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February 26, 2024 - Over the week of February 18th through 24th the Joaquin Volunteer Fire Department had 3 calls. Here’s a summary of the week’s events.
Friday at 12:12pm a call came in for a male involved in a ATV accident with a potential broken ankle. The JVFD med team responded to render aid before Allegiance EMS arrived to see to the patient. The ATV rider opted out of being transported by ambulance to a hospital.
Later on Friday at 3:15pm the JVFD received a call to help DeSoto Fire District 1 with a structure fire on Gum Street. At the time, DFD1 had another working structure fire on Day Road and requested Joaquin’s assistance with the Gum Street fire. The JVFD responded with a truck and extra man power.
Saturday at 1:33pm a call came in for a grass fire near a home on FM 139. The page also stated that the flames were traveling to other nearby properties. The combined efforts of the JVFD, Huxley VFD, and DFD1 were able to get the fire contained.
With that, this edition of the report will come to a close. The Joaquin Volunteer Fire Department hopes everyone has a great and safe week ahead.
February 25, 2024 - A Shelby County Grand Jury handed down 20 indictments on Monday, January 8, 2024. The grand jury was impaneled for the January 2024 term of the 123rd/273rd Judicial District Courts.
In addition, a previously sealed indictment of October 5, 2023, from the grand jury impaneled for the July 2023 term of the 123rd Judicial District Court was unsealed following the arrest of the individual, Kendell Mardis, on January 24, 2024, on the charge of murder, first degree felony. The indictment alleges on July 27, 2023, Kendell Mardis intentionally and knowingly caused the death of Camo Morton by shooting Morton in the head. (123rd Judicial District Court)
Ralph Charles Breen was indicted for injury to a child, elderly individual, or disabled individual, third degree felony. The indictment alleges, on August 23, 2023, Breen intentionally or knowingly caused bodily injury to a child 14 years of age or younger, by grabbing her around the neck. (273rd Judicial District Court)
Spencer Raysean Watts was indicted for obstruction or retaliation, third degree felony. The indictment alleges, on November 7, 2023, Watts intentionally or knowingly threatened to harm (Center Police Officer) [Donna] Ruppert by an unlawful act, namely criminal homicide, in retaliation for or on account of the service or status of Officer Ruppert as a public servant, namely, a peace officer. (123rd Judicial District Court)
Spencer Raysean Watts was indicted for obstruction or retaliation, third degree felony. The indictment alleges, on November 7, 2023, Watts intentionally or knowingly threatened to harm (Center Police Officer) [Luis] Acuna by an unlawful act, namely criminal homicide, in retaliation for or on account of the service or status of Officer Acuna as a public servant, namely, a peace officer. (123rd Judicial District Court)
Luis Alberto Escobedo was indicted for evading arrest in a motor vehicle, state jail felony. The indictment alleges, on October 3, 2023, Escobedo intentionally fled from Constable Taylor Fanguy, a person Escobedo knew was a peace officer who was attempting lawfully to arrest or detain Escobedo. (273rd Judicial District Court)
Andria Charmaine Hubbard was indicted for assault on a public servant, third degree felony. The indictment alleges, on November 1, 2023, Hubbard recklessly caused bodily injury to (Center Police Officer) Brandon Tyler by kicking him in the face, and Hubbard knew Tyler was a public servant lawfully discharging an official duty. Namely, trying to detain and arrest Hubbard. (273rd Judicial District Court)
Joseph Leon Parker was indicted for unlawful possession of firearm by felon, third degree felony. The indictment alleges, on September 14, 2023, having previously been convicted of the felony offense of theft in 2017, Parker intentionally and knowingly possessed a firearm following the fifth anniversary of Parker's release from confinement, in a location other than Parker's residence. Namely, on a public road. (123rd Judicial District Court)
Andria Charmaine Hubbard was indicted for assault on a public servant, third degree felony. The indictment alleges, on November 1, 2023, Hubbard recklessly caused bodily injury to (Center Police Officer) Brian Wright by kicking him in the leg. Hubbard allegedly knew Officer Wright was a public servant, namely a police officer with the Center Police Department, and that Officer Wright was lawfully discharging an official duty, namely in the process of detaining and arresting Hubbard. (273rd Judicial District Court)
Johnny Ray Taylor was indicted for evading arrest in a motor vehicle, state jail felony. The indictment alleges, on October 18, 2023, while using a vehicle Taylor fled from Sheriff's Deputy Jordan Ford and [Texas Department of Public Safety State] Trooper Dustin Ramos, persons Taylor knew were peace officers attempting to lawfully arrest or detain Taylor. (123rd Judicial District Court)
(Some of the following content contained within indictments is of a sensitive nature and may not be suitable for younger viewers.)
