The Hockley County Commissioners Court met Monday to discuss substance use treatment services, a service/therapy dog for Hockley County Jail, a radio tower lease, and other important county business.
Commissioners approved a Memorandum of Understanding between Hockley County and StarCare Specialty Health System for substance use treatment for adults.
According to officials, the StarCare program is being used regularly and offers the opportunity for anybody to receive help.
The court discussed the potential use of a service/therapy dog to serve Hockley County and Hockley County Jail. The dog would have multiple purposes, such as interacting with inmates and police officers to provide emotional support, as well as being there for victims outside of the jail.
The commissioners voiced their concerns about different expenses and policies that would come with the dog, including whether county tax dollars should be used for its care. The court ultimately decided to table the item to further discuss the different responsibilities and expenses associated with the dog.
Commissioners also approved an Interlocal Cooperation Contract between Hockley County and the Texas Department of Public Safety for the Texas Conviction Report application.
The updated application will have a new interface and a different process for uploading information, with the changes affecting multiple offices throughout the county.
The court also approved a five-year radio tower lease agreement between Hockley County and Frontier Communications, LTD.
Commissioners approved a request from the Wallace Theater to use the Hockley County Courthouse lawn for the “Falling for the Wallace” event on Oct. 3. The event is expected to draw around 1,500 to 2,000 people.
In other business, the court approved the Aug. 24 regular meeting minutes, and monthly bills and claims through Aug. 31.