Judge Cerino extends SBA disaster recovery center operations in Alice Texas

The Jim Wells County Commissioners Court convened on July 14, 2025, to address several key agenda items, beginning with a moment of silence in honor of two community figures: long-time librarian Susan Sherry and district attorney Joe Frank Garza.

Following the opening remarks, the court moved to public testimony, where Lance Brown from the County Emergency Management Office made a significant announcement regarding the Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster recovery efforts. He informed attendees that the SBA disaster loan outreach center would extend its operations to better assist residents affected by the severe weather event on May 8, 2025. The center, originally set to close on July 11, 2025, will now remain open until July 24, 2026.

Brown detailed the services available at the outreach center, which include guidance on the disaster loan application process, assistance with completing applications, and answers to questions regarding SBA disaster loan programs. The center is located at 601 East Main, Alice, Texas, and will operate Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for residents to contact the judge's office or the emergency management team for further assistance regarding the disaster recovery efforts. Overall, the meeting highlighted the county's commitment to supporting its residents during challenging times.