County receives $27,422 in Capital Credits

By Melinda L. Lucas

Shackelford County commissioners discussed how to distribute $27,422 in Capital Credits recently awarded to the county, but tabled the issue with the intention of making a decision at the next meeting.

The funds, which accumulate as part of unclaimed property reported to the state by electric cooperatives, were requested by the county earlier this year. County judge Robert Skelton stated that the amount was more than usual.

There are strict guidelines on how to use the money, including for certain kinds of economic development and promoting specific programs like literacy and children’s advocacy centers.

The officials talked about several options and ways to divide the money, but ultimately decided to put it on the next agenda.

Border Issue

Commissioners voted to approve the signing of a local disaster declaration by Judge Skelton regarding the impact of the Texas-Mexico border crisis.

“I spoke with fellow judges last week, and the counties that have adopted the resolution felt that their areas had been impacted and wanted to make a statement,” said Skelton.

After the motion passed, Skelton signed the declaration, which was then ratified by the court in a separate motion.

Although county sheriff Ed Miller was not present at Tuesday’s meeting, he has commented during previous sessions that Shackelford County has seen an increase in drug traffic and arrests of undocumented immigrants over the last couple of years.

Other Business

•The burn ban was extended to Nov. 25.

•A change order for the parking lot project passed, allowing rental of a vibrating roller.

•A registration letter for the federal System Awards Management (SAM) was approved.