Jim Wells County commissioners on Sept. 12 approved a subgrant agreement with the National Association of Counties (NACO) for $50,000 to support the Nexus Center for Growth and Development, a county-led project to renovate space in the former bank building.

The county’s representative said the funds will be combined with anticipated USDA funds (amount and timing not yet confirmed) to renovate the third and fourth floors of the building. The commissioner’s description of planned uses included $18,000 for renovation/construction work, $5,000 for marketing, $15,000 for signage and $12,000 for equipment, while noting line items could change as scopes are aligned with the USDA award timetable.

The court voted to authorize the county judge to execute all necessary subgrant documents so the county may accept and administer the $50,000 award; no local match was required.

Ending: County staff said they will align the NACO subgrant expenditures with the forthcoming USDA grant award and proceed with renovation planning pending the USDA award timeline.