Smith County officials look to future purchases using coronavirus relief funds

SMITH COUNTY — The Smith County Commissioner’s Court held its first in-person meeting on Tuesday to provide an update from the Coronavirus Relief Fund Task Force. According to our news partner KETK, under the CARES Act, the Coronavirus Relief Fund is used for specific purchases under state and local governments to mitigate COVID-19. Texas received $11.24 billion which was allocated to counties across the state. Counties under 500,000 population, received $1.85 billion. With the money Smith County received, 20% was given upfront while 80% will be reimbursed at a future date.

Following state guidelines, 75% of the funds must be used for medical expenses. This includes public health expenses like PPE and thermometers as well as payroll expenses for specific jobs to mitigate the coronavirus, according to Jay Brooks, the Smith County Fire Marshall. The remaining 25% can be used for other expenses like IT equipment to allow for remote work. A large portion could be used to purchase a rapid response trailer to help mitigate the virus at large locations including companies, allowing for the distribution of mobile testing and PPE. With the exact amount of expenditures unknown, Brooks brought about the option to hire a consultant to help manage the books.

While the courthouse is open to the public, Commissioners mentioned limiting access to those who exhibit a temperature. When it comes to restrictions, the county has the authority to limit access if the individual poses a public safety health risk. Further decision on this would be discussed in executive session.

With jury selection the main concern causing several court hearings to be rescheduled, an alternative option has been identified. Part of the funds could be used to rent another site for jury selection. With that in mind, security is still a top priority. Metal detectors have already been purchased, but buying an x-ray scanner was brought before the court. “Current site for jury selection is very small therefore we cannot assure proper social distancing and safety of the general public that are coming in for jury selection,” explained Brooks. After introducing the motion, it was agreed and voted upon unanimously by the Commissioners.