Officials pursue certificates of obligation for courthouse loan; juvenile center property search continues

Starr County officials reported July 14 that they met with a rating representative about certificates of obligation to finance courthouse work and expect follow-up before issuing the debt. A county official said they had a call with “Mr. Gabriel Bobby” for a rating on the certificates of obligation and that a follow-up call was scheduled; officials said they expect to be ready to proceed with certificates by month-end but also mentioned August 28 as a potential date, reflecting an unresolved schedule. Separately, the county said efforts to acquire a site for a juvenile center have stalled with one prospective property (A and S Farms) and that staff will expand the search. Officials said the facility needs roughly 5 acres ideally, though 3 acres could work, and the site must have water and sewer. The juvenile unit is planned as a standalone facility for juvenile officers, courts and programs; officials said proximity to the courthouse is desirable but not required. No binding financing agreements or property purchases were finalized at the meeting; commissioners directed staff to continue negotiations and property searches.