County receives funds for winter damages

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Sheriff ’s Office auctions off surplus vehicles

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The Hopkins County Commissioner’s Court gathered at the courthouse for their regularly scheduled meeting Monday to discuss building repairs and plats among other items.

During the citizen’s comment portion of the meeting, two citizen’s presented their own personal take on the Dike Solar Farm project for the court to consider.

Michelle Barnes, a citizen of Dike, came before the court again to air her grievances against the solar project.

“Speaking on behalf of the citizens of Dike that disapprove of the solar project, we heard that at the previous meeting there was a man, probably brought in by one of you guys, that spoke in favor of the project, just to get it on the record,” Barnes said. “I’d like to get it on the record that this man doesn’t even live in Dike, he only leases property.

“How is that fair representation for the homeowners who actually reside in Dike?” Barnes asked.

Tim Bullard also came before the court again in favor of the solar project.

“The land being leased to the solar company is all owned by private individuals who can do whatever they please with the land that they own,” Fuller shared. “I thank the court for their forward thinking and for doing a thankless job. I would vote for any of you guys again.”

A list of citizens was presented to be considered for joining the historical commission of 2021-2022. Those names included John Sellers, Carly Pensen, Major Willis, John Willis, Bill Cutler, Carolyn French, Joyce Bateman, Barbara Hudson, Susan McCreary and a few others. The list of names was approved, and those listed will serve for two years.

The final plat for Beckham addition was approved without much discussion.

The board was asked to consider the preliminary plat of Anna Lake Estates located in Precinct three.

Commissioner Wade Bartley shared that developers have been met with, and everything seemed to be in compliance. He moved to approve the plat.

A member of the survey company was supposed to be at the meeting to answer questions but was not present.

The county received funds to be used for repairs to buildings damaged during the winter storm in February. The county received $86,517.03 from TAG for insurance proceeds. The funds were moved to the repairs and maintenance at the courthouse. The courthouse will receive $80,921.76 to start repairs and maintenance to the damaged buildings. The Civic Center will receive $5,595.27 for plumbing repairs. Other repairs are needed to the courthouse annex building and probation office. The budget amendment was approved.

The court then approved payment of all bills, revenues and expenses, payroll and financial statements.

Fire Marshal Andy Endsley presents a request for approval of a contract for professional services between Hopkins County and MTG Engineers and Surveyors for DR-4416 Texas Severe Storms and Flooding under Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The contract would ensure the right generators and connections are purchased. Endsley shared that a generator has been sent off for repairs, and when the fire department receives it back, it will not be used on the frontlines in an emergency. The generator will be used as a backup to the two new generators being purchased.

The court then approved a renewal of contract with the American National Red Cross for a three year lease of the old Fidelity drive thru building to be utilized as their offices. The agreement is a continuation of the lease contract with the Red Cross.

The court was presented with a list of surplus police vehicles that are going to be auctioned off. Public notice was placed in the Saturday edition of the News-Telegram with a list of the available vehicles. The auction started May 5 and will end at 11 a.m. May 26. Inspection dates as well as times to physically view and inspect vehicles will be listed on the auction website or interested parties can call 903-572-4975.

To view and bid on items, please visit www.AuctioneerExpress.com