Sunday, Dec 2, 2012
Garza County News

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County Commissioners Hear Explanation of State Grant

Victims' Assistance Advocate funding accepted

Published Sept. 29, 2011 @ 8:49 p.m.

In the regularly scheduled Commissioners’ Court meeting Sept. 26 Elena Quintanilla of SPAG was invited to explain to the court details of the Victims of Crime Advocate grant.  This state grant helps with the funding of a Victims’ Assistance Advocate for Garza and Dickens County.  The Victims’ Advocate is responsible for assisting victims of criminal activity including being present when a victim needs to talk; helping with the completion of appropriate paperwork; helping a victim understand the judicial process and assisting the victim recover money lost as the result of a crime.  Quintanilla explained that 75% of the grant funding is for crisis intervention; 10% for coordination between agencies and 15% for protective order assistance.  The county was awarded the VOCA grant for $39,172 with the county matching $11,723 including in-kind services. 

Chris Atkinson, of the Community Recover Center informed the court that a position that he is trying to fill may also serve as the Victims’ Assistance Advocate. Quintanilla recommends that the service be contracted out rather than have the responsibilities handled by a county employee.  An Interlocal agreement must be executed between the county and a contracting agency.  Commissioner Brannon expressed his concern that the county accurately comply with the grant so there are no repercussions later.

The commissioners voted to accept the VOCA grant and to proceed with the process of contracting with the Community Recovery Center to operate the service. 

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Contract was considered and approved by the commissioners.  This non-financial contract is required in order to allow Childrens’ Protective Services staff to share information that is needed for the county’s continued support of foster children.

An application for assistance for rent and a water bill was approved in the amount of $230 pending the applicant’s presentation of a medical disability statement.

Judge Norman spoke about improving communication between the Emergency Management Coordinator and the commissioners when it comes to emergency situations. He also displayed an award from the Community Recovery Center recognizing Garza County for its support.

Minutes from the September 8 special meeting, the September 12 regular meeting and the September 16 special meeting were approved as presented. 

The following items of information were brought before the Court as a written report or for discussion:  Treasurer; Budget Analysis; Justice of the Peace, 1; AgriLife Extension/Jones; AgriLife Extension/McDonald.

Precinct and countywide accounts payable for September 13 through September 26 were approved as presented.  The 2011-2013 District and County Clerk’s fee schedules were approved as presented with no changes.  Three line item transfers and one budget amendment were approved.

The next County Commissioners' meeting is reset for Wednesday, Oct. 12.

 

 

 

 

 

 
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