May 18, 2026 El Paso County Commissioners Court Meeting

Añadido: 2026-05-19

[00:00:00]for heat.

[00:00:25]Heat.

[00:00:42]Heat.

[00:00:49]Heat.

[00:01:10]Heat.

[00:01:26]Heat. Heat.

[00:01:35]Heat.

[00:01:57]Heat.

[00:02:01]Heat.

[00:02:17]Heat.

[00:02:24]Heat.

[00:02:41]Heat.

[00:03:04]Heat. Heat.

[00:03:11]Heat.

[00:03:23]Heat.

[00:03:32]Heat up Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[00:04:17]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[00:05:06]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Tornneo Independent School District, and Tornneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Tornneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing torneo area veterans who served.

[00:05:31]The site will also include a Torneo Veterans Memorial Dedication Monument.

[00:05:35]This community-driven project requested by the Tornneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County neighborhood improvement grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Esta Park improvements. Hi commission encouraged to offer their suggestions opinions and questions. So we'll just be on the phone for now feedback on divine concepts and amenities like picnic shop >> until we can we can get you on >> thea park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters4 improvement bond. Uh, I'm going to if if I can't log in with >> a popular east side park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came from planted trees at the El Paso County. I don't know.

[00:06:31]>> These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[00:06:57]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[00:07:10]Hey, hey, hey.

[00:07:35]Hey, hey, hey.

[00:08:23]Hey.

[00:08:27]Hey. Hey.

[00:08:50]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy.

[00:08:59]clarity and a commitment to excellence.

[00:09:01]As an integral part of the El Paso County civil court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[00:10:02]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records. Working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly.

[00:10:51]Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family's situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children.

[00:11:12]Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments.

[00:11:35]Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved. Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adal item for their case. In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[00:11:59]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[00:12:31]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics.

[00:12:37]Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 9152733533.

[00:12:48]>> Fill out the form inside our office.

[00:12:50]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator. Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children.

[00:13:33]Live from El Paso County, Texas, the veterans capital of the USA. From inside the Alicia Chicone Commissioner's Courtroom of the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse, you are watching the El Paso County Commissioner's Court Meeting.

[00:13:57]Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.

[00:13:58]Today is Monday, May 18th, 2026.

[00:14:02]Commissioner's Court is meeting in regular open session this morning. We're joined by ASL interpreters Stephanie Michelle, Dario Garcia, and Selena Salum.

[00:14:13]Commissioner Gin, would you like to introduce this morning's pledge group?

[00:14:16]>> Good morning, everyone. So, today we have a very, very special treat. So, we are joined by the Captain Walter E.

[00:14:23]Clark Middle School Girls Honor Choir, who I also have to add are UIL District Superior rated. Um, and not only will they be leading us in the pledge, but I believe they're going to be starting off with uh singing the national anthem for us. So, thank you all for being here with us today. We're incredibly honored to have you here.

[00:14:44]>> Oh, nice. Welcome all of you. Thank you.

[00:14:52]>> Please rise.

[00:15:06]By the dawn early lights, what so proudly we held at the twilight last gleaming who stripes and bright stars through the perilous For the ramparts we watch were so gallently streaming and the rockets red through the night that our flag was still there.

[00:15:52]Oh, say does that star spangle B yet wave or the land of the free and the home of the brave.

[00:16:23]I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

[00:16:39]>> Honor the Texas flag. I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas. One state under God, one and indivisible.

[00:16:48]Thank you. That was beautiful. Thank you very much.

[00:16:51]>> Can we give them one more round of applause, please?

[00:16:59]>> Thank you.

[00:17:00]>> And of course, I want to thank Miss Rubio for making it possible for these uh beautiful young women to join us here at the courthouse today. Thank you.

[00:17:17]Caesar, you want to announce the >> Item three is the invocation. We'd like to ask for a moment of silence.

[00:17:26]>> Thank you so much. You know, and just in unity, El Paso is such a wonderful community. So, in unity, we don't we would love for to do a moment of silence for anyone that's struggling in our community, anybody who's vulnerable. So, we'll take a moment of silence. Thank you.

[00:17:59]Thank you.

[00:18:00]>> Thank you, >> Judge. Do you have any opening remarks for us this morning?

[00:18:06]>> Yeah, please. On behalf of myself and and commissioners here with us. Uh we welcome you to Commissioner's Court.

[00:18:13]Always very privileged. Uh today we have music. Uh we have as you saw the beautiful uh choir that and then now we're going to have some music and we're also going to have dance. So uh we're very privileged always great and excited about you know just honoring the people from our community and in so many ways.

[00:18:32]So I hope it's a it's a small thing to honor each and every one of you but very important to the commissioners and to myself. So uh welcome to Commissioner Cord. Uh God bless all of you today and all week. Thank you.

[00:18:52]Thank you. And good morning, judge and commissioners and county attorney.

[00:18:56]Commissioner Coronado is with us. He's on he's with us via phone, but he's not able to turn on his camera uh at least for the beginning part of the meeting, and so he won't be voting, but he is on the line, just so you all know. So, thank you so much.

[00:19:07]>> Well, welcome, Commissioner Speedy Recovery. You deserve it. Thank you.

[00:19:16]Item number four is the consent agenda composed of items 4 A through 4 Z. We have a request from the human resources department to delete item number 4J.

[00:19:28]Are there any other items members of the quarter public would like to pull for individual discussion from consent?

[00:19:32]>> Yes, Commissioner Butler.

[00:19:36]>> Yes, Judge. Thank you. I would like to pull 4.

[00:19:40]>> What was it?

[00:19:40]>> 4 O. Item 40 for Commissioner Butler.

[00:19:48]Any other?

[00:19:51]If not, I'll move to approve.

[00:20:22]We have a motion from Judge Sango, a second from Commissioner Gin. The voting is open.

[00:20:31]Thank you, Judge. Commissioner Coronado uh is not available. Uh motion carries.

[00:20:37]>> Thank you.

[00:20:43]>> We'd like to start with item number 5F from resolutions.

[00:20:48]Item 5F, approve and adopt a resolution to designate Saturday, May 16, 2026 as Freeway Lady Kegler's International Friendship Bowling Tournament Day in honor of Armed Forces Day and El Paso County Veterans in El Paso County, Texas.

[00:21:06]>> Welcome, Commissioner Gin.

[00:21:08]>> Thank you, Judge. Um, so this is an event that we spoke about at last week's meeting and I was there on Saturday and it was amazing to see so many teams um, from New Mexico, from Chihuahua, and of course all of our El Paso teams there.

[00:21:23]Um, I can't imagine how much sleep you all did not get putting that together because it really was truly remarkable.

[00:21:31]Um, so it's really an honor for me to present this resolution for you. I'll read it into the record. will vote on it and then we'd love to hear from you and hear exactly how the tournament went and and thank you all for these wonderful goodie bags. Thank you. Okay, so the resolution states, "Whereas El Paso County is honored to be known as the Veterans Capital of the USA, boasting a deep rooted long-standing partnership with United States Armed Forces, particularly Fort Bliss. And whereas Armed Forces Day is a dedicated time to honor the men and women who serve in all branches of the United States military, highlighting their dedication, bravery, and sacrifice. And whereas the Freeway Lady Kegler's Bowling Club, founded in 1994, has chosen Oasis Bowling Lanes on Saragosa Road in El Paso County Precinct 3 to be the site of their 10th annual International Friendship Bowling Tournament. And whereas this tournament being held on Armed Forces Day features a profoundly patriotic theme, uniting the spirit of international sport with deep respect for the military community.

[00:22:37]And whereas the event not only brings visitors to the borderland from New Mexico and Mexico, but also highlights the vibrant community, cultural diversity, and unwavering support for service members that define El Paso County. Now therefore, be it resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner's Court hereby recognize the Freeway Lady Kegler's International Friendship Bowling Tournament in honor of Armed Forces Day and all El Paso County veterans. Commend the organizers for their patriotic focus and designate Saturday, May 16th, 2026 as Freeway Lady Kegler's International Friendship Bowling Tournament Day. In official recognition thereof, the commissioner's court hereby affixes their signatures this May 18th, 2026.

[00:23:20]>> We have a motion to approve from Commissioner Gin, a second from Commissioner Butler. Voting is open.

[00:23:28]>> Commissioner Coronado is absent. Motion carries.

[00:23:34]Welcome.

[00:23:37]>> Good morning, Judge Sango and commissioners of the court. Um, Commissioner Hogin, thank you so much for joining us on Saturday at our 10th annual International Friendship Tournament. It truly was a very patriotic event. Um, as our opening ceremonies took place and we had our active duty soldier, um, Specialist Niles sing the national anthem and we had an all female veteran color guard post the colors and we also had a P MIA table set up and in place of an actual prayer and invocation explaining what that was all about. Um we had our lady bowlers lined up at the foul line um introducing each of the teams and there were tears running down their eyes. The patriotism in our city is amazing and being that our tournament landed on Armed Forces Day, there was no doubt that we were going to have a patriotic theme for our tournament. So with that being said, um we just our creative juices started running and and the patriotism um flowed. So, um, we want to thank you for this resolution and for allowing us to, um, have you a part of our tournament and, um, I'd like the other ladies to introduce themselves, but we had 27 teams from from Wades, um, New Mexico and from all over the city of El Paso. Um, we had a, um, a great tournament, a lot of wonderful, very patriotic, purposeful um, trophies were given and a lot of beautiful comments.

[00:24:58]So, um, people really enjoyed the tournament and it was very wellreceived.

[00:25:02]So, thank you.

[00:25:03]>> Thank you.

