1 00:00:05,440 --> 00:00:05,440 All right. Are we on? Good morning. Welcome to commissioners court meeting of tuesday, June 23rd, 2 00:00:14,360 --> 00:00:17,880 2026. It's my pleasure to preside over this meeting. Commissioner grant moody, I believe you will open with the prayer and the pledge of Allegiance. 3 00:00:23,640 --> 00:00:23,640 the floor is yours. Thank you. Judge. I would like to welcome reverend mike mickey to the Podium. 4 00:00:34,400 --> 00:00:38,200 reverend mickey from the saint thomas episcopal church. He's been there for about seven years after coming down and from north texas. 5 00:00:45,360 --> 00:00:45,360 reverend mickey and his wife, lori, is an educator and a warm, Welcoming spirit. 6 00:00:50,760 --> 00:00:54,320 they both have three daughters together. Yes. And we welcome you here today, reverend mickey, The floor is yours. 7 00:01:00,450 --> 00:01:00,450 good morning. Let us pray. Almighty god, source of all wisdom and the giver of every good Gift. 8 00:01:11,730 --> 00:01:11,730 we pause at the beginning of this meeting to seek your presence and your help. 9 00:01:18,490 --> 00:01:18,490 we give you thanks this morning for those who serve as commissioners of this court. 10 00:01:23,530 --> 00:01:23,530 we thank you for their willingness to take up the work of public service. 11 00:01:27,690 --> 00:01:27,690 for the burdens they carry on behalf of their neighbors and for the trust of the people of Bexar county have placed in them. 12 00:01:35,890 --> 00:01:35,890 we give you thanks, too, for all who labor in service of this county, Those seen and unseen in offices and on roads, 13 00:01:43,930 --> 00:01:43,930 in courtrooms and clinics and county yards whose daily work holds up the common life we Share. 14 00:01:51,610 --> 00:01:55,530 bless them, we pray, and let their work be honored. Now, as this court turns to the business before it. 15 00:01:58,420 --> 00:02:01,940 grant to those who lead a measure of your wisdom. Give them clear minds and discerning hearts. Where there is disagreement, Grant patience. 16 00:02:07,860 --> 00:02:07,860 where there are hard decisions, grant courage and in all things keep before them the good Of every person in this county, 17 00:02:14,420 --> 00:02:14,420 the powerful and the forgotten alike. Guide this meeting, O god. 18 00:02:18,900 --> 00:02:18,900 let what is done here serve justice, mercy, and the flourishing of all your people. 19 00:02:24,540 --> 00:02:24,540 amen. Amen. Thank you, reverend mickey. If you'll join me in the pledge now. 20 00:02:31,860 --> 00:02:31,860 I pledge allegiance to the flag of the united states of america and to the republic for Which it stands. 21 00:02:39,340 --> 00:02:39,340 one nation under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 22 00:02:46,180 --> 00:02:46,180 thank you, reverend. All right, let's take up agenda item three. 23 00:02:53,780 --> 00:02:53,780 request of commissioners court to identify items from consent agenda for additional Discussion. 24 00:02:57,990 --> 00:03:00,830 approve remaining consent agenda items. Commissioner. Clay-flores. Yes. I would like to pull item number 29. 25 00:03:07,990 --> 00:03:07,990 29. Okay. Commissioner rodriguez. Commissioner 26 00:03:17,510 --> 00:03:17,510 moody. Judge, I'd just like to pull. 24, please. 27 00:03:22,230 --> 00:03:22,230 which one? 24. 24. Commissioner. Calvert. 28 00:03:33,870 --> 00:03:33,870 all right. All right. Is there a motion to approve? 29 00:03:38,270 --> 00:03:38,270 so moved. Motion by commissioner rodriguez. Second. Second by commissioner clay-flores. Any further discussion? 30 00:03:43,670 --> 00:03:47,470 hearing none. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? Motion carries. Let us now move through the. 31 00:03:51,710 --> 00:03:55,640 we'll come back to those individual items. I believe we had two. We'll come back, but let's now go to ceremonial for a presentation proclamation on behalf Of commissioners court recognizing june as alzheimer's and brain 32 00:04:05,560 --> 00:04:09,240 awareness month in bexar county. Commissioner rodriguez, Thank you judge. Good morning. Can we have those that are here for this proclamation come up to the dais, The podium. 33 00:04:15,840 --> 00:04:18,560 while you do that, I will read the proclamation. Good morning. Thank you for being here this morning. The proclamation reads, Whereas alzheimer's disease is a progressive and devastating brain disorder that affects 34 00:04:27,200 --> 00:04:27,200 millions of americans, including many families throughout bexar county, And remains a leading cause of disability and dependency among older adults. 35 00:04:34,840 --> 00:04:34,840 and whereas, brain health is essential to the well-being and quality of life of residents Of all ages and alzheimer's and brain health awareness month serves as an opportunity to 36 00:04:44,160 --> 00:04:44,160 increase public awareness, encourage early detection and healthy lifestyles, Reduce stigma, 37 00:04:49,560 --> 00:04:49,560 and recognize caregivers. Health care professionals, Researchers and advocates supporting those affected. 38 00:04:56,500 --> 00:04:56,500 and whereas bexar county is home to the glenn biggs institute for alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative disease at the university of texas health science center at san antonio, 39 00:05:05,820 --> 00:05:05,820 a nationally recognized leader in research, patient care, Clinical innovation, caregiver support, 40 00:05:12,380 --> 00:05:12,380 and community education dedicated to advancing the prevention and treatment of Neurodegenerative diseases. 41 00:05:19,340 --> 00:05:19,340 and whereas, bexar county recognizes the importance of supporting individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, 42 00:05:27,100 --> 00:05:27,100 their caregivers, and the organizations and health care professionals whose work advances Brain health, 43 00:05:32,860 --> 00:05:32,860 strengthens our community, and improves the lives throughout bexar county and south texas. 44 00:05:38,220 --> 00:05:38,220 now therefore, be it resolved that the bexar county commissioners court hereby proclaims June 2026 as alzheimer's and brain health awareness month. 45 00:05:48,020 --> 00:05:48,020 witness our signatures signed this 23rd day of june 2026, Signed by judge sakai and your commissioner's court. 46 00:05:56,070 --> 00:05:56,070 thank you very much for being here. Thank you for bringing awareness to this devastating Disease. 47 00:06:03,910 --> 00:06:07,390 let's welcome our visitors and give them a round of applause. And the. The the floor is yours for a few words as well. 48 00:06:13,750 --> 00:06:16,710 thank you so much. Can you guys hear me? Yes. Good morning, judge, commissioners and distinguished guests. 49 00:06:20,470 --> 00:06:20,470 my name is doctor campbell sullivan. I'm a clinical neuropsychologist at ut health, Where I have had the privilege of serving patients and families for the past 50 00:06:29,750 --> 00:06:29,750 decade. So as a fifth generation texan who was recruited back home to help build the biggs Institute, 51 00:06:37,230 --> 00:06:40,950 it is especially meaningful to stand before you today. So over the past ten years, I have been continually impressed by the commitment of ut Health san antonio, 52 00:06:47,110 --> 00:06:47,110 the support of bexar county and the remarkable dedication of this community to improving The lives and families facing alzheimer's disease and related dementia. 53 00:06:57,160 --> 00:06:57,160 so thank you for recognizing june as alzheimer's and brain health awareness month on Behalf of patients, 54 00:07:03,640 --> 00:07:07,200 caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and families we serve. I am deeply grateful for this proclamation and for your ongoing partnership. 55 00:07:12,400 --> 00:07:15,440 the need for that partnership has never been greater. Today, more than 500,000 texans are living with alzheimer's disease, And that number is projected to grow. 56 00:07:22,160 --> 00:07:25,640 the impact extends far beyond those diagnosed. Alzheimer's disease costs texas tens of billions of dollars through health care Expenditures, 57 00:07:31,640 --> 00:07:31,640 long term care, and the extraordinary burden carried by family caregivers. 58 00:07:37,200 --> 00:07:41,200 here in south texas, we face an even greater challenge. Our region is among the areas most heavily impacted by alzheimer's disease in the united States. 59 00:07:48,370 --> 00:07:48,370 this is driven by a combination of demographic, Vascular, genetic, and socioeconomic factors. 60 00:07:54,850 --> 00:07:54,850 as a result, south texas has become a critical region for research, Treatment, and innovation in brain health. 61 00:08:03,850 --> 00:08:03,850 most of us have seen a silver alert and felt a moment of concern for a family searching For a loved one. 62 00:08:11,450 --> 00:08:11,450 for many texans, that is the public face of dementia. 63 00:08:15,690 --> 00:08:15,690 behind every alert is a family navigating years of uncertainty, Caregiving, and loss. 64 00:08:21,410 --> 00:08:21,410 for me, this mission extends beyond alzheimer's disease alone. 65 00:08:26,130 --> 00:08:26,130 so dementia comes in many forms, and my own family has been affected by a rare genetic Form of frontotemporal dementia and als, 66 00:08:34,730 --> 00:08:34,730 or lou gehrig's disease. Earlier this year, my aunt passed away from this devastating Disease. 67 00:08:41,290 --> 00:08:41,290 like so many families, we experienced the experience the heartbreak of watching someone we Love gradually lose independence, 68 00:08:48,340 --> 00:08:48,340 lose communication, and ultimately losing life itself. 69 00:08:53,900 --> 00:08:53,900 it's just a reminder that behind every statistic is a person, A family, and a story. 70 00:09:00,260 --> 00:09:00,260 yet there is genuine reason for hope. Thanks to the state of texas and the creation of the Dementia prevention and research institute of texas, 71 00:09:08,100 --> 00:09:08,100 or, we have an unprecedented opportunity to change the trajectory of these diseases as we Know. 72 00:09:15,700 --> 00:09:15,700 the vision for depret is to recruit the best scientists and clinicians in the world, Accelerate clinical trials, 73 00:09:22,580 --> 00:09:22,580 expand access to innovative treatments, support caregivers, And train the next generation of researchers and clinicians. 74 00:09:30,420 --> 00:09:30,420 for the first time, we can realistically envision a future where dementia is detected Earlier, 75 00:09:36,260 --> 00:09:36,260 treated more effectively and in some cases prevented altogether when future generations Look back, 76 00:09:44,790 --> 00:09:44,790 I hope they will see this as a moment when texas chose to lead. 77 00:09:48,870 --> 00:09:48,870 and when communities like bexar county chose to stand with patients, Families, caregivers, 78 00:09:54,390 --> 00:09:54,390 and researchers, together we can build a future where fewer families experience the Devastation of dementia, 79 00:10:01,270 --> 00:10:01,270 where caregivers have the support they deserve, And where every texan has the opportunity to age with dignity and brain health. 80 00:10:09,750 --> 00:10:09,750 thank you so much. Could I ask a question, please? 81 00:10:17,030 --> 00:10:17,030 yes, sir. It's a bit loaded. What would be a message from a public health perspective, Since 82 00:10:26,950 --> 00:10:26,950 the county has a public health and I don't know if our directors here. 83 00:10:31,030 --> 00:10:33,830 is she here, doctor guerrero? Yeah, she was. She. And what message would you want the county to give our citizens on this complex, Complicated issue, 84 00:10:42,680 --> 00:10:42,680 at least from a medical forensic perspective, Of why this happens and why me and why my family. 85 00:10:48,920 --> 00:10:48,920 but is there a message that you would want to make sure as a governmental entity? 86 00:10:55,960 --> 00:10:55,960 is it wellness? Is there a preventive? Is there obviously, Or is it a referral of, okay, these are the resources that you have. 87 00:11:04,640 --> 00:11:04,640 what can we give our citizens on this complex, Complicated issue that affects and hopefully may affect all of us at some point in 88 00:11:14,440 --> 00:11:14,440 time? Do you get my question? I did. I think the main message is one of hope. 89 00:11:19,720 --> 00:11:19,720 we are sort of at a precipice, and I think we are working together with our scientists, Our clinicians, 90 00:11:26,360 --> 00:11:26,360 not only in texas, but across the united states and across the world to find cures to stop This disease. 91 00:11:32,760 --> 00:11:32,760 and I think the message of hope is really strong right now. 92 00:11:36,960 --> 00:11:40,930 but while we're working on that, while we're trying to to solve this disease. I think the other message is that we rely on community and community, Like the biggs institute or the center for brain health, 93 00:11:48,850 --> 00:11:48,850 where patients and families can come together, Can congregate, can learn about the disease, 94 00:11:53,530 --> 00:11:53,530 can learn about ways to sort of modify or stop disease progression. 95 00:11:58,130 --> 00:11:58,130 and we can support not only the patient, but the family and the community. 96 00:12:03,770 --> 00:12:03,770 do you believe the community in some ways is still views alzheimer's dementia from a Perspective of shame, 97 00:12:11,570 --> 00:12:11,570 guilt, depression? And is it from what you're saying, An opportunity to turn it into an awareness, 98 00:12:18,610 --> 00:12:18,610 hope and a triumph of this disease? And I think we've come a very we've come a long way in A short amount of time. 99 00:12:26,570 --> 00:12:26,570 when I was recruited down here ten years ago, I was confronted with a lot of physicians who said, 100 00:12:32,490 --> 00:12:32,490 why would I diagnose it? I can't treat it. So I had patients and families coming to me With really no idea of what was going on, 101 00:12:40,030 --> 00:12:40,030 why it was happening, or what they could do to maintain that sense of independence, Maintain their integrity, 102 00:12:45,630 --> 00:12:45,630 maintain their sense of self. And now we have a place. 103 00:12:49,750 --> 00:12:49,750 we have clinicians, we have education not only for our community physicians, But also our community in general. 104 00:12:56,630 --> 00:12:56,630 so I think there's a better understanding of what the disease is, Recognizing that the individual who may have a dementia process is still that same person, 105 00:13:06,110 --> 00:13:06,110 even though they're losing faculties. Well, thank you for what you do. 106 00:13:10,470 --> 00:13:10,470 thank you so much. Are there any other questions or comments from the dais? Commissioner Rodriguez? Judge, I just doc, I'd just like to thank you for bringing this awareness to 107 00:13:18,790 --> 00:13:18,790 court. I think that's part of the education piece too, Is making the community aware of the resources, 108 00:13:26,470 --> 00:13:26,470 but also acknowledging the fact that there are neighbors of ours that get up every day go To work to try and 109 00:13:36,400 --> 00:13:36,400 find the cures, how to treat patients. Those are heroes that walk amongst us as well. 110 00:13:45,000 --> 00:13:45,000 and so I wanted to make sure we acknowledge the fine work of ut health science center here In san antonio, 111 00:13:50,520 --> 00:13:50,520 ut health because that is hopefully an inevitability that we will find solutions in a Cure. 112 00:13:58,800 --> 00:13:58,800 but it's not by accident. It's because of the, The resources and the smart brainpower we have here in south texas. 113 00:14:05,640 --> 00:14:09,240 so thank you very much. Thank you. All right. Thank you. Let's give another round of applause. Would you please come forward and take a Picture with us? 114 00:14:40,930 --> 00:14:40,930 okay. 115 00:14:55,410 --> 00:14:55,410 let's go to a certain. Time. Certain. Let's make sure we're jumping down a six, A one and two presentation. 116 00:15:05,090 --> 00:15:05,090 discussion. Appropriate action regarding one approval of the first amendment to the tax Abatement agreement between the county of baker, 117 00:15:12,330 --> 00:15:12,330 toyota motor manufacturing, texas inc to replace the legal description of the real Property set forth in agreement with a new and updated legal description, 118 00:15:21,050 --> 00:15:21,050 and two approval of a tax abatement and grant agreement between the county mayor toyota Motor manufacturing texas inc for a ten year, 119 00:15:29,330 --> 00:15:29,330 100% abatement of county ad valorem taxes on qualified real and personal property and Skills development grant up to $250,000. 120 00:15:38,580 --> 00:15:38,580 it's my understanding that we're going to take up both at the same time, And I'll ask for a motion on both. 121 00:15:45,220 --> 00:15:45,220 so with that, miss deborah carter, thank you, Judge and commissioners. 122 00:15:49,940 --> 00:15:53,580 I'm deborah carter, I'm the director of economic development with bexar county. And it's my pleasure to bring this item forward today. 123 00:15:58,100 --> 00:15:58,100 so background on the first amendment. On june 18th, 2025, commissioners court approved a tax abatement and grant agreement between the county 124 00:16:07,940 --> 00:16:07,940 of bexar and toyota motor manufacturing, texas, T m, tx for a ten year, 100% abatement of county ad ad 125 00:16:17,900 --> 00:16:17,900 valorem taxes and qualified real and personal property, And a skills development grant up to 250 000. 126 00:16:26,500 --> 00:16:26,500 the site configuration for the project iceberg is now final. 127 00:16:30,790 --> 00:16:30,790 the company has requested to update the legal description of the real property of the Original agreement, 128 00:16:37,350 --> 00:16:37,350 with an updated legal description that reflects the final configuration. 129 00:16:43,430 --> 00:16:43,430 I'd also like to introduce sarah rush, president and ceo of greater sachse, To tell us a little bit about 130 00:16:52,870 --> 00:16:52,870 toyota and the impact that they've had in our community over the last 23 years. 131 00:17:03,470 --> 00:17:03,470 judge and commissioners, I'm honored and delighted to be here with you today. 132 00:17:08,510 --> 00:17:08,510 thank you so much for the opportunity to bring this this project before you. 133 00:17:14,230 --> 00:17:14,230 we are truly lucky. As you all know, to have a company such as toyota operating in this Community and the impact that they have made over 134 00:17:24,230 --> 00:17:24,230 time really is remarkable. As you know, the company broke ground here originally in 2003 And began 135 00:17:33,920 --> 00:17:37,800 production in 2006. So 20 years have gone by. Today, there are 3700 direct toyota team members working at the facility in south san Antonio, 136 00:17:47,000 --> 00:17:47,000 and that is not including the additional 400 jobs that are projected to come online soon For project iceberg, 137 00:17:55,480 --> 00:17:55,480 as was just discussed, the facility today. As you know, Is two point 2,000,000ft² and more than $4.7 billion of 138 00:18:05,320 --> 00:18:05,320 investment have gone into this site already at this point. 139 00:18:10,480 --> 00:18:10,480 last year, there were almost 200,000 vehicles produced on site at the facility. 140 00:18:16,640 --> 00:18:16,640 and you'll see that there are a couple of toyotas on site suppliers that are also here Today. 141 00:18:22,080 --> 00:18:22,080 there are 23 that operate and partner with toyota on their campus again already today. 142 00:18:30,330 --> 00:18:30,330 and those companies employ an additional 5600 employees. 143 00:18:36,010 --> 00:18:39,130 so the impact to our community is tremendous. And I think it's also an important note to showcase how toyota shows up in the community As partners. 144 00:18:46,610 --> 00:18:46,610 so for a long time, south san antonio was essentially a health care desert, Right? 145 00:18:51,530 --> 00:18:51,530 and so the toyota team stood up an on site health center that provides services to toyota Team members and their families as a way to 146 00:19:01,410 --> 00:19:01,410 help solve that challenging issue. Additionally, The experience center, the toyota experience center is an incredible destination for 147 00:19:11,330 --> 00:19:11,330 thousands of students every year to go and learn about manufacturing and learn about the Impact of a company like toyota. 148 00:19:19,130 --> 00:19:19,130 the new technology and innovations that are happening in our community. 149 00:19:23,660 --> 00:19:23,660 we're honored that we get to support the production of the tundra tundra hybrid electric Vehicle and the sequoia 150 00:19:33,500 --> 00:19:33,500 here, right here in san antonio. And we're super excited that the rear axle manufacturing Will be coming online as well. 151 00:19:42,660 --> 00:19:46,100 as I mentioned, those are 400 additional jobs. As I think about, you know, the, the discussions and the and the decision that's ahead of You today, 152 00:19:52,580 --> 00:19:52,580 it is sort of a once in a, in a generation type of opportunity that, That we get to decide on today, 153 00:20:00,100 --> 00:20:00,100 right? 2000 jobs, $2 billion in capital investment coming into this community that will Help drive an impact families for generations to 154 00:20:09,780 --> 00:20:09,780 come. I want to just quickly, while I have the mic, Take a moment to congratulate the team here, 155 00:20:16,780 --> 00:20:16,780 the bexar county staff, david smith, and deborah and her team, They have done a tremendous job in working to pull together a proposal today that I 156 00:20:26,630 --> 00:20:26,630 think we should all be proud of, and we're honored and proud to partner with each of you. 157 00:20:32,870 --> 00:20:32,870 the leadership that this body has shown during this process does not go unnoticed, And we're super grateful. 158 00:20:40,030 --> 00:20:40,030 deborah, over to you. Thank you. Sarah. So toyota motor manufacturing 159 00:20:50,030 --> 00:20:50,030 texas tlmt is considering a project which, if brought to bexar county, Would entail an expansion of existing facilities with the 160 00:20:59,590 --> 00:21:03,350 implementation of a new product assembly line. The proposed project entails the construction of a state of the art manufacturing Facility, 161 00:21:08,710 --> 00:21:08,710 and would double the existing plant size and capacity. 162 00:21:13,990 --> 00:21:13,990 this project will serve as an expansion for tlmt operations. 163 00:21:19,030 --> 00:21:19,030 it is a $2 billion project and real property. 164 00:21:23,250 --> 00:21:23,250 it's 1 billion. Pardon me, 1 billion, $50 million. 165 00:21:28,050 --> 00:21:28,050 and in personal property, it's 950,002,000 new jobs with a base hourly wage of 166 00:21:35,730 --> 00:21:35,730 $20.18. Total current toyota plus on site supplier jobs would be at 9700 inclusive, 167 00:21:45,650 --> 00:21:45,650 inclusive of the rear axle plant. If san antonio is selected for orca, New total jobs on tmt campus will 168 00:21:55,330 --> 00:21:55,330 equate to 11,700. This project is in precinct one on one lone star pass. 169 00:22:05,050 --> 00:22:05,050 the incentive offer ten year, 100% tax abatement on investments of $2 billion. 170 00:22:12,450 --> 00:22:12,450 using the investment numbers provided by the incentive value is estimated at 55,266,000,200. 171 00:22:24,700 --> 00:22:24,700 I mean, excuse me, 55,266,200. Skills development grant of up to 250 000. 172 00:22:33,460 --> 00:22:33,460 calculated at 1000 per. New job for up to 250 jobs. 173 00:22:38,820 --> 00:22:38,820 paying a minimum of $73,756.80 annually, excluding benefits, Bonuses and commissions. 174 00:22:48,860 --> 00:22:48,860 provided these positions are created and filled within the first two years of operation. 175 00:22:56,780 --> 00:22:56,780 the recommended motion for six. A approval of the first amendment to the tax abatement Agreement between the county of bexar and toyota motor 176 00:23:06,580 --> 00:23:06,580 manufacturing, texas, t m, tx to replace the legal description of the real property set Forth in the agreement with a new and updated legal 177 00:23:16,190 --> 00:23:16,190 description six b is approval of a tax abatement and grant agreement between the county of Bexar and toyota motor manufacturing, 178 00:23:25,990 --> 00:23:25,990 texas tm, tx for a ten year, 100% abatement of county and ad valorem taxes on qualified Real and 179 00:23:35,670 --> 00:23:35,670 personal property and a skills development grant up to 250 000. 180 00:23:42,310 --> 00:23:42,310 judge. Is there a motion? Yeah. I'd like to make a motion for approval of both a and b, And then I have comments. 181 00:23:48,150 --> 00:23:48,150 motion by commissioner clay-flores. Second by commissioner calvert commissioner Clay-flores. You have the floor. Yeah. So I just want to thank toyota for being here today 182 00:23:56,110 --> 00:23:56,110 and also greater s.a and of course, our community economic development department. 183 00:24:00,310 --> 00:24:03,310 we've been working on this for for quite some time. I don't see everyone. I know that frank voss is here who is our local ceo. 184 00:24:10,590 --> 00:24:10,590 so he's here and then melinda, who gets everything done calls me and we get things done Together. 185 00:24:17,640 --> 00:24:17,640 and I also want to thank david wegman. We are working together to, To try to, to, to, to get this done. 186 00:24:24,960 --> 00:24:24,960 so I'm grateful to toyota for looking at the southern sector of bexar county to expand Here. 187 00:24:29,680 --> 00:24:29,680 we know it is not a done deal yet. And so that's why I want to thank david wegman for Working with us to make sure we can get everything in terms of infrastructure done that we 188 00:24:39,120 --> 00:24:41,840 need to, to get done in a timely, timely manner. I also want to recognize some of our suppliers. 189 00:24:43,800 --> 00:24:43,800 I see berto guerra, I think. Yeah, okay. I don't know if anyone else is here. 190 00:24:48,440 --> 00:24:48,440 I can't see everybody. Some people are hiding behind other people and pillars. So no Offense. If I forget any any of those great businesses that continue to support the 191 00:24:57,760 --> 00:24:57,760 southern sector, bexar county, and this is really also about economic development and Creating jobs. 192 00:25:03,040 --> 00:25:03,040 and as we create jobs, we create infrastructure and resources. 193 00:25:08,160 --> 00:25:11,280 and as you all know, that's what I'm about in precinct one. So I'm so happy to support this and I'm so happy to make the motion. 194 00:25:15,290 --> 00:25:18,050 thank you. Commissioner. Calvert. Thank you judge. I want to congratulate precinct one on this phenomenal advancement for jobs creation in San antonio, 195 00:25:25,050 --> 00:25:25,050 and thank the judge for his leadership in japan and otherwise in economic development, Along with our edf and bexar county economic development and city team. 196 00:25:34,650 --> 00:25:34,650 we've all worked together at the state and local level to have this day come. 197 00:25:39,290 --> 00:25:42,970 it is a dream come true for a lot of us in economic development. The. The dream really started with our workforce improvement. 198 00:25:46,170 --> 00:25:46,170 we had to make sure that we could supply the talent pipeline that toyota needed, And we're excited about some 90 199 00:25:55,750 --> 00:25:55,750 million in investment that alamo colleges is making to the advanced manufacturing effort There at brooks. 200 00:26:04,010 --> 00:26:04,010 I think that's going to be a game changer for that pipeline. 201 00:26:08,250 --> 00:26:08,250 and so there's been a great team that has assembled, But toyota has been a great partner in our community. 202 00:26:15,500 --> 00:26:15,500 I personally want to thank them for the investment of $6.5 million in the east central School district for kinesthetic learning related to stem. 203 00:26:24,780 --> 00:26:24,780 that is hands on learning. That will help. I think that talent pipeline as well understand What is needed in order to work in advanced 204 00:26:34,260 --> 00:26:34,260 manufacturing. There are a lot of suppliers, I'm sure, that are going to be very happy, and I just want to mark the 205 00:26:44,020 --> 00:26:44,020 very groundbreaking and important movement in progress in bexar county that toyota had When they came in and 206 00:26:53,820 --> 00:26:53,820 said that the minority suppliers would be the majority stakeholders in those particular Developments. 