Keith Joseph Arnaud was indicted for online solicitation of a minor, third degree felony. The indictment alleges, on August 31, 2023, Arnaud being a person who 17 years of age or older and with the intent of committing the offense of indecency with a child, intentionally distributed over the internet or through a commercial online service sexually explicit material. Namely, a photograph of male genitals to a minor. (123rd Judicial District Court)
(Dates in parenthesis indicate the date of the alleged incident):
- Ricardo Laguna-Rodriguez, possession of a controlled substance PG1/1-B >=4G<200G (methamphetamine), second degree felony (October 11, 2023). (273rd Judicial District Court)
- Ricardo Laguna-Rodriguez, possession of a controlled substance PG1/1-B >=1G<4G (methamphetamine), third degree felony (October 11, 2023). (273rd Judicial District Court)
- Buddy Lee Bradshaw, possession of a controlled substance PG1/1-B <1G (methamphetamine), state jail felony (October 13, 2023). (273rd Judicial District Court)
- Denise Simone Garrett, possession of a controlled substance in Penalty Group 2 (PG2) (methamphetamine), state jail felony (June 17, 2023). (123rd Judicial District Court)
- Tiffany Consuela Barnes, possession of a controlled substance in Penalty Group 2 (PG2) (methamphetamine), state jail felony (November 9, 2023). (273rd Judicial District Court)
- Brandon K. Smith, possession of a controlled substance PG1/1-B <1G (methamphetamine), state jail felony (July 17, 2022). (123rd Judicial District Court)
- Frankie Lee Slaight, possession of a controlled substance PG1/1-B >=4G<200G (methamphetamine), second degree felony (November 12, 2023). (273rd Judicial District Court)
- Hollie Nichole Kulikowski, felony driving while intoxicated, third degree fellony (September 25, 2023). (123rd Judicial District Court)
- Donald Ray Harris, possession of a controlled substance PG1/1-B >=1G<4G (methamphetamine), third degree felony (September 13, 2023). (273rd Judicial District Court)
- Jose Luis Mendoza-Baylon, possession of a controlled substance PG1/1-B >=4G<200G (methamphetamine), second degree felony (November 12, 2023). (123rd Judicial District Court)
- Martell Benyard Moore, possession of a controlled substance PG1/1-B >=1G<4G (methamphetamine), third degree felony (October 6, 2023). (123rd Judicial District Court)
Indictments and Information are not a conviction, and are a matter of public record. All individuals are presumed innocent until found guilty in a court of law.
February 21, 2024 - (9:27am) - Timpson ISD was the location of a potential threat by a student on the morning of Wednesday, February 21, 2024.
According to a Timpson ISD social media post, “For the purpose of transparency, Timpson ISD is announcing that school officials were informed of a student who had made potential threats this morning. TISD worked with local law enforcement to ensure that all of our campuses were safe. Timpson ISD would like to thank local law enforcement and school officials who work to make sure that our schools are safe.”
(Update): Shelby County Constables joined together and addressed the concern once it was brought to their attention. Josh Tipton, Constable Precinct 5, states he received a phone call around 8:30pm Tuesday, February 20, from a concerned parent in the Timpson ISD school district regarding their child's conversation with another student about a third student.
Once Constable Tipton read the contents of the messages shared with him by parents, it was determined further investigation was necessary to determine the credibility of the allegations.
Assistance was requested by Constable Tipton in that of Constable Taylor Fanguy, Constable Roy Cheatwood, and Constable Jamie Hagler. Together, the constables interviewed the parents and student from whom the messages were first reported, and after that the constables then spoke with the parents and another student that had text information on the same conversations which included threatening comments of harm. Additional information relating to the suspect student’s recent behavior and activity was also learned.
After the constables had spoken with the previously mentioned parties, they returned to the Precinct 5 Constable office and debriefed one another on the information which had been learned up to that point at 1am.
Constable Tipton says District Attorney Karren Price and County Attorney John Price were notified and updated throughout the investigation during Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning.