[00:25:04]>> Thank you.

[00:25:07]>> Hello.

[00:25:08]>> Um, I'm Specialist Niles. I'm currently stationed at for Bliss um 180 Sustainment Brigade. Um, I'm very excited about this veterans um bowling tournament. I like to bowl, but not professionally. Um, but it's something that I'm looking forward to as I um go through my contracts, stuff like that, get ready to retire. I'm excited that it's something for me to do here in El Paso. And I can agree, El Paso is the veterans capital of the USA.

[00:25:38]>> Thank you, >> Carmen Antunes, Freeway Lady, Kegler, Treasurer.

[00:25:45]>> Thank you, >> Margie Larson. Thank you. Thank you, >> Alysia Rodriguez from the Freeway Lady Klers.

[00:25:58]>> Thank you.

[00:25:59]>> We just we're so appreciative of the patriotism component because we always felt that that El Paso was a veterans capital of the USA. We just sort of honored it and became that. Uh but you know, we have 55,000 veterans here in El Paso. Uh they do so much for our community. They do great things in the military, but when they come back, uh, they they tend to understand service and leadership to an extent that we're very privileged to have so many veterans here. So, we thank you for combining uh your logo on your shirt. Uh, you know, that's amazing. It's it's a beautiful logo and and we thank you for that. And so, thank you for putting us on the map and especially the regional component.

[00:26:43]Uh sometimes people forget that but you included Huades, you included New Mexico and uh that's I I tell people that if we're not doing something by national when we have an event, something's wrong because we are so close to each other that we should always honor uh the region itself. So thank you.

[00:27:01]>> We do start our tournament with the Mexican national anthem. Um and so that that kicks off every tournament. And we did have a wall of honor at our tournament and all of our lady bowlers who are our veterans um myself included had our pictures on the wall of honor but even our friends from from Watas from Chihuahua their family members had their their loved ones on the wall of honor too that served in their army in their military. So we had over a hundred pictures on the wall of honor of our lady bowlers and their family members who served or are serving. So >> okay you're competing with our lobby.

[00:27:34]Okay. So >> sorry about that.

[00:27:38]>> Thank you, Commissioner.

[00:27:40]>> Thank you, Judge. Well, Nancy and all of the Freeway Lady Keglers, thank you for all of your efforts. Um, from the looks of it, it was a tremendous success and I hope that every uh annual Friendship Tournament continues to be successful.

[00:27:55]Thank you for all of your work. Thank you for featuring the Veterans Capital of the USA. That's a um a huge initiative of the county. So, we're very appreciative that you incorporated that into your tournament. And if we'd be honored if we could have a photo with you right up here.

[00:28:09]>> And thank you for the gifts. Thank you.

[00:29:45]Item number 5A, approve and adopt a resolution recognizing the Bair High School Highlanders Pipe and Drum Corps for more than 60 years of tradition as the only program of its kind in a Texas public high school and honoring the Bair Classic Highlander Clan alumni for their efforts to preserve and continue this legacy.

[00:30:08]Come up, George.

[00:30:27]George, you didn't ask uh Representative Bettis to join you since he he's from Bair and he he does this. So, thank you.

[00:30:36]Well, this is uh this is quite an honor because tradition to me, there's something so important about tradition and El Paso, you know, we we base our life in history and in tradition and I don't think there's anything more traditional than what Bair has done to continue this this uh this way of dressing uh in the music and just it's incredible that what you do. Also, you have a memorial there at at the the stadium there that you have that that honors veterans and I understand there's going to be some improvements done to that memorial. So, looking forward to that. So, George, thank you so much.

[00:31:15]Whereas Bair High School and the Bair Classic Highlander Clan Alumni Group are excited to announce a celebration of Back Pies 4 event at Bair May the 16, 2026. This year's event is designed to highlight the unique history of back pipes at Bair and will include a salute to our military service personnel along with the important role back pip backpipes have played throughout centuries. The celebration will highlight various local bands and artists including El Paso Police, firefighters, pipe and and drum corps and of course Bair's own backpipe band where this year's event will be a full music festival held at Bair's courtyard and will feature popular local bands, artists, food trucks, and booth activities from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

[00:32:06]ly inspiration of Highlander mascot and the need for a backpipe band in El Paso was recognized originally by a US soldier stationed in Canada during World War II. That soldier's name was JM Hanks who was a sled independent school district superintendent of schools and activated to serve during the war.

[00:32:26]Whereas throughout the decades, Belair's pipe and drum corps kept the dream alive by providing the sound of back pipes at football games, music festivals, parades, international competitions, graduation ceremonies, presidential visits, and of course, the raising of flags and presentation of the colors around El Paso area. whereas John Estus came to El Paso in the early 1960s after being recruited to a high school in the highlands of El Paso's lower valley and given the mission to build a tradition of a backpipe band at Bair which is is one of the only handful of public high schools in the US and possibly only public high school in Texas with backpipe band. or is funds raised from COB4 will support the John Esta scholarship fund to help a deserving piper or drummer continue their education after graduation as well as all of Bair's music programs. The scholarship is also designed to bring attention to the rich tradition of Bair's backpipe band and raise awareness of the importance of the band's contributions not only to Bair but to the city of El Paso and the Southwest.

[00:33:40]Now therefore, it be resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner Court hereby recognizes the Baylor High School Highlanders Pipe and Drum Corps for more than 60 years of tradition in the only public high school in Texas to have such a band and recognizes the Baylor Classic Highlander Clan alumni for working to keep the tradition alive.

[00:34:03]Signed this 18th day of May, 2026.

[00:34:09]We have a motion from Judge Sango, second from Commissioner Stout. The voting is open.

[00:34:13]>> Just one vote and thank you.

[00:34:17]>> Commissioner Coronado is absent. Motion carries.

[00:34:20]>> Okay, George. Thank you.

[00:34:21]>> Okay, thank you.

[00:34:26]>> Good morning, Judge Commissioner S.

[00:34:27]George Cordova, class of 72, member of the Highland Classic uh Highlanders.

[00:34:33]with me is also Rosanna Naya who's one of our members of the classic Highlander clan. Um I'm also Mara Mali, one of our instructors for the pipe band and I'm joined by three of our um illustrious bike pipers from Belair and including the recipient from this year's uh John Ess scholarship, Jose Coron.

[00:34:55]>> Welcome.

[00:34:56]>> Okay. Um the reason we came into being uh when we had celebrated our 50th year anniversary, it's always been a tradition that for every class before we start going into celebration of sort, we're led into the building or wherever we're at by the back pipes. So when we were planning our 50th reunion, we assumed that there was a a backpipe band still in existence. Come to find out they were down because of COVID was right after that. The class of 71 and 72 got together and combined their reunions together. When we went to ask for the bike pipes to play, found out there was only like four or five members. And that was a big shock to us because we were used to having 30 to 50 people on the bike pipes. So, we were able to scrge up some members. If if had had we not done that, there was no way for us to go into the venue that we had reserved for our holiday for our 50th year anniversary since we're all accustomed. The backpipers lead us into it. So, we were all talking about it. We were going to stay outside and celebrate. No, we're going to go in and do it ber style. So, that's what we wound up doing. and and during the uh uh event, a lot of us got together and says, "Hey, we need to do something about bringing this back." We got together, formed this committee, and today we've raised over $30,000.

[00:36:26]>> Wow.

[00:36:27]>> For the back pipers, >> and each year we're going to do bigger and better. As you noted that we're the only high school in in u in Texas now that has a backpipe bag. We've reached out to several groups. We found out that there is a sister group in New Jersey.

[00:36:43]They sent us for this uh celebration, they sent us a video from them uh congratulating us for doing this celebration of Backpack 4. And hopefully that they're planning to do in instead of their students taking their trip to their annual trip to Disneyland, they're going to come and attend our uh celebration of Backpipe 5 next year here in El Paso.

[00:37:05]>> We're going to reciprocate and send our group the following year. Hopefully, if we can raise enough money. We've also been in contact, believe it or not, with a group from Mexico City who plays bag pipes.

[00:37:18]>> Really?

[00:37:18]>> They're called the San Patricios. They also sent us a video honoring our kids.

[00:37:24]And we're desperately working trying to get them to also perform at our event next year. So, keep an eye on it. It's going to be something big. It's going to be something good. Please come in and help us out. Okay. with me is uh Marla Manny who's an instructor for the back pipes.

[00:37:40]>> Thank you. Go ahead. Welcome.

[00:37:43]>> Thank you for having me. Uh this is the first time that I'm here. Uh I work with the pipe band for many years. I am a Bellair alumni. I was the pipe major and drum major of the Ber High School pipe band when we were 60 strong if you counted all the freshman that came in to dance because they weren't uh on instruments yet. Uh my uh director was John Estus and so I was part of the pipe band when it was uh in its glory days and I'm happy to be here. I want to uh carry on the tradition and bring back the pipe band to the numbers that I'm used to and so this is uh three of our members right here. This is Jose Corona Santiago Ayala and Santos Vargas. And I'm very proud of the whole bite band.

[00:38:28]We are growing and because of this uh resolution and the proclamation, I think it has all culminated to make sure that the pipe band continues in its tradition. Thank you.

[00:38:39]>> Thank you so much for doing that. Go ahead, introduce yourself. Yeah, just >> I'm Rosie Annaya. Um my daughter was one of the students that brought back the pipe band. Um she currently is a volunteer helping Miss Manning teach the students. I am a booster uh parent for the band. I am one of a couple of parents that help out with the pipe band and we're just trying to keep this tradition alive.

