldn’t take long. They are currently in stock.
Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom expressed appreciation to both Endsley and County Auditor Shannah Aulsbrook, who worked together on the grant application to ensure the application was completed if approved so that it could be submitted by the deadline.
Ark-Tex Council of Governments also assisted with grant preparation, Endsley noted, so other than staff labor involved in reading the required documents, there will be no cost to the county for fans, the fire marshal added.
Precinct 2 Commissioner Greg Anglin made a motion, which Price seconded, to approve the resolution for the Hopkins County Ventilation Fan Project. The request received unanimous approval of the court.
Fire Protection Agreements
Endsley reported fire protection agreements had been distributed to all of the volunteer fire departments in Hopkins County. The deadline for VFD officers to sign and return them was set for Feb. 5. These agreement stipulate what the VFDs agree to in exchange for certain funding and other benefits provided by the county. For instance, the court reimburses insurance costs, fuel costs, and provides a stipend to each VFD as agreed upon in the agreement to assist with operating expenses.
Over the last 2 years, the departments have each received air cylinders and last year also was afforded assistance of up to a certain amount of funding to be used to obtain tires for VFD trucks from vendor at a discounted rate.
The Commissioners Court had received only five returned fire protection agreements, one each from Arbala, Brinker, Dike, Pickton-Pine Forest and Saltillo VFDs. That means only half of the VFDs had returned a fire protection agreement by the deadline. Endsley said the deadline slipped up on him. County officials will be contacting the six other departments to try to get all agreements signed and returned by the next Commissioners Court meeting at hte end of the month.
All agreements submitted were accepted by the court during the regular Feb. 14, 2022 meeting.
Citizens Comments
During the citizens comments portion of the Valentine’s Day court session, Frank Brown addressed Bartley regarding the continued disrepair of the road leading to his residence. He reminded the Precinct 3 Commissioner of his visit to the court of Dec. 27 to express a need for rock on 1.7 miles of road. He noted Bartley’s road crew bladed the dirt on both sides of the road into the road but put no rock on the road. He said the winter storm made the road pure mud. He offered photos taken documenting the road conditions through the first of February. Approximatley 4-5 inches of oil dirt was spread on a road in the area, but not evenly, making it very difficult for him and other residents to drive the road to even go to the Post Office to get their mail regularly.
“You think I’m the only one complaining about you, but you forgot about that petition that I give you that has everybody’s signature on it from one end of 900 clear to 69. They can’t make it here like I can. I’m retired,” Brown told Bartley.
Bartley said he had anticipated returning to put rock on that road, but the weather prevented that occurring as soon as planed. As soon as conditions allow, the plan is to return on finish the work
Brown noted he has road equipment he could provide to perform the needed work, during the next dry stretch, if the county officials will produce and spread the rock. Oil dirt needs to be spread evenly over hte road.
“I figured, Wade needed all the help he can get. So, that’s my opinion. I’m not against you. I just don’t appreciate the work being done not proper. That’s all there is to it,” Brown said.
Bartley acknowledged that the Precinct 3 crew is under his supervision, and he is responsible for what they do. He too said if Brown has the equipment the assistance would be welcome. A dry stretch of day sis needed before the project can commence.
Executive, Work Sessions
Newsom at the conclusion of all other business during the court session, planned to enter into an executive session to discuss sensitive matters as allowed in 4-5 sections of Texas Government Code. He did not anticipate any decision anything from the closed session resulting in a vote. He said he would provide times for hte executive session to the County Clerk so they could be entered into the meeting minutes.
Newsom asked the sheriff, chief deputy, auditor and fire marshal to stay close while the closed session was held in the third floor meeting room. A work session was scheduled immediately following the executive session to discuss sheriff’s office and fire department operations, discuss building maintenance with Tom Glosup and conduct a budget work session.
Commissioners Court To Recognize Cross Country Athletes, Consider Taking In SH 11 Spur
Hopkins County Commissioners Court is slated to Monday morning to recognize cross country athletes from two schools in addition to regular agenda items, including considering taking in the State Highway 11 Spur.
Proclamations are to be given in honor of Miller Grove ISD and Saltillo ISD athletes’ accomplishments at the most recent state cross country event.