207 00:27:01,620 --> 00:27:01,620 so they would be at least 51% owners. That is that is a tradition that had not reigned Always in bexar county. 208 00:27:08,990 --> 00:27:08,990 and so we're excited that people like beto and roberto and christian have just flourished. 209 00:27:16,390 --> 00:27:16,390 their employees have flourished. They've been able to bring back best practices from this Incredible company that as a 210 00:27:26,550 --> 00:27:26,550 judge, I have heard him talk about the kaizen concept, The continuous improvement that they always try to make in all of the 211 00:27:35,910 --> 00:27:35,910 processes. It's exciting, and we should be very proud of the generational transformation That will happen, 212 00:27:42,510 --> 00:27:42,510 because people have an anchor economic development entity that anchor for many years was Kelly in the south side, 213 00:27:52,310 --> 00:27:52,310 and now brooks is putting itself in the the the group of great employers that have Impacted generations and taken them out of 214 00:28:01,910 --> 00:28:05,070 poverty. Thank you also for the health care investment. I think that is very much in line with their holistic look at their employees. 215 00:28:12,240 --> 00:28:12,240 and now we have the benefit of a new university health hospital and the vita clinic that Are going to be close by. 216 00:28:20,280 --> 00:28:20,280 we also know that the as commissioner clay-flores mentioned, The challenge of infrastructure, 217 00:28:25,120 --> 00:28:25,120 which had long been neglected on the south side, Is being addressed by the south texas parkway. 218 00:28:30,440 --> 00:28:30,440 we're going to work to get the funding to get those projects completed so that ingress Egress, 219 00:28:35,800 --> 00:28:35,800 that additional capacity they need, is not something they have to worry about, Not something the neighbors around have to worry about that everyone has 220 00:28:45,520 --> 00:28:45,520 infrastructure that suits both the residential and the business needs of our growing Community. 221 00:28:51,920 --> 00:28:51,920 so we thank you. We have 1.5 million people moving to bexar county in the next decade, And we're going to need great employers like toyota that 222 00:29:01,640 --> 00:29:01,640 provide health care, that provide workplace benefits, Pensions and and transformation for many families. 223 00:29:08,810 --> 00:29:12,650 so here's to another home run for bexar county. And we look forward to the partnership going into the future. 224 00:29:15,730 --> 00:29:15,730 commissioner moody, thank you, judge. And I just want to echo some comments and my Colleagues have made. 225 00:29:22,730 --> 00:29:22,730 but and also what sarah shared, this is a once in a generation opportunity. 226 00:29:28,490 --> 00:29:28,490 I mean, we see some some big investments here, But $2 billion is in a is in a category all by itself. 227 00:29:36,570 --> 00:29:40,090 I want to just recognize the, the collaboration. You know, that the community both greater sa, Tx, bexar county, the city of san antonio, public works, 228 00:29:47,530 --> 00:29:47,530 txdot, all of our elected officials coming together and working on this, This project and being supportive, 229 00:29:54,970 --> 00:29:54,970 being focused on focused on jobs, focused on creating real economic opportunities for our Constituents and for our 230 00:30:04,710 --> 00:30:04,710 community. So I think this is a is a great thing. 231 00:30:08,750 --> 00:30:08,750 I hope we continue to lean into this. Two weeks ago, I was out in california meeting with some companies. 232 00:30:14,630 --> 00:30:14,630 I think this is one of our you know, needs to be one of our bread and butter issues, Right? 233 00:30:20,590 --> 00:30:20,590 as we continue to expand opportunities here in bexar county and the city of san antonio. 234 00:30:26,110 --> 00:30:26,110 mr. Rodriguez thank you, judge. As I was listening to the the numbers and the Presentation, 235 00:30:31,750 --> 00:30:31,750 I was and the timeline that sarah laid out, I was reflecting on 2007 when I was first on City 236 00:30:41,470 --> 00:30:41,470 council serving with then mayor phil hardberger. 237 00:30:45,590 --> 00:30:45,590 and someone with a better memory may correct me on this, But I think mayor hardberger got one of the first or bought one of the first tundras that 238 00:30:54,110 --> 00:30:54,110 came off the line back in 2007. And I just remember coveting that truck like, Man, that is a great looking truck. 239 00:31:01,160 --> 00:31:01,160 I had to wait a couple of years until I got a gently used one to afford it, But I eventually got my tundra. 240 00:31:06,760 --> 00:31:10,360 I don't have it anymore, but I missed that truck. Great vehicles. But a couple of things I wanted to highlight, And I think commissioner calvert and commissioner clay-flores both touched on this. 241 00:31:19,640 --> 00:31:19,640 you know, sometimes we get and sarah and I talked about this yesterday, We get a little bit enamored by trying to chase the next big 242 00:31:29,840 --> 00:31:29,840 deal and attract new business into our community, And we lose sight of the good work that our current partners are doing. 243 00:31:39,040 --> 00:31:39,040 and I think this is a good example of doubling down on the work that toyota has done for Decades now in san antonio, 244 00:31:46,960 --> 00:31:50,840 and investing in them as they've invested in our community. So this is a win win in that regard. And I think back to about the generations before ours And my family's is included in this. 245 00:32:00,450 --> 00:32:00,450 the. The families that worked at kelly air force base that helped build the latino middle Class in san antonio. 246 00:32:08,370 --> 00:32:08,370 toyota is doing the same thing and in in multipliers in terms of. 247 00:32:14,370 --> 00:32:14,370 we talked again, I think I talked to frank yesterday, The other day, about those who started working back in the early 2000. 248 00:32:23,010 --> 00:32:23,010 now their kids are working at toyota. Just an amazing success story. 249 00:32:30,530 --> 00:32:30,530 I'd echo what has been said with respect to judge sakai's leadership and doubling down Making the effort to, 250 00:32:38,530 --> 00:32:38,530 to be there and be present certainly will be something judge that you're remembered for in Terms of leaving your mark in our community. 251 00:32:46,970 --> 00:32:46,970 so thank you for this investment. Thank you, Judge, for your work and commissioner clay-flores, 252 00:32:51,890 --> 00:32:51,890 congratulations to you. I know you've also put a lot of time and effort into this project In your backyard, 253 00:32:59,780 --> 00:33:03,020 and it's something we're all proud of. So thank you, Judge. Thank you all. Let me tee up frank vos, the president of tmmt to come forward. 254 00:33:08,900 --> 00:33:08,900 and as you come forward, frank, let me just put on the record that it's been a privilege To work with the president of toyota motor manufacturing, 255 00:33:17,860 --> 00:33:17,860 texas to the dais to share some remarks. Toyota has been a catalyst for growth in our Community and a great corporate partner here in bexar. 256 00:33:27,260 --> 00:33:27,260 as your county judge, it has been an honor to represent bexar county in japan, To tell our community's powerful story and advocate for community 257 00:33:36,580 --> 00:33:36,580 development and commissioner calvert. You're right, Kaizen is japanese and it's japanese american. 258 00:33:42,660 --> 00:33:42,660 that means continuous improvement. And that is something that I believe this court has Accomplished. 259 00:33:49,540 --> 00:33:49,540 I, along with all four of you, have continuously improved bexar county. 260 00:33:54,620 --> 00:33:54,620 and this is really a crowning moment among many, But I really want to make special recognition to toyota. 261 00:34:03,230 --> 00:34:03,230 I also want to say thank you to sarah. Sarah rush with greater sa, Tx for a great partnership. 262 00:34:10,150 --> 00:34:10,150 and we have really sold the story, so to speak, In japan. 263 00:34:14,510 --> 00:34:14,510 and we have brought two additional japanese manufacturing industries to bexar county that Will come online in the next year or two. 264 00:34:21,590 --> 00:34:21,590 I also want to thank commissioner clay-flores. You and I have had a great partnership for Precinct one, 265 00:34:27,790 --> 00:34:27,790 especially in that south side. And as people don't realize, I'm married to a hispanic woman who put 32 years in harlandale independent school 266 00:34:35,670 --> 00:34:35,670 district. So the south side is a very important part of my legacy and history here in Bexar county. 267 00:34:42,710 --> 00:34:42,710 so with that, frank, the floor is yours. Thank you, Judge sakai. 268 00:34:47,830 --> 00:34:47,830 and good morning, judge. Members of the court county staff and community members. 269 00:34:53,430 --> 00:34:53,430 so on behalf of the 3700 team members at toyota, Texas and our 23 on site suppliers, and as you mentioned, 270 00:34:59,880 --> 00:34:59,880 some of them are here today supporting us and representing us, As well as their 5600 team members. 271 00:35:06,720 --> 00:35:06,720 thank you for your leadership and support for this potential expansion here in bexar County. 272 00:35:13,520 --> 00:35:13,520 and bexar county has been home to toyota, texas for more than two decades. 273 00:35:18,040 --> 00:35:20,720 it isn't just where we build trucks and suvs. It's where our team members and where our supplier team members have raised families. 274 00:35:25,120 --> 00:35:25,120 they purchase homes. They put down roots in neighborhoods across every precinct in this County. 275 00:35:31,880 --> 00:35:31,880 and although our plant is very proudly located in precinct one, And it's helped drive growth and development on that side of town, 276 00:35:38,680 --> 00:35:38,680 we're also proud of the reach that toyota texas extends to all four precincts. 277 00:35:44,440 --> 00:35:44,440 the county has been a true partner in our journey over the 23 years that we've been here, From the infrastructure that supports our operations to the services that supports our 278 00:35:54,410 --> 00:35:54,410 workforce. Bexar counties investments in this region have helped toyota texas grow and Thrive, 279 00:36:00,290 --> 00:36:00,290 and we thank you all for that. If toyota texas is selected for this expansion, We believe it would deepen our impact, 280 00:36:08,490 --> 00:36:08,490 creating new jobs, strengthening the supply chain, And generating economic opportunity that extends well beyond our plants gates. 281 00:36:17,810 --> 00:36:17,810 we also want to extend our deep gratitude to the judge commissioner clay-flores, The county manager, 282 00:36:24,010 --> 00:36:24,010 smith, the economic development department, and the many county leaders and staff who work Diligently to prepare a package that will help toyota texas compete for this important 283 00:36:33,250 --> 00:36:33,250 opportunity. So thank you all for your continued partnership, For your confidence in our team and for your vote of support today. 284 00:36:42,210 --> 00:36:42,210 thank you very much. Let's give a round of applause. 285 00:36:47,090 --> 00:36:47,090 all right. I want to make sure for the record, We have a motion that includes six, a one and two. 286 00:36:53,820 --> 00:36:53,820 is that correct? Is there any objections? Larry a and b a and one and two. 287 00:36:59,540 --> 00:36:59,540 we're combining it right. So yes. So just to make sure everything is correct on the Printed agenda it says one and two. 288 00:37:08,780 --> 00:37:08,780 but on the presentation it said a and b. So to cover everything. 289 00:37:13,460 --> 00:37:13,460 thank you. My motion will be to cover one and two and or a and b. 290 00:37:17,900 --> 00:37:17,900 is that good larry. All right. I'm dotting the I's and crossing the t's. 291 00:37:22,020 --> 00:37:24,660 guy we ain't going to mess this up. All right? All right. All those in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. 292 00:37:27,740 --> 00:37:27,740 aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? The motion unanimously passes. 293 00:37:33,060 --> 00:37:33,060 congratulations to it. Thank you. All right. I understand y'all are getting back to 294 00:37:43,060 --> 00:37:43,060 the plant and producing more trucks for san antonio and the world. 295 00:37:47,820 --> 00:37:47,820 thank you. Birthday garin christian garrett and the garrett family for your involvement Too. 296 00:37:53,800 --> 00:37:53,800 thank you very much. And all other suppliers and all other people that have helped make This a wonderful, 297 00:37:59,880 --> 00:37:59,880 wonderful opportunity. So with this, let me allow toyota to exit. 298 00:38:06,440 --> 00:38:06,440 what's that. No no no they don't they don't. No I no no we just they just want to be they Want to be for be 299 00:38:16,760 --> 00:38:16,760 on the. Scripted. It's scripted. Gotcha. 300 00:38:26,760 --> 00:38:26,760 all right. We have a time certain 930 to take up presentation discussion appropriate Action to approve a resolution of support for advanced funding agreement between bexar 301 00:38:35,800 --> 00:38:35,800 county, texas, department of transportation for the east west state spur project. 302 00:38:40,520 --> 00:38:40,520 initial county contribution of $20 million toward eligible project costs up to additional $20 million for an approved project, 303 00:38:47,450 --> 00:38:47,450 cost overruns and certain other eligible project costs for a total county participation Not to exceed $4,000,040 million county wide. 304 00:38:57,770 --> 00:38:57,770 mr. Wegman, the floor is yours. Good morning, Judge. 305 00:39:02,290 --> 00:39:02,290 county commissioners. It's my pleasure to be in front of you today to talk about this Advanced funding agreement with txdot. 306 00:39:10,050 --> 00:39:10,050 resolution supporting advanced funding agreements are necessary whenever we enter into an Advanced funding agreement with txdot. 307 00:39:19,410 --> 00:39:19,410 as the caption read bexar county has committed $20 million to an east west spur from us 281 south to about two miles 308 00:39:29,130 --> 00:39:29,130 east west. Excuse me where it would abut the the toyota property. 309 00:39:35,370 --> 00:39:35,370 it'll provide connectivity. The department has proposed the agreement for planning, Development, 310 00:39:43,530 --> 00:39:43,530 environmental clearance, engineering, right of way utility coordination, Construction and related transportation activities associated with that spur project are 311 00:39:54,580 --> 00:39:54,580 subject to a combined local funding commitment from bexar county and the city of san Antonio. 312 00:39:59,260 --> 00:39:59,260 tex. Dot's executive director will recommend the transportation commission consider Approval of matching state transportation funding for the east west state 313 00:40:09,060 --> 00:40:09,060 spur project. I did speak with charles benavidez with tex dot yesterday afternoon, And indeed, 314 00:40:16,020 --> 00:40:16,020 that money is available for $40 million. City of san antonio has committed to provide $20 Million in local matching funds as well. 315 00:40:25,860 --> 00:40:25,860 as I mentioned earlier, the resolution is required by txdot prior to entering into the Advanced funding agreement. 316 00:40:32,500 --> 00:40:32,500 so subsequent to the approval of the resolution will begin the drafting of that agreement. 317 00:40:37,820 --> 00:40:37,820 commissioners court finds that the participation in the east west state spur project Serves a valid public purpose. 318 00:40:45,550 --> 00:40:45,550 our participation consists of initial $20 million for eligible project costs, And an additional $20 million will be authorized for approved project cost overruns, 319 00:40:55,470 --> 00:40:55,470 escalation, accelerated delivery, supplemental project phases, And certain other eligible project costs for the east west state spur for total county 320 00:41:05,230 --> 00:41:05,230 participation amount not to exceed $40 million. 321 00:41:09,510 --> 00:41:09,510 following approval of the resolution, public works will negotiate an advance funding Agreement with texdot and bring it back to commissioners court for approval. 322 00:41:18,190 --> 00:41:18,190 so the recommended motion is for the approval of the resolution of support for an advanced Funding agreement between bexar county and the texas department of transportation for the 323 00:41:27,270 --> 00:41:27,270 east west state spur project. I'd like to make a motion for approval of this resolution. 324 00:41:33,310 --> 00:41:33,310 second. And I have comments. So motion by commissioner clay-flores. 325 00:41:38,790 --> 00:41:38,790 second by commissioner calvert. So this is what I was talking about in the previous item. 326 00:41:44,040 --> 00:41:46,960 as we continue to work together to bring economic development. This is the type of infrastructure and I know this is a lot of money. 327 00:41:50,440 --> 00:41:53,680 $40 million sounds like a lot of money to the community, And indeed it is. But the investment, as you saw in the previous presentation, That toyota will continue to invest, 328 00:41:59,440 --> 00:41:59,440 is well worth it, and it's long overdue. Unfortunately, We should have had these infrastructures before, 329 00:42:04,960 --> 00:42:04,960 so that's why I'm happy to support it. And again, David, thank you to you and your team, jesse, 330 00:42:09,120 --> 00:42:09,120 for all the work you guys have been doing on this. And I know david smith isn't here, But I want to thank him and the county manager's office for helping to get this done. 331 00:42:17,200 --> 00:42:17,200 I'm happy to support commissioner. Calvert. I agree this is an important investment and I Support 332 00:42:27,120 --> 00:42:27,120 the resolution. I did just want to make a question comment for the record and and I've had Some discussions about this, 333 00:42:34,880 --> 00:42:34,880 but I know we previously with the rdma funding have kind of opened up that bucket of Funding. 334 00:42:42,490 --> 00:42:42,490 and obviously we have a point of use there that make make those decisions. 335 00:42:47,010 --> 00:42:47,010 how do we think about that ma funding and whether that can potentially be utilized for any Of this advanced funding agreement or other projects? 336 00:42:55,730 --> 00:42:55,730 or is it kind of separated? Well, it's interesting that you mentioned that at the last Alamo board meeting, 337 00:43:02,730 --> 00:43:02,730 the board did authorize staff to start negotiating with two individual firms for the Completion of a of an environmental 338 00:43:12,410 --> 00:43:12,410 document and environmental approval of the entire south texas parkway project, Which will extend from I-35 to I-37. 339 00:43:20,850 --> 00:43:20,850 this east west spur project would be a segment of that. 340 00:43:24,890 --> 00:43:24,890 so the lmr may is going to be an important funding partner in the overall extension of That south texas parkway, 341 00:43:34,370 --> 00:43:37,540 which this is going to be part of. That's great to hear. Thank you, mr. Rodriguez. All right. Any further discussion? 342 00:43:42,380 --> 00:43:45,700 call for a vote. All those in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? Motion unanimously carries. 343 00:43:50,140 --> 00:43:50,140 carry on. Thank you. Deborah. Thank you. Marshall. 344 00:43:54,980 --> 00:43:58,060 all right. Utsa t all up. Commissioner moode. Let's take up the special presentation. Presentation. 345 00:44:02,100 --> 00:44:02,100 discussion from doctor brian gray, the director of utsa center for public opinion Research, 346 00:44:09,060 --> 00:44:09,060 regarding the results of a county wide budget survey focused on residents budget Priorities. 347 00:44:14,860 --> 00:44:14,860 commissioner moody. I'll let you open. Yeah, I just I'll turn it over to doctor gervais here in a moment. 348 00:44:21,660 --> 00:44:21,660 he can speak to his his experience at utsa working these types of public research polls And surveys and 349 00:44:31,980 --> 00:44:31,980 their methodology and everything, but really, This this stemmed from just the concept of a lot of times we get around budget season and, 350 00:44:42,190 --> 00:44:42,190 you know, we're, we're doing town halls and we may have a handful of people, You know, show up and express their opinions. 351 00:44:50,110 --> 00:44:50,110 sometimes we put out various facebook requests for information survey monkeys and stuff Like that. 352 00:44:57,150 --> 00:44:57,150 I thought in a county with a $3 billion budget and over 2 million people we should try to Professionalize that feedback from our 353 00:45:06,670 --> 00:45:06,670 community. And this was one way to, to go about doing that. 354 00:45:10,710 --> 00:45:10,710 so I'll turn it over to doctor gervais. He can say more about how they operate and, And their sampled panelists and everything, 355 00:45:18,350 --> 00:45:18,350 but please, the floor is yours. Thank you, commissioner moody, And good morning, judge and commissioners. 356 00:45:24,150 --> 00:45:24,150 so I've been directing the center for public opinion research at ut san antonio for about Three years. 357 00:45:31,710 --> 00:45:31,710 we launched it in 2023. And really, the goal here was to have public, Civic oriented polling in bexar county. 358 00:45:41,560 --> 00:45:41,560 most major metropolitan areas in the country are serviced by survey research centers that Do public polling, 359 00:45:49,040 --> 00:45:52,640 covering things like civic health, covering things like health attitudes. We didn't have anything like that in bexar county. And so that's why our center was Launched, 360 00:45:56,680 --> 00:45:56,680 and that's why the center has launched what we call our bexar county panel, Which is meant to be a panel of representative citizens and residents of bexar county that 361 00:46:05,960 --> 00:46:05,960 allows us to really track trends and changes over time to make sure that bexar county Served in the same way that harris county and dallas county and travis county and other 362 00:46:15,840 --> 00:46:15,840 counties throughout the country are served. So this particular study was in the field Between may 1st and 12th. 363 00:46:23,320 --> 00:46:23,320 it was a county wide survey. Bexar county residents using our bexar county panel, And it focused on residents budget priorities. 364 00:46:33,180 --> 00:46:36,100 and just a little bit of background about the panel. And if you have any questions, please interrupt. I'm happy to talk more about it, But it's a probability based panel. 365 00:46:41,140 --> 00:46:41,140 so we use a number of different methods to recruit people to the panel, Including random digit dialing, 366 00:46:46,620 --> 00:46:46,620 registration based sampling, using the official voter file and address based sampling as Well, 367 00:46:52,420 --> 00:46:52,420 to really make sure we're recruiting people across the county, And we're picking up folks from zip codes we wouldn't get from through these other 368 00:47:00,420 --> 00:47:00,420 methods. And so we have about 3000 people that are part of the panel right now. 369 00:47:05,220 --> 00:47:05,220 there's a lot of advantages to doing a probability based panel over simple cross-sectional Surveys. 370 00:47:10,620 --> 00:47:14,260 a couple of them is that we're able to really track trends over time. It enables longitudinal research that you can't do with a cross-sectional study, Because we're really looking at the same people over time. 371 00:47:21,060 --> 00:47:21,060 we're asking them the same questions. And so we can be sure that any changes that we Actually witness are due to a real trend and not just a different sample each time. 372 00:47:31,190 --> 00:47:31,190 the other big advantage is because we've had these people a part of our panel. 373 00:47:35,590 --> 00:47:35,590 we've already collected lots of information on them. And so each survey we put out can be Much more focused on substantive questions rather than collecting demographic and basic 374 00:47:45,230 --> 00:47:48,110 information. Again, because we already have that about folks. And so for this particular survey, it was we were able to just fill up the survey with Just budget related questions, 375 00:47:55,030 --> 00:47:58,430 not additional information, which is a big advantage when we can. So we can do longer substantive surveys that way. 376 00:48:02,510 --> 00:48:02,510 so we've got a number of different things in place to prevent what we call ballot Stuffing, 377 00:48:09,110 --> 00:48:09,110 fraud prevention, etc., which I'm happy to talk about. 378 00:48:13,510 --> 00:48:17,470 but for this particular survey, the response rate was 47%. So about half of our panel responded. We had a complete completion rate of 98%, Which is really good. 379 00:48:22,950 --> 00:48:25,950 and that's due to the fact that it was a shorter survey. And that again is an advantage of the panel. And so we had an initial sample of 1300. 380 00:48:32,000 --> 00:48:32,000 we do also weight the sample to ensure that it is truly representative of bexar county. 381 00:48:37,080 --> 00:48:37,080 and so we base that on american community survey that census bureau estimates here. 382 00:48:42,960 --> 00:48:46,720 and so we waited on education. We waited on race and ethnicity. We age, gender and income. We also waited on commissioner precinct. 383 00:48:52,440 --> 00:48:52,440 and so we wanted to ensure we had an even distribution across our sample. 384 00:48:57,120 --> 00:48:57,120 and so approximately 25% of the sample is from, From each precinct. 385 00:49:03,400 --> 00:49:07,160 and so the effective sample with weighting was 1285. And we had a margin of error of plus or -2.7%. 386 00:49:12,120 --> 00:49:15,480 so I'll try to go through these results pretty quickly here. But if you have any questions, please ask me to stop and I'll explain them. 387 00:49:19,760 --> 00:49:19,760 so the first question asked about if there was a gap between revenues and expenses. 388 00:49:26,010 --> 00:49:29,370 what sort of approach would residents prefer? And about 47% of plurality chose reduction of spending. 389 00:49:34,130 --> 00:49:34,130 another 41% said, do some of both. 6.3% said they'd like to see taxes raised. 390 00:49:41,410 --> 00:49:41,410 so do some of both in title spending, reducing spending and raising taxes. 391 00:49:46,050 --> 00:49:46,050 and then 6.1% said, not sure. The second question asked folks about what approaches the County should do to try to reduce its 392 00:49:55,850 --> 00:49:55,850 total debt. We gave a little bit of background about the total debt that the county is in Right now. 393 00:50:01,690 --> 00:50:01,690 64% said they wanted to see reduced spending on services and use savings to pay down debt Later. 394 00:50:07,610 --> 00:50:11,170 a quarter said keep both spending in current debt repayment the same. Another 11% were not sure. We also asked about reserve funds and what residents would like To see the county do with its 395 00:50:20,890 --> 00:50:20,890 reserve funds. 48%. Selected. Keep. Keep at the current level. 396 00:50:27,100 --> 00:50:27,100 keep reserve funds at the current level. Another 23% said increase reserve funds and 17% Decrease reserve funds. 397 00:50:35,380 --> 00:50:35,380 13% were not sure. We also asked our panelists about what they think the top financial Priority for bexar county should be. 398 00:50:45,820 --> 00:50:45,820 52% selected funding, county services and programs, 38% said paying down debt. 399 00:50:52,940 --> 00:50:52,940 another 7% said maintained strong reserve funds and another 4% or so were not sure. 400 00:51:00,740 --> 00:51:00,740 we also asked folks if they. What they should, What they'd like to see the county do in particular areas, 401 00:51:08,820 --> 00:51:08,820 one of which was day to day services we described what data, Excuse me, day to day services entail. 402 00:51:15,220 --> 00:51:15,220 and we asked folks if we think that the county should spend more or less or about the same On these day to day services. 403 00:51:21,790 --> 00:51:21,790 about 46% say said the same, 23% said somewhat more. 404 00:51:27,670 --> 00:51:31,070 and I'll let you read the rest there. But 13% somewhat less. So pretty, pretty even distribution there. We also asked about financial stability. 405 00:51:38,310 --> 00:51:41,430 that includes paying down the debt and increasing reserve funds. Again, about 38% of plurality said about the same, 35% said somewhat more spending in those areas. 