The constables were at Timpson ISD staged at the middle school by approximately 6:30am Wednesday morning awaiting the arrival of the student. At that time Superintendent Mid Johnson was staged at the High School, while Timpson ISD Police Chief Harold Rapsilver was in the vicinity of the elementary school and event center. According to Constable Tipton, Middle School Principal Chris Nickleberry identified the student to constables when the student arrived.
“Constables made contact with the student as they were exiting the vehicle, and escorted the student to an isolated area, separating the student and their backpack,” said Constable Tipton. “At which time, the school police chief was notified and superintendent of the school was notified.”
No weapon was found and the student was then turned over to Timpson ISD after deemed safe. Juvenile Probation was contacted and took custody of the student.
“A big thank you to the students, see something, say something,” said Constable Tipton. “The constables of this county are committed to the safety of our children and our schools.”
Constable Tipton said this was a group effort of county and school officials working together for the safety of the community at all hours.
He thanked the constables, Justices of the Peace Donna Hughes and Tracy Broadway, school officials Mid Johnson, Chris Nickleberry, Chief Harold Rapsilver, and Juvenile Probation.
“It was a big group effort, late, late at night. We’re talking about 1, 2 o’clock in the morning, county elected officials up in the middle of the night all pulling together for the good of our kids,” said Constable Tipton.
Constable Tipton encouraged vigilance in the community and by the students in being aware of even the smallest of concerns.
“No matter how small they think it is, they still need to tell their parents and their parents can make that decision to at least call us and make us aware,” said Constable Tipton.
He encouraged parents to please let their children understand how serious things kids say must be taken.
February 23, 2024 - The Shelby County Commissioners agreed on a plan to close a road for repairs, and also discussed during their Wednesday, February 21, 2024, meeting a desire for constables to turn in racial profiling reports.
Ann Blackwell, County Treasurer, explained details of some items included in the weekly expenses relating to Paxton Water Supply and funds meant for law enforcement.
“We took care of a couple more bills for the Jackson Well, the Paxton Water Supply, so that just leaves the fence and we will be completed with that project,” said Ann Blackwell, County Treasurer. “Every year the law enforcement gets LEOs grant money and it all comes direct deposit to the general fund account. So, I always write a check back to the Sheriff's Department to put in their education fund so they can track it separately.”
County Judge Allison Harbison confirmed the vehicle for Constable Taylor Fanguy has been purchased.
“The time frame is so long to get it outfitted. We just went ahead and purchased the vehicle, and then whenever the parts, everything to outfit it comes in to Cab Fleet, they're going to ship it to us and Del [Birdwell]’s going to install,” said Blackwell.
Commissioner Stevie Smith moved to pay the weekly expenses, the motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Bellmyer, and the motion carried.
The commissioners discussed a road closure on County Road 4059 from FM 1645 to County Road 4020 for the purpose of removing a culvert and building a bridge. Commissioner Bellmyer addressed the court and expects the project to take a minimum of two weeks.
“12, 13 years ago from what I understand, there used to be a bridge there and the oil field came in about that time and added some oil field locations beyond this and they tore the bridge out and put this culvert in and like all of the large diameter culverts that are galvanized, it's rusted away and the bottom's collapsing in it and it's... it's got a lot of truck traffic over right now,” said Commissioner Bellmyer.
Commissioner Bellmyer shared he didn't really want to change the culvert and it's not been on his current schedule, but after the rains that Shelby County had the last couple of weeks it's deteriorated quickly.
According to Bellmyer, Sanders Creek Bridge Construction will be able to mobilize week after next, and the commissioner and his crew will take next week starting February 26 and actually perform the demolition and pre work
Commissioner Bellmyer said he would be informing the United State Postal Service mail delivery and Timpson ISD for any adjustments they may need to make for student transport.
Commissioner Bellmyer moved to make the community aware of the fact that they’re going to close that road between those two locations as aforementioned and will keep the community and the court addressed of the delay if there is one, the motion was seconded by Commissioner Jimmy Lout and it carried.
Bellmyer then presented his interest in the purchase of a truck, referencing Local Government Code 262.0225, subsection D and Local Government Code 262.0245.
Referencing previous approval from the court to purchase a truck, Bellmyer stated he and Treasurer Blackwell utilized the buyboard, found a vehicle he wanted to buy, and it resulted in a possible truck that wasn’t even the kind he wanted with a nine-month delivery time.
