County OKs agreement for dealing with strays

Milam County Commissioners discussed dealing with stray dogs in the county during a meeting on Monday.

Commissioners discussed a memorandum of understanding with Mark McKibben regarding payment reimbursement for his keeping stray dogs collected by the county, deciding on the payment of $2,500 a month to McKibben. The remaining funds in the budget will go to Milam Touch of Love for spay and neuter services.

Commissioners went into executive session after hearing from five speakers on the matter.

A contract stating those terms will be drawn up and presented to the court at their next meeting. Commissioner Denman recused himself in that matter. 

Commissioners also discussed bringing a Veterans Services Director back to the county. 

County Judge Bill Whitmire said he had discussions about hiring Alan Smith and his wife, who are both retired VA coordinators, for that position. The Court decided to bring their hiring back to the agenda as a budget amendment at the next meeting. 

In other business Commissioners: moved to award a grant contract for a culvert replacement to Pierce Construction in the amount of $259,000; tabled discussion on advertising for yard work services and janitorial services and will bring those back before the court when they begin the budget process; approved agreements with PHI Cares; and made appointments to the Milam County Historical Commission. 

The May General Election was ordered to include the vote for the creation of an Emergency Services District.