406 00:51:50,350 --> 00:51:50,350 so this, I'm going to show you a few different images here because it's hard to really get A sense of what's happening here. 407 00:51:56,190 --> 00:51:56,190 but we asked about different areas and what the what people would like the county to do, Spending more or less or about the same in these 408 00:52:05,630 --> 00:52:05,630 areas, everything from law enforcement, staffing to other county services. 409 00:52:10,230 --> 00:52:10,230 and I'll point out a couple of things here. Road maintenance and repairs. 410 00:52:14,830 --> 00:52:14,830 it probably came out on top here when it came to what people would like to see, Where they'd like to see more spending in public health services 411 00:52:24,640 --> 00:52:24,640 economic development programs and affordable housing incentive programs all came in the Top four when it came to more spending. 412 00:52:33,120 --> 00:52:35,520 these are the percentages. This is the same question. This is just broken down a different way. Again, We see 25% would like to see much more when it came to road maintenance 29% 413 00:52:45,760 --> 00:52:45,760 would like to see much more when it came to public health services and so on, Down 27% for affordable housing incentive programs. 414 00:52:54,120 --> 00:52:54,120 so when we take the difference between those who selected more and less, So we're taking the net approval or net support for more spending. 415 00:53:02,600 --> 00:53:02,600 this is how it sort of ranks road maintenance repairs about 59% net in public health Services, 416 00:53:09,840 --> 00:53:09,840 44% net economic development programs, 25% net affordable housing programs, 23% net coming in. 417 00:53:19,370 --> 00:53:22,370 at the lowest were criminal courts in the district attorney's office. My apologies to the da's office there. And law enforcement staffing was net 8.5. 418 00:53:31,130 --> 00:53:31,130 we also asked about capital improvement. The ten year capital improvement plan and whether Or not the county should spend more or less or about the same in area areas associated 419 00:53:40,610 --> 00:53:40,610 with that plan. Roads and bridges flood control projects, Creeks and trails, parks and county buildings and facilities are what we asked 420 00:53:50,530 --> 00:53:50,530 about. Again, we see roads and bridges getting lots of support for more spending and flood Control projects were also popular as well. 421 00:54:00,130 --> 00:54:00,130 so we take just breaking it down a different way. 422 00:54:04,730 --> 00:54:04,730 we see flood control projects getting the most support when it comes to more spending Roads and bridges getting some support as well creeks and trails 423 00:54:15,170 --> 00:54:15,170 probably in county buildings and facilities were received more support for less funding. 424 00:54:24,740 --> 00:54:24,740 so again, we take the net and we see flood control projects for net 30 for roads and Bridges, 425 00:54:30,740 --> 00:54:30,740 net 20. And at the bottom, county buildings and facilities was a -31 net for for the least Support for for more spending. 426 00:54:41,220 --> 00:54:41,220 okay. Finally, we asked folks to rank the same areas, The same programs associated with the capital improvement plan. 427 00:54:49,780 --> 00:54:52,700 and this is just ranking them in order of issue priority. So the question is slightly different than the previous one. 428 00:54:56,340 --> 00:54:56,340 but we see roads and bridges coming out on top as the highest priority. 429 00:55:00,660 --> 00:55:00,660 so this is the mean rank. So the, the average ranking that roads and bridges received was Two followed by flood control, 430 00:55:07,540 --> 00:55:07,540 the second highest priority. And again at lower creeks and trails and county facilities Were at at the bottom. 431 00:55:14,720 --> 00:55:14,720 and with that, that is at the end of the presentation here. 432 00:55:18,880 --> 00:55:18,880 I'm happy to answer any questions you might have. Well, I'll just make a brief comment and then open it up to any other questions that 433 00:55:28,600 --> 00:55:28,600 from from the court. Listen, this was a scientific study survey, And I think it's a lot of great information for us to kind of look at 434 00:55:38,520 --> 00:55:38,520 and digest as we get into this budget and future budgets. 435 00:55:43,080 --> 00:55:43,080 this was also kind of just a pilot, right? I mean, We've never done this before and we were kind of fooling our way through it. 436 00:55:50,320 --> 00:55:53,440 I'm sure there's other questions we could have asked. There's different ways we could have asked it, But I think, you know, for a pilot first time through, 437 00:55:58,560 --> 00:55:58,560 I think it came out really well and I appreciate utsa's support in it. 438 00:56:04,040 --> 00:56:04,040 I'll also just highlight the listen, you know, I was surprised by some of these, some of these responses and you know, 439 00:56:12,850 --> 00:56:12,850 some of them are in line with with what my budget priorities would be, And some of them aren't. 440 00:56:18,650 --> 00:56:18,650 so, but I think it's important that we get that information from our constituents across The county to get a good sense of, 441 00:56:25,330 --> 00:56:29,130 of what their priorities are as we kind of go forward. So again, I think it was a success, but appreciate everybody's work and putting it Together. 442 00:56:34,970 --> 00:56:34,970 thank you, mr. Rodriguez. Thank you. Thank you judge. 443 00:56:41,370 --> 00:56:45,090 thanks for the information. I think all of this information is always helpful. Feedback. I mentioned to commissioner moody that mine was more unscientific, But we did something similar in I can't remember what year it was. 444 00:56:55,650 --> 00:56:55,650 it was a little bit cheaper. Yeah, it was a little bit cheaper. It was, It was door to door. And just to get feedback from constituents on what is on their mind 445 00:57:03,410 --> 00:57:03,410 and what is I think their most pressing needs. 446 00:57:08,130 --> 00:57:08,130 I do think just a couple of observations and maybe you've got the answer to this now. 447 00:57:13,220 --> 00:57:13,220 maybe it's something we kind of talk about for the future in terms of the sample size. 448 00:57:19,780 --> 00:57:19,780 I assume you're talking to, I think you said county wide residents. 449 00:57:25,220 --> 00:57:25,220 that includes folks that live in unincorporated municipalities as well as the city of san Antonio. 450 00:57:30,940 --> 00:57:30,940 is that right? Okay. So I think what would be, I think probably more instructive at some point is, 451 00:57:37,060 --> 00:57:40,020 you know, when you look at some of the the net positives. One of them was the road maintenance and repairs. 452 00:57:43,020 --> 00:57:43,020 if I'm a city of san antonio resident, which I am that is always a high priority, But I may not know that the county can't pay for the 453 00:57:52,980 --> 00:57:52,980 city of san antonio streets infrastructure. So that that's something that I think I don't Know how you flesh that out, 454 00:57:59,340 --> 00:57:59,340 but you know, that number may change depending on. 455 00:58:04,740 --> 00:58:04,740 I'm sure it's still a high priority for unincorporated, But, but again, it may be significantly higher if I'm a city of san antonio resident and I 456 00:58:12,270 --> 00:58:16,150 don't really know the dynamics of the different roles of government. So I wanted to mention that the other thing I think that stood out was the high marks 457 00:58:25,750 --> 00:58:25,750 on reducing the debt. And I think that always is a popular talking point politically. 458 00:58:35,550 --> 00:58:35,550 but when you look at the other significant net positive, I think was the flood control projects residents may not know those are not pay as you go 459 00:58:45,470 --> 00:58:45,470 projects. Those are all projects you have to issue bonds for. 460 00:58:49,790 --> 00:58:49,790 the county has done that successfully over the years. And we've paid it back in a Disciplined manner. 461 00:58:54,950 --> 00:58:54,950 so, so those are little things that nuances, I don't know how you can get accurate reflection in, 462 00:59:01,950 --> 00:59:01,950 in because you really have to do more of an information campaign before you do the the Opinion survey. 463 00:59:09,200 --> 00:59:13,160 but again, just some observations. You know, You're the professional here. I wanted to give you some feedback on how we could maybe improve it, Get a little bit better information, 464 00:59:19,040 --> 00:59:21,960 but I don't know if you have any comments on those two observations. I just wanted to relay that because those are the two things that stood out, Stood out for me. 465 00:59:26,120 --> 00:59:26,120 well, you know, I'd say with any commissioned survey, It's an iterative process. 466 00:59:31,160 --> 00:59:31,160 and so it's, it's, you know, we can make suggestions and, And we get, we get feedback as well, 467 00:59:37,800 --> 00:59:37,800 right? So if we were to do this survey again and we'd be happy to partner with, With the commissioners court to do a survey like this again, 468 00:59:44,960 --> 00:59:44,960 you know, I really think it's just getting that sort of feedback and putting it in place And maybe changing question wording here and there. 469 00:59:53,520 --> 00:59:53,520 it is always a balance between overwhelming people with information, Right. 470 00:59:58,960 --> 00:59:58,960 and also keeping the survey brief enough that people actually completed as well. 471 01:00:03,760 --> 01:00:06,210 and they're reading it. So you're absolutely right. That's that's the dilemma. That's the dynamic. 472 01:00:09,490 --> 01:00:09,490 and you know, how much background do you give to people about this? But I'm sure there are Ways working with your offices that we could refine the questions to get that better in 473 01:00:18,810 --> 01:00:21,970 the future. Great. Thank you. Commissioner. Calvert. Thank you so much. We appreciate the feedback and the information. 474 01:00:26,450 --> 01:00:26,450 I took it as somewhat of a contradiction in terms of the survey data where you had folks Talking about, 475 01:00:33,530 --> 01:00:33,530 you know, you need to pay down your debt, but then when you asked, Should the county spend more or less or about the same on day to day services, 476 01:00:42,450 --> 01:00:42,450 you had 46 saying about the same and then 23% saying somewhat more. 477 01:00:50,890 --> 01:00:50,890 so that outweighs reductions in the debt. Any thoughts about that contradiction with the Voters? 478 01:00:57,610 --> 01:01:01,370 well, you know, I think those contradictions just exist. You know, I'm not sure if people always have that sort of internal consistency. 479 01:01:05,260 --> 01:01:05,260 I think it's like that with anything where, you know, We can ask in generalities sometimes about what sort of general approach is you might 480 01:01:12,660 --> 01:01:12,660 prefer. And then when you get down into details, You ask people about specific things. 481 01:01:17,060 --> 01:01:17,060 sometimes they think, well, I like this, and these are the types of things I like to Support. 482 01:01:21,740 --> 01:01:25,420 and yeah, I'm sorry. No, no. I'm sorry. Go ahead. So, you know, I, you know, I think, you know what, You know, what sometimes seems like contradictions like that is just, 483 01:01:31,220 --> 01:01:31,220 you know, how people make sense of these ideas in their heads and, You know, and also keeping in mind that, 484 01:01:36,740 --> 01:01:36,740 you know, with, you know, the budget issues aren't things that people think about Constantly all the day. 485 01:01:41,700 --> 01:01:45,100 they probably don't have refined opinions from the get go. And so part of this is, you know, we're informing them, Letting them work through this perhaps for the first time, really think about how they 486 01:01:51,020 --> 01:01:51,020 balance these things as well. So, you know, I think one of the things we can do in the Future is work with you on the lay of the land for your survey, 487 01:01:57,820 --> 01:01:57,820 because, you know, we get one third of our calls are on illegal dumping. 488 01:02:03,830 --> 01:02:03,830 yeah. And so that's not hold here. Right. So, You know, those are things that are eyesores. 489 01:02:10,430 --> 01:02:13,150 and we get a lot of calls about homeless encampments. Right. And that's not necessarily. And so what would, What would happen if those specific issues that people are calling our offices about are 490 01:02:22,230 --> 01:02:22,230 actually polled in the context of understanding, You know, budget, because I would venture to say that those issues would 491 01:02:31,590 --> 01:02:31,590 probably you know, people don't necessarily think about the affordable housing issue as Also homeless prevention, 492 01:02:39,790 --> 01:02:39,790 right. And so couching it in those polling terms is important. 493 01:02:44,390 --> 01:02:44,390 and then I'd be curious just to get a little bit more detailed policy items in one of the Surveys, 494 01:02:54,070 --> 01:02:54,070 just because the affordability issue is rising in gallup and other polls as a top one. 495 01:03:02,690 --> 01:03:02,690 and I think when you start to pull policies specifically that people think can help their Family, 496 01:03:10,090 --> 01:03:10,090 whether that be childcare or whether that be a housing down payment assistance or whatever That may be, 497 01:03:18,130 --> 01:03:18,130 I would be curious to see how some of those issues come out in a future survey. 498 01:03:23,410 --> 01:03:23,410 so you know, let's, let's try to collaborate next time on, On the lay of the land portion of the survey so that we can 499 01:03:32,930 --> 01:03:32,930 also get you some of the unincorporated issues, Which are vastly different than maybe a municipal or any other county government is such a 500 01:03:40,970 --> 01:03:40,970 weird form of government that that you have to kind of I like it commissioner know, I do too, 501 01:03:46,850 --> 01:03:46,850 I do too, but it is different. I mean, you know, I've been an aide at city council, I've been aide at the state legislature, 502 01:03:52,450 --> 01:03:52,450 I've been aide at congress, and I've helped school districts. So it was it still is very Different, 503 01:03:57,130 --> 01:03:57,130 but I've come to love it. But you know, I just keep smoking my peace pipe. 504 01:04:04,660 --> 01:04:04,660 everything. Everything is all love then. So so yeah, I think, I think we could give you some 505 01:04:14,580 --> 01:04:14,580 feedback about what we're getting calls about and, And see also some, some policy things that we, 506 01:04:21,500 --> 01:04:21,500 we, we need to know whether when we're experimenting with certain policies, How will the reception be? 507 01:04:27,900 --> 01:04:27,900 and I agree with the commissioner rodriguez about kind of that education process because It is so nebulous what we do in county government. 508 01:04:37,660 --> 01:04:37,660 did you have this broken down by precinct? We can't break it down by precinct. 509 01:04:42,380 --> 01:04:42,380 I, I've talked to a few of your offices just explaining that. 510 01:04:46,460 --> 01:04:46,460 happy to provide precinct level data, but it's not meant to be representative at the Precinct level. 511 01:04:51,380 --> 01:04:51,380 that would be a different approach. Okay. We just get a larger sample and then we. 512 01:04:55,710 --> 01:04:55,710 and we separately ensure that we had, you know, Large amounts so that the data is really useful at the precinct level. 513 01:05:01,830 --> 01:05:04,870 yeah, I think that's an important thing to kind of help us collaborate. You know, if we kind of understand like the top three priorities in precinct three and two And one are different. 514 01:05:11,070 --> 01:05:11,070 and we have to figure out, you know, happy medium in terms of budgeting that, That, you know, 515 01:05:15,670 --> 01:05:15,670 we want to help our colleagues be successful in their precincts. And how do we look at the Budget? 516 01:05:21,230 --> 01:05:24,870 you know, both collectively and on a precinct response level. And the precincts are, are vastly different in terms of rural and, And unincorporated territory. 517 01:05:30,830 --> 01:05:30,830 so there's a lot of help that we could gain working with you in the future. 518 01:05:35,830 --> 01:05:35,830 so thank you very much. This is a wonderful commissioner. Commissioner. Clay-flores. Hi. 519 01:05:41,150 --> 01:05:45,150 so thank you for the work and time you put into this. So I want to thank commissioner rodriguez for it's really important to talk about Financial jurisdiction and whether or not they live in the city of san antonio, 520 01:05:54,400 --> 01:05:54,400 or unincorporated areas, or even in our small suburban towns, Because we do have political jurisdiction, 521 01:06:00,720 --> 01:06:00,720 including financial. So I think that that's a really important point. So thank you, Commissioner rodriguez. I'm also curious who who wrote these questions. 522 01:06:07,800 --> 01:06:07,800 where did you get these questions from? It was an iterative process with commissioner Moody's office. 523 01:06:12,800 --> 01:06:12,800 and so it sort of goes back and forth, and we formulated them in collaboration. 524 01:06:18,000 --> 01:06:18,000 okay. So with with one office which has different needs from different precincts. 525 01:06:22,120 --> 01:06:22,120 okay. And then also I noticed that you said it was done by it was conducted online. 526 01:06:28,760 --> 01:06:28,760 is that correct? That's correct. So then we have a lot of constituents, Namely in precinct one who don't necessarily have internet access. 527 01:06:38,480 --> 01:06:38,480 yes. And then also leaves out a lot of our seniors who are still trying to figure out the Whole technology thing. 528 01:06:45,720 --> 01:06:45,720 so I don't know if how much of a skewed. Yeah, It it's it's absolutely an issue where, you know, 529 01:06:53,130 --> 01:06:56,730 we're aware of the digital divide. It's something we think about. Luckily, I'm in the era of smartphones. It's become less of an issue because the surveys Are also people are able to conduct them on smartphones when they're 530 01:07:06,210 --> 01:07:06,210 possible. It's why we keep in the random digit dialing aspect of it. 531 01:07:11,610 --> 01:07:11,610 so we're able to reach and connect to people we wouldn't normally be able to connect with. 532 01:07:16,050 --> 01:07:16,050 and the address based sampling to pull people into, Into the, into our, into our panel. 533 01:07:22,010 --> 01:07:22,010 so we do have people who traditionally aren't necessarily online, But may have email addresses, 534 01:07:27,890 --> 01:07:30,730 are able to go to a community library. Et cetera. To complete the poll. So we're not exclusively recruiting people into the panel, Only through email, 535 01:07:36,450 --> 01:07:40,410 only through online means, but through some of these classic ways as well. There's not an easy solution in terms of just sending out paper surveys and trying to Field this quickly. 536 01:07:48,770 --> 01:07:48,770 but it is something that we're aware of and something we do try to address. 537 01:07:53,060 --> 01:07:57,020 and do you have a breakdown on where the survey sample residents live? Obviously that's confidential information, but like like a gps. 538 01:07:59,980 --> 01:07:59,980 so we can generally see. Yeah we do. We we have geo coordinates, We have zip codes etc. 539 01:08:07,500 --> 01:08:07,500 for many of our panelists, we have their, their actual addresses, But yes, we keep that all confidential and we're required to. 540 01:08:13,980 --> 01:08:13,980 okay. All right. Thank you doctor. Hold on. But let me ask county staff and tina I'm going To look at you because as 541 01:08:23,900 --> 01:08:23,900 budget officer chief budget officer, what's your takeaway from this survey? 542 01:08:31,500 --> 01:08:31,500 from a perspective of the last four years, especially since I've been your county judge Along with this court, 543 01:08:40,260 --> 01:08:40,260 is this survey consistent as to where the court has been, Where it is now, and obviously in our next budget year 544 01:08:50,110 --> 01:08:50,110 coming up fy 2620 7th october. These are important indicators for the court as to where We're 545 01:09:00,230 --> 01:09:03,470 going to have to put our priorities with limited resources. So can you extrapolate that to see what your takeaway, What what? 546 01:09:08,590 --> 01:09:08,590 to be real blunt. Yes, we we paid a premium for this and which I appreciate, But let's, let's get something out of it. 547 01:09:16,270 --> 01:09:16,270 so what's your takeaway? So I do believe the current budget in the past few year budgets Are consistent with this survey results. 548 01:09:24,830 --> 01:09:24,830 we the court has invested 34 to 35% of the budget in capital projects, Which include roads, 549 01:09:32,670 --> 01:09:32,670 flood control. I would also say that the court has been sensitive to that question Regarding debt and the outstanding 550 01:09:42,430 --> 01:09:46,360 debt that we have, because we have not issued any new bonds. And I want to say it's 2 or 3 years. And I and one thing that's important to note, I think, 551 01:09:54,080 --> 01:09:54,080 is that the investment that the court has made in housing and what was the other housing And I can't remember off the top of my head 552 01:10:04,760 --> 01:10:07,640 was arpa, you need to study that report some more. Okay. I'm sorry. Public health, public health and housing was arpa. 553 01:10:12,720 --> 01:10:12,720 a lot of the money that's been invested is arpa funds, Which are going away. 554 01:10:17,040 --> 01:10:17,040 and those are the decisions we have to make for the fall as to when the arpa funds run Out, 555 01:10:22,680 --> 01:10:26,120 what will remain and what will not. Correct. Correct. Those are tough decisions. My thoughts? Okay. 556 01:10:28,720 --> 01:10:28,720 well, let me come back to you, doctor bass. First of all, Let me thank you for your team and for your time and expertise in conducting this 557 01:10:36,320 --> 01:10:36,320 countywide budget survey to you from the ut center for public opinion research. 558 01:10:42,520 --> 01:10:42,520 obviously, can we call it a premier resource in our community? 559 01:10:46,970 --> 01:10:46,970 and you help provide elected officials, appointed officials direction from the opinions And the the feelings of our community. 560 01:10:56,450 --> 01:10:56,450 so let me kind of put on the record my takeaways. 561 01:11:01,210 --> 01:11:04,650 the majority of residents surveyed are not in support of a tax increase. And I and this court have not increased no new taxes for the last four years in at least The new budget has yet to be voted. 562 01:11:13,690 --> 01:11:13,690 but I will not be supporting a tax increase and I hope my colleagues will join me also. 563 01:11:20,210 --> 01:11:23,610 my big takeaway is the top financial priority for the county. At 51.7%, respondents said funding county services and programs and so I think we are Definitely on the right track 564 01:11:34,010 --> 01:11:34,010 on the question, asking which area residents would like to see more spending, 63.2% said road maintenance and repairs, 565 01:11:41,530 --> 01:11:41,530 which is a. Nuts and bolts operation of county government. 566 01:11:45,910 --> 01:11:45,910 51. 8% said affordable housing incentives for which this court has really leaned into, And which I have appreciated the support of my colleagues. 567 01:11:54,230 --> 01:11:54,230 that's. I don't believe the court was in that area with the emphasis and the commitment That we have done in these last four years. 568 01:12:01,750 --> 01:12:01,750 53.7% said public health services and we are. 569 01:12:06,870 --> 01:12:06,870 doctor guerrero is in the room. And, you know, She continues to advocate for some of the more complicated, 570 01:12:13,070 --> 01:12:13,070 complex issues, especially at the jail. So in contrast, Only 31.7% said more law enforcement staffing and 37 6.6% said 571 01:12:23,070 --> 01:12:23,070 law enforcement, training and equipment. But we do know that in the last four years, We have made a strong commitment to law enforcement and training. 572 01:12:31,430 --> 01:12:31,430 but this also tells you that the county or the residents of the county through this Survey, 573 01:12:37,030 --> 01:12:37,030 want to see a balanced approach. And I say that for the record, Because we will continue to negotiate with the sheriff's department, 574 01:12:45,560 --> 01:12:45,560 sheriff's office, our constables, our gps, our criminal district court, District attorney's office as they continue to advocate for staffing and 575 01:12:55,280 --> 01:12:55,280 funding. Again, very tough decisions that we have to make when the residents say you need To put the nuts and bolts operations of county government at the top. 576 01:13:05,960 --> 01:13:09,720 so with that, commissioner moody, let me say this. I appreciate what you have done with this opinion poll. 577 01:13:14,400 --> 01:13:14,400 I appreciate your advocacy and you have asked some really hard, Tough questions, especially when it deals with public service housing 578 01:13:24,200 --> 01:13:27,840 issues that sometimes you have questioned. And I think you are. You asked the right questions, but this survey has validated where this court as a whole, As a group has gone, 579 01:13:34,960 --> 01:13:34,960 and that's to take care of people for their basic services, Whether it's food, whether it's housing, 580 01:13:41,450 --> 01:13:41,450 whether it's basic safety and protection. And so I'm very proud of the four years of this Court that I presided over as I exit 581 01:13:51,290 --> 01:13:51,290 at the end of the year. And so with county facilities rated low and the low demand for tax Increase, 582 01:13:59,930 --> 01:13:59,930 you know, it's going to be real tough as to big capital projects. 583 01:14:04,530 --> 01:14:04,530 and so I am laying the predicate to the court that we this we should use this opinion poll As a starting point, 584 01:14:14,250 --> 01:14:18,130 so to speak. And we're going to have our hard arguments. We're going to have our hard questions. But I think this gives us a foundation. 585 01:14:22,250 --> 01:14:22,250 and doctor, thank you for this. Obviously, our colleagues at the city perhaps should see This report too. 586 01:14:31,770 --> 01:14:31,770 and commissioner rodriguez, thank you for pointing out so that the public understands That. 587 01:14:37,980 --> 01:14:37,980 city, county, although there's overlap. Obviously, We have a core function by the legislature. 588 01:14:45,260 --> 01:14:45,260 we're an extension of the state. We have to take care of the unincorporated areas and the Suburban cities. 589 01:14:51,260 --> 01:14:51,260 and so that has to also be balanced with the fact that, Especially housing that the city of san antonio is also part of the county. 590 01:14:59,660 --> 01:14:59,660 and sometimes we get siloed, so to speak, to say, Well, the city and the county, those are separate issues. 591 01:15:06,140 --> 01:15:06,140 no, I want to put on the table that those issues we have to always. 592 01:15:10,700 --> 01:15:10,700 and we just have to balance it all out. So we have many more tough discussions, Tina, to do. 593 01:15:16,460 --> 01:15:16,460 and we will rely on our staff to come back and try to put this all into perspective. 594 01:15:21,740 --> 01:15:21,740 I also want to recognize albert carrizales. Albert, Why don't you step up here? 595 01:15:26,380 --> 01:15:29,300 because you have been there for these four years. I just wanted to say thank you to ut san antonio. 596 01:15:33,340 --> 01:15:33,340 right. It's not. And that's I think, the official name. 597 01:15:37,470 --> 01:15:41,310 but just say thank you for your leadership, doctor taylor. Amy, I've had the pleasure of working with him since he's coming to town with his lovely Wife, 598 01:15:46,350 --> 01:15:49,630 peggy, and all the awards that they have won. And we have really had some really great collaboration on programs such as foster care. 599 01:15:54,910 --> 01:15:54,910 and so I just wanted to say thank you to the team at ut san antonio. 600 01:16:00,750 --> 01:16:00,750 do you have a few words for us? Yes, sir. I also have my colleague here, Jamie. 601 01:16:05,550 --> 01:16:07,990 well, come on up here. Get the whole team up here. Ut health, now that we're merged, one big institution. 