By Shannon Squyres
Judge Michael Ybarra called the meeting to order with a prayer and the pledges, then opened the floor to public comment. Karen Williams announced that there is now an EV (electric vehicle) charger at the Country Clipper, 1109 Cowboy Way. Tax Assessor-Collector Ann Saxon informed the court she was able to negotiate a lower charge for paying taxes with a credit card. The number now stands at 2.3%.
District Clerk Sandra Roblez announced a recent promotion in the County & District Clerk Association of Texas. At a recent conference in McAllen, she was promoted from secretary to treasurer. Next summer in Rockwall, she will be made Vice President, and in the summer of 2025 in Sugarland, she will be named President. The Association meets for conferences, three times a year. Mrs. Roblez also serves on the District Clerk Alliance of Texas. Thanks to Mrs. Roblez for representing Yoakum County so well.
All of the county’s budgets were approved and accounted for. County Treasurer Darla Welch presented the court with monthly numbers. June began at $65,188,535.10 and ended at $63,424,509.59. Tax Assessor-Collector Ann Saxon reported on June’s numbers as well as announced that the county’s newly updated website would be ready later that day.
Yoakum County Hospital by-laws were accepted, with the amendment that the by-laws should be signed by all members of the hospital board.
The lease agreement with TxDOT radio tower will be up on August 30. The decision to renew was passed by unanimous consideration. Greg Bruce from Shinnery Oaks offered reports and made funding requests. As of Monday, Shinnery Oaks had 54 residents and was fully staffed.
Chief Robert Whitfield addressed the court, requesting weapons for the Sheriff’s Deputies. Many of the officers use personal weapons, and it is in the best interest of the Sheriff’s office to have more uniform ammunition. This request was approved.
Cody Freeman addressed the Court about the needs of the Denver City Fire Department, both current and in the future. Five road crossing permit applications were made and approved. Four road crossings were in Precinct 1 and one was in Precinct 3; the applications were made by Oxy and Steward, respectively.