The Commissioners Court too at the 9 a.m. meeting Feb. 14, 2022, will be asked to consider taking over State Highway 11 Spur in Precinct 4, which would become County Road 4824, as proposed.
Also on the Valentine’s regular meeting agenda for the Commissioners Court to consider approving are a vote center consolidation for the May 7, 2022 Elections, 2021-2022 fire protection agreements, and a resolution for the Hopkins County ventilation fan project.
The consent agenda includes requests from Farmers Electric Cooperative Inc. to construct electric power distribution facilities across County Road 1112, northwest of FM 2653 in Precinct 1 and across County Road 3611, south of County Road 3550 in Precinct 3; as well as requests from Spectrum/Charter to construct and place meter base poles or ground mount meter bases on County Roads 1100, 3341, 4707, 4712, 4752, 4737 in Precinct 2; and a request from spectrum/charter to construct underground conduit and fiber on County Roads 1104, 1106, 1107, 1109, 1110, 1218, 1111, 1135 and 1138; and any previous meeting minutes submitted for review.
The agenda too lists an executive session, and consideration of any grants, donations, contracts, budget amendments and line item transfers, bills, revenues and expenses, payroll and financial statements, personnel, and asset disposal requests posed since the last court session.
The regular Commissioners Court meeting will be conducted in the Commissioners Courtroom on the first floor of Hopkins County Courthouse . After the regular meeting adjourns, the Commissioners Court will then move to the third floor of the courthouse for a work session.
The Court is slated to meet with Hopkins County Fire Marshal Andy Endsley and Sheriff Lewis Tatum to discuss operations, review any revenues, expenditures, proposed improvements and repairs in each department during the work session. The elected officials too are slated to meet with Tom Glosup to discuss maintenance of county buildings, then have a budget work session if needed.
Hopkins County Records – Feb. 11, 2022
Land Deed Transactions
- McIlrath Properties LLC to Blanca Elizabeth Tirado Cadena and Rene Ortega; tract in the Samuel Burk survey
- Larry Glen Jones to Atascosa Real Estate Group LLC; tract in the J. Y’Barbo survey
- Vicki Jo Dixon to Atascosa Real Estate Group LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Cheri Pickett and Delbert R. Pickett to Stephen Tyler Price and Raven Brooke Sims; tract in the Mary Ann Bowlin survey
- Bailee K. Hilderbrand and Keith Hilderbrand to Erica L. Stroder and Gregory W. Stroder; tract in the Elizabeth Melton survey
- Christy Brumley, who is the same person as Christy Fairchild, and Brian Fairchild to Jose O. Franco Jr.; tract in the John Gertrudes Procello survey
- Jared Brumley to Christy Fairchild; tract in the John Gertrudes Procello survey
- TTTT Limited to Austin B. Darby and Kaitlyn Nikole Darby; tract in the S. Norris survey
- Lorena Andrews to Kenneth George Andrews; tract in the Ocela Barb survey
- Christopher Ray Bearden, Harris Allen Bearden and Kimberly Sue Benton to Clint Montgomery Williams and Cydney Aleksis-Synomi Williams; tract in the Levi Midgett survey
- Jimmie Emerson and Katherine Emerson to Cephis Gregory; tract in the James Hawkins survey
- Dustin G. Oliver, independently and as independent executor for the Lean Carpenter Oliver Estate, to Ann Marie Roberts and Anthony Craig Roberts; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Jodie Wallace and Kevin L. Wallace to Stephanie Cigainero and Joshua Kneale; tract in the R. Miller survey
- Everado Perez Jr. and Maria Perez to Auke Pantinga; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Emily Gee and Greg Gee to Brandon Williams and Lesley Williams; tract in the William Clapp survey
- Two Brothers Houses LLC to Keaton Forsyth and Sarah Danielle Richardson; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Elizabeth B. Ruiz Trust, Jeffrey Dorian Ruiz and Deborah Kay Weber, co-successor trustees, to James E. Waller and Treva Waller
- Sandra Smith to Brent Arlon Barry and Susan Camille Cox; tract in the Precious Seats survey