602 01:16:10,830 --> 01:16:10,830 but we have a long standing partnership with bexar county, The foster care initiative program that you just mentioned, 603 01:16:17,910 --> 01:16:17,910 in partnership with the children's court, the county children's court, A&m, san antonio, alamo community college district, 604 01:16:23,950 --> 01:16:23,950 the property, san pedro one and two used to be the county city property. 605 01:16:28,750 --> 01:16:28,750 now we've got two great buildings athletic facilities, The joint school of public health. 606 01:16:35,640 --> 01:16:38,720 so a long standing partnership with bexar county. So, judge, I want to thank you and all the county commissioners and the county judge as Well. 607 01:16:43,520 --> 01:16:47,040 county manager, thank you. Let me get doctor for the closing. Doctor. What's your takeaway from the survey? 608 01:16:52,480 --> 01:16:56,000 the results of the survey and the discussion had today. And from the feedback you've gotten from the dais here, What what more could we ask of you 609 01:17:05,760 --> 01:17:05,760 in order to give us more information, to be more inclusive, To be more open and transparent and have more and more importantly, 610 01:17:15,120 --> 01:17:15,120 have connection to our community through its citizens, That they feel that they've been heard. 611 01:17:21,360 --> 01:17:21,360 and I want to close on that. How do we make our citizens feel that they have been heard? 612 01:17:27,200 --> 01:17:27,200 we did a survey and we did it, but I don't believe that in itself shows connection. 613 01:17:34,130 --> 01:17:34,130 so do you understand my question from a scientific forensic perspective? 614 01:17:39,010 --> 01:17:39,010 yeah, these numbers are great, but how do we how do we help the community understand that We are listening and that we are connected, 615 01:17:46,050 --> 01:17:46,050 and that we are addressing the needs of our community as they see it? 616 01:17:50,250 --> 01:17:50,250 yes, sir. Well, you know, I certainly think in future iterations, Including even open ended items, 617 01:17:57,890 --> 01:17:57,890 allowing people to voice their opinions, express themselves openly would, Would be a great idea. 618 01:18:05,010 --> 01:18:08,490 not, not limiting them to multiple choice options. Dealing with open ended data is tougher to make sense of it all. 619 01:18:13,010 --> 01:18:13,010 just a qualitative perspective, but it is something that we're capable of doing. 620 01:18:17,290 --> 01:18:20,450 and I find that people well, it's a mixed bag. Some people don't like the extra work of having to type out their own answers, But some people really feel validated and included when they're able to express that in 621 01:18:28,490 --> 01:18:28,490 terms of implementation. Obviously, I can't say how do you take these results and and Demonstrate to people that their voices are being heard? 622 01:18:36,340 --> 01:18:36,340 but I do think that's sort of the point of our of our panel is really to try our best to Give voice to people's priorities and their attitudes. 623 01:18:45,100 --> 01:18:45,100 and in working with your offices to make sure that these questions really do hit at the Issues people care about. 624 01:18:53,380 --> 01:18:53,380 they're asked in ways that tap into people's concerns and positions, And that the questions are written in a way that really are able to 625 01:19:02,820 --> 01:19:02,820 represent their viewpoints and perspectives. And again, I'm, you know, more than happy to, 626 01:19:07,860 --> 01:19:07,860 to do this and work with your offices in the future and the commissioners court in the Future. 627 01:19:13,860 --> 01:19:13,860 you know, this is supposed to be a tool, a resource for the panel itself for civic Oriented research. 628 01:19:21,620 --> 01:19:21,620 we're doing, we're starting a longitudinal study on health attitudes right now as well, Using our panel measuring health attitudes in bexar county. 629 01:19:29,070 --> 01:19:29,070 so getting at a different aspect of making sure people are heard there, And we understand where people's concerns are and are able to have a resource for the 630 01:19:37,870 --> 01:19:37,870 health community as well. And so that's really that's really our approach. 631 01:19:42,630 --> 01:19:42,630 and, you know, I'll close by just adding, you know, The majority of the funds that that we collect for the service, 632 01:19:49,390 --> 01:19:49,390 they go back to our respondents, they go to the panelists, We offer incentives. 633 01:19:53,870 --> 01:19:53,870 and that's really, I think just a measure. It's both practical and it's, I think it's an ethical thing as well. 634 01:20:00,390 --> 01:20:04,350 and it builds trust with our panelists. They know this is a legitimate survey. They know that we're, we're good for this. And it's not just sort of some scam email or Thing that shows up in their mailbox, 635 01:20:11,630 --> 01:20:11,630 but a real actual survey there. And so I think we do have trust of our panelists and we're Happy to make use of it. 636 01:20:19,230 --> 01:20:22,270 thank you doctor. Thank you. It's serendipitous that. Commissioner. Calvert. Commissioner. Moode. That we will have the county judge's budget Town hall meetings wednesday. 637 01:20:28,290 --> 01:20:30,930 tomorrow over at holy redeemer on the east side. Tomorrow and thursday will be at walker ranch, And then another week or two will be in precincts two and one. 638 01:20:36,890 --> 01:20:40,130 so we will continue to be open and transparent. We will continue to listen to our community, And we will continue to make those hard decisions as they come forward. 639 01:20:46,890 --> 01:20:46,890 thank you all very much. Let's give you a uti, San antonio, a round of applause. 640 01:20:54,610 --> 01:20:54,610 all right. Let's go to the time certain. Right. 641 01:20:58,930 --> 01:20:58,930 945 public hearing. The court's going to call a public hearing of the commissioners court Invites public input regarding the proposed allocation to 642 01:21:08,490 --> 01:21:08,490 u.s. Department of justice justice assistance grant, Jag fy 2025 program fund in an amount of $973,878, 643 01:21:17,890 --> 01:21:17,890 to be shared between bexar county and the city of san antonio during the fy 2627. 644 01:21:24,100 --> 01:21:24,100 I'm looking at citizen to be heard. I do not see anybody signed up for. 645 01:21:29,100 --> 01:21:29,100 six. See, is there anybody here that has signed up for. 646 01:21:35,100 --> 01:21:35,100 six. See public hearing in regards to the department of justice jag grant program and the Reallocation. 647 01:21:42,220 --> 01:21:46,220 I believe it's a reallocation of funds. Hearing none. Then let us go. Go to six d presentation, discuss appropriate action regarding the fy 2025 Jag program, 648 01:21:54,220 --> 01:21:54,220 recommended allocations and ratification of the submission of the final application. 649 01:21:58,860 --> 01:21:58,860 the us department of justice execution of certificate, Certifications and assurances document by the county's chief executive officer and 650 01:22:07,500 --> 01:22:07,500 permission to apply the digital signature of the county judge to the electronic Application upon award. 651 01:22:13,380 --> 01:22:17,340 present the final award to commissioners court at a later date. Miss gaetano. Good morning, judge and commissioners tanya gaitan, Budget and finance director. 652 01:22:22,630 --> 01:22:22,630 today I have a very brief presentation to discuss our annual jag program application. 653 01:22:29,110 --> 01:22:29,110 the justice assistant grant is an annual grant opportunity for the city and the county to Apply for. 654 01:22:35,030 --> 01:22:35,030 the funding can be used for justice related type projects and positions ranging from law Enforcement to the courts. 655 01:22:43,950 --> 01:22:43,950 in march, the solicitation was released and the county has a jag committee that consists Of the same offices and departments as the grc, 656 01:22:52,910 --> 01:22:52,910 and they provide recommendations on the county programs that they are going to fund for This or recommend to fund for this grant. 657 01:22:58,950 --> 01:22:58,950 the application was due at the end of april, And now we're required to hold a public hearing, 658 01:23:03,710 --> 01:23:06,230 which we just had and which we're doing today. And we want to also, we should expect a notification from award in the next few months Regarding this grant, 659 01:23:13,670 --> 01:23:13,670 at which point we'll work with the city on an interlocal agreement, Since we do split the funding 60% with the county and 40% with the city. 660 01:23:25,800 --> 01:23:25,800 we are projected to receive $973,878 for this year's grant. 661 01:23:31,680 --> 01:23:31,680 this is an increase from last year and upon the split or with the split, We will receive the county 662 01:23:38,520 --> 01:23:38,520 $584,327. So when the committee met, 663 01:23:48,440 --> 01:23:48,440 they are recommending to continue funding of eight existing positions. 664 01:23:52,720 --> 01:23:52,720 however, with the rising cost of these positions due to market studies as well as cost of Living adjustments, 665 01:23:57,800 --> 01:23:57,800 there will be an estimated shortfall of about $100,000 in the next fiscal year. 666 01:24:02,640 --> 01:24:02,640 so this will need to be identified and budgeted in the general fund for next year, Unless there is additional savings from the previous grant years that we can reallocate to 667 01:24:11,080 --> 01:24:11,080 this cost. So we will be keeping an eye on that as well. 668 01:24:17,040 --> 01:24:17,040 so funding will preserve the adult drug court, Which is the misdemeanor and felony courts. 669 01:24:22,010 --> 01:24:22,010 the dwi court, which is for misdemeanor courts and the women's mental health court and Maintaining their staffing levels. 670 01:24:28,850 --> 01:24:28,850 this list is the. This is the list of the positions that are recommended to remain on the Grant, 671 01:24:33,010 --> 01:24:33,010 which is similar in the last couple of years. 672 01:24:39,210 --> 01:24:39,210 so today we're requesting the approval of the committee's recommendations and ratification Of the grant application submission, 673 01:24:46,490 --> 01:24:46,490 as well as approval to accept the funds and approve the sign certification required by the Grant from the county judge. 674 01:24:53,050 --> 01:24:55,970 I'm open to any questions that the court members may have. Questions. Motion to approve. Motion by commissioner rodriguez. 675 01:24:59,330 --> 01:25:03,210 second by commissioner clay-flores. Any further discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? 676 01:25:07,170 --> 01:25:10,570 any abstentions? Motion carries. Thank you, thank you. Let us. Kate. I believe we go back to those individual items. 677 01:25:14,570 --> 01:25:14,570 I believe 24 and 29 now let's get through the let's get through the consent. 678 01:25:22,540 --> 01:25:22,540 24. Commissioner mooney. Authorize authorizing the approval of a contract modification With blanco landscaping, 679 01:25:31,180 --> 01:25:31,180 llc for an annual increased amount of $22,449.40, Bringing the contract total to 110,000 680 01:25:40,460 --> 01:25:40,460 151 $0.88. For the purpose of initiating services at the light fleet maintenance location, 681 01:25:47,260 --> 01:25:47,260 increasing the frequency of services at the agrilife urban farm location and at the Bibliotheque lerma parking lot, 682 01:25:54,100 --> 01:25:56,780 as requested by the facilities management department. Authorizing purchasing agent. Execute and file a proper award document for record with the County clerk. 683 01:26:01,940 --> 01:26:05,700 commissioner moody, you have the floor. Yes, Judge. You know, in the past hour and a half. I've gotten additional information that answers my Questions related to the item, 684 01:26:12,180 --> 01:26:12,180 so I have no further questions. I'll move approval. 685 01:26:17,310 --> 01:26:17,310 yeah. All right. I'm sorry. All right. We have a motion by commissioner moody, Second by commissioner calvert. 686 01:26:26,990 --> 01:26:26,990 any further discussion? Hearing none. All those in favor of the motion signify by saying Aye. 687 01:26:31,230 --> 01:26:31,230 aye. Any opposition? Any abstentions? Motion carries. 688 01:26:35,470 --> 01:26:35,470 thank you. Item 29. Approval and request by justice. 689 01:26:40,110 --> 01:26:40,110 peace. Precinct three to utilize general fund monies to reimburse payments collected Between february and march 2025 for citations issued through the unlawful use 690 01:26:50,070 --> 01:26:50,070 of an automated traffic enforcement system by the precinct three constable's office in the Amount of $11,480. 691 01:26:59,070 --> 01:27:02,430 commissioner clay-flores, you pulled this. You have the floor. Yeah. I'm just baffled by what exactly happened and how how it happened. 692 01:27:08,110 --> 01:27:11,550 if my understanding is correct. So I just have some questions. But you can introduce yourself and certainly. 693 01:27:14,000 --> 01:27:14,000 yeah. My name is I'm judge julie patterson. I'm the justice of the peace out at precinct Three. 694 01:27:18,360 --> 01:27:21,400 and just before we get started, I'd like to kind of tell on what you said. Commissioner calvert of like, what does county government do? 695 01:27:24,240 --> 01:27:24,240 what do justices of the peace do? So just in brief about four precincts and each precinct Has one justice of the peace. 696 01:27:32,440 --> 01:27:32,440 and there are four main cases that are heard in each jp court. 697 01:27:36,560 --> 01:27:36,560 so one is small claims, small claims the amount of $20,000 or less. 698 01:27:42,160 --> 01:27:46,000 most people represent themselves as opposed to hire attorneys. Second, we have hundreds of credit card debt claims that get filed in our courts when People completely stop paying a debt bank loan. 699 01:27:55,760 --> 01:27:59,280 third, we have we handle landlord tenant cases. Mainly. Those are evictions for folks who have back on their rent. 700 01:28:04,360 --> 01:28:04,360 and fourth are traffic tickets, the traffic tickets that come to each jp level. 701 01:28:09,960 --> 01:28:12,860 for us, they come from three different law enforcement agencies. So one is roaming bexar county sheriff's deputies. 702 01:28:16,580 --> 01:28:16,580 they give tickets within that particular precinct. The second is in house. 703 01:28:22,940 --> 01:28:22,940 constable's tickets that come. And third, we have tickets from dps officers that get filed In our court. 704 01:28:29,220 --> 01:28:29,220 so last year, february, march, constable vojvodich instituted a to do some tickets by Leader by a system 705 01:28:39,180 --> 01:28:39,180 where there's a stand set up with a leader. There was not an officer there and it could Take pictures and do the tickets like in 706 01:28:49,100 --> 01:28:49,100 north texas. As far as the toll tags, if you don't have a toll tag, Sometimes I take a picture, 707 01:28:54,500 --> 01:28:57,780 you get a ticket in the mail to say, hey, you didn't pay your toll. So that happened last year. I want to say for probably a month and a half. 708 01:29:02,660 --> 01:29:02,660 during that time, the assistant, the da's office heard about this and thought, You know, this might not be a legal way to get 709 01:29:12,270 --> 01:29:12,270 tickets. Why? Because the state of texas has said some red light cameras are not legal. 710 01:29:18,790 --> 01:29:18,790 so once our office, as the justice of the peace office, Heard that a request from the da's office had been made to the 711 01:29:28,750 --> 01:29:28,750 attorney general's office as to the legality of these tickets, We stopped processing them. 712 01:29:34,590 --> 01:29:34,590 we stopped it right then. And then we assumed that the ag's office would get an opinion by Last august. 713 01:29:41,590 --> 01:29:41,590 that didn't happen, that it came earlier on this spring. 714 01:29:45,830 --> 01:29:45,830 and what that opinion said was that the tickets that were given in this particular manner, 715 01:29:51,150 --> 01:29:51,150 they're not legal. It's not a legal way to get tickets. 716 01:29:55,270 --> 01:29:55,270 so then knowing that we had to go back and figure out, Hey, how do we make sure if anyone paid money on these tickets, 717 01:30:02,470 --> 01:30:02,470 it gets refunded? If anyone, if any convictions came out of these tickets, That these convictions are reversed to put people back in the position. 718 01:30:11,360 --> 01:30:11,360 so just so you know, just some more statistics, There were approximately 516 tickets that were issued on this. 719 01:30:20,360 --> 01:30:20,360 there were 57 tickets that people paid money, Whether they just paid it out. 720 01:30:26,600 --> 01:30:26,600 right. And it was a conviction or whether they paid it and got put on deferred disposition Or they went through driving safety course. 721 01:30:35,240 --> 01:30:35,240 so the money we are requesting today again, is for those 57 tickets where people paid Money to refund that money 722 01:30:44,960 --> 01:30:44,960 to those folks as well as there were. And I know you and I talked about this, And some folks just paid it outright 723 01:30:54,880 --> 01:30:58,480 in a conviction, a traffic ticket conviction went on their record. If you just go online, you just pay. It turns into a conviction versus asking the court to Be put on deferred disposition or do some driving safety course. 724 01:31:07,770 --> 01:31:09,930 so again, judge, I know we talked about this. There were 31 people who just paid it online. 725 01:31:13,810 --> 01:31:13,810 it was a conviction. So what we need a we need to refund those. 726 01:31:18,530 --> 01:31:18,530 but also we've reached out to dps and actually did that earlier this month to ask them to Request those convictions be reversed. 727 01:31:28,610 --> 01:31:28,610 as far as they have not answered yet on the portal through dps. 728 01:31:33,690 --> 01:31:33,690 it's still under their review. The I'm not saying dps is a black hole, But it's hard to get people to respond to you. 729 01:31:39,610 --> 01:31:43,490 but certainly we know we want to make things right. And we did, we didn't ask for these tickets to get filed in our office. We want to make Sure folks aren't penalized for something they shouldn't have gotten the ticket in the 730 01:31:51,850 --> 01:31:51,850 first place. So I appreciate you being here. I'm sure you have a full docket. 731 01:31:57,850 --> 01:31:57,850 I don't know if you just came because it was on this, But I guess I'm just baffled like how this happened in the first place. 732 01:32:05,780 --> 01:32:09,740 commissioner moody I don't know if you if you knew about this or. I just don't know how a law enforcement elected official or agency is doing something and It turns out it was 733 01:32:19,380 --> 01:32:19,380 illegal. So I'm just curious. Yeah, certainly I can't answer that question with another Elected official. 734 01:32:24,620 --> 01:32:24,620 does. Right. You certainly have to ask that to a constable vojvodich on that one. 735 01:32:28,940 --> 01:32:28,940 I just make a quick comment, commissioner. You know, I'm not a lawyer. 736 01:32:34,420 --> 01:32:34,420 I'm not a legal expert. Obviously, in the court system there's different opinions in many Different cases. 737 01:32:41,260 --> 01:32:41,260 obviously, there were different opinions with regard to this decision was made that came Down from higher. 738 01:32:49,300 --> 01:32:49,300 and judge is just trying to obviously make our constituents whole based on that decision That came out of 739 01:32:59,140 --> 01:32:59,140 ag's office. So that's, I think, the overarching thing here. 740 01:33:03,270 --> 01:33:03,270 I think this is material at this point. We just need to make sure that if tickets were Issued using a system that has since been ruled 741 01:33:13,190 --> 01:33:13,190 that it can't be utilized, that we make those individuals whole, That's what we're going to do here. 742 01:33:18,310 --> 01:33:18,310 is there a motion? Well, I still have some questions. 743 01:33:22,470 --> 01:33:22,470 let's get the motion. Motion by commissioner second by commissioner calvert commissioner Clay-flores. 744 01:33:27,110 --> 01:33:30,030 yes, I think this is more the ministerial like. I think this is huge. I mean, if one of my constituents was over on the north side, Which often we have to go to precinct three because we have lack of lots of 745 01:33:39,990 --> 01:33:43,710 things, then it's not just, oh, just erase it. It could have caused someone to take the day off. It could have cost the want to go into Your into your office. 746 01:33:48,910 --> 01:33:51,550 everyone doesn't have however much money tickets cost. Everyone just doesn't have extra dollars laying around. 747 01:33:54,830 --> 01:33:54,830 so. So I think this is really a big deal. I want to commend you for you and your staff for Recognizing that and calling that out and 748 01:34:04,720 --> 01:34:04,720 doing due diligence. Larry, I don't know if you have anything to add. 749 01:34:10,600 --> 01:34:10,600 well, thank you, commissioner. I think there's a bigger issue about the equipment that was Employed. 750 01:34:16,640 --> 01:34:16,640 I want to be sure to note that the court had nothing to do with that, Because that equipment was procured and 751 01:34:26,200 --> 01:34:29,840 implemented without the court's knowledge. So the court wasn't aware. And I think that's the bigger issue. Right. Is that the court had no knowledge of what was Going on. 752 01:34:34,800 --> 01:34:34,800 and that that, to me, is the bigger issue, because that equipment was given for free by a Vendor who wanted to. 753 01:34:41,720 --> 01:34:41,720 and that really is sort of inappropriate because the court didn't know what was going on. 754 01:34:46,200 --> 01:34:46,200 it didn't have the opportunity to weigh in on whether that was appropriate or whether it Was legal, 755 01:34:50,720 --> 01:34:50,720 because I think everyone who who at least the legal experts, Kind of understand, hey, look, 756 01:34:54,760 --> 01:34:54,760 there was no authority to that. There was an existing ag opinion that had already Addressed this issue in another part of texas. 757 01:35:00,970 --> 01:35:00,970 and I do also commend the judge for taking immediate mitigating measures to make sure that The rights of citizens were protected. 758 01:35:08,290 --> 01:35:08,290 so that was good. But I think the bigger issue is here is that the court wasn't aware of This and had no knowledge about that equipment it was being put to use without the court 759 01:35:17,450 --> 01:35:17,450 weighing in on whether that was a good policy decision or not, Regardless of the legal basis. 760 01:35:21,730 --> 01:35:21,730 so thank you, larry. You're welcome. So judge, To be clear, were all the convictions expunged or you guys are working on that? 761 01:35:28,690 --> 01:35:28,690 right. So right now, so we contacted our staff, Contacted dps june 16th to say, okay, because we went through also and dismissed all the 762 01:35:37,770 --> 01:35:41,730 516 tickets with the help of the assistant district attorney's office. How many? 516. Well, 516 tickets were given. Okay. 763 01:35:46,650 --> 01:35:46,650 there weren't people didn't pay on all 516. So once you guys caught it on time. 764 01:35:53,330 --> 01:35:53,330 so yeah, good work. So to answer, I think the question was with with dps. 765 01:35:57,900 --> 01:35:57,900 so we reached out to dps and again, that was on june 16th through the portal they provide Us to reach out to to say, 766 01:36:05,340 --> 01:36:08,380 basically, here's the issue. We need those convictions. The people that paid again, that was, let's see 31 okay. 767 01:36:13,340 --> 01:36:13,340 we need those convictions reversed. Once they confirm that, Then what we're going to do, we need to figure out how to get those expunged. 768 01:36:20,780 --> 01:36:24,340 so if anyone would ever try to look up, it shows there was never a ticket. Okay, so right now we're waiting to hear back from dps. 769 01:36:27,260 --> 01:36:27,260 well, I just want to applaud you and your staff because on top of everything else that you Guys are doing, 770 01:36:32,660 --> 01:36:36,460 I know this created. I would imagine this created a lot more work for you all. So thank you for, for being diligent about that. 771 01:36:38,780 --> 01:36:42,380 thank you. No further questions. All right. Is there any further discussion? Call for a vote. All those in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. 772 01:36:46,020 --> 01:36:48,860 aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? Motion carries. Let me put on the record. Judge patterson, thank you for coming in. You are a licensed Attorney at law and an elected judge of the peace of precinct three. 773 01:36:57,680 --> 01:36:57,680 and so I want to applaud your service and your dedication, Your professionalism. 774 01:37:02,400 --> 01:37:02,400 and then obviously, as an attorney and we go back a ways, I believe your father is an attorney, 775 01:37:07,440 --> 01:37:07,440 too. And so I've had the pleasure of working with him when I was a district court judge. 776 01:37:11,960 --> 01:37:15,600 so thank you for what you do. Thank you how you handle this. And I just got to put this. This is not and I don't want to violate. 777 01:37:19,440 --> 01:37:19,440 but did dan curry take care of your thing over there at your building in process? 778 01:37:24,080 --> 01:37:28,000 what's that? It's in the process. It's in process. All right. Okay. Keep us abreast on That. We'll we'll fix that one. Okay. Thank you. All right. 779 01:37:30,440 --> 01:37:30,440 thank you very much. All right. I think that concludes the consent. 780 01:37:35,920 --> 01:37:35,920 correct, kate. All right. Let's then go to item number seven, Filing for the record following legal administrative documents directing criminal district 781 01:37:43,880 --> 01:37:43,880 attorney's office. Take action if necessary. A through e and court takes note. 782 01:37:49,240 --> 01:37:53,130 approval of the minutes for tuesday, june 9th, Nine, 2026. Motion by commissioner rodriguez, second by commissioner clay-flores. 783 01:37:56,330 --> 01:37:56,330 any further discussion? All those in favor signify by saying aye. 784 01:38:00,490 --> 01:38:03,850 aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? Motion carries. Number nine communications to be heard from citizens who have registered to speak. 785 01:38:11,010 --> 01:38:14,090 let me pull up. Is michael taylor still here? You had signed up for 30. Michael, come in for 35. 786 01:38:17,210 --> 01:38:20,850 36. I believe that was in consent, I believe. I apologize, I probably should have called you up before that, But I didn't catch it until these requests were put in front of me. 787 01:38:28,490 --> 01:38:32,130 so I believe they have passed. So congratulations. And I was at your was it grand opening over on the east side on yucca, Right there by the old convent. 788 01:38:39,090 --> 01:38:39,090 and what a wonderful celebration and a housing program that you have created for 15 Families. 789 01:38:44,610 --> 01:38:47,770 and I had the pleasure to speak there. So thank you very much. And thank you for habitat for humanity. So thank you, Mr. 790 01:38:51,540 --> 01:38:51,540 taylor. You. The floor is yours. Thank you for being a part of our dedication ceremony. 791 01:38:55,620 --> 01:38:55,620 and thank you for for approving items 35 and 36. 792 01:39:00,860 --> 01:39:00,860 so this was two grant agreements to allocate just over $858,000 to support our affordable Homeownership program. 793 01:39:10,220 --> 01:39:10,220 this is for a neighborhood, a new neighborhood we're building in precinct two just near Monterey park where these funds, 794 01:39:18,420 --> 01:39:18,420 4.6 acres, will help us to acquire that land and build out the public infrastructure for 28 new single family homes. 795 01:39:27,140 --> 01:39:30,820 so this is after the neighborhood you were in, Judge. And then we have another neighborhood. This is the third one down the down the road. 796 01:39:34,740 --> 01:39:34,740 but in order to keep up our production, 50 to 60 homes per year, We're, we're building out these new neighborhoods very quickly. 797 01:39:43,140 --> 01:39:43,140 and of course, these funds, you know, they leverage millions more in donations from Individuals, 798 01:39:48,950 --> 01:39:48,950 faith and civic groups and the business community to make home building possible. 799 01:39:54,270 --> 01:39:54,270 and really your support today. It's a it's support, It's supporting families. 