[00:39:07]>> Thank you for doing that. This is I mean I hope people do realize that uh whenever you do something for Bair you're doing it for the entire community and we feel so proud you know that that you're continuing this tradition. So I understand they might play for us.

[00:39:22]>> Yes they will.

[00:39:23]>> Okay.

[00:39:34]Heat.

[00:39:54]Heat.

[00:40:10]Heat. Heat.

[00:40:20]Heat.

[00:40:37]Heat.

[00:40:43]Heat.

[00:40:59]Heat.

[00:41:26]Thank you for doing that. I think uh is it what an exciting commissioner's court? We have music, band, dance. I mean and and I think we get paid for this. I don't know. That just makes uh no sense. But >> Oh, okay. But George, thank you and and all of you, thank you for like I said, this tradition. I I hope you you realize that that's the foundation of El Paso is keeping our tradition and in this region. And so, thank you very much.

[00:41:51]That was beautiful. And if we'd like to take a picture with all of you. Thank you.

[00:43:46]item number 5B, approve and adopt a resolution recognizing the UTEP dance team for winning the national title in the division 1 spirit rally division at the NDA collegiate nationals in Daytona, Florida in May of 2026. Come on.

[00:44:29]Thank you so much. This is ve very very special and thank you for putting this on the map as always. But let me read the resolution. whereas the University of Texas at El Paso UTP dance team represents El Paso County with pride, dedication, and excellence under the leadership of head coach Crystal Ortiz.

[00:44:48]And whereas in 2026, the UTIP dance team earned the opportunity to compete at the National Dance Alliance Collegiate Nationals in Daytona Beach, Florida.

[00:44:59]Whereas this prestigious national competition brings together top collegiate dance teams from across the country, showcasing athleticism, teamwork, and school spirit. where the UTIP dance team demonstrated exceptional talent, discipline, and commitment, culminating in winning a national title in the division 1A spirit rally division. Whereas this outstanding achievement brings great honor and recognition to the University of Texas, El Paso, and to the residents of El Paso County. Now therefore be resolved by the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner's Court that El Paso County, Texas, hereby recognizes and commends a UTIP dance team for their remarkable accomplishment in winning the national title in the division 1A spirit rally division at the NDA Collegiate Nationals in Daytona, Florida in May of 2026 and further extends his congratulations and best wishes for continued success applauding the team's dedication, hard work, work and exceptional representation of the community. Signed this 18th day of May, 2026.

[00:46:15]We have a motion to approve from Judge Sango, a second from Commissioner Olim.

[00:46:19]The voting is open.

[00:46:21]Commissioner Coronado is absent. Motion carries.

[00:46:24]>> Welcome te tell us a little bit about the excitement of this process. Thank you.

[00:46:34]>> I want to start by saying thank you for having us. Thank you, Judge Sanman.

[00:46:38]Thank you to the entire city council.

[00:46:40]It's such an honor and privilege to get to be here. I started in August and I have to tell you from the moment from my first practice, every single dancer you see up here today embraced me. It was new. They embraced the process. They embraced the journey. We did a lot of team building skills together and it's because of that unity we had as a team that we were able to motivate each other so practices ran smoother. Um, and I just want to take one second not to sidetrack. I just want to say every dancer is wearing their jacket here today for winning and every dancer has their medal on today so we can recognize that. But it's that unity. We look like a family. We dance like a family. We dance like one. And that was a big um note we got from the judges that we looked like one dancer. Uh we were big, we were full out and that is a tremendous strength that I think this team has. I've seen this growth from my first practice to my right before nationals. How strong and powerful they are, not just in their dancing, but who they are as people, who they are walking across campus. And I'm so honored to be their coach. I could not have thought of a better dream team to take with me to Daytona. It was a dream of mine when I was little in the 90s. That's how much older I am. And I would see NDA on ESPN and I thought, "One day I'm going to get to go. One day I get to be there." And I got to be there with the most incredible talented dancers that I could think of.

[00:48:12]I want to take a quick second to say to the dancers um how much strength you show not just to me but what um a strong person you are to UTP how you're inspiring young dancers in the city. So we are going to continue to build dance not only at UTP but dance all around El Paso. Thank you again for having us this morning.

[00:48:34]>> Thank you so much. Thank you.

[00:48:40]A as you know that there's different perceptions of El Paso. So every time that you do something like this, it puts the right light on us. Not the one people think about El Paso, but who we really are and and just a strength. But I'm going to have to give you my you're blessed kind of speech because each and every one of you are blessed with certain talents that are God-given and that means that you have to use those to be more successful to help others understand uh to reach others. There's a lot of people that need help that are your age that are struggling uh but now because of this you know what you've won and how you feel about yourselves. Share that. share that with the rest of the of the the you know your students that you see that might not have that kind of spirit that you do have and fill them with that spirit that you that you've been able to show besides Musa and we just make it flourish and come out and and and that's what you did today and Crystal thank you so much for what you do >> I'd like to introduce one of my seniors this is Lauren >> they could go right through each one of Uh good good morning everybody and thank you to the city of El Paso for recognizing uh our dance team today. Um like she said, I'm Lauren Annaya. I'm a four-year member of this team and I actually just graduated from UTEP on Saturday. So being able to stand up here as a recent alumni makes it even more meaningful. Uh over my four years, I've been fortunate enough to win two national titles with this team. But this season was very different. At the beginning of this year, we had no coach, no direction, and a lot of uncertainty. But we went through this summer just figuring things out one day at a time. Because of that, we learned very quickly how to rely on each other. Once coach Crystal was brought in, things changed. She really focused on making a smooth transition while also focusing on our team dynamic.

[00:50:39]We had our fun. We really took the time to form bonds with each person on our team. But that being said, when it was time to work, Coach Crystal made sure we worked. Um, from switching our schedule to 6:30 a.m. practices every single day to drilling our iconic herography, Coach Crystal showed us from the jump that we would be able to achieve great things with this team.

[00:51:03]That work ethic that she demonstrated and passed on to us was exactly what we needed when it was time for nationals.

[00:51:09]This routine was huge for us because it was the first time we were putting something different out there. Almost like our rebrand as a team. We broke that routine down a count by a count and until each step felt natural and comfortable in our bodies. Because of the time and attention we gave it, we didn't just perform the routine. We genuinely came to love it. We trusted each other completely every single day and learned to love trusting the process. And I truly believe that's what made us successful this year. This team became more than just a dance team this year. We became family. We pushed each other to work harder, stay motivated, and believe in ourselves even during our difficult moments. Being on that stage with this team felt so special because we were all like one mind the whole weekend in Daytona. After we performed at prelims, we came off stage, watched the routine, and felt the most pride in what we had just delivered. From that to sitting in the audience squeezing our hands to finding out if we advanced to finals and then having to pick everything up and go straight to practice to work on critiques for finals all felt like a whirlwind.

[00:52:10]We worked hard, put our heads together and once again delivered a performance we as a team were very proud of. We agreed that after finals, no matter where we ranked, we were proud of what we had done and be being the team that we had dreamt of becoming since August.

[00:52:23]Holding the hands of my family on stage during the awards and feeling the weight of everyone when we heard our name followed by national champions is the most surreal feeling and still gives me chills every time I think about it. We had done it and the work was definitely worth it.

[00:52:39]Winning nationals was an incredible accomplishment, but what I'm most proud of is the resilience, dedication, and bond that we built throughout this journey. I am eternally grateful for my teammates, our coach, our supporters, and the city for celebrating us today.

[00:52:52]Being part of this two-time winning national team has meant more to me than I could ever put into words, and it's something I'll cherish with me for life.

[00:52:59]So, thank you guys.

[00:53:01]>> Thank you. That was very nice.

[00:53:06]H >> how many how many of you are coming back next year?

[00:53:10]>> Uh, everybody except three.

[00:53:13]>> Oh, yeah. Wow. So, you got another big shot at this. So, thank you. And and we'll have you back here. So, thank you so much. Like I said, this is very important for a community. Makes people feel good about who we are as El Paso in this region. So, the sunaso to each and every one of you. And we'd love to take a picture with you. Thank you.

[00:53:31]>> Thank you. Thank you so much.

[00:54:04]Congratulations.

[00:54:40]cuz they say no savings.

[00:58:06]ready. Caesar.

[00:58:12]>> Item number 5C, approve and adopt a resolution recognizing majors Florian and Eloa Estrada for their decades of dedicated service to the residents of El Paso County, Texas.

[00:58:26]>> If you could come down, Florian Louisa.

[00:58:40]These are two exceptional exceptional individuals that I'm so proud to be able to recognize. So I I'll read the the resolution.

[00:58:50]Whereas majors Florian and Louisa Estrada have dedicated their lives to serving others through the mission of the Salvation Army. and where's his major est9 in Havana, Cuba and began their ministry journey in Costa Rica before entering training in Atlanta, Georgia and were later commissioned as Salvation Army officers in 1992.

[00:59:15]was over the course of 34 years, Major Estrada have faithfully served CA communities across Texas including Dallas, San Antonio, McCallen, Bowmont, Pasadena, and since 2017, El Paso, Texas. Whereas during their time in El Paso, Major Estrada provided critical leadership during some of the community's most challenging moments, including the 2019 Walmart mass shooting, where they helped coordinate support efforts providing refreshments, counseling, prayer, and comfort to victims, families, and first responders.

[00:59:52]Whereas during the COVID 19 pandemic, Major Estrada supported emergency shelter operations established by the city of El Paso providing meals, clothing, mobile showers, and laundry services and food delivery to individuals in shelters and quarantine settings. was beginning in 2018. Major Castrada led the Salvation Army's response to multiple waves of the migrant humanitarian crisis, coordinating large-scale support operations, including the deployment of emergency disaster response equipment such as a 53 foot mobile kitchen, laundry units, and shower trailers to serve thousands of individuals in need.

