Grant to cover juvenile’s costs

By Melinda L. Lucas

At a Dec. 27 meeting, Shackelford County commissioners heard an update from 259th Judicial District chief probation officer Jon Cooke about the possible need for additional funding to pay housing of a local juvenile placed in Hayes County.

Cooke reported that a $25,000 grant had been approved from his region for the juvenile’s continued care, which should be enough support until April 2022. 

Additional funding from Shackelford County may be required later in the year, but the item was tabled for now.

Redistricting Plan

Commissioners approved the final order in the process of redistricting the precincts in order to “equalize” populations within the four areas. 

The new plan, which was proposed in November, will go into effect for the 2022 primary election.

Other Business

•A proposal to “buy out” a Konica Minolta contract in the amount of $1,454 was approved.

•Several agenda items were tabled, including action on a lease or purchase of a sheriff’s department fleet vehicle, a discussion of fee changes to board prisoners in the Shackelford County Jail, and replacement of four multiport switches for improved security and management.

•The treasurer’s report for November 2021 was approved.

•Commissioner Lanham Martin reported that since the Landreth Dam bridge continues to be closed after it was damaged by a truck, there is more traffic on county roads in that area as people take alternate routes.

•County judge Robert Skelton reported that he had received by mail a signed contract from Ramon Morales dated Dec. 14 for work on the CR 179 (Caldwell) bridge, but then he received another letter a few days later indicating that Morales wanted to cancel the contract. There was no action.