800 01:39:58,790 --> 01:39:58,790 it's an investment in families. And I did want to just take this opportunity to say that, Just to remind you, 801 01:40:05,430 --> 01:40:05,430 it's a very special year for habitat. We're celebrating our 50th anniversary this year 50 Years of building affordable homes in san antonio. 802 01:40:14,350 --> 01:40:14,350 the very first habitat home in the world is actually built here in san antonio on the west Side. 803 01:40:20,110 --> 01:40:23,710 and we're doing something very unique to celebrate our 50th anniversary. We're going to be building a house in 50 hours. 804 01:40:26,670 --> 01:40:26,670 that's july 16th, 17th, and 18th. Just wanted to take this opportunity to invite you, All your staff to come out and be a part of that. 805 01:40:34,990 --> 01:40:34,990 we need about 1800 volunteers from the community to build this home. 806 01:40:40,670 --> 01:40:44,350 we're also going to be building wall panels for future homes. All during this 50 hour period, we're all going to be delirious, But it's going to be a party. 807 01:40:48,920 --> 01:40:48,920 so so our staff will be reaching out to your staff to, To try to get those time scheduled. 808 01:40:55,560 --> 01:40:55,560 what date was that? That is july 16th, 17th and 18th. 809 01:41:00,440 --> 01:41:03,720 so we're starting at 10 a.m. On the 16th on county. I'm putting you on notice. Let's make it a county day. How about all the county employees Participating? 810 01:41:08,480 --> 01:41:10,800 how about that? I'll leave it at that. Mr. Taylor. See? See what response, if any, do I get? Thank you. 811 01:41:13,880 --> 01:41:17,520 judge. That would be fantastic. It's excellent for team building. I'm sorry. What did you say? It is located. So this will be at our development methodist Meadows, 812 01:41:23,600 --> 01:41:26,680 which is south cross and wwe. All right. Thank you. So, thomas, I'm looking at you. All right, mr. 813 01:41:30,520 --> 01:41:30,520 taylor, finish up. Just want to thank you very much for your continued support. 814 01:41:34,880 --> 01:41:34,880 it's the it's the county's ongoing support that allows us to continue our production. 815 01:41:39,920 --> 01:41:39,920 50 to 60 homes every year. And that's 50 to 60 families that we're providing really Homeownership opportunity to. 816 01:41:48,530 --> 01:41:51,450 so thank you, commissioner rodriguez. Where is it? At precinct two. Fortuna. Fortuna. Where is that? 817 01:41:54,570 --> 01:41:54,570 where's the west side? No. What's the precinct two one? 818 01:41:58,810 --> 01:41:58,810 yeah, the precinct two one is off. Fortuna right off of near 36th street. 819 01:42:03,370 --> 01:42:07,010 is that right? Correct. Yeah, right by monterey park, West side. Okay. Commissioner. Clay-flores. Anything? No. 820 01:42:11,530 --> 01:42:15,450 just thank you for your continued. Thank you for your continued work. I know the first house was in the west side, But you are headquartered in my precinct. 821 01:42:19,770 --> 01:42:19,770 absolutely. Thank you. To continue to do the good work that we do. Building a lot of homes In your happy 50th. Looking good at 50 commissioner calvert. Alrighty. 822 01:42:27,330 --> 01:42:27,330 commissioner moody. All right. Where's your partner, Stephanie? 823 01:42:31,770 --> 01:42:35,410 she's back at the office building. She's getting ready for this 50 hour build. Got it. All right. Thank you. Okay, thomas, I want to see a little hard hat. 824 01:42:40,570 --> 01:42:40,570 all right. All right. Continue, citizens. We heard kathleen veil and then I'm also calling Elaine cummings because you have said that you are yielding your time 825 01:42:50,540 --> 01:42:50,540 to miss vail. So, kathleen and elaine, why don't y'all come up and is that still the Situation? 826 01:42:57,780 --> 01:43:01,100 you're passing out some information. Elaine, Do you want to yield your time? Yes. All right. So, kate, let's proceed. Okay. 827 01:43:07,140 --> 01:43:11,020 good morning, judge sakai and commissioners. My name is kathleen vail. I am a ninth generation texan. I'm a homeowner in the shere hills ridgeview neighborhood In bexar county, 828 01:43:17,900 --> 01:43:17,900 precinct two. I have a long history of civic engagement and volunteer effort in our Community. 829 01:43:23,740 --> 01:43:23,740 I currently serve as vice chair of the fair elections and voter engagement advisory board. 830 01:43:29,580 --> 01:43:29,580 I am one of 13 appointed members to the mayor's commission on municipal voting, And I am a current member of the northside isd community bond 831 01:43:39,220 --> 01:43:39,220 advisory committee. I am a bexar county volunteer deputy registrar. 832 01:43:43,870 --> 01:43:43,870 I'm an election worker and a texas secretary of state trained poll watcher. 833 01:43:49,430 --> 01:43:49,430 I worked as an election clerk all ten days of the regular primary vote and on election day At tobin library. 834 01:43:56,350 --> 01:43:56,350 as you know, that location was one of the busiest voting locations in the county. 835 01:44:01,710 --> 01:44:01,710 and I spent the monday after primary runoff representing the campaign as an unpaid Volunteer. 836 01:44:08,670 --> 01:44:08,670 official poll watcher at elections during the mail and provisional ballot. 837 01:44:13,710 --> 01:44:13,710 board and tabulations from nine in the morning until 645 in the evening. 838 01:44:20,950 --> 01:44:20,950 looking ahead to the general election coming in four months in early voting in october, I am here today to advocate for an increase in hourly 839 01:44:30,230 --> 01:44:33,430 compensation for bexar county election workers. As you can see from the handout I provided you. 840 01:44:36,310 --> 01:44:36,310 among our bexar county, among our peer urban counties in texas. 841 01:44:41,600 --> 01:44:41,600 bexar county compensation is the lowest. Today's agenda includes several election items Requiring your approval for significant financial investments 842 01:44:51,520 --> 01:44:54,800 in equipment, technology and other resources. That will be a windfall for private vendors. These investments are crucial and I Wholeheartedly support them. 843 01:45:01,760 --> 01:45:01,760 however, we must not forget the importance of also investing in our human capital. 844 01:45:07,600 --> 01:45:07,600 we are the driving force behind the elections in bexar county. 845 01:45:11,840 --> 01:45:11,840 without us, the entire system of new upgraded equipment would be rendered ineffective. 846 01:45:19,880 --> 01:45:19,880 bexar county relies on a pool of over 2500 election workers to serve 1.3 million Registered voters and growing every day. 847 01:45:29,600 --> 01:45:29,600 however, we face a significant challenge finding enough election judges and clerks to Cover all of the voting locations. 848 01:45:37,500 --> 01:45:37,500 this press primary during the regular election and runoff elections, Was scrambling the day before, 849 01:45:45,060 --> 01:45:45,060 trying to find enough judges and clerks to cover all of the locations. 850 01:45:49,860 --> 01:45:49,860 retired election workers and young people are increasingly disinterested in this high Demanding work because of the low pay. 851 01:45:58,700 --> 01:45:58,700 in addition, the general election coming up with early voting starting on in october, Will see an increase of approximately 40 more election day 852 01:46:08,420 --> 01:46:08,420 locations and eight more early vote locations. 853 01:46:12,540 --> 01:46:12,540 despite these changes, our election worker pay remains below that of our peer urban texas Counties. 854 01:46:19,380 --> 01:46:19,380 an investment of less than 150,000 per major election will significantly improve Recruitment, 855 01:46:25,740 --> 01:46:25,740 retention, morale and workforce stability while helping bexar county remain competitive as We prepare for the consequential november general 856 01:46:35,710 --> 01:46:35,710 election staring down at us. Investing now in competitive compensation is important for Four main reasons. 857 01:46:44,270 --> 01:46:44,270 first, recruitment and retention. Competitive wages help attract qualified new workers and Encourage experienced workers to 858 01:46:53,630 --> 01:46:53,630 return to elections one after another. We've just come off of three three elections, One right after the other. 859 01:47:04,030 --> 01:47:04,030 second, accuracy and integrity. Election workers often work long shifts ranging from eight To 12 to 16 straight hours, 860 01:47:13,830 --> 01:47:13,830 while also handling substantial legal and administrative duties. 861 01:47:18,630 --> 01:47:18,630 fair compensation supports focus, professionalism and compliance with increasing Increasingly scrutinized election laws and 862 01:47:27,870 --> 01:47:27,870 procedures. Third, professionalization is crucial. 863 01:47:32,350 --> 01:47:32,350 modern election administration demands technical expertise, Cyber security, cyber security awareness, 864 01:47:40,400 --> 01:47:40,400 strong interpersonal skills, and continuous training. 865 01:47:45,000 --> 01:47:45,000 compensation should always align with these expectations. 866 01:47:50,680 --> 01:47:50,680 right now, an entry level supervisor at bill miller barbecue has a higher hourly Compensation than our bexar county election workers. 867 01:48:00,120 --> 01:48:00,120 fourth, public confidence adequate well-trained staffing helps reduce wait times, Minimize errors, 868 01:48:07,760 --> 01:48:07,760 and strengthen voter trust and confidence in our electoral process. 869 01:48:13,400 --> 01:48:13,400 right now, that is increasingly under intense scrutiny. 870 01:48:18,240 --> 01:48:18,240 many election workers are retirees who, despite long hours, Physical demands and high pressure work conditions, 871 01:48:25,440 --> 01:48:25,440 continue to serve their community. And the majority of these workers are women. 872 01:48:31,200 --> 01:48:31,200 their service and commitment to elections and the ideal of democracy deserve recognition And respect. 873 01:48:38,130 --> 01:48:38,130 I respectfully urge the commissioners court to officially support an immediate, Across the board, 874 01:48:43,370 --> 01:48:43,370 $3 an hour increase for election clerks and judges, And I ask you to share this support with the bexar county election commission, 875 01:48:51,770 --> 01:48:51,770 who will be meeting next week. This modest investment will ensure the security, Efficiency, 876 01:48:57,890 --> 01:48:57,890 accessibility and public trust in bexar county elections. 877 01:49:02,530 --> 01:49:02,530 it will also ensure that the pool of election workers is sufficient to meet the coming Demand. 878 01:49:08,770 --> 01:49:08,770 let's do what we can now so we don't see photographs of long lines of voters this coming October. 879 01:49:16,490 --> 01:49:16,490 I also invite all of you to join us at any early vote polling location. 880 01:49:22,090 --> 01:49:22,090 donate an hour, come stand in our shoes and see what the environment. 881 01:49:27,810 --> 01:49:27,810 we have fun. We also deal with a lot of pressures, And I invite each of you to come and join us at any location. 882 01:49:34,780 --> 01:49:38,700 we'd be happy to have you. Thank you for considering my request. And as always, I'm here to provide you and your staff with any information you may need. 883 01:49:43,860 --> 01:49:43,860 thank you, thank you. Kathleen. All right. Susan flores. 884 01:49:51,820 --> 01:49:51,820 thank you. Ling. Chair. Pass it to staff, please. 885 01:50:09,460 --> 01:50:09,460 judge sakai. Commissioners. Clay-flores. Rodriguez. 886 01:50:14,300 --> 01:50:14,300 moode and calvert. Good morning. I'm here regarding my newly issued bexar county voter Registration certificate, 887 01:50:24,780 --> 01:50:24,780 and I intend to honor my three minutes as you peruse the document that I submitted to you. 888 01:50:31,310 --> 01:50:31,310 my surname is thorburn flores. It is not a hyphenated name. 889 01:50:35,590 --> 01:50:35,590 it is just two words. Like thousands of bexar county residents, Especially those of latin american descent. 890 01:50:42,630 --> 01:50:42,630 as you can see by my federal id, my passport, My state id, my texas driver's license. 891 01:50:51,830 --> 01:50:51,830 and up until april of this year, my bexar county voter registration certificate. 892 01:50:58,470 --> 01:50:58,470 I am torben flores. When I received my new voter registration certificate, Half of my surname was missing. 893 01:51:06,790 --> 01:51:06,790 I contacted their main office to request a corrected version. 894 01:51:10,990 --> 01:51:10,990 I was told that the vendor vr systems probably did not have enough room to accommodate my Full last name, 895 01:51:18,830 --> 01:51:18,830 even though it was never an issue in years prior, And I was told just to use my driver's license. 896 01:51:25,510 --> 01:51:25,510 since I then contacted the secretary of state's office, The elections division, and they indeed had my full name on their on file, 897 01:51:34,400 --> 01:51:34,400 and I was told again just to use my texas driver's license to vote. 898 01:51:39,320 --> 01:51:42,600 I even sent both copies to my commissioner mr. Moody, as I was wondering why I was even sent a voter registration certificate which Implies certification. 899 01:51:52,000 --> 01:51:52,000 I went to vote as a former bexar county voter registrar myself. 900 01:51:57,280 --> 01:51:57,280 I showed the election officers my new voter registration certificate with half of my Surname. 901 01:52:04,200 --> 01:52:04,200 her response was, I have seen a lot of these errors. 902 01:52:09,560 --> 01:52:09,560 I'm not a conspiracy. Conspiracy theorist I. Even though I've been told that I may have Been part of a statewide hispanic surname 903 01:52:19,480 --> 01:52:19,480 purge that happened earlier in the year. However, I am really suffering from red state fatigue regarding voter registration. 904 01:52:30,930 --> 01:52:30,930 so why am I here? I'm here because of commissioner rebeca clay-flores. 905 01:52:36,610 --> 01:52:36,610 she reminded me last thursday that I am my brother's keeper. 906 01:52:43,770 --> 01:52:43,770 I figured out that I can vote, but I worry about the people who received incorrect Certificates. 907 01:52:53,170 --> 01:52:53,170 people who are spanish speaking only residents. 908 01:52:57,530 --> 01:52:57,530 people who don't have the resource, can't go through this labyrinth to figure out that Yes, 909 01:53:03,250 --> 01:53:03,250 indeed they can vote. And those who are just inclined to just give up and say, Well, I'm not going to go to the polls because I'm already intimidated by what's 910 01:53:12,050 --> 01:53:12,050 happening. So I'm just going to give up. So in closing, I would just like to mention that in just a few days, 911 01:53:19,490 --> 01:53:19,490 we will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of our nation's founding at that time in which All men were created equal, 912 01:53:28,310 --> 01:53:28,310 only 6% of our population was eligible to vote. 913 01:53:33,670 --> 01:53:33,670 it's taken nearly 200 years for all the rest of us to have that privilege, And I'm sure that you want to keep it that way. 914 01:53:41,350 --> 01:53:41,350 anyhow, just thank you for listening to my issue. 915 01:53:45,430 --> 01:53:47,590 commissioner. Can I hold on? Commissioner. Moode. And then we'll go to. Commissioner. Clay-flores. Yes, I just wanted to see if you had had this resolved through the elections administrator. 916 01:53:55,350 --> 01:53:55,350 no, it was not resolved because when I asked for another certificate, I was told that that I that another would not be coming forth. 917 01:54:03,590 --> 01:54:03,590 I, I contacted austin to see whether or not I had fallen off some kind of roll, Which I was, 918 01:54:10,670 --> 01:54:10,670 whether I was still eligible to vote. And they said yes, That they still had my full name. 919 01:54:16,430 --> 01:54:16,430 okay. Because I know jenny on my staff had had connected you with the elections Department, 920 01:54:22,200 --> 01:54:22,200 but they still haven't been able to resolve that. No, Your office did not get back to me. 921 01:54:27,440 --> 01:54:30,320 no, they did not. Well, my staff was just telling me. Yes, but we can we can talk offline about it. 922 01:54:33,280 --> 01:54:33,280 we want to obviously try to fix this. And I'm sure you're not the only one. 923 01:54:37,840 --> 01:54:37,840 I am not the only one. Yeah. So I know that the elections administrator is going to be Here for some other items. 924 01:54:44,400 --> 01:54:44,400 and maybe this is something else that we can bring up with her as we go forward. 925 01:54:48,520 --> 01:54:48,520 but we are always happy to help. And we've had many constituents reach out about various Issues with changes in systems and everything else going on. 926 01:54:58,280 --> 01:54:58,280 well, I know that you have a lot of things to deal with today, And I just wanted you just to bring this to, 927 01:55:03,000 --> 01:55:03,000 you know, that there are some things that need to be corrected and that this so-called Certificate. 928 01:55:10,560 --> 01:55:10,560 and, jenny, if you could just talk to her. Thank you, Mr. 929 01:55:14,720 --> 01:55:17,160 clay-flores. Thank you. It's nice to meet you. I guess for the record, you're referring to my speech on juneteenth. 930 01:55:20,970 --> 01:55:24,850 absolutely. So, yes. So I'm glad you were there. And thank you. I'm glad. I'm glad someone heard that. 931 01:55:27,650 --> 01:55:30,930 I'm also going to request this is a lot of personal information. So to my colleagues, like, no, I think you should take this back. 932 01:55:34,890 --> 01:55:34,890 so because we don't need it in personal information that you need to have. So I'm going to Ask kate if you can collect this, please, 933 01:55:40,490 --> 01:55:40,490 so my colleagues can turn it in back to you because this is very private. I just want Yeah, I just wanted to show you that that yes. 934 01:55:45,890 --> 01:55:45,890 thank you for coming to a federal and state government, But not bexar county. 935 01:55:50,170 --> 01:55:50,170 thank you. Thank you so much. I agree there's too much personal information. 936 01:55:55,610 --> 01:55:55,610 commissioner. Calvert. I thank you for your testimony as well as kathleen. 937 01:56:01,530 --> 01:56:01,530 thank you so much for coming and having such a strong, Succinct message. 938 01:56:06,130 --> 01:56:06,130 number one I'd like the elections administrator to bring to the commissioners court an Increase for our 939 01:56:16,380 --> 01:56:16,380 election judges and workers. I think that's very much merited in light of the huge Election that we're about to undertake. 940 01:56:25,180 --> 01:56:25,180 it's going to be very stressful, and we need to make sure that we recruit all we can. 941 01:56:29,700 --> 01:56:29,700 one of the things we've learned in this time that I think back to 2020, When we had a contagion, 942 01:56:34,940 --> 01:56:34,940 we had the covid virus, and that limited a lot of folks who were more senior, Just didn't feel like they could work and expose themselves and 943 01:56:44,660 --> 01:56:44,660 anything could happen like that again. So we have to have a competitive wage to make sure That, 944 01:56:50,500 --> 01:56:50,500 as miss vail said, maybe younger people are also interested because they may they may be The vanguard of upholding our election system if we ever do have another 945 01:57:00,500 --> 01:57:00,500 covid 19. So as for the constituent who just spoke a moment ago, I believe that the system is 946 01:57:10,340 --> 01:57:10,340 not the vr system. I believe it's the team system that we're using the texas secretary of State system. 947 01:57:17,190 --> 01:57:17,190 and there are that system is is really replete with errors. 948 01:57:21,270 --> 01:57:21,270 one of the ones that I learned last night from the chairman of the texas democratic party. 949 01:57:25,510 --> 01:57:25,510 he sent me a text message that said the team system is displaying the incorrect winners of The precinct chair races across the state of texas. 950 01:57:35,470 --> 01:57:35,470 and as a result of the team system displaying. 951 01:57:42,350 --> 01:57:42,350 they are displaying people who lost as the winners of precinct chairs, Which is in a in a you know, 952 01:57:49,270 --> 01:57:49,270 it's an elected office in many cases. This gives me extreme concern, As I've had consistently over civics 953 01:57:59,670 --> 01:57:59,670 and teams. I also spoke with cnn correspondent maria cardona last night, Who indicated that civics is a very 954 01:58:09,030 --> 01:58:09,030 partizan entity and that, in fact, the president was looking to have civics be the entity That looked at the purge 955 01:58:19,000 --> 01:58:19,000 list and provided him with lists. And that also gives me great concern, Because the vendors that we have to utilize should be independent, 956 01:58:28,160 --> 01:58:31,920 particularly in the administration of voting. And so I think we do need to come as a court in a future executive session to look at Whether or not we file litigation related to civics, 957 01:58:42,360 --> 01:58:42,360 that entity that has not allowed our csv files to be exported and has not allowed kaufman County to have their their voter 958 01:58:51,880 --> 01:58:51,880 data exported for nine, ten months. Now, when experts in that in that arena say that it Shouldn't have taken more than 2 or 3 months 959 01:59:02,120 --> 01:59:02,120 to make the the functionality of that program operate. 960 01:59:07,720 --> 01:59:07,720 so we have some serious shaving off of potential votes that some are trying to do. 961 01:59:17,010 --> 01:59:17,010 we actually created a video that will be heard at the statewide convention, Not just about bexar county's problems, 962 01:59:26,130 --> 01:59:26,130 but about the problems around the state with respect to the purging of people with respect To the name changes, 963 01:59:33,650 --> 01:59:33,650 issues with respect to so many problems, including the fact that the team system has a Glitch that is sending 13 mail ballots to 964 01:59:43,530 --> 01:59:43,530 folks who request a mail ballot, a glitch that hasn't been fixed. 965 01:59:48,530 --> 01:59:48,530 and I believe that the commissioners court, we actually bear a responsibility to litigate That issue and join maybe texas civil rights project or others who are thinking about 966 01:59:58,370 --> 01:59:58,370 litigating to make sure that we get the things that are so so important to the Administration 967 02:00:08,810 --> 02:00:08,810 of our voting. So, judge, I'd like to you know, See that the district attorney's office that they bring to us in executive session 968 02:00:18,740 --> 02:00:18,740 some sort of some sort of update about what we could do in the legal purview to, To make sure that because that that registration card that we 969 02:00:28,300 --> 02:00:28,300 saw is as a result of the issues with the team system. 970 02:00:33,340 --> 02:00:33,340 and there's just a lot of smoke with respect to our voting system that's going on right Now. 971 02:00:38,500 --> 02:00:42,140 thank you. Noted. For the record. Anything else? All right. Last but not least, damon. Damon. 972 02:00:52,380 --> 02:00:52,380 damon foley. No, that's not you. Okay. One more time. 973 02:00:56,540 --> 02:00:56,540 damon foley. All right. Is there anybody else who signed up that I name that I not call? 974 02:01:03,460 --> 02:01:03,460 I have two people. It's kevin smith and tiffany smith are y'all are coming up actually Right next because that's an agenda 975 02:01:13,390 --> 02:01:13,390 item. So anybody else? All right. I believe we now go to individual items. 976 02:01:20,990 --> 02:01:23,990 so we're moving along. So let's keep it going. Item number 50 discussion appropriate action regarding the following a a presentation Updating commissioners. 977 02:01:30,070 --> 02:01:33,190 court recommended census tracks eligible for opportunities. Opportunity zones 2.0 and an approval for greater sat to submit bexar county's recommended Opportunity zone 2.0 eligible 978 02:01:42,910 --> 02:01:42,910 census tracks the texas economic development and tourism office of the governor for Consideration under the opportunity zones 2.0. 979 02:01:50,750 --> 02:01:50,750 deborah, let me ask you to hold. We have two citizens to be heard. 980 02:01:55,750 --> 02:01:59,390 I have tiffany jones smith, kevin smith from the texas kidney. Welcome back. Y'all were here. So let me give you an opportunity to speak. 981 02:02:04,870 --> 02:02:04,870 do you wish to individually speak or speak as one individual? 982 02:02:10,610 --> 02:02:13,810 individually. All right. So I'm going to yield to y'all. Who needs to go first, tiffany or kevin go first. 983 02:02:16,490 --> 02:02:16,490 all right tiffany, you go first. You got three minutes and then kevin's got three minutes. 984 02:02:21,050 --> 02:02:21,050 it won't take me three minutes. I learned from you. 985 02:02:25,130 --> 02:02:25,130 commissioner clay-flores my mentor here. Good morning, Judge sakai. 986 02:02:32,810 --> 02:02:32,810 commissioner moody, commissioner calvert commissioner rodriguez and commissioner Clay-flores commissioner moody. 987 02:02:39,170 --> 02:02:39,170 I just want to take the time while I got you face to face, Eyeball to eyeball, to say thank you for the proclamation and for working with us. 988 02:02:47,490 --> 02:02:47,490 it was in your precinct that, you know, one of my my dreams and goals has always been to, To find other people who have 989 02:02:57,330 --> 02:02:57,330 kidney disease and who are dealing with the, The perils of health. 990 02:03:02,570 --> 02:03:02,570 and we were able to do that over and over again in your precinct, In commissioner rodriguez's precinct. 991 02:03:11,580 --> 02:03:11,580 and to, to help them connect upstream to early detection and prevention. 992 02:03:18,700 --> 02:03:18,700 so living out our mission and our vision you all have helped us do that. 993 02:03:24,900 --> 02:03:24,900 so I'm here in support of today's opportunity zone designations. 994 02:03:30,340 --> 02:03:30,340 I want to bring you the view from the ground and to be clear about what we what we do There because it's often misunderstood. 995 02:03:37,820 --> 02:03:37,820 texas kidney foundation is not a health fair that comes and goes. 996 02:03:41,940 --> 02:03:41,940 we built a community clinic platform. We meet people in the places they already trust. 997 02:03:48,580 --> 02:03:48,580 we use the kidney as a window into the bigger picture diabetes, Blood pressure, heart disease, 998 02:03:54,980 --> 02:03:54,980 and metabolic risk. And our community health workers walk alongside them from that first Conversation through to a real connection with ongoing care. 999 02:04:04,710 --> 02:04:04,710 that's what you were missing in your survey. You actually need boots on the ground because In your precinct, 1000 02:04:13,750 --> 02:04:13,750 in commissioner rodriguez's precinct, people do not necessarily even have cell phones Where they're getting those digital messages. 1001 02:04:23,030 --> 02:04:23,030 so having a person, their humanity is still the most important aspect of the the community Experience. 1002 02:04:33,390 --> 02:04:33,390 having eyeballs to eyeballs. I love our phds, But you actually have to have a trusted community citizen 1003 02:04:43,870 --> 02:04:43,870 there talking to you and doing those surveys that that's the missing piece. 1004 02:04:49,870 --> 02:04:49,870 the kidney is our anchor, not our limit. When you screen a kidney, You're seeing the whole story of someone's cardiometabolic health and you've created a 1005 02:04:59,470 --> 02:05:03,120 moment to act before that story ends in crisis. And we don't do this alone. Our platform is the entry point that brings our agencies and Organizations into the same trusted space food, 1006 02:05:12,200 --> 02:05:15,680 transportation, insurance, enrollment, clinical care. We're more than a convener. We do. We don't just gather partners around the table. 1007 02:05:21,880 --> 02:05:21,880 we connect them to residents and route each person to the help they actually need. 1008 02:05:26,800 --> 02:05:26,800 and commissioner calvert, you know that you stood with us on this one platform, One front door, 1009 02:05:34,000 --> 02:05:34,000 many partners. What we see in these neighbors neighborhoods is need and and readiness. 1010 02:05:40,880 --> 02:05:44,640 people want to take charge of their health. Ma'am. Miss tiffany, or do you want to use some of kevin's time? 1011 02:05:47,840 --> 02:05:50,400 go ahead. I'm going to use a little bit of his time. All right. What we see in these neighborhoods. Let's go. What we see in these Neighborhoods is need and readiness. 