[01:00:35]was following the closure of CASSA del Refuho Majors Estrada continued their service in partnership with El Paso County through the migrant support service center providing meals, hygiene kits, shelter support and compassionate care to those seeking assistance and where his major have stren strengthened and expanded programs that continue to impact families across El Paso, including launching and growing the angel tree program to serve over 1,000 children annually and expanding it to include seniors as well as funding the Salvation Army Music and Arts Conservatory, a free summer program providing music education to children in the community. And whereas throughout their ministry, Majors Florian and Eloa Estrada have exemplified compassion, service, and leadership, leaving a lasting impact on the El Paso community and inspiring others through their commitment to helping those in need. Now therefore, it be resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner's Court hereby recognize and honor Majors Florian and Louisa Estrada for their decades of dedicated service and extend their sincere gratitude and best wishes upon their retirement. be further resolved that the El Paso County Judge and Commissioner Court express their deep appreciation for their unwavering commitment to the residents of El Paso County and their enduring legacy of compassion and service. Signed this 18th day of May, 2026.

[01:02:13]We have a motion from Judge Sango, a second from Commissioner Butler. The voting is open.

[01:02:19]Commissioner Coronado is absent. Motion carries.

[01:02:22]>> Thank you.

[01:02:25]Irene, I I would love Irene to start it off because she has worked so close with them and of course uh during the pandemic, during Walmart, I think every opportunity and and the immigration and I think anyone who's been close, it's been you, Irene. So maybe we could start off by you telling us a little bit about this beautiful couple.

[01:02:49]>> Good morning. It is great honor and pleasure to be here uh speaking on this resolution for both majors Eloa and Florian. I do want to thank them personally for their partnership with the county of El Paso. It was mentioned in the resolution uh the service that they did during the migrant um crisis and humanitarian crisis in our community. Uh but it was more than just providing meals at our migrant support services center. They did it with such compassion, care, without hesitation. Uh they provided special holiday meals uh throughout the years uh for our refugees and migrants who had never experienced a Thanksgiving meal, never experienced a nice Christmas meal and it made it very special for them. We saw that compassion and care. So I want to thank them for passing that down to their team, their staff. Uh they worked hand in hand next to us during those very very tough times. It was a very polarizing time. Uh but they didn't hesitate and so I really want to thank them for their partnership with the county during those times for their care in the community helping the unhouse families throughout the years. I was also uh working alongside their team during the COVID pandemic where they provided uh that great service during the quarantine time. So, I think I speak for everyone, for myself, for my team by saying, uh, great. Thank you for you all. Uh, and we wish you very well during your retirement. Thank you so much, >> Irene. Thank you. You've been in the middle of it all and they've been with you. They're in the middle of it all.

[01:04:21]So, we thank you so much, >> Florian. Yeah. Go ahead.

[01:04:27]>> Yes. So, just following up on what Irene said is that um, my name is Joanna Strada. I am the director of development of the Salvation Army. And one of the things as employees that we're always um taught by leadership is that if someone asks for help, the answer is yes. If an agency partner, if a new um opportunity for a collaboration comes up, the answer is yes. And if someone doesn't ask to offer uh and so that's something that I think especially with the migrant situation, but even before that and after, it's just been continuous throughout my time there. It's something that I witnessed firsthand. Um I know when there was the big project at Gasad Fui, it was um Salvation Army has these resources for emergency disaster services and they'll be a big 52 foot uh mobile kitchen or the washers and dryers or the showers and those are specifically reserved for natural disasters. So when these big emergencies come up that those resources are available and they can be deployed right away. Uh but the majors were like this this is an emergency situation. We have 800 people in this warehouse that is being utilized as a shelter. It's been converted but it's still a warehouse.

[01:05:48]There aren't they it doesn't have the the showers needed for this many people.

[01:05:53]We need the washers and dryers. We need this. And so you were the ones who ad advocated for that migrant crisis here to get those resources uh to Kasa de Fuji to serve all of the people that were there. And that was kind of a a turning point I think too in what was being what was being considered a crisis or emergency situation for Salvation Army. Uh because those resources we don't have here in El Paso. We have to uh request them from headquarters. So that was something that really did make a big difference. And sometimes they would be out or they would they would break down as as equipment does and then we would need to get rushed to get repairs and that was costing money but it was the need and that the need was always made the priority and I think when you work at the Salvation Army or a nonprofit and there's food and shelter programs and homelessness a lot of times you just really expect that you know you offer help and the journey is just going to be straight up. But we know that it's like this. It's it's a wave and it moves and it takes time. And I think you really need to have a passion to be able to be uh you know part of that. You need to have a passion for that mission to be able to do it for 34 plus years. Uh so that's amazing and it's something that you always have. you have that open door. And so sometimes you you help today and you know that you know maybe this help will be for today but tomorrow it can be back to the cycle but you still think it's worth giving that help today. And sometimes you help and you know it's going to be success but maybe you don't get to see the success. You don't get to see those results. Um but you still have to have faith and passion for for what's happening. What's the help that you're able to give today? And sometimes you do get to see the results.

[01:07:40]And we had one of the migrants that was staying at the shelter and you know she left a really bad situation in uh Venezuela and she was a teacher there and she you know now she came to this country and she didn't have those resources and she didn't have all of those opportunities but um she was you know really dedicated to wanting to turn things around and you guys had the door open for her very open door policy and always wanting to provide all of the resources available and she left the Salvation Army shelter and she had housing for a time and then we did hear that she had to go to another shelter again for a time and when you hear that you sometimes can feel discouraged but she qualified for rehousing and she has stayed house for over two years. So that is a success story that you get to see.

[01:08:27]And she actually still comes to the Salvation Army family uh center every Monday evening to volunteer and help with the um you know the the Bible study that they do on Monday nights. So that's really nice to see that come around full circle there. And she is engaged and very close to their final day at the Salvation Army. You will be officiating that wedding. So I think it's nice when you do get to see those stories come to uh a successful well not conclusion but you get to see that that success story.

[01:08:59]So yes, anyways, so it's very amazing and it's a big thing. 34 years of officership.

[01:09:04]>> I feel like I say go for war. I know be that longer.

[01:09:07]>> Sorry.

[01:09:08]>> But we came January 2017, we never been El Paso before. So when we came here took like a month to know that this is the place that we we want to be.

[01:09:21]When you love what you do, it is not hard worker.

[01:09:26]You enjoy what you are doing. You you see people not there is no more reward that you see the smile of people when you get do a good service when you serving from the heart from the Christmas to Thanksgiving to the migrants people crying when they see that they are not alone that this community is the best community that we have been in our 34 year nothing like El Paso a one community that all nprofit organization are together a support for the something for the city is everybody working with one mission to support each other and that's made us our super easy.

[01:10:08]We love this this town so much that we decide to stay in El Paso. We are purchase a house and we want to live in El Paso because there is no place like El Paso. Thank you for the privilege that we have to serve this community.

[01:10:20]>> Well, thank you Florian. Go ahead.

[01:10:24]>> I only want to say that >> come to the mic please to the I just can telling you that El Paso is the best.

[01:10:32]>> Um there is no play here in United States like El Paso has been living in so many different cities but El Paso is like a family city when everybody care about each other. So and it's beautiful.

[01:10:45]I love the mountain. I love the people.

[01:10:47]I I love the culture. I love everything here. So El Paso and USA is the best.

[01:10:53]There is no any other place better than this. in this world. So I thank you to uh I thank to every one of you for uh helping and supporting the Salvation Army and for all your dedication to this beautiful city. God bless you.

[01:11:08]>> Thank you. And I'm glad that you said that. I hope that as El Pasoans we realize because you know we keep saying how special we are. Uh but here are two individuals that have been all over and they're able to witness other communities and for them to say that there's no better place in El Paso. The only thing we need to do is make sure we feel it ourselves, you know, because sometimes I I think we we take it for granted. It's a beautiful community that we love and and I thank you both. I don't know how we're going to fill that vacuum what you did. Uh we always knew that we could depend on you. Sometimes we took you for granted cuz we knew you were there. And so when we had a crisis, we knew you were going to be there.

[01:11:49]Irene, you've always expressed, you know, how exciting you were about, you know, just having that that opportunity to work with such a great partnership and we wish you the best in your retirement and um you're going to stay in El Paso, right? Okay.

[01:12:08]So, we we thank you for that and I'm sure we're going to be seeing a lot of of both of you. And like I said, thank you for being such a close witness and sharing what you saw in these two incredible individuals. So, thank you so much. We'll take a picture with you.

[01:12:22]Thank you.

[01:13:58]Item number 5D, approve and adopt a resolution recognizing the Medical Center of the Americas for its 20 years of leadership, service, and contributions to health care, education, innovation, and economic development in the Paso del Norte region.

[01:14:18]>> Yes. Thank you very much, judge and commissioners. I am uh very privileged to be able to present this resolution in honor of the medical center of the Amedicas Foundation today. Um I I'll go ahead and read the resolution and then we'll take a vote and then we'll hear from our guests from the MCA Foundation. Um I just wanted to uh before I read the resolution, thank the MCA for being here for um allowing me to read this resolution. I um have very personal connection to the MCA foundation and so it is a privilege.

