In the Monday meeting of Kerr County commissioners, a series of significant decisions and approvals took place. The final contract with JK Bernhard for the construction of the new Kerr County Animal Services Facility was formally approved. This facility, approved by voters in November 2022, came in at just over $5 million, a figure exceeding the approved bond amount.

Key Moments and Decisions

Animal Services Facility Construction

County Judge Rob Kelly expressed relief upon reading the agenda item. Pct. 3 Commissioner Jonathan Letz, the liaison to the animal services department, played a leading role in planning and negotiating the contract. He noted that while the final cost was more than the bond amount, funds for furnishings would be available once the building was completed. The timing of construction is likely to extend into the 2026 budget year, which will require further discussion during the budget process.There was also a discussion about the kind of kennels to be installed, with Letz stating that it was premature to give a definite number without further discussion.

Pets Alive! Donation

The court accepted a $3,200 donation from Pets Alive! for the upcoming "clear the shelter" event. This donation will provide funds for vaccinations, spay and neutering, and encourage animal adoptions from the overcrowded shelter.

Animal Services Advisory Committee

Four members were appointed to the restructured Kerr County Animal Services Advisory Committee. The committee will be made up of one county commissioner as chairperson, the animal services department director, a licensed veterinarian, a local animal shelter operator, and one public representative. Members will serve two-year staggered terms and meet quarterly, providing a written report to the commissioners' court.

UGRA Grant and Rainwater Harvesting System

An interlocal agreement with UGRA was approved for funding stormwater treatment improvements through the Water Resources Preservation Grant Program. The goal is to create incentive practices to protect and enhance the water quality in the Guadalupe River and serve as an example for the community. There will be two tanks, one with a 30,000-gallon capacity and one with 18,000 gallons. Once the facility is completed and the system installed, UGRA will reimburse the county.

TDEM Grant and Generator Project

The court accepted a $1.06 million sub-grant from the Texas Department of Emergency Management for the Hazard Mitigation Program. The grant for the Kerr County Volunteer Fire Department generator project requires a 10% local share of $106,811.40. Generators will be purchased for several fire departments and a radio tower in the county.

Surplus Body Armor Vest Donation

Commissioners unanimously approved the surplus and donation of a ballistic body armor vest to the Kerr County Sheriff's Foundation. The foundation plans to donate it to the Harper ISD Police Department for use by their chief.

Veteran Services Advisory Committee Report

Local veteran advocate Gary Noller presented the quarterly report. The Kerr County Veterans Services Department has helped veterans and their families receive $5.7 million in benefits, adding to the local economy. They served 342 new clients and filed 1,205 new claims. The creation of the county veteran services office over 12 years ago has been very beneficial, with two full-time officers now serving the local need. Collaboration between the three county offices has been important.

Law Enforcement Mutual-Aid Agreement

The court approved a mutual-aid agreement between the Kerr County Sheriff's Department and the Medina County Sheriff's Department effective from November 25, 2024, to January 31, 2025. Captain Jason Waldrip noted that several law enforcement mutual-aid agreements with other counties will need to be updated after January 1.

Other Business

- A presentation was received regarding District 10 4-H Fall Roundup results, with students introducing themselves and sharing their specialty areas.- The current depository contract between Security State Bank and Kerr County was extended to April 30, 2027, and the county judge was authorized to sign the extension.- A contract amendment with Grant Works in the amount of $144,000 was approved for grant administration services related to the East Kerr County Center Point Wastewater Project Phase IV.- A contract amendment with Tetra Tech Inc. in the amount of $291,883 was approved for construction design, engineering, and inspection services related to the same project.- A summary of the annual bids for road materials was accepted based on bids received at the last commissioners' court meeting.- The annual contract with the Mountain Home VFD was approved.- County Judge Rob Kelly was re-appointed to the Kerr Economic Development Corporation.- The county's worker's compensation insurance was renewed through the Texas Association of Counties (TAC) Risk Management Pool at an annual cost of $180,000.