1012 02:05:55,560 --> 02:05:55,560 people want to take charge of their health. They need a bridge to do it from the community To the clinic. 1013 02:06:00,850 --> 02:06:00,850 that's the infrastructure we've built and operated in bexar county for years, And we're ready to help make sure the investment you approve today reaches people's 1014 02:06:09,130 --> 02:06:09,130 health, not only the buildings around them. Thank you for your leadership and for seeing These communities. 1015 02:06:16,130 --> 02:06:16,130 thank you. Tiffany. Kevin smith. So I have mine is the numbers, Right? 1016 02:06:20,930 --> 02:06:23,450 so that's what I focus on. So thank you very much. Judge takai commissioner. Clay-flores. Commissioner rodriguez commissioner. 1017 02:06:27,010 --> 02:06:27,010 moody. Commissioner. Calvert. So one of the things that we want to come out and that we Support the, 1018 02:06:33,050 --> 02:06:33,050 the, the opportunity zone 2.0, as my kids call it, Oz. 1019 02:06:37,250 --> 02:06:37,250 now, as we gone through this whole exercise here, And we want you to really understand that where there's the greatest investment 1020 02:06:44,130 --> 02:06:44,130 opportunity, there's also the greatest sickness in those areas, Right? 1021 02:06:48,570 --> 02:06:48,570 so our numbers show that, that the opportunity zones make up about 20%, 26% of the population in bexar county, 1022 02:06:57,180 --> 02:06:57,180 but they also make up over 50% of the dialysis centers. 1023 02:07:02,980 --> 02:07:02,980 over 50% of the dialysis stations. Right. And as well as the largest number of diabetes, Obesity, 1024 02:07:11,860 --> 02:07:11,860 hypertension. Right. And we could break the numbers down by precinct as far as the number Of dialysis unit, 1025 02:07:17,980 --> 02:07:20,740 but they make up the largest percentage of overall. And that is the greatest amount of opportunity. 1026 02:07:22,860 --> 02:07:22,860 and that's why we're in there. Think about that. 26% of the adult population in bexar County, 1027 02:07:29,260 --> 02:07:29,260 but yet over 50% of the dialysis centers, 50% of the dialysis chairs. 1028 02:07:35,980 --> 02:07:35,980 and in those communities, all of the the places where they have where you're going to Decide, 1029 02:07:41,740 --> 02:07:41,740 right. That's where we work. And tiffany gave you a grounds perspective, Right, of what we see in there. 1030 02:07:47,300 --> 02:07:51,020 often I'm amazed by university health system. I personally didn't know it was a it was a county hospital. 1031 02:07:55,670 --> 02:07:55,670 can you believe that one of the top hospitals in the united states is a county hospital Right here in san antonio? 1032 02:08:03,030 --> 02:08:03,030 right. So we and then you guys are doing an excellent job at building all the different Facilities in each of the precincts. 1033 02:08:09,910 --> 02:08:13,350 but the issue that we see on the ground is navigation. It doesn't matter if you're in precinct three, Right. 1034 02:08:16,310 --> 02:08:16,310 allegedly where they have resources, right. The number of calls that we get there are Still navigation issues. 1035 02:08:22,670 --> 02:08:22,670 you know, we have people who are diagnosed with some rare kidney disease and they don't Know how to navigate the system. 1036 02:08:29,070 --> 02:08:29,070 if we're in precinct two, where the majority of, Of, of dialysis centers are right. 1037 02:08:35,110 --> 02:08:35,110 the issue is resource and navigation. But what we see on the ground is that when we what We do is we provide the community to health care model. 1038 02:08:44,790 --> 02:08:44,790 we've been we've partnered with you guys before and we support 100% of the opportunity Zones. 1039 02:08:51,110 --> 02:08:54,320 it welcomes good investments also brings in people, Right? But at the same time, there needs to be an investment in the health because those Opportunity zones. 1040 02:08:58,840 --> 02:08:58,840 doesn't matter which precinct they're in, bear the brunt of the burden of the health Issues. 1041 02:09:03,560 --> 02:09:06,760 and I only have 10s left, so I yield. Thank you. Kevin. All right, miss deborah carter, come on back, Do the presentation. 1042 02:09:11,080 --> 02:09:13,800 and then we have a motion to take up at the appropriate time. Thank you judge. This is a follow up presentation from the last court date on june 9th. 1043 02:09:20,120 --> 02:09:24,040 a friendly reminder that opportunity zones are economically distressed. Census tracts designated by the federal government, Where investors can receive tax incentives for reinvesting their capital gains into local 1044 02:09:32,080 --> 02:09:32,080 businesses and real estate. The program is designed to stimulate economic development and Job creation in low income communities. 1045 02:09:40,840 --> 02:09:40,840 eligible tracts must be less than or equal to 70% of the san antonio new braunfels Metropolitan area. 1046 02:09:49,160 --> 02:09:49,160 median family income, which is $61,950 annually for a family of four, Or a track that has a poverty rate of at least 1047 02:09:58,650 --> 02:09:58,650 20%. There are 2420 eligible census tracks in texas. 1048 02:10:04,970 --> 02:10:04,970 146 of those are in bexar county. The governor can nominate up to 25%, Which would be 605 eligible census 1049 02:10:14,890 --> 02:10:14,890 tracks for texas to the u.s. Department of treasury. 1050 02:10:19,330 --> 02:10:19,330 bexar county can nominate up to 80%, which is 116 eligible census tracks to the texas Economic development and tourism office. 1051 02:10:30,970 --> 02:10:30,970 so bexar counties approach. Our approach is to support city of san antonio's recommended Census track nominations and to not duplicate them. 1052 02:10:40,130 --> 02:10:40,130 city of san antonio updated their recommendation from june 9th from 69 tracks to 73. 1053 02:10:47,210 --> 02:10:47,210 the four additional census tracks align with bexar county's recommendations. 1054 02:10:52,550 --> 02:10:52,550 bexar county recommends submitting the remaining balance of eligible census tracts to make Up the 116. 1055 02:10:58,950 --> 02:10:58,950 to maximize our nominations, we prioritize the six eligible census tracts in suburban Cities, 1056 02:11:06,230 --> 02:11:06,230 which include balconies, heights, kirby, leon valley, Somerset von ormy and windcrest. 1057 02:11:13,590 --> 02:11:13,590 nominate the eligible census tracts that score the highest per the governor's matrix and Greater sac. 1058 02:11:20,590 --> 02:11:20,590 as our local ido will be submitting bexar counties nomination packet to the texas economic Development and tourism office. 1059 02:11:29,470 --> 02:11:29,470 just a quick reminder of our timeline. On june 9th, We had our initial presentation and open for public comment. 1060 02:11:36,350 --> 02:11:36,350 today we are here on june 23rd for the motion with commissioners court. 1061 02:11:41,070 --> 02:11:41,070 our application will be submitted by greater sac by june 26th. 1062 02:11:48,200 --> 02:11:48,200 we should know by august 3rd. The governor's office will be sending their final selections To the u.s. 1063 02:11:55,680 --> 02:11:59,440 department of treasury. And by december 31st, The u.s. Department of treasury will announce the opportunity, The certified or qualified opportunity zones. 1064 02:12:07,880 --> 02:12:07,880 so this is the map of bexar county. Everything that's highlighted in the navy blue is an Eligible census tract in precinct one, 1065 02:12:15,960 --> 02:12:15,960 there are 40 eligible opportunity zones. City of san antonio is nominating 19. 1066 02:12:21,760 --> 02:12:21,760 bexar county is recommending an additional. 14 for a total of 33. 1067 02:12:26,560 --> 02:12:26,560 precinct two has 59 eligible. City of san antonio is recommending 31. 1068 02:12:32,160 --> 02:12:32,160 bexar county is recommending an additional ten for a total of 41. 1069 02:12:36,440 --> 02:12:40,320 precinct three has eight eligible opportunity zones. City of san antonio will be recommending five. 1070 02:12:43,320 --> 02:12:43,320 bexar county is recommending zero for a total of five, And precinct four has 39 eligible opportunity zones. 1071 02:12:52,130 --> 02:12:52,130 city of san antonio is recommending 18. Bexar county is recommending an additional 19, For a total of 37, 1072 02:12:58,650 --> 02:12:58,650 which would bring us to our maximum nominations of 116. 1073 02:13:05,170 --> 02:13:05,170 so precinct one commissioner clay-flores. You'll notice that the two at the bottom that Are highlighted, 1074 02:13:11,130 --> 02:13:13,850 those were previously recommended, excuse me. Recommended by bexar county. The city of san antonio has decided to proceed with Recommending those. 1075 02:13:19,610 --> 02:13:19,610 so nothing changed in your census tracks. They just moved over to the city nomination. 1076 02:13:28,090 --> 02:13:28,090 precinct two. There were no changes to the city's recommendation or bexar counties. 1077 02:13:34,730 --> 02:13:34,730 in precinct three, the one nomination that we previously had commissioner moode the city Has decided to recommend. 1078 02:13:40,810 --> 02:13:40,810 so we just shifted that over to a city recommendation. 1079 02:13:45,540 --> 02:13:45,540 and then in precinct four, commissioner calvert, You'll see the one that's located at the bottom that shifted over from a bexar county 1080 02:13:51,740 --> 02:13:51,740 recommendation to a city of san antonio. So the recommended motion is approval for greater Sac to submit bexar counties recommended opportunity zone 1081 02:14:01,700 --> 02:14:01,700 2.0 eligible census tracts to the texas economic development and tourism office of the Governor for consideration under the opportunity zone 2.0 1082 02:14:11,260 --> 02:14:14,660 process. Okay. We have a motion. Do we have a second? Motion and a second. Miss carter, thank you. Any discussion? 1083 02:14:17,500 --> 02:14:21,420 questions from anyone? I just have a clarification question. So this really isn't different than what we approved last time, Only that some move to under the city. 1084 02:14:28,740 --> 02:14:31,940 but we still are submitting the maximum number allowed, Correct? That's correct. Okay. Thank you. Okay. Any other discussion? 1085 02:14:36,700 --> 02:14:40,300 hearing none, we have a motion and a second. All those in favor, Say aye. Aye. Any opposed? That motion carries. Thank you, Mr. 1086 02:14:43,150 --> 02:14:43,150 carter. I understand that item 51 is there's a couple matters in executive session, So let's pass on that. 1087 02:14:53,350 --> 02:14:57,230 is it my understanding 52 is also executive session or not? No. So tina so let's pull up 52. Presentation discussion appropriate action regarding Adoption of new administrative policy. 1088 02:15:05,870 --> 02:15:05,870 number 3.3 grants management as directed by commissioners court on tuesday, June 9th, 2026. 1089 02:15:12,110 --> 02:15:12,110 miss smith. Good morning, tina smith dean with the county manager's office. 1090 02:15:16,270 --> 02:15:16,270 I'm here today to present a new grants management policy. 1091 02:15:21,630 --> 02:15:21,630 at the last commissioners court meeting, the outside auditor made a presentation to court Regarding the outcome of the federal grants audit. 1092 02:15:30,110 --> 02:15:33,670 and there were a few issues that were pointed out by the auditor. As a result, the court directed us to come back and see about making some improvements to Our current process. 1093 02:15:39,640 --> 02:15:39,640 and we believe that that begins with the actual policy itself. 1094 02:15:44,360 --> 02:15:44,360 so that's what we'll be discussing today. So some of the issues that we've noticed over The past few years 1095 02:15:54,320 --> 02:15:54,320 are on this slide. So some of the grant proposals that we receive and sometimes that the Court receives, 1096 02:15:59,600 --> 02:15:59,600 don't necessarily align with what the county goals and objectives are. 1097 02:16:04,520 --> 02:16:07,720 their grant research is intermittent and it's not centralized. Everybody's kind of out there doing their own thing. 1098 02:16:10,880 --> 02:16:13,880 roles and responsibilities aren't clearly defined. There's a lack of grant planning activities. The grant review committee is ministerial Versus more strategic. 1099 02:16:21,120 --> 02:16:21,120 there's no established process for accessing grants management applications, Meaning software applications that the grantors use and the 1100 02:16:30,880 --> 02:16:34,520 process for accepting accepting grants is not clearly defined. And then, of course, there have been some issues with missing reporting obligations from Offices and departments. 1101 02:16:41,490 --> 02:16:44,650 so we this is not a revision of the existing policy. This is a totally new policy. We believe that it clearly defines all of the roles and Responsibilities. 1102 02:16:50,890 --> 02:16:50,890 so ultimately the commissioners court is the policy making authority. 1103 02:16:55,050 --> 02:16:57,970 the county judge provides executive oversight. The budget officer is will be responsible for county wide grants, Administration and management. 1104 02:17:04,490 --> 02:17:04,490 the county auditor has financial oversight. Office and department heads are responsible And accountable for the administrative administration. 1105 02:17:13,810 --> 02:17:13,810 excuse me of grants within their respective offices and departments. 1106 02:17:18,370 --> 02:17:18,370 so let me just ask you. So does that. I see the grant review committee coming up on the Next slide. 1107 02:17:23,490 --> 02:17:23,490 what what does that do to that entity? So yes, So what we're proposing is that that it 1108 02:17:33,570 --> 02:17:33,570 let's see. Do you want me to move to that slide or just. 1109 02:17:37,940 --> 02:17:37,940 okay. Yeah. So and then continuing with roles and responsibilities, The grant, each office and department will have a grant program 1110 02:17:47,540 --> 02:17:47,540 manager. That's the person that's responsible for administering the grant, The day to day activities associated with the grant. 1111 02:17:54,580 --> 02:17:54,580 the new policy incorporates the county grant writer. 1112 02:17:58,740 --> 02:18:01,340 so we have a county, actual county grant writer. That's the title of the position. So under this proposed policy, They will write, review and submit all grant proposals. 1113 02:18:09,500 --> 02:18:12,540 we do have offices and departments out there that write grants. And that's still going to happen. It's just that they will then submit that to the grant Writer for review. 1114 02:18:19,340 --> 02:18:19,340 under the grant review committee, they will evaluate the operational personnel, Technology, 1115 02:18:25,060 --> 02:18:25,060 facilities, procurement, administrative impacts, And short and long term budgetary impacts of grant. 1116 02:18:31,060 --> 02:18:31,060 so sometimes we've seen people come to court and ask for grants for new positions. 1117 02:18:37,840 --> 02:18:37,840 so this grant review committee will make sure all of the technology that's being purchased Is in line with what bcit requires, 1118 02:18:46,040 --> 02:18:46,040 that all of the procurement processes will be followed as they should be. 1119 02:18:53,320 --> 02:18:53,320 and then, you know, personnel will be evaluated by the hr team to make sure proposed Positions are in line with the county's total comp, 1120 02:19:01,560 --> 02:19:01,560 sorry, current compensation plans. And then the grant policy committee is a new committee. 1121 02:19:08,000 --> 02:19:08,000 so that will be kind of a group of four of us that will make sure all of the grant Applications align with the commissioner's court goals and objectives and with the 1122 02:19:17,840 --> 02:19:17,840 office and department core missions. I'm sorry, Sir, I didn't hear you. 1123 02:19:27,480 --> 02:19:27,480 who's on the policy committee? So that will be. 1124 02:19:34,050 --> 02:19:34,050 the budget office, the auditor's office, the office of the county manager and ex-officio From the district attorney's office. 1125 02:19:47,570 --> 02:19:47,570 so the budget and finance department grants division will be responsible for making sure All of the grant, 1126 02:19:53,730 --> 02:19:56,770 portal registration and access management is tracked. We've had issues in the past where different people have access to different systems. 1127 02:20:00,890 --> 02:20:00,890 passwords have been changed without other people knowing. So that creates an issue. 1128 02:20:05,890 --> 02:20:05,890 the grant writer will live in the budget and finance department and handle the grant Application process, 1129 02:20:12,770 --> 02:20:12,770 the vetting, the writing and submitting. We'll handle the grant award and acceptance Process. 1130 02:20:19,090 --> 02:20:19,090 all of the grant oversight will happen in the budget department to make sure all of the Reporting is completed timely and accurately. 1131 02:20:26,090 --> 02:20:26,090 and then the grants division will do a grant closeout review, Which will entail looking at the sustainability of the grant. 1132 02:20:36,460 --> 02:20:36,460 seeing if the performance measures that were laid forth in the application were actually Met. 1133 02:20:42,420 --> 02:20:42,420 and then ultimately come up with a recommendation to court as to whether grant program Should be continued or not. 1134 02:20:52,220 --> 02:20:56,100 then the grant. The grant writer will monitor grant opportunities. Now, this will be centralized and this will also. 1135 02:20:59,700 --> 02:21:02,820 I think this will also help us make sure that we're. Because we're actively looking for grants, we don't get these last minute requests for Applications where the deadline is seven days away. 1136 02:21:11,300 --> 02:21:11,300 and then the county grant writer, excuse me, Will review the grant opportunities identified by offices and departments. 1137 02:21:21,820 --> 02:21:21,820 so this is a lot of responsibility for the grant review committee. 1138 02:21:26,220 --> 02:21:26,220 I kind of touched on this already. And then, Excuse me, the grant impact analysis, which will come from the grant review committee, 1139 02:21:35,230 --> 02:21:35,230 will be reviewed by the grant policy committee, And we will determine whether all of the criteria are met. 1140 02:21:41,270 --> 02:21:41,270 and then, if approved, the county grant writer will then write the grant with the Assistance of the office and department, 1141 02:21:48,510 --> 02:21:48,510 and then, if not approved, the office and department can make an appeal to commissioners Court to get the grant application approved. 1142 02:21:59,350 --> 02:21:59,350 so the recommended motion is approval of the new grants management policy. 1143 02:22:04,390 --> 02:22:04,390 let me let me open with the fact that I've asked the budget office, The county manager's office, 1144 02:22:09,710 --> 02:22:09,710 to come up with this new policy. Obviously, through these four years, The grant issues have been problematic at times. 1145 02:22:17,990 --> 02:22:17,990 we just had a big discussion about a grant that ran out and a bill that was run up and the Unfortunate circumstance that we were not able legally 1146 02:22:28,320 --> 02:22:28,320 to take care of this debt. And so there's it just re-emphasized the need to streamline. 1147 02:22:37,320 --> 02:22:37,320 so I wanted to just put on record that this policy aligns with my north star as your County judge, 1148 02:22:43,080 --> 02:22:46,160 which is fostering transparency and accountability. It will help centralize and achieve efficiencies with a grant review process in areas such As tracking compliance, 1149 02:22:52,320 --> 02:22:52,320 authorizations, renewals. This policy puts the county in the right position to address Some of the issues related to grants flagged in the annual audit, 1150 02:23:01,960 --> 02:23:05,720 and we have been dinged, so to speak, with some of these grants. I want to thank the staff for their diligent work on this policy. 1151 02:23:08,880 --> 02:23:08,880 I'll ask for a motion to approve. So moved. Motion by commissioner rodriguez, Second by commissioner calvert. 1152 02:23:16,600 --> 02:23:16,600 all right. Any further discussion? Commissioner moody? I just have a high level comment. 1153 02:23:21,600 --> 02:23:21,600 I think that this policy is necessary. I think there needs to be some more oversight and Process 1154 02:23:32,970 --> 02:23:32,970 added to our, our grant writing. However, my concern is just that this doesn't become Overly burdensome. 1155 02:23:41,690 --> 02:23:41,690 any of the policies have a chilling effect on initiative from departments in order to go Out and continue to seek grants, 1156 02:23:49,850 --> 02:23:49,850 which oftentimes are you know, huge benefit to our budget on an annual basis. 1157 02:23:56,770 --> 02:23:56,770 if we didn't have any grants today in bexar county, We'd be in a bad place from a budget standpoint. 1158 02:24:03,570 --> 02:24:03,570 so I just want to be mindful of that as we go forward and think about these policies and Ensure that they're not having a detrimental effect on continuing to, 1159 02:24:12,050 --> 02:24:15,890 to push the process of grant writing as long as they're aligned with our strategy. And there's the proper oversight. Yes, sir. Thank you. 1160 02:24:19,970 --> 02:24:19,970 any further comment? I'll ask for a vote. All those in favor of the motion say by saying Aye. 1161 02:24:26,260 --> 02:24:29,580 aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? Motion passes. Thank you. Thank you. All right. We'll move on to 53. 1162 02:24:34,940 --> 02:24:34,940 discussion. Appropriate action regarding approval of request by commissioner justin Rodriguez to add one deputy council position in precinct two to enhance civil service 1163 02:24:42,820 --> 02:24:42,820 capacity, improve response times, address workload and staffing disparities. 1164 02:24:47,100 --> 02:24:49,500 commissioner rodriguez, you have the floor. Great. Thank you judge. I will try to be brief with this. 1165 02:24:52,620 --> 02:24:52,620 I am advocating and bringing this on behalf of constable leticia vasquez, Who's been a great partner in precinct two. 1166 02:25:02,020 --> 02:25:02,020 she couldn't be here this morning. She's been dealing with some family health issues. 1167 02:25:06,180 --> 02:25:06,180 I know as a resource we have a few of her officers here, I think chief moreno and captain de la serna here if we need you 1168 02:25:15,740 --> 02:25:15,740 guys. But thank you for being here. The information is in the backup, And I brought some extra copies just for the for the court. 1169 02:25:25,750 --> 02:25:25,750 this is in really a request that she brought to me months ago for two additional officers In her department. 1170 02:25:35,150 --> 02:25:38,710 the request today is not for two, it's for one. And notably what I wanted to point out, I know we had some discussion that spilled over From last court meeting with, 1171 02:25:46,870 --> 02:25:46,870 with respect to the constable's. Let me try and distinguish this request a little bit if I Can. 1172 02:25:53,190 --> 02:25:53,190 so first of all even though this is a little bit of a request about parity she's got the Fewest number of, 1173 02:26:03,390 --> 02:26:05,670 of positions compared to the other precincts. It's not really just a parity for the sake of parity request. 1174 02:26:10,230 --> 02:26:10,230 if we, if we distinguish the core functions of the office, Notably by statute the constables are, 1175 02:26:17,870 --> 02:26:17,870 are mandated to process, serve, process and provide court security. 1176 02:26:24,680 --> 02:26:24,680 this is a request that speaks to the volume of the number of process serving that they're Doing in precinct two as compared to the resources they have available. 1177 02:26:34,480 --> 02:26:34,480 so right now the current count and correct me if I'm wrong budget staff, But I think we got this from you guys. 1178 02:26:42,760 --> 02:26:42,760 precinct two, she's got 28 current deputies compared to 32 in precinct one, 30 in precinct three, 1179 02:26:49,640 --> 02:26:49,640 and 29 in precinct four. And I know, you know, One of the things I had considered was waiting until we get to the budget, 1180 02:26:57,720 --> 02:26:57,720 which is a few months away. But as you all know, What we've done in the at least the past couple of years, 1181 02:27:03,760 --> 02:27:03,760 when we consider adding positions, the constables have worked together and it's typically Equal number of positions every budget cycle. 1182 02:27:12,720 --> 02:27:15,440 and that would still kind of put her at a deficit. So as I mentioned in the, in the background documentation, She's got it looks like somewhere around the highest 1183 02:27:25,100 --> 02:27:25,100 civil service workload. Precinct two about 21,600 papers. 1184 02:27:30,660 --> 02:27:30,660 the writs of possession, which are notable and considerable amount of work. 1185 02:27:34,780 --> 02:27:34,780 she's at over 2500 in precinct two compared to the next highest number in precinct one, Which is at 1500. 1186 02:27:42,340 --> 02:27:42,340 so almost a thousand more. And so I just, you know, Think this is an important thing for her. 1187 02:27:50,060 --> 02:27:52,260 again, she's been a great partner. She works hard. She does what she needs to do. Her team is great. 1188 02:27:55,580 --> 02:27:55,580 so this is just again, addressing in part that deficit, But more the resource to possession to position disparity. 1189 02:28:05,220 --> 02:28:05,220 and again, I combed over the numbers. I think they're pretty self-evident. 1190 02:28:12,180 --> 02:28:12,180 I know that we're, you know, all trying to do what's best, What's best for our constables, 1191 02:28:19,150 --> 02:28:19,150 I get it. I don't want to sound like a hypocrite, But this is something that she's advocated for. 1192 02:28:24,790 --> 02:28:24,790 and it does go to those core functions of her office. 1193 02:28:28,870 --> 02:28:28,870 so judge and court, I'd ask for your support, And I'd make a motion to approve the one position for her office. 1194 02:28:36,070 --> 02:28:39,790 second. Motion by commissioner rodriguez. Second by commissioner clay-flores. Any further discussion? Commissioner moody? Well 1195 02:28:50,230 --> 02:28:50,230 I respect that commissioner rodriguez is advocating for his constable. 1196 02:28:55,310 --> 02:28:55,310 I spoke to constable vasquez about this item, And, you know, I think it makes sense. 1197 02:29:06,390 --> 02:29:06,390 you know, when our constables have needs, whether they're in precinct two or in precinct Three or in precinct four or 1198 02:29:16,200 --> 02:29:16,200 precinct one. I think it's incumbent upon this court to show, Show them the respect as elected officials, 1199 02:29:24,120 --> 02:29:24,120 show them some deference and listen to the needs that they have. 1200 02:29:28,160 --> 02:29:28,160 I think that that's what what we're doing with constable vasquez here today. 1201 02:29:33,920 --> 02:29:33,920 understanding the needs that she has and trying to address them. 1202 02:29:39,240 --> 02:29:39,240 so from a public safety standpoint and from a deference to an elected official in precinct Two, 1203 02:29:47,680 --> 02:29:47,680 I'm going to go ahead and support this item. However, I think we need to look at ourselves when we talk about how we're 1204 02:29:57,040 --> 02:29:57,040 operating consistently in these regards. So we're showing the same deference across Precincts, 1205 02:30:04,280 --> 02:30:08,040 and either we're waiting for budget or we're not waiting for budget. I'm fine with doing things outside the budget cycle, But we can't do one for one precinct and not do the same for for another precinct. 1206 02:30:18,530 --> 02:30:18,530 many of the things we just heard in terms of advocating for for, For constable, same thing I was trying to do two weeks ago advocating for my constable. 1207 02:30:29,090 --> 02:30:29,090 and I just think that we need to, to continue to show some deference across precincts and Show deference to other elected officials, 1208 02:30:36,690 --> 02:30:36,690 especially when they're doing their best to answer the questions that we have as a court. But I'm not going to let that stop me from supporting constable vasquez on this side and 1209 02:30:46,530 --> 02:30:46,530 then making sure that she has what she needs. Any further comment? 1210 02:30:53,050 --> 02:30:56,570 I'll call for a vote. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? Motion carries. 