February 11, 2003

Galveston County Commissioners Court
by Jinelle Boyd

Galveston County Commissioners Court approved an interlocal agreement with the City of Friendswood, Harris County Flood Control District, and Galveston County Consolidated Drainage District for the Clear Creek De-Snagging Project.

"We're trying to get the trees and debris out of Clear Creek to facilitate a little better drainage, especially as we move into the rainier part of the season," explained County Judge Jim Yarbrough.  The estimated project cost is $200,000 with each of the four entities paying $50,000. 

The commissioners court approved change orders amounting to $12,218.29 in reductions in cost for three projects: the Vacek Road Bridge Construction Project, the Carbide Park Construction Contract, and the Sunset Street Construction Contract.  

"That's three change orders and three reductions - that's got to be a first!" exclaimed Yarbrough.

The commissioners court accepted a $750,000 COPS grant to fund phase two of the Law Enforcement and Justice Information System project.  

"This is an ear-marked federal appropriation," said Major Ray "Tutt" Tuttoilmondo.  "Translation, it costs nothing to the county."

The commissioners court accepted a $104,934 grant for Indigent Defense Services.  Grants coordinator John Simsen stated that the block grant program was helping to "defray the cost".

The commissioners court approved a five-year lease agreement with the League City Lions Club Charities, Inc. for the use of Walter Hall Park Pavilion and grounds for the annual Village Fair special event.

The commissioners court voted to defer consideration of an agreement with Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for a high volume long distance discount.  

"We'll want to look at the whole telephone costs and contracts - the big picture, since it is a high-dollar utility," said Yarbrough.

The commissioners court approved an interlocal agreement with the Council for Urban Counties for a Coordinated Integrated Justice System, and to designate Galveston County Information Technology Manager Robert Canterbury as the county's representative on the board.

All other agenda items were approved.

In workshop following the regular meeting, the commissioners court discussed Health Administrative Services' retiree health benefits with HAS Chairman, Steve Gouen.  

There were several complaints from retired county employees.  

"Why is it county employees got a raise to cover their increase, but we (retirees) get nothing?" asked Peggy McCauley, a retired county road employee.  

"Please examine your conscience, and remember that what goes around, comes around," warned former county clerk Jesse Kirkendahl.  "You might be next!" 

Former sheriff Joe Max Taylor was optimistic.

"I'm sure the leadership we have here today will solve this problem," Taylor said.  "I'd appreciate it if you would."

"I want to warn you that this issue is not going to go away," Yarbrough cautioned.  "This is not just an issue for Galveston County, but for the entire state of Texas."

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