County to award grants

By Melinda L. Lucas

Shackelford County commissioners voted to move forward with the award process of a small federal coronavirus relief fund during their regular meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 13, delayed by one day because of the Columbus Day holiday.

The elected officials also heard an explanation of how the county could benefit from issuing new bonds for the Law Enforcement Center (LEC) at a lower interest rate.

Relief Grant

County judge Robert Skelton explained to the court that the county is eligible for a $56,000 grant through the CARES Act, based on population, but 75 percent of the money has to be used in a very specific application, leaving only about $11,000 that can be awarded to county-owned businesses outside the Albany and Moran city limits.

Extension agent Kloey Painter, who had helped Skelton and county treasurer Tammy Brown identify businesses with 10 or fewer employees, said that there are more than they had first thought.

“It’s not a lot of money,” said Skelton, “but it can be given to the business owners that apply for it.”

The commissioners set a Nov. 6 deadline, with applications available at shackelfordcounty.org or in Skelton’s office.

Bond Interest Rate

Steven Perry with D.A. Davidson explained the process of reissuing the bond for the LEC.

His calculations showed that there could be almost $800,000 in potential savings over the remaining 11 years at current lower interest rates.

The item was tabled until the next meeting.

Other Business

•A memorandum of understanding was approved to work with the Abilene Recovery Council.

•An engagement letter for Fullerton & Association to conduct the 2020 audit was approved at an estimated cost of $16,750.

•Commissioners okayed the receipt of a $5,000 grant to help pay for protective equipment for election workers.

•A quote from AT&T for faster county internet service was approved, which should be at less cost than the previous service.