1211 02:31:00,490 --> 02:31:00,490 thank you. 54 discussion. Appropriate action regarding creation of a committee to vet Candidates and bring recommendations to the veterans service director for 1212 02:31:10,180 --> 02:31:10,180 commissioners court consideration. I believe I have put this together. 1213 02:31:14,620 --> 02:31:14,620 do we have any powerpoint to put pass out? Thomas. 1214 02:31:23,820 --> 02:31:27,020 judge commissioners thomas guevara office of the county manager. No powerpoint presentation for this particular item. 1215 02:31:31,020 --> 02:31:31,020 the item that we're asking for court's consideration is to convene a committee to vet the Candidates that human resources has received. 1216 02:31:39,780 --> 02:31:39,780 again, just as a reminder to commissioners court, We open up the veterans services director position april 21st of this year. 1217 02:31:48,060 --> 02:31:48,060 it we closed that application around june 4th of this year. 1218 02:31:53,500 --> 02:31:53,500 hr is currently vetting those applications to meet minimum qualifications requirements, As well as some of the qualifications that commissioners court has has guided us 1219 02:32:03,540 --> 02:32:03,540 as well. So our recommendation is to convene a committee to interview candidates that are Qualified and then run that 1220 02:32:13,630 --> 02:32:13,630 those candidates through your military services committee that was established. 1221 02:32:20,030 --> 02:32:23,830 and that's per the mou and bylaws that we have with that committee. Ultimately, though, the responsibility and final selection is this commissioner's court. 1222 02:32:30,230 --> 02:32:30,230 just in pass our our position is we will bring back a number of, At a minimum at least two candidates, 1223 02:32:38,190 --> 02:32:38,190 if not more. It's always been kind of this body's request to, To make sure that they're interviewing. 1224 02:32:45,110 --> 02:32:45,110 so the recommendation here through this item is to create this committee that would Consist of county judge peter sakai 1225 02:32:54,710 --> 02:32:54,710 commissioner grant moody, county manager david smith myself and one of our directors, Jack jackie varda, 1226 02:33:03,710 --> 02:33:03,710 with our community resources department to try to get a full scale. 1227 02:33:09,280 --> 02:33:09,280 and in that process. So that's the recommendation here before you available to answer any Questions. 1228 02:33:17,000 --> 02:33:17,000 is there a motion. So moved. Yeah. I motion by commissioner rodriguez, Second by commissioner moody. 1229 02:33:23,200 --> 02:33:23,200 commissioner clay-flores. So I want to make sure when we talked about this previously I Was the one who said there's all men that's good and all, 1230 02:33:32,960 --> 02:33:35,920 but we need a woman. So you guys, I guess, have chosen jackie ibarra. I don't know if she's here, but I want to make sure that she feels empowered to ask Questions and to push back 1231 02:33:45,840 --> 02:33:45,840 if needed, regardless if it's two people from the court and the county manager and a Deputy county county manager. 1232 02:33:52,760 --> 02:33:55,800 so I want to make sure that that is made clear to her. And gentlemen, if you would help to ensure that happens as well. 1233 02:34:02,360 --> 02:34:02,360 thank you. So noted, commissioner. And if you know jackie, She's she'll be willing to push back. 1234 02:34:08,290 --> 02:34:11,690 she's a great resource. Well, let me put this on the record. I worked with the county manager, david and deputy manager thomas in regards to this Recommendation that I'm asking approval for. 1235 02:34:22,410 --> 02:34:22,410 it is my intent, in light of previous discussions in regards to selection of department Heads to bring the short list, 1236 02:34:31,050 --> 02:34:31,050 whatever that may be, to the entire court for discussion and executive session so that the Court can see all the people. 1237 02:34:40,010 --> 02:34:40,010 so we have, I believe what we now know is over 100 applications. 1238 02:34:44,170 --> 02:34:44,170 I presume we will have some very well qualified candidates. 1239 02:34:48,290 --> 02:34:48,290 I believe we have an interim director in there at this time, Which I believe he's part of that application pool. 1240 02:34:56,970 --> 02:34:56,970 we have attempted to try to make sure that there is input from the court. 1241 02:35:01,690 --> 02:35:01,690 thank you. Commissioner moody, for allowing me to appoint you on this committee using your Expertise. 1242 02:35:11,820 --> 02:35:11,820 quite frankly, I'm going to put on record that we need strong leadership in this Department. 1243 02:35:17,020 --> 02:35:17,020 and so it is a very important decision that this court must make in light of the history. 1244 02:35:23,300 --> 02:35:23,300 and I just say history because this goes way back to the formation. 1245 02:35:27,860 --> 02:35:27,860 and also, for the record thomas, the foundation board by bylaws of its own bylaws, Has a involvement, 1246 02:35:37,420 --> 02:35:40,260 which I intend to make sure that they are involved. And we have, I believe, reactivated. And we have made sure that they will have a Recommendation that they may make or short list. 1247 02:35:49,940 --> 02:35:52,740 so we need to recognize the foundation board. And I believe we've made some substitutions in order to get that board re-energized and Reinstituted. 1248 02:36:00,640 --> 02:36:00,640 so I just want the public to understand and the court to understand that this is a Position that I think is very valuable in light of our veterans services and what 1249 02:36:10,560 --> 02:36:10,560 we continue to do. And I really want this selection before the new budget year in order so That we know and have representation from the 1250 02:36:20,440 --> 02:36:20,440 budget department in the budget process. So with that, Unless there's any further discussion, 1251 02:36:25,560 --> 02:36:25,560 commissioner moody. Well, I look forward to serving with you on this committee. 1252 02:36:30,520 --> 02:36:30,520 and I would reiterate, I think it's important that we we move quickly and make a wise Choice here 1253 02:36:40,760 --> 02:36:40,760 going forward not to, to get into the history, But there has been significant turnover in this role which is, 1254 02:36:50,400 --> 02:36:53,160 you know, unhelpful to our veteran community. And I think we we need to make sure that we we get this right. 1255 02:36:58,490 --> 02:36:58,490 so I stand ready to to jump in as soon as we're ready to have that first meeting and dive Into this work and look forward to working with the other members of the 1256 02:37:08,370 --> 02:37:11,570 committee to bring in a short list back to this court. And commissioner clay-flores, your recommendations are noted for the record, And we will make sure we are sensitive to all applicants for the record. 1257 02:37:21,490 --> 02:37:24,090 I'll call for a vote. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? Motion carries. 1258 02:37:28,250 --> 02:37:28,250 we'll now go to 55 the elections department. Miss cruz, You're tee it up. 1259 02:37:33,690 --> 02:37:33,690 55 discussion. Appropriate action regarding approval to award a purchase order to blue Crest, 1260 02:37:39,370 --> 02:37:39,370 inc. In the amount of $461,111 for the purchase of a vote by mail sorting system, As requested by the elections department pursuant 1261 02:37:49,330 --> 02:37:51,930 to. In accordance with texas local government code. Chapter 271, subchapter f, section 102 cooperative purchasing program participation, Authorizing the purchasing agent to execute and file the appropriate award, 1262 02:38:01,380 --> 02:38:05,140 document or record with the county clerk. Good morning. Good morning. How are you? I'm fine, thank you. 1263 02:38:08,140 --> 02:38:08,140 thank you, judge sakai and commissioners. Today, I'm bringing forward a request to purchase this mail ballot order. 1264 02:38:16,260 --> 02:38:16,260 when we received the grant for $4 million from the state, We had to put a lot of thought into where does this money need to go and how is it going 1265 02:38:22,900 --> 02:38:22,900 to make voting by mail even more efficient? So I reached out, And with the help of the purchasing department, 1266 02:38:32,820 --> 02:38:32,820 we were able to speak to many vendors that have similar capabilities to where we can Streamline vote by mail. 1267 02:38:40,660 --> 02:38:40,660 as you know, we no longer have vo tech to be able to verify signatures or even compare Them. 1268 02:38:46,100 --> 02:38:46,100 and we're using the team system until vr systems is able to be implemented. 1269 02:38:50,700 --> 02:38:50,700 this particular mail sorter is used in tarrant county as well. 1270 02:38:55,030 --> 02:38:55,030 it does a lot of things. One of the things that it does is it takes photos of the front And the back of each ballot that comes in, 1271 02:39:00,790 --> 02:39:00,790 which is required by law. These are some of the things that we have to provide to the Early voting ballot board. 1272 02:39:05,590 --> 02:39:08,910 it can weigh it. It can sort it by ballot style. It can let us know if there's more than one ballot in an envelope, Which does happen from time to time. 1273 02:39:13,110 --> 02:39:13,110 and this previous back to back to back election that we just had, Several of our voters were mailing more than one ballot in their envelope. 1274 02:39:19,590 --> 02:39:22,550 and if it was for a different election, it wasn't counted. So this is going to be able to help us streamline it, Make sure that we're meeting all of the requests by the state, 1275 02:39:28,710 --> 02:39:28,710 and also that we're in accordance with the law. 1276 02:39:35,910 --> 02:39:35,910 motion by commissioner calvert. Second. Second by commissioner rodriguez. Any further Discussion? Question. 1277 02:39:41,350 --> 02:39:41,350 commissioner moody? Miss carew. So is this replacing an existing mail order? 1278 02:39:48,270 --> 02:39:48,270 no. We've never had a mail sorter. Okay. So it's a, It's a new 1279 02:39:58,160 --> 02:39:58,160 piece of equipment that we're trying to get to do the functions that you just mentioned. 1280 02:40:03,360 --> 02:40:03,360 yes, sir. How have we done it to date? Everything's been done manually to date. 1281 02:40:08,880 --> 02:40:08,880 that's why we have as many attempts that we have in there. When the ballots come in, They have to physically scan each one individually, 1282 02:40:15,680 --> 02:40:18,640 which takes a very long time when it comes in. The process is extremely. Oh, how could I even explain this to you? 1283 02:40:24,360 --> 02:40:24,360 when they come in, each one of the reps in that particular department grabs a stack and Has to work them individually. 1284 02:40:30,200 --> 02:40:32,920 this particular piece of equipment would do us do it for us. It'll streamline it, saving us time and money. 1285 02:40:38,840 --> 02:40:38,840 so do we anticipate cost savings? Absolutely. 1286 02:40:43,920 --> 02:40:43,920 do we have an estimate of how much time is spent manually doing these processes today? 1287 02:40:50,080 --> 02:40:50,080 I didn't bring in any type of money figure to be able to share with you in regards to how Much we pay our temps. 1288 02:40:56,570 --> 02:40:56,570 but currently our temps are working anywhere from 8 to 10 hours a day working this. 1289 02:41:01,330 --> 02:41:05,130 I anticipate that it will possibly cut that in half. Okay. Well this is a new new item, a new piece of equipment. 1290 02:41:11,610 --> 02:41:15,370 so I don't have a great sense for it specifically. And I haven't been able to gather any feedback from other individuals because they've Never worked with one before. 1291 02:41:22,410 --> 02:41:22,410 I guess, and this speaks to all these items and we've had some of these conversations off The record. 1292 02:41:29,650 --> 02:41:29,650 I still don't have a great sense for what the the plan is and whether we are that far Behind 1293 02:41:39,730 --> 02:41:39,730 in terms of our equipment or whether we just want, You know, the, the latest, the greatest on all these 1294 02:41:49,540 --> 02:41:49,540 items, and I do have some more direct thoughts on some of the other items that are being Requested here. 1295 02:41:56,580 --> 02:41:56,580 but you know, just I have a data point here I got from, From budget, but let me see if I can share it. 1296 02:42:05,820 --> 02:42:05,820 so the past four f ys before we, we turned over 1297 02:42:15,980 --> 02:42:15,980 the average spend total in the elections department averaged 8.8 million per year. 1298 02:42:24,460 --> 02:42:24,460 last f y was 12.5 million. That's probably a 40% increase. 1299 02:42:31,500 --> 02:42:31,500 and then this year so far I have $17 million. 1300 02:42:36,900 --> 02:42:36,900 so now we're getting close to doubling our our total spend on the elections department. 1301 02:42:43,940 --> 02:42:43,940 and what I've tried to get at is like weather. 1302 02:42:49,430 --> 02:42:49,430 these are all nice to haves. Like we're trying to just upgrade and get the latest or what Are necessities that were deferred maintenance that that is 1303 02:42:58,830 --> 02:42:58,830 absolutely necessary to execute our elections because clearly we weren't spending this Much in elections previously. 1304 02:43:05,870 --> 02:43:05,870 and now we are. So we have these individual items come and it's $460,000 here and $350,000 There and $1.1 million 1305 02:43:15,830 --> 02:43:15,830 for something else. And it's really hard without a plan or a budget from elections to Understand, 1306 02:43:24,590 --> 02:43:24,590 like, what are we replacing and why? And that's what I need to be better informed about. 1307 02:43:33,030 --> 02:43:33,030 the disparate asks for different types of equipment. 1308 02:43:37,510 --> 02:43:37,510 and that just keep coming because, I mean, I don't know, There's been six, seven, eight of these requests now and I still don't see how 1309 02:43:47,490 --> 02:43:47,490 they all connect or what the the end state is or what the ultimate budget is, I don't know. 1310 02:43:53,770 --> 02:43:53,770 I mean, to from budget standpoint, how you're keeping up with the request from the Elections department you 1311 02:44:03,210 --> 02:44:03,210 agree those numbers were correct that were provided to me. 1312 02:44:07,930 --> 02:44:07,930 yes, sir. Yes. And I will say that I mean quite a bit of that money was grant funding that We received. 1313 02:44:16,530 --> 02:44:16,530 so that that kind of explains that huge increase. 1314 02:44:20,770 --> 02:44:24,650 and it's great to get grant funding, which goes back to my previous comment. I'm all about grant funding. But then again, How how are we not necessarily using that grant funding to reduce the impact on the 1315 02:44:32,610 --> 02:44:32,610 general fund, rather than actually seeing an increase in the general fund on top of grant Funding? 1316 02:44:39,890 --> 02:44:43,860 and what's necessary. So I hope you understand where I'm coming from. I do, I do understand where you're coming from. 1317 02:44:45,980 --> 02:44:45,980 one of the items that was given to me when I was appointed to this position was to bring This department moving forward with technology. 1318 02:44:55,580 --> 02:44:58,900 so the things that have been done in the past were all done manually. So when you're comparing the what we're doing now to what was done in the past, It's not apples to apples. Everything was done manually in the office. 1319 02:45:05,540 --> 02:45:05,540 what I'm bringing forward are items that are covered 100% with the grant funding, That's going to help make this office run smoother and rely less on temporary employees 1320 02:45:15,420 --> 02:45:15,420 to come in and do the work that this machine that I'm asking for will be able to take care Of. 1321 02:45:21,140 --> 02:45:21,140 so I'm not opposed to modernizing. Again, though, Without a plan, I can't write a blank check either to the 1322 02:45:31,140 --> 02:45:31,140 elections department over and over again. So the only other question I have with regard to This to the purchasing department, 1323 02:45:38,220 --> 02:45:38,220 have all of these gone through our, our standard bidding process. 1324 02:45:52,070 --> 02:45:52,070 commissioner in this case, I believe this one was utilizing the cooperative contract, So satisfying the competitive bidding process by board. 1325 02:46:00,030 --> 02:46:00,030 yes, sir. Okay. Thank you. Source. Source. Source was the named competitive contracts. 1326 02:46:07,070 --> 02:46:07,070 okay. Thank you. Commissioner. Clay-flores. Yeah. 1327 02:46:13,230 --> 02:46:13,230 michelle, how long have you been here now? A year and almost four months. 1328 02:46:18,110 --> 02:46:18,110 okay. So not even a year and a half. So and you also instilled funding to have new 1329 02:46:28,230 --> 02:46:31,790 voting gadgets. I don't know what it's called for a hearing impaired. Correct. That's correct. And new ones also for people who are disabled, Who can't come out, 1330 02:46:36,710 --> 02:46:36,710 who are like in wheelchairs, like my mother, When I take her to go vote and they come and bring that curbside. 1331 02:46:41,480 --> 02:46:41,480 correct? Correct. So and commissioner moode, If my memory serves me correctly, you voted against the one for hearing impaired. 1332 02:46:50,840 --> 02:46:50,840 and so part of what you've been doing, michel, And why I'm supporting this is I don't expect every year for you to 1333 02:47:00,640 --> 02:47:04,120 continue to come with all these millions of dollars of requests. This is to get you set up in your early tenure, As you haven't even been here a year and a half. 1334 02:47:09,440 --> 02:47:09,440 and we have a big election coming up to make sure that whether you're hearing impaired or Whether you're disabled or whatever one's circumstances are, 1335 02:47:18,920 --> 02:47:18,920 that they can vote. That's correct. So in the state of texas, We are the 48th hardest state in the union 1336 02:47:28,920 --> 02:47:28,920 to vote in, which is still much easier to vote in this state than in other countries. 1337 02:47:36,200 --> 02:47:36,200 but nonetheless, we want to enable and empower our constituents. 1338 02:47:41,890 --> 02:47:41,890 regardless of your political party to go vote, Because it's not that texas is a red state or a blue state. 1339 02:47:47,730 --> 02:47:51,130 texas is a non-voting state, and we want to encourage people to vote. So I applaud your efforts to try and get everything that's possible so that people don't Have excuses to stay home and say that voting is too hard or 1340 02:48:01,130 --> 02:48:03,170 they can't vote. So I'm happy to support this. Thank you, mr. Calvert. Thank you very much. Thank you, Michel, for bringing this to us. 1341 02:48:09,490 --> 02:48:09,490 I I believe I can speak to the positive fiscal benefit. 1342 02:48:15,010 --> 02:48:15,010 you spoke to it in terms of temporary workers, We've had to pay a lot of money for manual administration of that system. 1343 02:48:25,210 --> 02:48:25,210 and so you had mentioned the number you think might be reduced in half with the with Temporary workers, 1344 02:48:33,490 --> 02:48:33,490 with the new equipment. So do you have an estimate about how much in temporary workers Would fall? 1345 02:48:39,820 --> 02:48:39,820 how much money we spend on the mail ballot process? 1346 02:48:43,940 --> 02:48:43,940 not particularly for the mail ballot process, But I can tell you that within my department, 1347 02:48:48,300 --> 02:48:52,260 we've spent over $450,000 in temporary workers. And that's divided between our warehouse, our voter registration and our mail room. 1348 02:48:57,900 --> 02:48:57,900 so I also think that as we grow as a county and the amount of I will just say, I think we've got a silver tsunami of baby 1349 02:49:07,580 --> 02:49:11,340 boomers who are going to be utilizing the mail ballot process. It would help the hands on deck at the elections department just to have a more modern way To administer and take photos 1350 02:49:21,220 --> 02:49:21,220 of those particular documents. I imagine it's much longer in time for a person to, I guess, 1351 02:49:30,260 --> 02:49:30,260 take a picture of both sides versus a. I guess it's like a scanner of some sort that Manually feeds a whole bunch 1352 02:49:40,230 --> 02:49:40,230 of of them. How many of these ballots are put roughly into the machine? 1353 02:49:47,110 --> 02:49:47,110 how many can it process? I guess in a well, it will have eight different sorter sections. 1354 02:49:54,550 --> 02:49:54,550 so you can put upwards of a thousand at a time and let it just sort through. 1355 02:49:58,910 --> 02:50:01,910 so that in itself is going to save a tremendous amount of time. I can tell you, when the ballots come in, they typically get in about 930, 10:00. 1356 02:50:06,350 --> 02:50:06,350 our team then has to get them, put them into a team that we received them, Put them into our poll book, 1357 02:50:11,710 --> 02:50:11,710 that they received them, and also do the manual process of taking the photos. 1358 02:50:16,070 --> 02:50:16,070 not only that, they then have to make a copy of their application, Put it in an envelope, 1359 02:50:20,910 --> 02:50:24,470 seal the envelope and put it away into our ballot board room. And when these ballots are coming in, you know, Upwards of 8 or 900 a day like they did during the primary, 1360 02:50:30,550 --> 02:50:34,040 our staff is not able to process each one timely. This particular disorder will take care of that and cut that amount, Possibly in time, by 50%. 1361 02:50:39,400 --> 02:50:39,400 you said they come in, you said 930 in the morning or the evening. 1362 02:50:43,760 --> 02:50:43,760 morning. In the morning. Okay. I just wanted to. And so in terms of just the reporting of Our election in general, 1363 02:50:53,240 --> 02:50:53,240 because of this order, might this expedite some of the election day final results? 1364 02:51:00,400 --> 02:51:00,400 absolutely. So what it's going to do for us is not only take the photo of the front and The back, 1365 02:51:05,120 --> 02:51:07,520 it's going to be able to help compare signatures. So when it gets to the ballot board, they're not having to sit around and manually look at Upwards of 20,000 applications. 1366 02:51:13,600 --> 02:51:16,600 I'm sorry, ballots that come in to compare signatures. This will actually already have the history of signatures in there and flag ones that Don't match. 1367 02:51:21,960 --> 02:51:21,960 wow. That's that sounds like a great service to the ballot board as well, Because we forget they're volunteers at citizens help review those ballots. 1368 02:51:31,050 --> 02:51:31,050 and that's a tedious process as well. So you know, For that reason, I am supporting this technology and the improvement. 1369 02:51:39,450 --> 02:51:39,450 it sounds like something we probably should have had a while ago. Thank you judge. 1370 02:51:43,530 --> 02:51:43,530 question. I'm just going to respond to the comments about I guess it was the the, The deaf 1371 02:51:53,170 --> 02:51:53,170 functionality on some of the poll pads that was, That was presented. 1372 02:51:58,050 --> 02:51:58,050 that's just one small piece of this, but what we were really doing was replacing vast Amounts of our equipment. 1373 02:52:07,170 --> 02:52:07,170 it was sold to the court based on, on that functionality that's almost never utilized. 1374 02:52:16,530 --> 02:52:16,530 if we're going to be honest, I believe I asked the question about how many people would Use this service in the past, 1375 02:52:22,690 --> 02:52:22,690 because the vast majority of those individuals will do ballot by mail as they can. 1376 02:52:29,070 --> 02:52:29,070 and I believe there was only 15 people who had used it in a previous election. 1377 02:52:33,670 --> 02:52:33,670 so we're just like, we can talk politics or we can talk like being real about managing This department and managing our elections and doing it responsibly 1378 02:52:43,830 --> 02:52:47,750 from a budget standpoint. And that's what I'm trying to do. I don't think we should write blank checks. I think we should we should modernize, But we have to have a plan. 1379 02:52:54,110 --> 02:52:54,110 and it can't just it can't just continue to come. 1380 02:52:59,190 --> 02:52:59,190 if I'm sitting in the budget seat, you know, And every time I turn around, there's another request for 300 or 400 or $500,000 without a 1381 02:53:06,430 --> 02:53:06,430 long term plan that I can factor in to this year's budget, Next year's budget, the budget after that makes it really difficult. 1382 02:53:17,990 --> 02:53:17,990 all right. Any further discussion? Well, I just want to comment since we're going talking About this. 1383 02:53:27,640 --> 02:53:27,640 if hearing impaired people haven't used things in the past is because there was no access To it. 1384 02:53:33,280 --> 02:53:33,280 so, michelle, I hope that you and your team are educating the community to let them know That this is now possible, 1385 02:53:38,840 --> 02:53:38,840 because I know that people do want to go vote, But because of difficulties in the past, they haven't. 1386 02:53:47,600 --> 02:53:47,600 so if you can keep us posted on how the number increases, As I'm sure it will. 1387 02:53:53,720 --> 02:53:53,720 thank you. And michelle, let me also put on the record that we're going to vote on 55, But 56, 1388 02:54:00,800 --> 02:54:00,800 57, 58 are also your agenda items. A couple of them are late files, So we'll get to them. 1389 02:54:07,000 --> 02:54:10,880 but this is all out of that. Have a have a grant correct. For which you help get for bexar county, I believe what 4 million bucks was $4 million. 1390 02:54:16,400 --> 02:54:19,160 and so these are all grant funded purchases, Correct? Correct. And if we don't spend it, we lose it. 1391 02:54:21,920 --> 02:54:25,850 correct. Yes, sir. So I will lend my support for this motion. Any further comments? I will call for a vote. 1392 02:54:29,050 --> 02:54:31,930 all those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? Motion carries. Let's carry on. 1393 02:54:37,130 --> 02:54:37,130 56. Discussion. Appropriate action regarding granting a discretionary exemption. 1394 02:54:41,610 --> 02:54:41,610 competitive bidding requirements set forth texas county purchasing act for the purpose of Awarding a purchase order to election systems software in the amount of $403,500 1395 02:54:51,330 --> 02:54:51,330 for purchase of 300 curbside cards pursuant to in accordance with local government code. 1396 02:54:56,170 --> 02:54:56,170 chapter 262, subchapter c, section two, 62.24, Subsection a seven. 1397 02:55:02,610 --> 02:55:06,370 authorizing personnel to execute and file the appropriate document for the record. This crew, we've got the basis of why you need it. 1398 02:55:09,610 --> 02:55:09,610 so what is this for? And let's ask for a motion. 1399 02:55:13,650 --> 02:55:13,650 this is an ada accessible cart that would allow those voting from their vehicles to not Only have privacy, 1400 02:55:19,810 --> 02:55:19,810 but have the ability to move the machine from left to right, Up and down. 1401 02:55:24,180 --> 02:55:24,180 so this particular piece of equipment is being acquired from election systems and Software, 1402 02:55:28,940 --> 02:55:28,940 who's also our voting machine manufacturer. Is there a motion. 1403 02:55:34,020 --> 02:55:34,020 so moved. Motion. Motion by commissioner rodriguez. Second by commissioner clay-flores. Any further question or comment? 1404 02:55:39,820 --> 02:55:39,820 commissioner moody. This is one that I did get direct feedback on that from election Judges that are out there in precinct three. 1405 02:55:49,740 --> 02:55:49,740 they didn't think this was necessary. They don't think it's needed. 1406 02:55:54,980 --> 02:55:58,660 the fact is we have these carts today for all early voting sites. I believe that's correct. So we have these carts available for you know, What would be 70% of all of 1407 02:56:08,500 --> 02:56:08,500 our voters by the time you use them on election day as well as early voting the, Or buying another 300 carts to 1408 02:56:18,500 --> 02:56:18,500 service all potential sites and have leftovers for election day. 1409 02:56:22,630 --> 02:56:22,630 correct? That's correct. And what I heard from individual election judges is they've had On election day. 1410 02:56:32,350 --> 02:56:32,350 sometimes they've never used the cart or had one or 2 or 3 individuals utilize this cart. 1411 02:56:39,790 --> 02:56:39,790 again, it's just a question of is this needed or could we use that grant funding for Something else. 1412 02:56:46,230 --> 02:56:49,430 so I'm not going to support this item. Good. Commissioner. Calvert. Before and during my service as commissioner, I have taken many folks with disabilities to vote personally 1413 02:57:00,950 --> 02:57:00,950 and have seen some of the difficulties that they have, And the curbside opportunity is one that is cherished by those of us who take folks to the 1414 02:57:10,630 --> 02:57:10,630 polls. Earlier in commissioners court, we heard the texas kidney foundation talk about the Zip codes that had 1415 02:57:20,960 --> 02:57:20,960 the the opportunity zone were comprised of 50% of health care ailments. 