“I went to the four local dealerships in Shelby County. The two GM dealerships, the GMC and the Chevrolet dealership, both declined to submit a quote on the truck because neither one of them can sell that truck. It's a 4500 series or with Ford it’s a 450 series,” said Bellmyer.
Commissioner Bellmyer said he did get two quotes from the local Ford dealership, and one quote from the local Dodge dealership.
“The reason that I cited this out of the local government codes. It's pretty clear from the code that if you have done your due diligence and get no responses back then we can go sort of the route that I've gone that we can go to a sole source,” said Commissioner Bellmyer.
He related that the Ford dealership bid the truck he requested, and also had a truck on their lot that was a 2023 550 model. Bellmyer understood the 550 to be a savings over the 450 model.
“I think the ARPA funds is somewhat difficult to deal with because I don't know that they really identify this process that I'm proposing, even though the state of Texas does,” said Bellmyer. “So, instead of using ARPA funds what I'm going to ask the court is that I just go out and borrow the money and buy the truck myself.”
Blackwell described some of the complicated sounding process involving all of the necessary paperwork and did say there was a meeting set with the GrantWorks agent in the coming week, but that he could do what he wants to do.
Bellmyer referenced that there have been other projects that it seemed fell by the wayside, like Huber Water Well, and then that the truck isn’t in one piece as after buying the chassis then he would need to buy the bed for the truck.
“I don't have a problem personally with the precinct just going to buy a truck because then I can buy a truck and I can get the bed that I want done,” said Bellmyer. “I can do some things and then figure out how much money I've spent and then I'll go out and borrow the money and take it out on one of my accounts.”
Discussion continued on what options are available for purchasing the truck and a motion was made by Commissioner Bellmyer to table the discussion and the motion was seconded by Commissioner Stevie, and the motion carried.
The commissioners were presented with a racial profiling report for the Constable Precinct 4 office and that turned into a discussion over whether or not all constables in the county should be turning the same report in to the county.
Commissioner Bellmyer started off the discussion with his inquiry, “I have just a question. I know last week we got a racial profiling report from the [Sheriff’s Office] and I know in the past that Constable from precinct four has done, and I know with some history about Tenaha, is that the only constable that's required to do racial profiling reports?”
Judge Harbison remarked that was a good question, and Bellmyer stated he didn't recall that he’s seen others from law enforcement.
District Attorney Karren Price happened to be in the courtroom and Judge Harbison asked for her opinion relating to Bellmyer’s question about racial profiling reports.
“They're all supposed to,” said Price.
Bellmyer further stated, “As a member of the court, I'd like to see a racial profile and report from our other constables within the next 30 days, if that's a request that could be made.”
Price stated her racial profiling report is filed with the Attorney General's office, and it is on file.
“I don't know about that, that’s a county attorney question I’m afraid, but yeah, they’re all supposed to file one,” said Price.
John Price, County Attorney, concurred with DA Price’s statement.
Ruth Gonzales, Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy, followed up with additional information about racial profiling reports.
“I just want to say by state requirements, all departments, law enforcement departments are supposed to file before March 1st, I believe,” said Gonzales. “These guys (constables) only have, they can file exempt, and they can present that to y'all, which that's what I'm aware of that they file exempt and they just say they don't work traffic and that's all they have to do.”
Judge Harbison said they still need to file that exempt report and she and CA Price would reach out to the constables.
Commissioner Bellmyer moved to approve the Constable Precinct 4 racial profiling report, the motion was seconded by Commissioner Roscoe McSwain, and the motion carried.
The commissioners discussed the emergency lighting for the county courthouse that was not included in the original quote for lighting in the courthouse, which was recently replaced.
“This was evidently left off of 4C, but the the lighting in the stairwells is out and I think those are supposed to be replaced every couple of years,” said Judge Harbison. “I didn't realize that they were all totally out until the electricity was out here while back, and it is dark.”
Judge Harbison said there were plans to add new lights to the foyer of the courthouse; however, the new lighting has already improved that area greatly.
According to Judge Harbison, the quote that’s been provided for the emergency lighting is $11,928.
Clint Porterfield, County Auditor, had a question relating to pricing, “This is a question from curiosity, this quote is 52% of the original quote, which was $23,000. The original quote of $23,000 replaced 224 fixtures, which is an average of about $120. This is only 17 fixtures for 52% of that same amount, which is almost a little over $700 a fixture. Do we know why?”
Judge Harbison agreed that she was very surprised by the cost when she received the quote on the previous week. She recommended tabling the item for more information.