- Brandon Fowler and Maci Fowler to Kirk Schilling and Shelly Marie Schilling; tract in the Alexander Park survey
- Kelly Jack Broyles and Lynda Gayle Broyles to William Fletcher Young Jr.; tract in the Alexander Richey survey
- Emilia Attlesey to Atascosa Real Estate Group LLC; tract in the Granville Davis survey
- LK Pop DFW LLC to The Saxton Group LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Karen Lee Sellers Hancock, who is the same person as Karen Lee Sellers, and Rosie Lee Sellers to Greg Hammond and Lee-Ann Hammond; tract in the George C. Roberts survey
- Karen Lee Sellers Hancock and Rosie Lee Sellers to Ashley Osuna and Daniel Osuna; tract in the George C. Wetmore survey
- Grace Evelyn Moncrief Teel to Diana Irene Teel and Marion M. Teel; tract in the M. Ballanova; tract in the M. Ballanova survey
- Ashley Rhodes and Travis B. Rhodes to Michael Wells and Polyester Wells; tract in the Sarah H. Norris survey
- Gentzler Properties LLC and Stanley Gentzler to Jason P. LaComfora and Jennifer Jill LaComfora; tract in the Sarah H. Norris survey
- State of Texas Veterans Land Board to Eugene Golden and Stephanie Golden
- Lloyd A. Zwak to Brenda Kay Gusters; tract in the John Bryant survey
- Gary Lewis to Cintya Guadalupe Pryor; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Dorothea M. McArthur to Dorothea M. McArthur Family Trust with Dorothea M. McArthur as trustee; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Beverly Jean Lay and Charles Melvin Ray to Mark Franklin Shepherd and Mollye Malone Shepherd
- Bank of America NA trustee for MaryHelen S. Clayton Trust #2 to Carol C. Callaway, Philip C. Clayton, Zebb S. Clayton and Lucinda Spruiell Lynn
- Frankie L. Hart to Charles C. Cooner
- K And E Limited Partnership to KAH Vi LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- REO Trust 2017-RPL1, US Bank Trust National Association trustee, to Carolyn Huddleston and Kyle Huddleston; tract in the Wm H. Ravey survey
- Debra Odom Tanton, successor trustee for the Gaylon Odom Testamentary Trust, Kallie Odom Tanton, Brent Tanton, and Thomas Tanton to Melissa Harris and Becky Wix; tract in the J. Y’Barbo survey
- Connie Watson to Glenna D. Bulloch Living Trust, Kaylyn Moss and Sherrie Prisbrey trustees; tract in the DC Shelton survey
- Joyce VanWinkle and Robert VanWinkle Jr. to Kristin Monk, Kevin Monk, Amanda Pickett and Jarred Pickett; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Juanita Wells Spicer to Harold Dexter Leonard and Teresa Lynne Leonard; tract in the BH Elder survey
- Kelly Jack Broyles and Lynda Gayle Broyles to Alton Nelson; tract in the Alexander Richey survey
- Willard L. Bowen to Dana Leann Stonaker and Jay Randall Stonaker; tract in the E. Melton survey
- Ella Byrd Brown to Christopher Scott Brown and Karen McMahan; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Christopher Ray Bearden, Kimberly S. Benton and Norma Bearden to Clint Williams and Cydney Williams; tract in the Levi Midgett survey
- Carolyn Maree Burns Estate, Sherri Cockrell independent executor, to Rick Cockrell and Sherri Cockrell; tract in the ED Chinneth survey
- Bradford & Son Land & Cattle LLC to Vicente Barletta Didiego; tract in the Henry N. Quirk survey
- Kyle N. Winkle Estate, Stacy X. Winkle independent executor, to Drilling & Construction LLC; tract in the John S. Ritchie survey
- Mark May Jr. to Emily May Bass; tract in the John Clayton survey
Applications for Marriage Licenses
- Gustavo Angel Gomez and Viviana Karen Ugalde
- Rickey Dean Petty and Myrna Sue Arnold
- Rudy Joe Ellis and Mary Ethel Williams
Repairs At Hopkins County Courthouse
Crews were hard at work Wednesday making repairs at Hopkins County Courthouse. The gutters on the historic building were damaged by rough weather over the last couple of years. Because the building is a historic structure, which featured copper gutters when built in 1895, the county is required to replace them with copper gutters. The cost for the very expensive copper replacement gutters, according to Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom, is being covered by insurance.
