Judge Brett Bray called the special meeting of the Blanco County Commissioners Court to order at 9 a.m. on April 28 with commissioners: Tommy Weir, Emil Ray Uecker, Chris Liesmann, and Paul Granberg present. The meeting was streamed via Zoom.
Public comments from Kenneth Welch were heard after the pledge. Welch addressed his comments that were not heard at the last meeting explaining that he was in support of the road and bridge grant application and is pleased that the contract was approved. Welch said his previous comments were mischaracterized by the court.
“I believe you are all honest. You honestly believe your decisions are the best for each situation. Since you believe absolutely in your decision making prowess, your integrity cannot be questioned. However, the processes you utilize to gather facts prior to decisions being made are flawed,” he said.
The court acknowledged the bond renewal for Candice Fry, chief appraiser, and for the payment of the bond. Weir moved to approve the bond for Patrick Fisher, Precinct 1 Constable, and for payment of the bond. Uecker seconded and it carried. The penalty amount is not to exceed $1,500.
Bray informed the others that “National Telecommunicators Week” took place April 12-18, but the proclamation was acknowledged at this time. This is in honor of the dispatchers who answer urgent calls and “whose diligence and professionalism keep our city and citizens safe.”
The court recognized and honored Martha Herden for her service as the mayor of Blanco from May 2017 until April 17, 2020.
“...the Blanco County Commissioners’ Court hereby recognizes Mayor Martha Herden as a Distinguished citizen of our county, and a patriot; and...Mayor Martha Herden is hereby designated to be a lifetime counselor, consultant, and ambassador to the Blanco County Commissioners’ Court.”
The 2019 financial audit for the Blanco County Emergency Services District No. 2 (ESD2) was accepted and approved.
The Blanco County Historical Commission (BCHC) submitted their annual report for the court to review. This report is given in person but the report was provided via email due to COVID-19.
The marker foundry was lost by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) therefore BCHC could not apply for markers. There is a new foundry now and THC is accepting applications at this time.
BCHC is actively working on a pictorial book for Blanco County. The commission is also assisting the Peyton Colony Heritage Association to regain the Old Lime Kiln from the State of Texas. In 2019, BCHC had three meetings with 21 appointees; 620 volunteer hours were recorded. The court moved to accept the report.
Liesmann moved to authorize Judge Bray to sign the Sheriff’s Association of Texas Master (SAT) Cooperative Purchasing Agreement; Granberg seconded and the motion carried. “SAT’s Vehicle Procurement Program (“VPP”) is a cooperative bid program where SAT solicits bids for vehicles to be purchased directly from vehicle vendors by unites of local government or political subdivisions, including, but not limited to municipalities and counties; local county boards of public instruction, and local public safety agencies or authorities…” reads the agreement.
The commissioners authorized the judge to sign the Burnet County Interlocal Agreement Amendment. The amendment will allow females to be housed in addition to males.
Parents have asked for permission to place signs around the courthouse grounds in recognition of the Johnson City ISD Class of 2020. Bray suggested Blanco ISD Class of 2020 have something similar at the Old Blanco County Courthouse grounds. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 a.m.
