Carter County approves multiple disaster-related payments as commissioners debate consultant costs and FEMA reimbursements

Carter County commissioners approved a slate of disaster-related payments and purchase orders during a commission meeting, including a $2.46 million invoice to the county's contracted debris-removal crew and several payments to bridge and road contractors, while commissioners and members of the public debated the costs and staffing behind consultant contracts used to manage the county's recovery efforts.

County officials and commissioners approved a $2,461,581.15 payment toward contracted debris removal (invoice to TFR / contracted debris crew). They also approved multiple bridge- and road-related payments to Landworks Construction Contractors, including a $572,479.84 invoice for installation and first-month rental of temporary bridges on Pogo Road and subsequent change-order payments. Commissioners approved a $300,000 purchase order to Shouse LLC for ongoing consulting services and a $300,000 purchase order to Thompson Consulting Services for training and additional approval-related expenses. The commission also approved a series of smaller check requests and purchase orders for signage, rental equipment, and supplies related to the Hilleen flood disaster.

Why it matters: These approvals move substantial expense through county lines while recovery work continues across the county. Several commissioners and members of the public pressed county staff and contractor representatives for clearer billing, scope and staffing information for the consultant contracts that are guiding the county’s FEMA reimbursement efforts.

Key votes and vendor payments

- TFR (contracted debris removal): approved payment request of $2,461,581.15 (debris removal invoice). Motion seconded by Aaron Frazier; outcome approved. - Landworks Construction Contractors: approved check request of $572,479.84…