A motion by Commissioner McSwain to table the issue was seconded by Commissioner Jimmy Lout, and the motion carried.
The meeting was adjourned.
Agenda items approved during the meeting include: 1. Pay weekly expenses. 2. Closure of CR 4059 for repairs starting Monday Feb 26, 2024. 3. Record Racial Profiling Report for Shelby County Constable. Pct 4. 4. Adjourn Agenda items tabled during the meeting include: 1. Commissioner Pct 4 to discuss the purchase of a truck, referencing Local Government Code 262.0225, subsection D and Local Government Code 262.0245. 2. Discuss and possibly approve additional and emergency lighting for the County Courthouse that was not included in the original quote.
February 23, 2024 - The City of Tenaha currently has three positions on the ballot in the upcoming May 4, 2024 election. On the ballot will be Mayor and two city council positions.
Notice of Drawing for a Place on Ballot
Notice is hereby given of a drawing to determine the order in which the names of candidates are to be printed on the ballot for the election to be held on May 4, 2024 in Tenaha, Texas. The drawing will be held at 2pm on February 26, 2024, at 238 North George Bowers Drive, Council Room, Tenaha, Texas.
Aviso Del Sorteo Para un Lugar en el Boleta
Por lo presente se da aviso que habrá un sorteo para determinar la orden en que aparecerán los nombres de los candidatos en la boleta para la elección que se celebrará el 4 de mayo de 2024 en Tenaha, Texas. El sorteo tendrá lugar a las 2pm el 26 de febrero de 2024 a 238 North George Bowers Drive, Council Room, Tenaha, Texas.
February 22, 2024 - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Troopers investigated a crash on State Highway 87, near County Road 4009, that occurred Wednesday, February 21, 2024.
Preliminary crash investigation indicates that at approximately 7:20am, a 2023 Hyundai Elantra driven by Jada Davis, 18, of Timpson was traveling northwest. It is reported that Davis failed to drive in a single lane to the right and then back to the left, causing her to lose control and travel into the south ditch where she struck multiple trees.
Davis was transported to Nacogdoches Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Her passenger Jordan Davis, 18, was also transported to Nacogdoches Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
There is no further information available.
February 20, 2024 - Early voting in the 2024 March 5th Primary Elections began Tuesday at the Center Community House, 423 San Augustine Street, Center, Texas 75935. Early voting hours of operation are as follows:
- Tuesday, February 20 through Friday, February 23, 8am to 5pm
- Saturday, February 24, 7am to 7pm
- Sunday, February 25, 11am to 5pm
- Monday, February 26 through Friday, March 1, 7am to 7pm
Sample ballots and links to polling locations are below.
Republican Sample Ballots are below: (Click each precinct to see the ballots for each area)
- Precinct 1 N (Center)
- Precinct 1 SE (Center)
- Precinct 1 S (Center)
- Precinct 1 SW (Center)
- Precinct 1 W (Center)
- Precinct 2 (Excelsior)
- Precinct 3 (Sardis)
- Precinct 4 (Huxley)
- Precinct 5 (Joaquin)
- Precinct 6 (Dreka)
- Precinct 7 (Shelbyville)
- Precinct 8 (Tenaha)
- Precinct 9N (Timpson)
- Precinct 9S (Timpson)
Democratic Sample Ballot: (All precinct ballots are the same)
February 20, 2024 - The Shelby County Commissioners discussed several issues during their February 14, 2024 meeting and following their executive session announced the retirement of the assistant auditor and the 911 administrator.
Earlier in the meeting Ann Blackwell, County Treasurer discussed the weekly expenses with the commissioners.
Blackwell reported the down payment on the pugmill recently approved by the commissioners has been sent and the availability for the pugmill is now 20 weeks.
Commissioner Steve Smith moved to approve the weekly expenses and the motion was seconded by Commissioner Tom Bellmyer, the motion carried.
The commissioners omitted from the weekly expenses the bill relating to item 12 on the agenda, a bill from 96 Equipment for $11,500.
Blackwell gave the Officers’ report and Commissioner Tom Bellmyer moved to approve the officers report and journal entries, the motion was seconded by Commissioner Smith and the motion carried.
Constable Taylor Fanguy updated the court on the status of the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe he is meant to receive. He reported the dealership in Caldwell where the vehicle is coming from has had it since last July and they couldn’t yet give him a solid date on delivery of the vehicle.