The project is expected to take until the middle of next week to complete. A crew was working Wednesday afternoon on the backside of the courthouse facing Jefferson Street. As work continues, the workers are cordoning off their work area to not only give them room to work but also for the safety of visitors to the downtown area. Wednesday afternoon, the work zone spanned from the sidewalk just off Oak Avenue leading to the pathway to the entry doors and basement, and the corner of Jefferson Street at Oak Avenue up to the front door just off Church Street.
Thus, individuals traveling around the courthouse, especially on Oak Avenue and Jefferson Street to Church Street, are reminded to take care, watch for workers and refrain from entering the work zone until the project is complete.
Hopkins County Records – Jan. 22, 2022
Land Deed Transfers
- Heather Lynn Caldwell-Sanders to Woodmen Properties LLC; tract in the Jaun Polvedore survey
- Cephis Gregory to CK Parker Enterprises LLC; tract in the Harriett Brown survey
- Larry V. Davis, who is the same person as Laury Davis, and Sandra Ann Davis to Jorja Krause and Timothy Krause; tract in the John Bryan survey
- Ty Hawkins to Mary Anderson and Rick Anderson; tract in the Spring Creek Addition
- David Kay and Vickie Kay to Henry Jacob Teague and Krista Lorraine Teague; tract in the John Norris survey
- Linda Rae Hudnall and Lonnie R. Hudnall to Donna Fogus and Matthew Fogus; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Deanna Joan Boggs to Daniel Marty and Markos Alexander Lozano Zecevich; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Judy Irvin Darling and Justin Irvin to Crystal Tyson Collins; tract in the Samuel Belt survey
- Wood Investments Group LLC to David L. Stoddard II and Kayce J. Stoddard; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Brent Barclay and Sherri Barclay to Larry Brown and Lillie Brown; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Erwin A. Cain, Hazelnut Holdings Series LLC, Seris CR 2415, to Riversdale Properties Series LLC; tract in the James S. Coker survey
- Elmer Anders Junell Jr. Estate, also known by EA Junell Jr. Estate, Thomas Charles Sellers independent executor, to Zhengang Cheng; tract in the Shelby Tunnage survey
- Lee Warren and Myra Warren to Kathleen Martin and Robert Martin; tract in the James Lee survey
- Landon Wayne Austin, independent executor for the Susan Elizbeth Austin Estate, Wayne Austin, Perry Pillard and Stephanie Pillard to Glenna D. Bulloch Living Trust, Kaylyn Moss and Sherri Prisbrey trustees; tract in the J. Y’Barbo survey
- Madeliene G. Haygood to Lance E. Haygood and Jordan T. Smith; tract in the Agaton Caro survey
- Basilia Romero and Laura Romero to Aaron Westerfield and Sarah Westerfield; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Connie Payne and James Payne to Chelsey A. Brown and Marshall James Brown; tract in the Samuel Burke survey
- Alan Screws and Kim Screws to Brad Busby and Kinde Busby; tract in the Mary Ann Bowlin survey
- Reynaldo Jaimes Enciso to Ofelia Enciso Jaimes and Gilberto Hernandez Vences; tract in the James Gahagan survey
- Janeen Francis and Richard Francis to McKenzie Nichole Davison and Tyler Glenn Davison; tract in the GC Wetmore survey
- Brenda K Hobbs and Darrell A. Hobbs to Elmer Giles; tract in the Edward McLaughlin survey
- Angie Pearce and W. Dixon Pearce and Charlene Carr Young; tract in the William Jacobs survey
- Charlene Carr, known as Charlene Carr Youngblood, to Angela Leann Pearce and William Dixon Pearce; tract in the Seth Sheldon survey
- Jessie Kay Brown and Kyle Seale to Brandon Tizoc Zavala
Applications for Marriage Licenses
- Justin Lee Davis and Cassie Leann Cannon
- Jeremy Paul Cruz and Janie Lynn Perez
- Rocky Lane Vaughn and Erica Diane Moore
- Colby Tyler Anderson and Elyssa Sierra Nickerson
Jury Panel Cancellation For the 62nd Judicial District Announced
The 62nd Judicial District Jury summons for 9 a.m. Tuesday, January 18, at the Hopkins County Courthouse has been canceled, according to Hopkins County District Clerk Cheryl Fulcher. Those receiving a jury summons for the 62nd Judicial District Court on Jan. 18, 2022, do not need to report for duty.