[01:14:54]Thank you very much. Whereas the medical center of the Americas foundation was established in 2006 to advance healthc care biomedical research, education, workforce development and innovation in the Baselin North region. And whereas the Medical Center of the Americas Foundation has played a key role in the development of the 440 acre Medical Center of the Americas campus in South Central El Paso, helping establish the region as a growing hub for healthc care, education, life sciences, clinical research, and high-skll economic opportunity. And whereas the campus is now home to leading institutions including Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, University Medical Center of El Paso, El Paso Children's Hospital, UT Health, Houston School of Public Health, and the Veterans Affairs Wellness Center, the Cardwell Collaborative, and numerous public agencies and organizations dedicated to improving health outcomes in the region. And whereas since receiving a city of El Paso impact fund grant in 2012, the Medical Center of the Americas Foundation has leveraged 40.6 million into a approximately $121.4 million in economic impact, demonstrating a 3:1 return on investment for the community.

[01:16:08]And whereas the foundation has led significant infrastructure and campus development initiatives, including the expansion of the campus from a 140 acres to 440 acres, the opening of the Cardwell Collaborative in 2016 as the region's first biomedical research and commercialization facility, the development of the Veter Veterans Affairs Wellness Center in 2018, and support for the Gail Grieve Hunt School of Nursing. And whereas through the Melinda and Meer Marcus Foundation Innovation Center, the Medical Center of the Americas Foundation has supported entrepreneurship and innovation efforts resulting in more than $3.8 million in investment capital raised, nearly $19 million in loans and grant funding secured, 35 patents and trademarks awarded, and direct support provided to more than 100 entrepreneurs and startups. And whereas the Medical Center of the Americas Foundation received 200 two um 2023 American Rescue Plan Act funds through El Paso County Economic Recovery Investment, enabling the expansion of its clinical trials program through support for new investigator sites, additional clinical trial coordinators and community health workers, and strengthen partnerships that increase access to research and advanced care for patients across the region. And whereas through the STEM innovation lab and workforce development initiatives, the medical center of the Amedus Foundation has impacted more than 31,000 students, partnered with 97 schools, trained healthcare and clinical research professionals, and contributed to a regional clinical trials ecosystem with an estimated economic impact of $420 million and 223 jobs in 2005 2025 alone. And whereas the success of the medical center of the Amedicus Foundation demonstrates the transmor that transformative economic development does not happen overnight, but through decades of vision, partnership, leadership, strategic planning, and sustained public and private investment.

[01:18:08]And whereas the foundation's work reflects the importance of forward-thinking economic development strategies that build local talent, strengthen regional institutions, attract outside investment, create high-skll career pathways, and improve quality of life for future generations.

[01:18:24]And whereas for two decades the medical center of the Americas Foundation has served as a catalyst for healthcare advancement, research, innovation, education, economic development, and regional collaboration, helping strengthen access to quality health care and position El Paso as a center for medical innovation and investment. And now therefore, be it resolved that the El Paso County Commissioner's Court and County Judge hereby recognizes and honors the Medical Center of the Amigus Foundation for its 20 years of visionary leadership, service, and contributions to health care, education, innovation, and economic development in the Baso Norta region and extends its appreciation for the foundation's continued commitment to improving the quality of life for the residents of El Paso County. Signed this 18th day of May, 2026.

[01:19:12]We have a motion to approve from Commissioner Butler, a second from County Judge Sango. Voting is open.

[01:19:19]Commissioner Coronado is absent. Motion carries.

[01:19:27]>> Welcome.

[01:19:29]Welcome.

[01:19:30]>> Good morning, county judge, county commissioners, and county staff. My name is Carlos Ortega, and I'm the president and CEO of the Medical Center of the Americas Foundation. On behalf of the Medical Center of the Americas Foundation, we are sincerely honored and grateful to stand here today and receive this resolution recognizing MCA's 20th anniversary. It is a very meaningful affirmation of the work MCA has pursued in contributing to the development of a medical center uh in our community and catalyzing the life sciences ecosystem uh in our region bringing together healthcare, medical education, research and innovation to improve the lives and standard of living in our community.

[01:20:11]Over the past 20 years, what began as a bold vision to create a center of excellence for healthcare and life sciences has come to life through AMCA programs. Today, the MCA Medical Center campus stands as a powerful example of what collaboration, innovation, and commitment can achieve with a dedicated city partnership and collaboration with our campus partners, Texas Tech Health, UT Health, UMC University Medical Center, El Paso Children's Hospital, and the Veterans Administration.

[01:20:45]We are especially grateful for the county's support of MCA through a grant subawwarded in 2023 under the American Rescue Plan Act following the CO 19 pandemic. This investment allowed MCA to strengthen and expand its clinical trials, helping grow and diversify the clinical research workforce and increase the number of local clinical trial sites in the region. Through this work, MCA supported new investigator sites, trained clinical trial coordinators and community health workers, and strengthen partnerships that expand to research and advance care for patients in our region.

[01:21:25]This effort is especially important for our border community because it helps address healthc care disparities while ensuring our population is better represented in clinical research and emerging treatments by expanding access to local clinical research opportunities. We're are helping bring cutting edge closer to home for El Pasoans and communities across the region.

[01:21:49]This recognition belongs not only to MCA but also to our staff, our board members, partners, donors, city and community supporters who have believed in our mission throughout the years.

[01:22:03]Their dedication and collaboration continue to move this work forward and strengthen the future of healthcare and life sciences in our region. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to expanding partnerships, supporting innovation, and creating opportunities that improve the lives across the El Paso Don Norte region.

[01:22:25]Thank you again for this honor and for recognizing the importance of advancing health care, research, innovation, and economic development in our community.

[01:22:37]Thank you.

[01:22:38]>> Thank you so much. I'd like now just for some of our staff members to come up and introduce themselves. This is just some of our staff people.

[01:22:46]>> Welcome.

[01:22:47]>> Welcome county commissioners and thank you. Nancy Lowry, director of innovation for the medical center of the Americas Foundation.

[01:22:54]>> Thank you.

[01:22:56]>> Hi, good morning. Emily Gomez, program marketing event coordinator for the innovation center.

[01:23:04]>> Good morning. Jackie Lada, public relations and marketing coordinator for the MCA Foundation.

[01:23:09]>> Thank you. You know, if someone has had the front row seat, uh it's been our commissioner. We've learned a lot uh about about your organization through Commissioner Butler. Uh but you know I was thinking you know how the it's very not very often that you you you focus on health and research and all of these incredible things but also the outcome is economic development which is pretty interesting right because typically we don't see it that way but when you're improving health you're improving our economy you're getting people that are healthier that are back into the workforce. Uh so we we thank you so much for everything that you do and sort of that conglomeration of of every the children's hospital and UMC and everything that you've done. So, we thank you for that and then we look forward to some amazing things coming up uh that that I know we're going to make El Paso. I I really feel that we're going to be one of the best healthc care, you know, uh communities and on on the border for sure. And and thank you also, as you know, we always appreciate what you do for the region and the border. And it's something that you've always taken uh into consideration is our relationship with health, with the border community. So, we thank you for that. Commissioner Butler.

[01:24:28]>> Yeah.

[01:24:29]>> Or Commissioner St. >> Yeah. Um, just wanted to also congratulate y'all. Um, I've I've been on the board as an exofficial member for 12 years of those 20 years. And so, um, you know, just just seeing uh uh the organization and and what it's done and um, you know, I'm looking forward to to more community engagement and and uh more growth with within the organization. Thank you very much and congratulations. Thank you for for all your hard work. Thank you commissioner for your service on our board. Thank you very much. And uh judge, I want you to remember that Jackie or Commissioner Butler was also very important member of the MCA that contributed to these.

[01:25:04]>> I do remember I do remember.

[01:25:06]>> Thank you, >> Commissioner Butler.

[01:25:08]>> Uh thank you, Judge and Commissioners, and thank you, Commissioner Stout, um also for your service on on the MCA board for so many years. Um I I just wanted to take take some time to highlight um the importance of the MCA Foundation and organizations like it.

[01:25:25]Um, uh, healthc care obviously is something that our community has invested a lot in over the last 20 to 30 years and we still have a lot of catching up to do as a community to make sure that um that we are are um have have level service uh access and we're still an underserved community. And so um that's why that's why you've seen so much investment in healthcare uh from multiple levels. But what the MC Foundation has tried to do, uh, especially over the last decade, I think, is to say this is also an economic engine for our community. Um, you know, it's the largest private industry in the county. So, outside of government and Fort Bliss, healthc care is the largest private economic driver in El Paso. Um, and it provides so many levels of economic opportunity. And what the MCA foundation has tried to do is to put continue to push uh the boundaries on what healthc care means for our communities. So moving it into clinical trials and innov um startups and innovation and research um to say it's not just about patient care, it's about everything that happens to get those medicines and those technologies to the patient. um and how do we root some of those technologies here in our community? Um so that we're creating more job opportunities for the kids from our community to be able to enter into um and so I've I've been really privileged to have a small part of that uh dynamic. But I also want to say um that the MCA Foundation wouldn't be what it is today without intentional investment from government including the city of El Paso, but at the state and federal levels. The MCA Foundation has been able to get grants uh over the last 20 years and have that sustained economic impact investment from the city of El Paso. And what the research that I did when I was at the MCA foundation uh showed that um innovation ecosystems like what the MCA foundation is trying to build don't happen organically. They happen with the support of local state federal government with uh the support and partnership with e educational institutions like UTP and Texas Tech. Um and when you see um startup ecosystems in places like Silicon Valley and Boston and San Diego, those all happened with intentional support and investment from government. And so um I hope that the MCA Foundation will continue to be that beacon of light for our community. Uh that local institutions see the value in investing in organizations like the MCA Foundation. that our local startup um community and entrepreneurs will continue to reach out to the MCA Innovation Center to get that support um because it really is a singular organization in this community that that I hope will remain for many many years to come. So, thank you again for all you do. So, thank you to the two president and CEOs of the MCA Foundation, Carlos Ortega and Emmanis, um, who have really, um, made the MC Foundation what it is today. So, thank you.