“We got them to basically separate the invoice, the dealership’s going to invoice us for the car, I’ve got the parts ordered and they’ll invoice us whenever those get in,” said Fanguy. “Del [Birdwell]’s gonna outfit it, or install everything.”
The commissioners reviewed a revised Investment Policy for Shelby County and Treasurer Blackwell gave them an explanation of the policy.
“I re-wrote this about four years ago, but I got some good information from my conference that I went to in November, my investment conference that gave me a resource to update this and just make it more up to date as far as how it’s written,” said Blackwell. “So, it basically has the same things that the other one had, only just a little bit more language in it.”
A motion was made by Commissioner Bellmyer to approve the Investment Policy for Shelby County and was seconded by Commissioner Jimmy Lout, the motion carried.
A motion by Commissioner Bellmyer to approve a resolution to designate the County Investment Officer for Shelby County and continue with the County Treasurer as the designated individual, the motion was seconded by Commissioner Smith, and the motion carried.
Commissioner Lout moved to acknowledge and record County Treasurer Certificate of Compliance with County Treasurer Continuing Education for 2023, and the motion was seconded by Commissioner Stevie Smith, the motion carried.
Commissioner Lout moved to acknowledge and record County Treasurer Certificate of Compliance with Continuing Education for County Investment Officer for 2023, and the motion was seconded by Commissioner Smith, the motion carried.
The commissioners considered the purchase of a 2014 shop built tank trailer for Road and Bridge Pct. 2 being paid from Fixed Assets.
Commissioner Lout moved to pay for the purchase out of fixed assets in the amount of $11,500 and the motion was seconded by Commissioner Smith, the motion carried.
The commissioners discussed a FY2024 line-Item transfer for the Emergency Watershed Protection Program payment. Commissioner Smith stated an issue that has come up as a result of the project in dealing with the phone company.
“In my opinion the project’s not complete and I’m not in favor of paying this, our share of this money right now,” said Smith.
According to Commissioner Smith, a phone line was destroyed by a trackhoe when the project began and this particular phone line runs between chicken houses and the owner’s home, which impacts the ability of the computers in the chicken house from communicating in the event of an emergency.
“I told them when they tore it up, ‘it’s going to have to be buried like it was when they got there,’” said Smith. “The first time they come out they just looped it through the pasture.”
Commissioner Smith described the phone line has been wrapped around fencing and has just been left laying in a ditch, contrary to his request for it be buried where it originally had been. He contends the project isn’t complete, in his opinion, until the phone line is back in the ground.
A motion by Commissioner Tom Bellmyer to go ahead and make the line-item transfer to get the funds ($906,038) in a single location while they work the background to get the phone line fixed until the 30 days come up and then they make a decision then, Commissioner Lout seconded the motion and the motion carried.
Commissioner Smith moved to record the Racial Profiling report for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and it was seconded by Commissioner Bellmyer and the motion carried.
Eric Garrett, President of Paxton Water Corporation updated the court on Jackson Well Project and invited everyone to the official opening of the facility. (Related article: Paxton Water Supply Celebrates Completion of Well Project.)
The meeting then adjourned into executive session and once it returned to open session, the commissioners presented two items that were discussed in executive session.
Commissioner Bellmyer stated there was discussion about two positions up for retirement including the assistant auditor and the 911 administrator for addressing. Both positions will be advertised.
No action was taken as none was necessary.
The meeting was then adjourned.
Officers reports for the month of January as presented by Ann Blackwell, County Treasurer:
Fees for the month of January 2024
Officers reports for the month of January 2024 as presented by Ann Blackwell, County Treasurer:
Debora Riley, Tax Assessor Collector - Property: $3,335,224.39; Motor Vehicle: $120,354.92; Total: $3,455,579.31
Jennifer Fountain, County Clerk - $32,301.76
Lori Oliver, District Clerk - $10,782.01
Donna Hughes, JP1 - $16,788.20
Marla Denby, JP2 - $861
Melba Rodgers, JP3 - $2,828.00
Dee Dee Green, JP4 - $3,282.60
Tracy Broadway, JP5 - $4,158.95
Zack Warr, Constable 1 - $880
Taylor Fanguy, Constable 4 - $260
Sheriff’s Fees - $4,686.80
Total of $3,532,858.63
Total investments of $19,190,696.73
Total interest earned on investments of $82,585.53
Agenda items approved during the meeting include:
1. Minutes of January 3, 2024 Special meeting, January 10, 2024 Regular meeting, January 17, 2024 Special meeting, January 24, 2024 Special meeting, January 31, 2024 Special meeting of the Shelby County Commissioner’s Court.
