MARGE K ACIR Contributing Writer
DeWitt County Commissioners Court addressed emergency preparedness during a meeting Monday, Oct. 13.
A contract with Everbridge Inc. was approved for alerts to the public during an emergency, and De-Witt County took possession of equipment for use by law enforcement that was received through a grant through Golden Crescent Regional Planning Commission.
Also, an agreement with Thompson Safety LLC was approved for fire alarm monitoring in county buildings.
A proposal from Motorola Solutions, Inc to expand the radio system used by law enforcement and first responders was approved. The system will continue to service the VHF radios currently in use and will increase the available frequency to 700/800 megahertz. It will connect to a system in Harris County and interface with surrounding counties to improve communication during emergencies such as fires, traffic accidents, criminal activity, and weather events.
Blair Duran, executive secretary to Judge Daryl Fowler has completed a basic training course from FEMA National Disaster & Emergency Management University. She will be able to assist Judge Fowler as the Public Information Officer and Billy Jordan, Emergency Management Coordinator, during emergency situations.
In other business, the Court approved an agreement with Gonzales County for cost sharing of legislative consulting services and nominated Precinct #2 Commissioner James Pilchiek to serve on the DeWitt County Appraisal District board of directors for a 2-year term.
A public hearing on the placement of two 4-way stop signs at Lynch and Lane Streets and Lynch and Proctor Streets in Westhoff was scheduled for Monday, Oct. 27, at 9 a.m. Lynch is the street that runs in front of the Westhoff School. Lane and Proctor Streets are between the school and US Hwy 87.
Insurance coverage for crime, auto, physical damage, auto liability, general liability, public official’s liability, and law enforcement liability was renewed.
The Sheriff’s Office was authorized to use funds that were seized during criminal activity to supplement the budgeted amount to purchase an RTV.
Precinct #1 Commissioner was authorized to trade in a wheel loader on the purchase of a new one, requiring a budget amendment, and the auditor was authorized to advertise for a new ¾ ton pickup truck for Precinct #1.
County auditor Neomi Williams reported on multiple audits her office has performed on various departments, offices, and entities that receive county funding. She noted any irregularities or discrepancies that were found and the steps that were taken to correct them.
