Preliminary talks begin for 2013 county budget

LIVINGSTON — County officials will discuss preliminary development of the fiscal year 2013 budget during Tuesday’s Commissioner’s Court session set for 10 a.m. Tuesday. County Judge John Thompson has already issued some forecasts for revenue shortfalls in the some areas including fines and fees and ad valorem taxes that related to oil and gas. Sales tax revenues weren’t pretty either in the most recent report from Texas Comptroller Susan Combs. Overall the revenue picture may get a little better when Chief Appraiser Chad Hill delivers his certified tax roll. Also on Tuesday, Commissioner will consider approving the final plat for The Preserve at Sally Creek, including approval of financial assurity provided for construction of roads. The court will consider renewing an interlocal agreement with Texas Association of Counties Risk Management Pool for insurance coverage, including employee health, workers compensation, auto and liability as well as renewal of Section 125 Administration and Supplemental Coverages. David Bondor of Texas Association of Counties also will be on hand at Tuesday’s meeting to present a 2011 safety award. Consent agenda items set for Tuesday’s meeting include: • Approve listing of previously authorized capital purchases to be included on reimbursement resolution for which payment was pending when the resolution was closed. • Approve offers to purchase tax foreclosure properties in Lakeland Hideaway and Crystal Lake Estates. • Rescind action designating contractor for demolition of structure located on flood buyout property (Pct. 1 Forehand Project) and approve agreement with Feather Enterprises LLC with payment to be made from amount previously approved for the FY 2012 reimbursement resolution. • Approve request of Pct. 1 Justice of the Peace request for expenditure of technology funds totaling $284 for four battery backup/surge protectors. • Approve extension of agreement for inmate telephone services at the Polk County Jail for 2012-2013. •Renew firefighting agreement with the City of Livingston. • Approve renewal agreement to provide office space with DETCOG STAR program. •Approve GLO contract which includes street improvements and addition to community center/shelter. •Approve advertising for annual county bids. • Approve lease/purchase agreements for seven 2013 MAck trucks totaling $791,434 and sale of seven 2011 Mack trucks totaling $640,205 with balance to be paid from Raod and Bridge budgeted funds. The meeting will be held in the third floor Commissioners Courtroom in the Polk County Courthouse