[01:28:41]>> Thank you, Commissioner Butler.

[01:28:44]>> Can we go ahead and take a picture?

[01:28:46]Okay.

[01:29:26]Congratulations for Item number 5E, approve and adopt a resolution recognizing the Criminal Justice Coordination Department for receiving the 2026 Texas Association of Pre-Trial Services Executive Award in El Paso County, Texas.

[01:30:19]Have our CJC team coming up to the podium.

[01:30:30]Good morning.

[01:30:32]Thank you all for being here.

[01:30:53]Welcome, Commissioner Butler.

[01:30:55]>> Thank you, Judge, Commissioners. Um, honored to be able to read this resolution into the record today. I'll go ahead and read it and then hand it over um to the team.

[01:31:06]Whereas in 2015, following national best practices, the El Paso County Commissioner's Court established a pre-trial services department to oversee the assessment and supervision of pre-trial defendants. And this department evolved into the criminal justice coordination department operating two core divisions, one providing continuous assessment and the other supervising all pre-trial defendants released on personal bonds.

[01:31:31]And whereas in December 2022, the re-entry unit was placed under the oversight of the Criminal Justice Coordination Department, CJC, creating a comprehensive continuum of assessment, supervision, and re-entry services for individuals navigating the pre-trial system, and thereby creating a comprehensive continuum of services for pre-trial defendants. And whereas the Criminal Justice Coordination Department is a long-standing member of the Texas Association of Pre-Trial Services, a statewide body dedicated to advancing evidence-based pre-trial practices, strengthening professional standards, and promoting justice system improvement across Texas. And whereas in 2025, the Criminal Justice Coordination Department became the first county in the state of Texas and the sixth program in the nation to achieve national accreditation through the National Association of Pre-Trial Services, demonstrating exceptional adherence to national standards operating in operational integrity and professional excellence.

[01:32:28]And whereas in recognition of this historic accomplishment and the department's sustained contributions to advancing pre-trial practice in Texas, the Texas Association of Pre-Trial Services awarded the Criminal Justice Coordination Department, the 2026 Texas Association of Pre-Trial Services Executive Award honoring its leadership, innovation, and commitment to highquality evidenceinformed pre-trial services. And whereas this award reflects the dedication of the CJC's assessment and intake unit, pre-trial supervision unit, and pre-entry support services unit, whose professionalism, collaboration, and adherence to best practices have strengthened public safety, improved system outcomes, and enhanced fairness for the residents of El Paso County. Now therefore, be it resolved that the El Paso County Commissioner's Court and County Judge hereby recognize and commend the Criminal Justice Coordination Department for receiving the 2026 Texas Association of Pre-Trial Services Executive Award for its exceptional leadership in advancing pre-trial justice in Texas and serving as a model of excellence for counties across the state and nation. Signed this 18th day of May, 2026.

[01:33:39]>> We have We have a motion from Commissioner Butler, a second from Judge Sango. The voting is open.

[01:33:48]Commissioner go.

[01:33:48]>> I vote I.

[01:33:49]>> Thank you. Vote I.

[01:33:52]>> Motion carries.

[01:33:55]>> Came back just in time. Commissioner.

[01:34:03]Okay. We have Miss Araniano. Yes.

[01:34:06]Welcome with the criminal justice coordination department. I want to thank you, Judge Commissioners, Commissioner Butler, for this resolution, for acknowledging the work that our department does day in and day out. Um, we're honored to have received an award from the Texas Frei um because that shows the commitment, the work that the staff does every day, the commitment to the community, to public safety. Um, so this is just another award um to demonstrate that and to thank you for the support um that you've given to our department since 2015.

[01:34:39]We've come a long way and I think we're only going to continue to improve. And um pre-trial service is about community safety, you know, coming with the community. We've done a lot of um outreach to the community, not just in our supervision pre-trial uh now pre-entry, right, world. Um but now we're going out there to show them what else we have to offer as a community. Um so I want to thank you again for this honor, for this resolution, and I'm going to hand it off to some of these ladies who are going to give us some words. Thank you so much.

[01:35:12]>> Welcome.

[01:35:13]>> Hi. Good morning, commissioners. My name is Adriana Leon and I'm a supervision officer with the criminal justice coordination department. Uh pre-trial supervision officers are impactful and essential role when they play when the role they play is to serve within the criminal justice system. We are tasked with balancing accountability, rehabilitation, public safety, and support for individuals navigating through the pre-trial process. One of the primary duties of a supervision officer is case management, some with over 300 individuals. This also includes maintaining regular contact with clients, conducting office visits, monitoring compliance with court orders, and documenting process of violations accurately and professionally. At its core, the role of supervision officer is about accountability with purpose. It's about protecting the community while also believing in a in the possibility of change. It's it is a profession of built on responsibility, fairness, and service. Each officer's efforts help strengthen our communities, support rehabilitation, and uphold the integrity of the justice system.

[01:36:16]>> Thank you.

[01:36:20]>> Welcome.

[01:36:22]>> Good morning, commissioners, judge. My name is Teresa Laensana, um the program coordinator with uh pre-entry support services.

[01:36:36]Um, and I'm house at the jail annex. Um, in collaboration with the sheriff's office and um, other nonprofit organizations, we are giving justice involved individuals access to information, awareness, education, and resources while still in detention. Our work begins inside, and we continue to provide support upon release from detention.

[01:37:02]For me and my colleagues in pre-entry, this resolution goes far than the rec the TPS award. Farther beyond the recognition of the TAPS award, it means that our work has meaning that our work is in fact changing lives.

[01:37:20]It means that our justice involved clients who want and seek change can have an opportunity to do so. I feel in my heart that excellence in our work shows when I see and hear the life transformation stories from those we have assisted.

[01:37:36]Some of those same individuals are now partnering with us because they have joined social service organizations and are giving back to the community. I know we have reached a level of excellence when we come together with our community partners and create opportunities where it seems impossible.

[01:37:54]Because of your support, I know we can continue to be creative and innovative and I know we will continue to lead and promote justice reform. Thank you.

[01:38:02]>> Thank Thank you.

[01:38:06]>> Welcome.

[01:38:07]>> Good morning.

[01:38:13]>> Good morning, commissioners. My name is Katalina Scalante. I am honored to serve as a pre-trial supervision officer for El Paso County. My role focuses on balancing accountability, fairness, and public safety while helping individuals successfully navigate the justice system as await court proceedings. A large part of my work involves supervising DW DWI case load, which consists of 200 cases, which requires closed monitoring of court-ordered conditions such as alcohol testing, ignition interlock compliance, as well as portable monitors, substance abuse treatments, and regular reporting.

[01:38:50]This role has shown me that pre-trial supervision is more than enforcing rules. It is about preventing repeat offenses, encouraging responsibility, and helping individuals make better decisions. I'm especially proud that El Paso County is recognized as one of the most advanced counties in Texas pre-trial services.

[01:39:10]Compared to many other counties, El Paso has taken a more progressive approach by implementing collaboration between the courts and community resources. Our county has implemented innovation and evidence-based practices that many other jurisdictions across the state look to as a model. I am proud to say that I was given the opportunity to to attend the Texas Association of Pre-Trial Service Conference, also known as TAPS, which promotes growth training and gives us the opportunity to collaborate among other pre-trial professionals throughout the state of Texas. El Paso County receives recognition during this conference for its leadership and commitment to excellence in pre-trial services. That recognition reflects the dedication, professionalism, and innovation our department brings to the community every day. While many counties are still working toward modernizing their pre-trial systems, El Paso has continued to lead by example and set a higher standard across the state. I am grateful to be a part of a department that continues to make a positive difference in our community. Thank you.

[01:40:14]>> Thank you, >> Catherine. Katherine, you wanna >> Oh, >> good morning, commissioners.

[01:40:30]Okay.

[01:40:32]My name is Talin Perea. I'm with the assessment and intake unit.

[01:40:37]Uh, I am proud to be part of a department that continues to set the standard through professionalism, teamwork, and service. Every day, our personal show, our personnel show commitment not only to our daily tasks, but to each other and to the community we serve. The CJC consistently demonstrates integrity, resilience, and dedication.

[01:41:01]What truly makes this department exemptional is the people. We have individuals who are motivated, capable, and willing to go beyond what is expected to ensure the job gets done to the the right way. The culture here is built on accountability, trust, and a shared commitment to excellence. As we continue moving forward, we remain focused on growth, leadership, and maintaining the high standards that define the CJC. I believe the work being done here reflects something we can all take pride in and I'm confident the best is still ahead of us.

[01:41:36]>> Thank you.

[01:41:37]>> Thank you.

[01:41:37]>> Thank you, >> Katherine.

[01:41:43]Welcome, Katherine.

[01:41:45]>> Thank you very much. Katherine Jones, criminal justice director. I'm just the lady who is has the opportunity to show up to work every single day and do the small things that I can to support this incredible team standing here. This is just a snippet of the people in our department. Um the rest are working or sleeping. Our shift workers hopefully are sleeping right now. Um and and they come in every day and tirelessly commit themselves to the mission. Um, you know, I deeply intrinsically value and respect the people I work with. They I I I don't say this lightly.

[01:42:31]This is the best group of humans that I have ever had the opportunity to work with and I appreciate them very much.

[01:42:39]>> Thank you so much, Katherine.