2. Pay weekly expenses.
3. Pay current Payroll.
4. Officers Report.
5. Revised Investment Policy for Shelby County.
6. Adopt Resolution of Annual Review of Investment Policy for Shelby County.
7. Adopt Resolution to designate County Investment Officer
8. Acknowledge and record County Treasurer Certificate of Compliance with County Treasurer Continuing Education for 2023
9. Acknowledge and record County Treasurer Certificate of Compliance with Continuing Education for County Investment Officer for 2023.
10. Purchase of a 2014 Shop Built Tank Trailer for Road and Bridge Pct 2 being paid out of Fixed Assets.
11. FY2024 Line-Item transfer for the Emergency Watershed Protection Program payment.
12. Record Racial Profiling report for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.
13. Adjourn.
February 19, 2024 - Josh Tipton, Constable Precinct 5, reports the discovery of illegal dumping sites in the north end of Shelby County, and the arrest of the alleged individual responsible by Shelby County Constables on February 13, 2024.
According to Constable Tipton, around eight months ago an investigation began into illegal tire dumping in the northern part of Shelby County, and he reached out to Constable Taylor Fanguy and Constable Roy Cheatwood to assist.
During that time, TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality) was contacted and they traveled with the constables to the dump sites; however, no action was yet taken by the agency.
A month previous to this report, more complaints were being received and as constables deepened their investigation they discovered two dump sites in remote areas that were much larger than those originally found.
Two more representatives of TCEQ were contacted and they reviewed the newly discovered dump locations and the constables then opened their own investigation into the illegal dumping.
Constables gained permission to access the property of residents in the area of the dump sites. They then gained statements from several individuals about the illegal dumping and as a result learned the name of their suspect, where he was from and what he was doing to collect so many tires.
The suspect is alleged to be picking up old tires, for a small fee, from tire stores and instead of transporting them to a recycling plant he was then dumping them in Shelby County instead of paying a fee at a recycling plant.
Constable Tipton advises that any kind of commercial dumping such as tires or hazardous material is illegal, and anything for commercial use dumped and in a quantity of over 200 pounds is a felony. Even more egregious is dumping near waterways and residential areas as those kinds of materials need to be taken to a TCEQ qualified facility for appropriate disposal.
Constables established surveillance late one night, and the suspect didn’t arrive. On the following day as the officers were preparing for surveillance at another location, the suspect was observed at a tire store in Timpson.
The constables set up at strategic location so as not to be observed by the suspect, and another individual covertly followed him while reporting to the officers of his location. Once at an advantageous location, a traffic stop by the constables was initiated of the suspect, who was hauling a large load of tires.
Constable Tipton states that during a roadside interview of the driver, he admitted to the illegal tire dumping and indicated the dump sites. The constables arrested Paul Sanders, 60, of Jacksonville on a warrant out of Rusk County for theft, misdemeanor b.
TCEQ was notified of the arrest, and Constable Tipton reports further interview of Sanders was conducted by constables and TCEQ.
Additional charges are pending at a later date.
It’s been determined that tires were being brought to Shelby County from Henderson, Jacksonville, as well as Carthage and dumped. Constables, TCEQ and other agencies are in discussion as to how to clean up the large quantity of tires.
February 16, 2024 - Paxton Water Supply Corporation (PWSC) and county officials gathered with community members on Friday, February 16, 2024, in celebration of the completion of the new PWSC well.
Eric Garrett, President of Paxton Water Supply Corporation, thanked everyone for attending the event and said how grateful and appreciative Paxton Water is for all that the county has done.
“Everybody that's been involved in this project, it’s taken a whole lot longer than I thought it would, and we're not there yet but we're well underway and we wouldn't be anywhere if it were not for all of you,” said Garrett.
Garrett said no one needs to look back any further than the emergency freeze that affected our entire surrounding area, and caused a freshwater supply nightmare, to realize just how important water is to everyone.
He had a customer state during the time the water supply was so badly impacted, “I'd give $100 a month right now just to be able to turn the tap on and water come out,” said Garrett. “And so, here in Texas we rely on water as much as any other state does, maybe more than other states. Our economy, our agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, all of that requires a good stable water supply.”
