County Council Approves $13M Grant Funding and Personnel Salary Adjustments

San Patricio County officials made significant strides in funding and project management during the recent Commissioner’s Court meeting on August 18, 2025. The court approved a substantial request from Grant Manager Melanie Cooper to allocate over $13 million in ARPA funds for eligible projects, marking a pivotal moment for local development initiatives.

The motion, introduced by Commissioner Zakorski and seconded by Commissioner G, received unanimous support, highlighting the court's commitment to utilizing federal funds effectively. This funding is expected to enhance various community projects, although specific details on the projects were not disclosed during the meeting.

In addition to the ARPA funding, the court also approved a contract change order for the TDA septic project, increasing the contract price to $403,523. This adjustment was necessary due to unforeseen permit costs that the contractor incurred. The court agreed to reimburse the contractor $6,000 for these expenses, ensuring the project remains on track.

Another key discussion involved a temporary interfund loan from the general fund to the CDBG Grant Fund, with a proposed cap of $1 million. This measure aims to expedite payments to vendors and avoid penalties associated with delayed reimbursements from the Texas Department of Agriculture and the General Land Office. The motion passed smoothly, reflecting the court's proactive approach to financial management.

The meeting also addressed personnel matters, including salary adjustments for various county positions. Notably, the court approved a salary request for a Juvenile Supervision Officer, emphasizing the importance of hiring qualified professionals in critical roles.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's dedication to advancing community projects and ensuring efficient use of funds, setting a positive tone for future initiatives.