[01:42:44]We're all so very very proud of you. But I don't know Commissioner Coronado, he's been a great advocate. So I'd like to and he's experienced on both sides. So Commissioner Coronado, any additional words.

[01:42:58]>> Good morning everybody. You know, I'm really proud of this department, but just this department judge the our entire county and our entire organization who is focusing really on uh improving our justice system. This is just one uh way that I think uh we can really uh save not just a lot of people from getting back into the system, but really save resources for our entire county government in terms of uh res, you know, the supervision issues. Uh getting them some kind of workforce training and education to keep them from going in uh to probation. And this uh you know our pre-entry and uh promise program are you know way ahead of the game. I know Idalgo County now has uh started to do some of what we're doing.

[01:43:48]Uh so people are starting to notice uh what we are doing here in El Paso with regards to our pre-trial supervision and our diversion program. So I'm I'm really proud of our entire team for one, but uh really our entire organization for getting behind this judge.

[01:44:05]>> Thank you. and and we thank you for the promise program and your advocacy for this. Uh Betsy.

[01:44:12]>> Uh thank you, Judge, and thank you, Commissioner Butler, for placing this item and recognizing our team.

[01:44:18]Katherine, I love the way you let the team lead and and present this item and respond. I'm always incredibly proud of the work that this team does. I've had an opportunity to um meet with the team and talk about the impacts that they make in the lives of people, the people that we serve and just what an impact it is on our justice system. I do I I want to defer to Joel who has um been here with us throughout the the criminal justice coordination process and has really brought um the the court's vision to life when um it came to what we've done with criminal justice and the reforms that we have made. Thank you, Joel.

[01:44:58]>> Thank you, Betsy. Judge, commissioners, uh Joel Bishop with with county administration. Um it seems like there's a pattern here in in awards. Um many awards in the last few years, recognition. Um very proud of this team.

[01:45:12]You guys do awesome work. I hear about it the most. Um you see the outcomes on the website. Um, and one of the best annual reports that that I've ever seen in the in the field is posted on our website. I encourage anybody who wants to know more to go there um to see just just the phenomenal outcomes that they produce. Um, lots of money saved. I I I know it costs under a dollar a day um to supervise an individual and um and they do a great job, you know, communicating with the courts and some that don't comply, making sure that that there's some accountability, but also keeping very high compliance rates and we've seen an increase in those compliance rates. we've see over 90% um uh appearance rates, perfect appearance rates, and over 90% of the defendants finish without um being rearrested. And so it's it's super proud of this team.

[01:46:07]Um they've worked very hard and we've progressively seen the outcomes getting better over the years and um you can see that on the website and and um and uh with something that can be quantified.

[01:46:19]So appreciate you all very much. You've done a great job. We know that you're working day and night literally and uh we're very grateful for the hard work you do and to improve our our field. Um you're you're you're state national leaders and you should be very proud of that.

[01:46:35]>> Thank you Joel and and thank you to all of you and and you know the ones that are very appreciative that they don't express it because they're not here today but the community uh what you do for the community is just amazing. Uh people don't realize that when you've got someone back to work instead of being in the system makes all the difference in the world. That's what makes our economy better. It makes you know us feel better. As we've always said, no one should be one minute more in in in jail that shouldn't be and no one should ever be there because they can't afford to get out. So those are the two principles that we trust and thank you for for helping us with that.

[01:47:15]Commissioner Butler.

[01:47:16]>> Um yes. Thank you, Judge and Commissioners. Uh I am just so um honored to have the privilege to recognize you as a team and um Katherine, thank you very much for your leadership. It is apparent that uh you um you're a wonderful leader and put your staff first and so um thank you for the work that you do every day. you are an important piece of the criminal justice puzzle in El Paso County and um we wouldn't be able to help the citizens of of our of our beloved county without you. So, thank you very much. Um and congratulations on your word. I'm sure there are many more to come.

[01:47:57]>> Thank you, >> Judge.

[01:48:00]>> Judge.

[01:48:01]>> Yes, sir.

[01:48:01]>> Judge, one other thing. Yeah. Uh I I I really want to thank uh Commissioner Butler for uh presenting this resolution to the court. I really want to get a special u recognition to Joel. Uh when I first came on board back in early 2023, he was the first one that met with me uh with respect to the promise program that I wanted to do. And I I want to thank him for early on getting behind and as well as Katherine uh getting behind this promise program that's part of CJC uh because I really think it's it it's it's been a great addition uh to our government and we all should be proud of that and so I want to thank them both for that.

[01:48:42]>> Thank you. that promise program is very powerful and thanks to uh our commissioner, but let's let's keep it alive and make sure that uh you know, we already know who is in in jail, so we now know who we need to address before they get there. Their education is probably low. They might be not they're homeless and they probably don't have a job. So, if we address those three, the chances of of them not being part of the criminal justice system is great. So, thank you each and every one of you for what you do. Thank you, Commissioner Butler.

[01:49:18]>> Go ahead and take a picture. Thank you.

[01:49:38]Congratulations.

[01:51:10]Item number six is public comment. We do have two speakers for public comment this morning. Uh do we have Miss Crawford on the line?

[01:51:19]Before we begin, I'd just like to remind everybody that public comment is limited to five minutes per speaker. Everybody is being timed. Thank you.

[01:51:27]>> Go ahead, Miss Crawford.

[01:51:34]>> Item number.

[01:51:36]>> Welcome, Elizabeth.

[01:51:37]>> Go ahead, Miss Crawford.

[01:51:42]>> Elizabeth Uh, Miss Graford, go ahead.

[01:52:00]>> Go ahead.

[01:52:08]>> U, we want to wait and and then have her go after the inerson speaker.

[01:52:14]>> Okay.

[01:52:15]Uh, you like to step out, Miguel.

[01:52:27]>> Our next speaker in public comment is Mr. Miguel Mendes.

[01:52:33]>> Good morning. Good morning, commissioners. Mendes, multimedia services supervisor. Uh, I just wanted to take the time. I don't know if you've you've seen for many years actually 10 years um as Saturday was my 10 year anniversary we've been working back there as a a twoerson operation but recently I want to introduce Matthew Kobo who's uh been uh who's now our part-time multimedia services uh specialist >> Matthew Kobo is uh graduated high school from Polytech High in Pomona California uh in 2024 he got his bachelor's from the University of Redlands uh in media visual culture studies and photography.

[01:53:10]Um he started as an intern for almost a year now. Um started watching us work behind the scenes and and really caught on and has learned it on the the broadcast production part of it and has helped us tremendously. He's also helped us tremendously with photography. And if you can queue up those photos, uh Alexis, uh he's been covering events. Um has great photography skills. Um, and then we were we were able to bring him on part-time through through some salary savings, but he's also helping the county save money. As you know, we recently launched the website, and we were we were going to contract uh a company to take actual landscape photography uh photos for the website.

[01:53:55]Well, his his skills are, I think, much much superior than anything out there.

[01:54:00]And so he he has gone out and got some some great banner photos for our website as you can see here. He has a great eye for it and and we're trying to concentrate on each part each precinct of the county to go out a great get some great photos that capture you know our county and uh and he's just been a great asset and I want to take the time to to introduce him to to you and the court and and uh hopefully we could stay on for a long time.

[01:54:31]>> Thank you. Thank you.

[01:54:35]Hey, Judge.

[01:54:36]>> Hi, commissioners and judge. It's weird to be up here versus in the back hiding, but um thank you for this opportunity.

[01:54:42]Um again, like Miguel said, I started as an intern about a year ago. So, um it's been great learning and having actual hands-on opportunity. And I want to thank Miguel, Alexis, and Desiree, and everyone in communications and everyone in the county for being such a welcoming family for me and all the other interns.

[01:54:58]So, thank you for the opportunity.

[01:55:00]>> You have amazing partners with Miguel and Alexa. So, thank you. and thank you for your work. It's extremely good.

[01:55:06]Thank you. Thank you, >> Judge. And I want to thank them for helping me with my technical issues this morning. That's why I couldn't log on early, but they they did a great job and and and got me on.

[01:55:26]>> Thank you.

[01:55:30]>> Thank you.

[01:55:31]>> Do we have Miss Crawford on? Mr. Crawford, are you there?

[01:55:33]>> Elizabeth, are you on?

[01:55:35]>> Yes. Can you hear me?

[01:55:36]>> Welcome.

[01:55:36]>> Yes, we can.

[01:55:39]>> Thank you.

[01:55:42]>> Can you Can you go ahead and mute your the YouTube, please?

[01:55:51]>> Oh, I'm sorry. As we honor Memorial Day and our nation this month, we're reminded of the blessings of living in this land. David wrote in the Psalms, "Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good. Blessed is the man that trusts in him." As many of us, the trajectory that our nation has taken, especially over the past several decades, and the mess that our nation has become, I have to keep my thoughts in check and remind myself of the blessings and the protection we do enjoy here. As warped as our nation now is, we are still blessed to live in America.

[01:56:30]This week coming weekend, as we honor Memorial Day, we're reminded of other statistics related to Memorial Day.

[01:56:41]Prolifeaction.org news gives a statistic that is shocking.

[01:56:48]As of 2020, since 1776, an estimated 1.35 million American soldiers have been killed in battle. Since the legislation of abortion in 1973, well over 64 unborn Americans have been killed. The abortion rate being over 47 times the number of war deaths in our nation through history. Approximately 6,800 Americans died fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan from 2001 to 2021, which is 0.04% of the number of abortions in that same interval of time. And on 911, more lives were taken in abortion than in the attacks of that day.