1416 02:57:28,640 --> 02:57:28,640 and so it may be that because there is a 20 year. 1417 02:57:34,560 --> 02:57:34,560 difference in life expectancy in the north side versus the south side or the east side of The west side, 1418 02:57:42,520 --> 02:57:42,520 that the health conditions of the people who come to the elections clerks may be worse in The east side, 1419 02:57:49,400 --> 02:57:49,400 south side and west side. And that's where. But, You know, I mean, it's for everybody. 1420 02:57:56,000 --> 02:57:56,000 everybody's going to have that opportunity. And of course you know, I'll be supporting these tools and modernization. 1421 02:58:04,640 --> 02:58:04,640 I think it's a good use of our grant funding that we've gotten through. 1422 02:58:10,360 --> 02:58:10,360 calvert. Thank you very much. Anything else? Is there a motion. 1423 02:58:15,640 --> 02:58:18,890 motion by commissioner calvert. Second by commissioner rodriguez. Any further discussion? Call for a vote. Oh, I think I made the motion. 1424 02:58:23,730 --> 02:58:27,210 I'm sorry. All right, well, then stand corrected. Commissioner rodriguez and second by commissioner clay-flores. 1425 02:58:30,810 --> 02:58:30,810 for the record. All those in favor signify by saying aye. 1426 02:58:37,650 --> 02:58:37,650 aye. All those opposed? Any abstention? Motion carries. 1427 02:58:42,170 --> 02:58:42,170 all right. Now we are going to late file. Can we have one motion to approve discussion. 1428 02:58:48,090 --> 02:58:48,090 appropriate action for those in 57, 58, 59, 6061 I believe are all late. 1429 02:58:56,930 --> 02:58:56,930 filed motion by commissioner second by commissioner rodriguez. 1430 02:59:01,170 --> 02:59:03,610 all those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? Motion carries. We'll take up 57 a discussion. 1431 02:59:10,370 --> 02:59:10,370 appropriate action regarding approval granted. Discretionary exemption to the competitive Bidding requirements set forth in the texas county purchasing act for the purpose of 1432 02:59:17,700 --> 02:59:17,700 awarding purchase order to the election system software in the amount of $351,813 for the Purchase of 350 ballot printers 1433 02:59:27,420 --> 02:59:27,420 pursuant to. In accordance with the texas local government code, Chapter 262, subchapter c, 1434 02:59:32,780 --> 02:59:32,780 section two, 62.24, subsection a7. Authorizing the person agent to execute and file the Appropriate documents for record mr.. 1435 02:59:41,020 --> 02:59:43,900 I assume this is all in line with the use of the grant. So what are we buying with this particular agenda item? 1436 02:59:47,660 --> 02:59:47,660 so in the last commissioners court, the approval for 350 additional poll pads to be used In the upcoming election. 1437 02:59:54,980 --> 02:59:54,980 each poll pad must have a ballot printer attached to it in order to utilize it. 1438 02:59:59,580 --> 02:59:59,580 there's not a way to attach multiple poll pads to one printer. 1439 03:00:03,620 --> 03:00:07,580 so these printers are just to be used with the poll pads. Okay. So moved. Motion by commissioner rodriguez. 1440 03:00:10,820 --> 03:00:10,820 second by commissioner clay-flores. Any further comment? Commissioner moode. How many Ballot printers do we have today? 1441 03:00:17,150 --> 03:00:17,150 we have one for each poll pad. We have 1100 1100. 1442 03:00:22,510 --> 03:00:22,510 so that's almost like four per polling site. The busier polling locations, We will be able to have upwards of 4 or 5 1443 03:00:32,870 --> 03:00:32,870 at their polling locations. The slower locations will have anywhere from 1 to 3. 1444 03:00:38,310 --> 03:00:38,310 when we initially purchased it last year, it was so that each location would have three, But we found that our busier locations need more. 1445 03:00:46,630 --> 03:00:46,630 so by being able to utilize the hava fund to purchase the poll pads and now these ballot Printers will be able to provide as many as these larger precincts need, 1446 03:00:55,790 --> 03:00:58,670 or as fewer take away from some and give to the other. But as of right now, this will prevent from having two two separate lines. 1447 03:01:04,110 --> 03:01:04,110 when I visited the poll sites, I saw people waiting in line to log in to a poll pad and Then waiting to use a machine. 1448 03:01:10,710 --> 03:01:10,710 so there were I'm trying to think of the terminology that I always talk about, But I'm, it's not coming to me. 1449 03:01:16,490 --> 03:01:16,490 so there's basically two lines in a polling location by giving additional polling pads for Them to check in and additional voting equipment, 1450 03:01:23,450 --> 03:01:23,450 it'll be able to streamline the voting process. 1451 03:01:29,850 --> 03:01:29,850 and how many have we had in the past? Prior to when three years ago, Three years ago, there 1452 03:01:39,810 --> 03:01:39,810 was one laptop per location. So when the voters were waiting in line upwards of 3 or 4 Hours, 1453 03:01:45,930 --> 03:01:45,930 it was due to the fact that they had one laptop that they could sign in on, And then they would sign on a paper form showing that they signed in. 1454 03:01:54,650 --> 03:01:54,650 and now what we're doing is we're streamlining it to where they can have multiple check in Stations to prevent any type of bottlenecks that could be occurring. 1455 03:02:04,570 --> 03:02:04,570 so we went from one to 4 or 5. We went from 1 to 3. 1456 03:02:09,410 --> 03:02:09,410 one of those units is for curbside only, which would allow us to go to the curbside voter, 1457 03:02:14,660 --> 03:02:14,660 have them check in and sign there. Again, I just think it's kind of overkill, And I wish we could have talked through this plan 1458 03:02:24,660 --> 03:02:24,660 you know, in more detail before court. No further questions. 1459 03:02:30,780 --> 03:02:33,220 any other comments? Questions? Call for a vote. All those in favor of the. Is there a motion? 1460 03:02:35,300 --> 03:02:39,060 yes. Motion by commissioner rodriguez, second by commissioner clay-flores. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. 1461 03:02:41,260 --> 03:02:41,260 any opposed? No. Any abstention? Motion carries. 1462 03:02:46,300 --> 03:02:49,540 is that it? I have one more. One more. Which one? 58. 58. Okay. Oh, that's why I couldn't. 58 a discussion appropriate action regarding Discretionary exemption to the competitive 1463 03:02:59,580 --> 03:02:59,580 bidding requirements set forth texas county personnel for the purpose of awarding purchase Order election system software in the amount of $125,100 for the purchase of 1464 03:03:08,510 --> 03:03:08,510 1004gb usb drives pursuant to in accordance with texas local government code. 1465 03:03:15,110 --> 03:03:15,110 chapter 262, subchapter c, section two, 62.24, Subsection a7. 1466 03:03:20,790 --> 03:03:20,790 authorizing the purchaser to execute and follow the appropriate documents for record, Miss carew. 1467 03:03:26,190 --> 03:03:26,190 yes, these usb drives are proprietary to our voting equipment. 1468 03:03:30,670 --> 03:03:30,670 after looking at previous purchases, these are the original usbs that were purchased back In 2019. 1469 03:03:36,590 --> 03:03:36,590 if you recall on election night, there is a slowdown when it comes to processing the voted Ballots, 1470 03:03:42,870 --> 03:03:45,310 and a lot of it has to do with the age of our equipment. In the last commissioners court, you guys approved a complete do over in our tabulation Room with new equipment, 1471 03:03:52,830 --> 03:03:56,830 including the tabulation equipment. This will also help speed that up. So our equipment we have is failing. And this is just to replace what was purchased back In 2019. 1472 03:04:03,070 --> 03:04:03,070 move for approval. Motion by commissioner. Clay-flores second by commissioner rodriguez. 1473 03:04:07,280 --> 03:04:10,480 any further discussion? Commissioner calvert, Let's start with you. I do have to ask one question because the word failing, Right. 1474 03:04:16,240 --> 03:04:16,240 I mean what do you mean it's failing? So for example, When they come, when they come in at night time and we're reading these usbs into our 1475 03:04:24,280 --> 03:04:24,280 tabulation equipment, they were corrupt. Luckily our voting equipment requires two. 1476 03:04:28,800 --> 03:04:28,800 one is a backup in case the first one fails. And we're noticing more and more that they Are failing, 1477 03:04:33,560 --> 03:04:33,560 which means we then have to go out to the warehouse, Pull out their supplies, and run off of their duplicate. 1478 03:04:39,440 --> 03:04:43,440 so we're just trying to refresh what we currently have. Well, let me hurry up and vote for this. Anything else? 1479 03:04:48,880 --> 03:04:48,880 questions, commissioner mooney? So you're saying the thumb drives are failing or the Equipment that we have a little bit of everything that's failing. 1480 03:04:55,640 --> 03:04:55,640 so we in the last purchase that we did in the last commissioners court, It was to trade in some of our express votes that for some unknown reason. 1481 03:05:04,770 --> 03:05:07,450 just don't turn on when they get to the polling location. We've had s and s come in and review all of our equipment, Double check it, and some of them are just old. 1482 03:05:12,970 --> 03:05:12,970 when I asked them for the like, how long does one of these last? 1483 03:05:17,890 --> 03:05:21,650 they said it depends on the amount of usage. And so our usage is high. When we have back to back to back elections, You know, upwards of 5 or 6 in one calendar year, 1484 03:05:27,810 --> 03:05:27,810 they're just run down. It doesn't seem like you use the usb drives that often with Elections. 1485 03:05:35,010 --> 03:05:35,010 well, I would encourage you to come to our office to see how we use our equipment. I think It would help bring some light to the questions that you're asking. I would love to. 1486 03:05:44,490 --> 03:05:44,490 why are these proprietary? They I actually brought a letter from s and s that I just Received this morning from them. 1487 03:05:50,610 --> 03:05:50,610 that gives a breakdown to it. Like you, I asked, Why did these costs $1,250 each and they're only allowed to be used with our voting 1488 03:05:59,050 --> 03:05:59,050 equipment. So I have a copy for everybody that I get over to you. 1489 03:06:03,180 --> 03:06:03,180 but they. The letter came directly from the senior vice president and general counsel of s And s that talks about. 1490 03:06:08,540 --> 03:06:08,540 these thumb drives are industrial grade quality and contains certain security features, Which include unique hardware identified specifically for the use of the s and s 1491 03:06:18,140 --> 03:06:18,140 equipment. Anything else? Well, it's clearly a problem if 1492 03:06:28,020 --> 03:06:28,020 we get trapped in the proprietary, like ancillary equipment like this, Because you can go to walmart and get these things for four bucks a piece 1493 03:06:37,900 --> 03:06:37,900 versus what are they charging $120 a piece? Or more. 1494 03:06:46,860 --> 03:06:46,860 no further questions. Commissioner. Calvert. So I just want to back up for a second Because our election integrity and safety is 1495 03:06:56,660 --> 03:06:56,660 also governed by the state. And when you certify equipment, You know, you're you're certifying the system and certifying that it's encrypted and safe 1496 03:07:06,310 --> 03:07:06,310 and, and so on and so forth. So we couldn't take a jump drive from walmart and utilize it In these machines because it's not 1497 03:07:15,630 --> 03:07:15,630 certified. And I don't think e, s, and s would attest to the same results. 1498 03:07:22,110 --> 03:07:25,870 and that creates a whole avalanche of, of issues. But I also know that some of these jump drives they have don't they have a certain way They lock into the machine and 1499 03:07:35,990 --> 03:07:35,990 activate certain things. Each one of the jump drives has a serial number. 1500 03:07:40,150 --> 03:07:40,150 so when we distribute our equipment, we know which serial numbers went to which location, And when they come back, we have to verify that what we sent them was what they brought 1501 03:07:46,910 --> 03:07:46,910 back. So there's several checks and balances when it comes to tabulating the votes on Election night. 1502 03:07:53,750 --> 03:07:53,750 as I mentioned, they are proprietary. They do have certain specifics that only we can use Them for that particular. 1503 03:08:00,720 --> 03:08:00,720 and they were certified by the state. I can just tell you from my previous experience, Even using the competitor of hart intercivic, 1504 03:08:08,560 --> 03:08:08,560 there's the exact same way. So there's a great five if anybody ever wants to look at it. 1505 03:08:14,160 --> 03:08:14,160 there's a great five minute video on espn's website about the security functions of the Voting machines, 1506 03:08:19,320 --> 03:08:19,320 and that will kind of give at least nine different things that are trying to keep that Very important data safe. 1507 03:08:26,720 --> 03:08:29,560 so, like I said, need to hurry up and vote for this. Thank you judge. Any further comments? Questions? 1508 03:08:32,760 --> 03:08:35,320 did we have do I have a motion on the floor? Yes. Whose motion was it? Was it commissioner. Clay-flores. 1509 03:08:39,360 --> 03:08:39,360 all right. And second by commissioner rodriguez. All right. All those in favor signify by Saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? 1510 03:08:45,600 --> 03:08:48,080 any abstention? Motion carries. Thank you. Thank you. Mr.. I think that concludes your presentations. 1511 03:08:50,880 --> 03:08:50,880 598 discussion appropriate action regarding approval or request for county judge peter Sakai to appoint the following individual to the listed board commission to the terms of 1512 03:09:00,060 --> 03:09:00,060 specified. It's my honor and privilege to appoint marcus prim, Replacing mr. 1513 03:09:05,380 --> 03:09:08,500 christopher sandals to the military and veterans service board. As I indicated earlier, they're an integral part by bylaws on the selection of the Military veterans. 1514 03:09:14,620 --> 03:09:17,900 directorship. Motion by commissioner rodriguez. Second. Second by commissioner clay-flores. Any further discussion? Hearing none. 1515 03:09:21,980 --> 03:09:24,100 all those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? Motion carries. 1516 03:09:26,780 --> 03:09:26,780 congratulations, mr. Marcus prim. Hope you'll. 1517 03:09:32,100 --> 03:09:34,940 there'll be a. And for the record, this was not my idea. No it wasn't. This was all judge sakai. It was all mine. 1518 03:09:41,540 --> 03:09:41,540 he is a veteran. He is a veteran. All right. Item 60 a discussion, Appropriate action regarding approval. 1519 03:09:48,860 --> 03:09:48,860 interlocal cooperation agreement between bexar county, City of san antonio to provide funds to the bexar county sheriff's office and the amount 1520 03:09:54,710 --> 03:09:54,710 of $190,400 $400 for the reimbursement of bexar county services. 1521 03:09:59,670 --> 03:09:59,670 goods eligible. Texas. An anti-gang center grant received by city of san antonio for Travel training. 1522 03:10:07,070 --> 03:10:10,590 the leases for 12 vehicles by bcso and technology. Effective on approval of the agreement. I think chief, I saw chief sanford. 1523 03:10:16,510 --> 03:10:16,510 there you are. I think this is merely a ratification or not ratification, But a interlocal agreement that we already have in existence. 1524 03:10:25,950 --> 03:10:25,950 so, chief, if there's any questions or comments that you wish to make. 1525 03:10:30,150 --> 03:10:33,910 I think this is a long standing program. Correct? It has been judged and very successful. Correct. 1526 03:10:37,310 --> 03:10:37,310 it has been. And it's it's merely a reimbursement. 1527 03:10:41,350 --> 03:10:41,350 got it. Motion to approve. Motion by commissioner rodriguez. 1528 03:10:45,910 --> 03:10:49,550 second. Second by commissioner clay-flores. Any questions or comments? All those in favor of the motion signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? 1529 03:10:53,040 --> 03:10:53,040 any abstentions? Motion carries. Did you want to say anything? 1530 03:10:57,120 --> 03:10:57,120 chief or chief or chief? We still got some stuff. 1531 03:11:03,640 --> 03:11:06,120 so, chief. See all y'all? I got to go, though. Yeah. We got. Yeah, but chief sanford, thank you. 1532 03:11:09,440 --> 03:11:09,440 thank you, sir. And thank you for your involvement with the family violence collaborative Commission. 1533 03:11:14,480 --> 03:11:14,480 family violence. You're one of the voices that are still there. 1534 03:11:18,960 --> 03:11:18,960 and you still advocate, especially from the perspective of law enforcement from the bexar County sheriff's office, 1535 03:11:25,720 --> 03:11:25,720 which I really appreciate. And you kind of have been a leader and an advocate for the Victims of family violence. 1536 03:11:31,960 --> 03:11:31,960 and thank you. So I'd like to give her a round of applause. Chief, I wish it we'd done it at the front. 1537 03:11:39,640 --> 03:11:39,640 it had a lot more laws, but thank you. We we still have a lot of work to do. 1538 03:11:44,200 --> 03:11:44,200 we do have a lot. I think we're making progress. You're welcome. All right. 1539 03:11:48,440 --> 03:11:48,440 61 a discussion. Appropriate action regarding the approval. 1540 03:11:53,570 --> 03:11:53,570 second amendment to the opioid mitigation grant agreement between bexar county. San Antonio, 1541 03:11:57,730 --> 03:11:57,730 texas. Connection in order to extend the term to april 30th, 2027 with total. 1542 03:12:04,970 --> 03:12:04,970 unchanged not to exceed. Amount of $489,480 from the bexar county opioid settlement fund. 1543 03:12:12,570 --> 03:12:12,570 doctor cordero. Hi. Thank you. Judge. Commissioners. 1544 03:12:17,970 --> 03:12:17,970 this is another request for an extension on a contract that was previously awarded from The opioid settlement fund. 1545 03:12:25,010 --> 03:12:25,010 san antonio connection provides a number of harm reduction strategies aimed at reducing Substance use. 1546 03:12:32,330 --> 03:12:32,330 is there a motion? Motion. Motion by commissioner rodriguez, Second by commissioner clay-flores. 1547 03:12:37,210 --> 03:12:37,210 any further discussion or comments? All those in favor of the motion signify by saying Aye. 1548 03:12:43,090 --> 03:12:46,570 aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? Motion carries. Thank you. Thank you. All right. I need a little bit, I believe. 1549 03:12:51,660 --> 03:12:51,660 kate, all we have left are two items for our executive session. 1550 03:12:56,860 --> 03:12:56,860 that is item. Is it 51 and 62? And so 1551 03:13:07,980 --> 03:13:07,980 court, I'm suggesting that we keep going. We do have, I believe, lunch. 1552 03:13:14,460 --> 03:13:14,460 kate. So could we have the court come back with its lunch and have staff eat? 1553 03:13:20,780 --> 03:13:20,780 is that appropriate? I know that commissioners like sitting with staff with lunch. 1554 03:13:25,500 --> 03:13:25,500 I don't know if staff enjoys with commissioners, But it's always appreciated. 1555 03:13:30,380 --> 03:13:30,380 so is that approved. So we're we're going to now larry, Help me out. 1556 03:13:35,700 --> 03:13:35,700 we have some matters I believe. Don't we have to get a motion to go on executive session In regards to. 1557 03:13:46,380 --> 03:13:46,380 is it the deliberation regarding the contract being negotiation under 64 a. 1558 03:13:52,590 --> 03:13:52,590 all right. We need a unanimous approval to go to executive session to discuss a little Break the issues between bexar county, 1559 03:13:59,750 --> 03:13:59,750 san antonio livestock exposition and the coliseum advisory board. 1560 03:14:05,590 --> 03:14:08,190 is there a motion to that effect? Motion. Second. Second by commissioner clay-flores. All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. 1561 03:14:12,270 --> 03:14:12,270 any opposition? Any abstention? Motion unanimously carries. 1562 03:14:16,670 --> 03:14:16,670 we'll take that into executive session. At this time, I'll put on record. 1563 03:14:21,950 --> 03:14:24,590 the court will now convene into executive session. Executive session may be discussed and act upon in open session pursuant to section 551071, 1564 03:14:29,830 --> 03:14:29,830 texas government code executive session will be held for consultation with the courts Attorney for advice regarding a pending or contemplated litigation or settlement offers in 1565 03:14:38,550 --> 03:14:41,830 the matters of fullmer, stewart versus bexar county. Gonzales versus bexar county be legal issues pertaining to the following matters in which The duty of the attorney for the bexar county, 1566 03:14:48,400 --> 03:14:48,400 under the texas disciplinary rules of professional conduct and the state bar of texas Clearly conflicts with the open meetings act. 1567 03:14:54,480 --> 03:14:54,480 one. Legal issues related to the receipt of a notification of appointment of a court Coordinator. 1568 03:14:59,360 --> 03:14:59,360 demand for release of funds by judges of the 2252 85th district courts, As well as consideration of potential staff and resource needs of the remaining 12 civil 1569 03:15:08,840 --> 03:15:08,840 district court judges, two legal issues related to currently expired interlocal agreements Between bexar county and the counties of burnet and kerr counties for jail 1570 03:15:18,560 --> 03:15:21,720 services for the out of county detention of bexar county inmates. Three legal issues related to the potential retention of outside legal counsel to bexar County and the bexar county medical examiner's office with obtaining a h-1b 1571 03:15:31,240 --> 03:15:31,240 visa related immigration services as necessary for the recruitment of a medical examiner Position and pursuant to 5510725 of the 1572 03:15:41,200 --> 03:15:45,170 texas government code to deliberate matters related to contract being negotiated. Specifically, I believe I have noted that for the record, The time is now 1220 and the court will recess its 1573 03:15:55,130 --> 03:15:55,130 open meeting and reconvene. But let's go ahead and take a break and get. 1574 03:16:03,570 --> 03:16:03,570 we're doing 52. Is it 52 and 60, 51, 62, but we're going to do 62 first. 1575 03:16:15,170 --> 03:16:15,170 hello. Did we get wake up? Hey, I still got the executive session. 1576 03:16:24,170 --> 03:16:24,170 yeah, but they're moving up there. Okay. There you go. 1577 03:16:29,450 --> 03:16:29,450 there we go. All right. Times 1:17 p.m.. We're back in open session. 1578 03:16:34,490 --> 03:16:34,490 we'll take up agenda item 62 discussion. Appropriate action related to the receipt of a Notification of appointment of a court coordinator the demand for release of funds by the 1579 03:16:42,940 --> 03:16:42,940 judge of the two 25th and 25th district courts, As well as consideration of the potential staffing and resources needed of the remaining 1580 03:16:51,020 --> 03:16:51,020 12 civil district court judges. Mr. Roberson on 60 two. 1581 03:16:57,940 --> 03:17:01,180 is there any action to take or anything to put on record? Thank you judge. I think assistant county manager thomas guevara is going to address that Item. 1582 03:17:08,980 --> 03:17:08,980 judge. Yes. Just to report out to commissioners on june 10th, The county manager responded to both the judge and judge regarding their resource 1583 03:17:18,660 --> 03:17:18,660 requests. He has since assigned a team to conduct a review for operational staffing and Resource considerations. 1584 03:17:25,420 --> 03:17:25,420 again, just as a reminder, our staff's review is meant to be both collaborative and with Minimal intrusiveness to the court's operations. 1585 03:17:33,700 --> 03:17:33,700 so I'm pleased to report that both judge and judge have have positively responded, To the manager's letter. 1586 03:17:43,360 --> 03:17:43,360 and so we've scheduled time to meet with both of them individually next week. 1587 03:17:47,680 --> 03:17:47,680 our team has introduced ourselves again, the county staff. 1588 03:17:51,880 --> 03:17:55,400 we remain committed to conducting that review in the most efficient manner. To ensure that the court commissioners court receives a complete and accurate Understanding before making any policy or budgetary decisions. 1589 03:18:04,600 --> 03:18:04,600 and again, once we review complete our review, We'll bring back to commissioners court for consideration. 1590 03:18:13,320 --> 03:18:13,320 next court meeting, which is july 7th. So that's, That's the goal here. 1591 03:18:18,520 --> 03:18:21,000 so no action required today. Correct. All right. Let's then take up then 51 discussion appropriate action regarding a request for burke County sheriff's office to pay for fiscal 26 invoices 1592 03:18:31,160 --> 03:18:31,160 that are listed therein. And I believe there will be an amendment to that motion, Commissioner rodriguez. 1593 03:18:38,290 --> 03:18:38,290 yes, judge. I have a motion. I'd like to make to approve the listed costs, With the exception of the kerr and burnett items, 1594 03:18:46,490 --> 03:18:46,490 which will be deferred until july. The july 7th meeting with instructions to staff to Bring back an appropriate amendment to the agreements related to those items. 1595 03:18:57,370 --> 03:18:57,370 that's the motion. I'll second. But is anyone here from the sheriff's office? 1596 03:19:01,610 --> 03:19:01,610 so I had some questions. Is the sheriff. The chief still here? 1597 03:19:09,530 --> 03:19:09,530 I don't believe the sheriff's here, but are the chiefs still here? I don't believe I Didn't see them. I think they thought they were done. 1598 03:19:18,610 --> 03:19:18,610 yes. I mean, if not, I'll just ask the 1599 03:19:28,250 --> 03:19:31,490 sheriff's office to reach out to me because I have questions about this. Alright, so on the record, commissioner clay-flores has made a request to the sheriff Office. 1600 03:19:39,260 --> 03:19:39,260 they're gone. Yeah. All right. Any further discussion on this motion? 1601 03:19:44,420 --> 03:19:47,340 all those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? Motion carries. Is there a motion to adjourn? 1602 03:19:50,300 --> 03:19:50,300 so moved. Motion by commissioner rodriguez. Second by commissioner calvert commissioner Clay-flores. 1603 03:19:55,940 --> 03:19:55,940 I'd like to adjourn in memory of a college classmate who died of colon cancer, Patricia zavala. 1604 03:20:04,460 --> 03:20:04,460 and also in memory of eva torres commissioner rodriguez. 1605 03:20:08,980 --> 03:20:08,980 thank you. Judge. I would like to adjourn in the name of carlos m mujica. 1606 03:20:14,660 --> 03:20:14,660 excuse me. One of one of the mujica, one of the rafael consejo members, Very active in his wife, 1607 03:20:22,460 --> 03:20:22,460 also jennifer salazar mujica. Commissioner calvert. 1608 03:20:27,180 --> 03:20:30,540 thank you. Judge. I'd like to adjourn in honor of john barry stevens. He was a sd11 vice president. I appointed commissioner done a lot of great work and he'll Be missed. 1609 03:20:38,030 --> 03:20:38,030 daniel. Walker, leon. Thomas. Janelle. Halston. 1610 03:20:43,150 --> 03:20:43,150 judge allen warrick senior passed away. It was a trailblazer in san antonio. 1611 03:20:52,230 --> 03:20:52,230 alvin xavier waters joseph hudson the third, And willie. 1612 03:20:58,790 --> 03:20:58,790 belva arch junior. Did commissioner moody have any memorials? 1613 03:21:05,190 --> 03:21:08,950 all right, I'll join in with carlos and jessica mojica. What a tragic loss. My sympathies to the family and the children of carlos and jessica. 1614 03:21:15,390 --> 03:21:15,390 and I also join in with judge allen walk a lawyer, A judge, a good person. 1615 03:21:22,310 --> 03:21:25,150 so with that, all those in favor of the motion to adjourn, Say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion granted. Have a good day. 1616 03:21:29,470 --> 03:21:29,470 good meeting.