VARIOUS ISSUES DISCUSSED AT MARCH COUNTY MEETINGS

The County Commissioners discussed a fairly wide variety of issues at their regular meeting on Monday morning, March 9 and their special meeting on Monday morning, March 16.
On March 9, the commissioners voted to name Rose Benavidez as director for the Rio South Texas Economic Council.
County Judge Eloy Vera explained, “The purpose is to promote this region to attract large businesses. We did agree to become members. Rose Benavidez made a presentation supporting this organization. I suggest we name Ms. Benavidez to serve as director.”
Federal/State Programs Coordinator Rafael Montalvo declared about the 2007 ORCA Project, “We’re waiting for the state to allow the drawdown to begin.” He added, “We sent out the application for the Renewable Energy Project.”
The commissioners were told that International Bridge revenues for February 2009 totaled $214,160, an increase of $19,310 from the February 2008 figure of $194,850. The February 2009 total showed a decrease of $11,744.50 from the January 2009 amount of $225,904.50.
At the March 16 special meeting, County Tax Assessor/Collector Carmen A. Pena explained about the February 2009 report, “The revenues not going to the county are going to the hospital and STC (South Texas College).”
Judge Vera commented, “The adjustments make the collection rate seem higher than it actually is. This is not reflected in the original budget. The appraisers say that can’t be avoided. The delinquent attorneys don’t come into the picture until taxes are not paid.”
After brief discussion, the commissioners rejected a resolution to submit an application to the Office of Rural Community Affairs (ORCA) for Colonia Planning.
Montalvo explained, “It looks like the most we can get is $15,000 because not enough people will benefit. This involves a subdivision in Escobares. I question whether we should apply. The $15,000 will not make a dent in what we need.” The commissioners then approved a motion rejecting the application.”
The commissioners approved the Election Equipment Lease/Rental Fee. Montalvo, who is also Elections Administrator, indicated, “It looks like the only election (in May) will be in Grulla. It looks like Escobares and the hospital will cancel.”