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Interpreter outlines progress on Brazoria County language-access measures
Summary
Suzette Santana, the county's in-house interpreter, told the commissioners the county now meets 10 "safe harbors" toward Title VI compliance, has begun form translations and launched a public-facing website to request interpreter services.
Suzette Santana, the county's in-house interpreter, updated the Commissioners Court on steps taken over the past 10 months to expand language access for residents with limited English proficiency. She said the county has grown from three to 10 "safe harbors" that support Title VI protections and has begun translating forms and developing a website to let the public request interpreters.
"It really is a matter of justice and giving due process," Santana said, urging the court to view language access as essential to community participation and legal fairness. She also noted past Department of Justice involvement in a neighboring county and asked the court to consider public hearings under the procedure referenced in section 551.074 when personnel deliberations arise.
The court thanked Santana for the work and said staff would follow up on documentation and any process questions.