He commented how much the poultry industry is reliant on the stable supply of fresh water, and how the community came together during the unbelievably difficult time they all had without water.
“Thankfully a lot of neighbors came together to do their best to get us back up and running. I won't even go there, that was a whole other subject. But to mitigate the impact on our corner of Shelby County,” said Garrett.
Garrett was profoundly appreciative to all the assistance received from so many people and public entities in dealing with the water problem, he was hopeful he wouldn’t forget thanking anyone.
“Let me talk to you first about our precinct three commissioner Stevie Smith who along with the Commissioners Court and Judge Harbison authored the idea of drilling a well to mitigate future emergencies to our water supply,” said Garrett. “Stevie's put in a lot of time apart and aside from Commissioners Court work not just in planning, but also in executing what is taking place here.”
Garrett continued by thanking other representatives of the county for all of their assistance in bringing the project to fruition, “To all of our commissioners, Mr. Lout, Mr. McSwain, Mr. Bellmyer, without all of your support, it would have never got off the ground. The kindness that the court has shown to me every time I've come to be with you, you always made me feel welcome and appreciated. Your words were always encouraging and you've backed up your words with your actions. And I thank you for that.”
Garrett said that every PWSC customer owes a great deal of appreciation for the support that has been received in making the project happen.
“To our Judge Harbison, I wanna say how much I appreciate your willingness,” said Garrett. “Thank you for being here, Judge, for putting the interest of your constituents above business as usual.”
Garrett said Judge Harbison recognized early on clean water is at the top of the list of importance in Shelby County.
He elaborated on the help provided by County Treasurer Ann Blackwell who has handled all of the financial details, while also putting up with Garrett’s hectic schedule as pastor and working with Paxton Water Supply.
“She allowed me the leeway of operating in both of those capacities, even though I was often late getting too her what she really needed,” said Garrett.
Clint Porterfield, County Auditor, was also a recipient of Garrett’s gratitude for helping to shed light on an opportunity for the county to assist Paxton.
“Thank you for stepping up on that fateful day. I never will forget when the idea was broached. The subject of money come up,” said Garrett, “Mr. Porterfield stood up and said, ‘not only can we do this, this is how we can do this.’”
To County Attorney John Price Garrett was thankful for his tolerance of Garrett’s request and granting guidance in the process.
The Oates family was intrinsic to the success of the PWSC project and Garrett said how much they appreciate the Oates for donating family land to drill the well on. Although the family had already provided the land, when the state required even more, the Oates family supplied the difference to help the project move forward.
He especially thanked Stacy and Blake Cranford with 5C Utility for all the hard work they put into the project, and he said the Cranford’s are a tremendous help to Paxton Water.
The board of directors for PWSC received Garrett’s appreciation including Jim Boland, who recently resigned following many years with PWSC; Jimmy Hamilton; Becky Barker, board secretary; and Harold Irish.
“I just want to say thank all of you for your support, for your encouragement over the past year in putting all this together,” said Garrett.
Judge Allison Harbison shared a few words on the journey from the project’s inception until its completion, “Whenever we were contacted that we were going to be getting some funds from the ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act), this is the kind of thing that I wanted to see happen. I wanted to see rural Texas, rural Shelby County be able to benefit from these tax dollars that are given. So, I am so excited, I'm so excited we got this off the ground, and I know it was painful but it was needed. The people in this part of the county deserve to have water and nothing pointed that out more than two Christmases ago when we had the big freeze in the middle of the holidays and it was such a sad thing, and everybody working together, this is what can happen when everybody works together for the benefit of people, hard hardworking people that need help.”
Judge Harbison introduced Luciana Barr, Emergency Management Coordinator, and representatives with Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) Seth Shrell, and Jon Clingaman, Jr. (Regional Director).
“They did trial by fire when they came over and helped with that,” said Judge Harbison. “So, I have my Emergency Management Coordinator, Ms. Luciana Barr, who lives in this area of the woods and then Seth Shrell, who is our (TDEM) county liaison, he hit the ground running. He was not even on the payroll when he stepped in and helped with that disaster. And then of course, Jon Clingaman, Jr. our Regional Director, and we are here to help the community.”
Garrett and Shelby County Commissioners then gathered at the water valve and ceremoniously turned the water on, after which Garrett opened a valve to show the water running.
The event was concluded with a prayer led by Garrett.
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