[01:57:36]This Memorial Day, if we ask God to give us what we have earned or deserve as a nation, we're in trouble because we have earned and deserved his judgment. How can we say, "God bless America. He does not owe us blessings." America, repent and bless God. Honor God. Obey God. The psalmist wrote, "Oh, give thanks to the Lord for he is good for his loving kindness is everlasting. His mercy endures forever.

[01:58:06]We as play lifers are thankful to a God who has shown mercy to his people in holding their judgment and to our nation in giving more time to repent. Thank you and I hope you have a very good day and a very good Memorial Day weekend. Thank you.

[01:58:23]>> Thank you Lucas. You too have a good day.

[01:58:34]Item number 7A, board appointments.

[01:58:39]Approve the appointment of the nominee from the El Paso Dispute Resolution Center, Cesabanes, to the Ethics Commission for the unexpired term ending January 31st, 2028.

[01:58:52]>> Good morning, Judge Commissioners. Betsy Keller, County Administrator. We're asking for your favorable approval of this nominee from the um alternate dispute resolution center. This is for one of the seats out of the 10 on the ethics commission. They have um made a nomination for this vacancy and we're asking for the court's favorable approval for Caesar Giannis. And he wasn't able to be with us this morning. He's at a graduation for his granddaughter, I believe.

[01:59:25]We have a motion from Commissioner Butler, a second from Commissioner. The voting is open.

[01:59:33]>> I vote I.

[01:59:34]>> Thank you, Commissioner. Uh, actually, could you please turn on your screen, Commissioner Konado?

[01:59:41]>> I vote I.

[01:59:43]>> There you go.

[01:59:44]>> Thank you, sir.

[01:59:46]Motion carries.

[01:59:47]>> Thank you, Caesar.

[01:59:51]Item number 10B, approve the appointment of Commissioner Stout's nominee, Nancy Sanchez, to the El Paso County Housing Authority for the 2-year term beginning May 15, 2026 and ending May 14th, 2028.

[02:00:07]>> Good morning, judge, commissioners.

[02:00:08]We're asking for your favorable approval of the appointment for Nancy Sanchez to the El Paso County Housing Authority Board. Um, this is for a two-year term.

[02:00:17]She has completed all the required trainings. This is Commissioner Stout's nominee. Um it she is filling a requirement on the board that a resident be a board member. It doesn't have to be Commissioner Stout's nominee, but there are no other board members that fill that requirement. So, he has made sure that he has a nominee that is a resident of the housing authority.

[02:00:47]We have a motion from Judge Sango, second from >> Make it from Commissioner Stone, please.

[02:00:52]>> The U motion and then I'll second.

[02:00:55]>> Okay.

[02:01:00]Okay. We have a motion from Commissioner Stout, a second from Judge Sango. The voting is open.

[02:01:07]>> I vote I.

[02:01:08]>> Thank you, Commissioner. Motion carries.

[02:01:12]And I apologize. I said items 10A and 10B. It was 7 A and 7B.

[02:01:21]Item number 8A, Commissioner's Court, receive a presentation from the El Paso County Sheriff's Office regarding 287G agreements.

[02:01:43]Um, judge, judge and uh and comm and and commissioners, I just before we we uh have the presentation, I wanted to make a make a couple of comments. Um, I put the item on the agenda at the request of the Border Network for Human Rights. um just in order to to to make sure that we're being as transparent as possible uh to inform the community about the options that the county had in response to the state law that requires us to enter into a 287 agreement with the federal government and participate in the program. Um, in my opinion, it's one of the many laws that the state has passed that that challenge not only our local priorities uh but um really uh also challenge our local control and the principles that that uh that we that we espouse and and um you know it's it's interesting that the state leadership state leadership used to talk a lot about um local control but um not so much anymore. It's it's also uh has budgetary impacts.

[02:02:43]Local taxpayers have been on the hook for tens of millions of dollars in expenses related to immigrant immigration enforcement, especially through um Operation Lonear.

[02:02:54]I think we've said many times, gone over this many times that uh the fact that um Operation Lonear since its inception has has cost the county between4 and $50 million.

[02:03:07]Um and you know this is this is an additional cost uh that that local taxpayers are on the hook for. Um you know you know one of the one of the most stark examples that people I think should remember was the uh incident at gate 36 a couple of years ago in March 2024. An incident that alone cost local taxpayers more than a million dollars uh to jail hundreds of people for cases that ended up being dismissed.

[02:03:35]Um, when you add up all the local costs, it's in the tens of millions over again the past 5 years. And our local values, I think, don't support the indiscriminate rounding up of immigrants who are part of our blended border community and our local finances are strain from state and federal action.

[02:03:52]So, that's just a bit of the context for the reason why we we requested this presentation. Uh, it doesn't cover all of these issues, of course, but it focuses on the 287G program, which we're going to hear more about. And I want to thank the B&H for bringing the request forward. And of course, Sheriff Fugate and his staff for being uh amunable to the request and and for publicly and transparently explaining what the department is doing in response to this uh this unfunded state mandate and and uh so again, thanks to the sheriff staff and we'll go ahead and and turn it over to Mr. Sodia for the presentation. Thank you. Good morning, judge, commissioners, uh, Chief Deputy Manuel Sodia, Paso County Sheriff's Office. Uh, this morning, we are here to, uh, discuss the, um, Senate Bill 8 287 agreement and what it all entails. Uh, the scope of it. Uh, obviously, this this this bill, uh, delegates certain immigration enforcement functions to state and local uh, enforcement, law enforcement agencies throughout throughout a formal memorandum agreement. uh this memoranda being the 287 within within this mo this uh models there's three of them the jail uh enforcement model the task force model and the warrant service officer program which is the one that the sheriff's office is electing to pursue uh based on the less intrusive uh less um intrusive in terms of the immigration aspect of it. Um, with that, I will go ahead and turn it over to uh, uh, County Attorney Charlie Madrid uh, for uh, further as far as the legalities uh, when it comes to this this program.

[02:05:32]>> Thank you.

[02:05:32]>> Thank you.

[02:05:35]>> Welcome, Charlie.

[02:05:36]>> Good morning. Uh, good morning, Judge Commissioners, assistant county attorney Charlie Madrid. Um, as Chief Charlie said, uh, they asked that I kind of go over some of the the legal aspects of what the bill means and what the 287g program is. Um, so just and I think a lot of people have already heard this, but we want to make sure the community knows and everything. So SBA was passed in the last legislative session. Uh, it was effective on January 1st of this year. Uh, and it requires that all sheriffs operating a county jail in the state uh request and enter into a 287g agreement with the federal government.

[02:06:11]Um if the federal government denies that request for an agreement, then they are required under this law to re-request uh make their re-request every single year uh to try and get into one of these 287g agreements. Um the deadline for compliance for each sheriff operating a jail is December 1st of this year. Um, and the bill also recalls that also requires, excuse me, uh, the sheriff's office, the county provide any necessary resources to actually, uh, implement whatever is being agreed to in the 287g agreement and it is being enforced by the attorney general's office. Uh, it appears uh, that it would be like declaratory judgment actions. So they would actually file suit uh in the counties where sheriffs have not complied uh by December 1st um to uh force them to comply um and they could ask for attorney's fees if they're successful. Um so under SBA, there's also a grant program that has been established by the comproor uh applications already open. They opened uh earlier this year. Um I know they send notices to sheriff's offices weekly it seems. um to let them know about this grant program. Uh it's not a huge grant program. So, El Paso County would be eligible for $120,000 uh based on population. That's the range of 500,000 to 999,000.

[02:07:33]Um the funds are to be used to cover costs not reimbursed by federal government. Um and eligible uses are for personnel, jail housing, training, and equipment for the program. Uh it doesn't it's not clear exactly how often you can apply or if the program is going to continue. Uh but the details in the statute of the grants are should be used within two years. So to me everything reads that it's two-year grant for 120,000. Um the comproller in establishing the program is also required to send a report in April of even number of years. So they've already done that uh to the governor to the lieutenant governor and the speaker. um letting them know who in the state is in compliance with the the program.

[02:08:20]Okay. So, as Chief Sodia mentioned, there's three different uh models of 287G programs. Uh the first one is the warrant service officer model. Uh under this model, uh the officers, the sheriff's office will be required to serve jailbased warrants uh to incarcerate individuals. So, it's only within jail facilities. It's not in the community. um ICE or any immigration authority, they would forward these administrative orders, these administrative warrants to the the sheriff's office and the sheriff's office would serve these warrants on the individuals uh that they're affecting.

[02:08:56]Those individuals uh would remain in custody. So once state charges are done, uh much like the detainer system, once state charges are done, they will remain in custody based on that warrant, that immigration administrative warrant um for no more than 48 hours. So then they will come be picked up by ICE or whatever other entity um or uh released to the streets if they're not picked up within 48 hours. Uh several months ago we had spoken on the the marshals contract. So the county does have a contract with the US Marshall's office um to house federal inmates. Um court was clear they did not include provisions to house uh ICE detainees.

[02:09:36]Um, and so because of that, there's no uh way for individuals to be held longer than 48 hours under this uh model. Uh, this is because of that the lowest operational burden as far as, you know, staffing and everything. Uh, and it's essentially a streamlined ICE detainer process. Uh, and has a minimum of a 8 hour ICE training session, which I believe is online. Uh, the second model is a general enforcement model. Uh and in this one uh sheriff's office employees who undergo four-week ICE training plus some periodic refreshers.

[02:10:07]Uh they would actively identify immigration violators that are in custody of the jail. So again, not outside the jail, but within the jail, they would active work on identifying people. Uh once they identify someone they believe is violating immigration laws, then they would report that to ICE who would start the process. uh DHS start their process um and possibly get warrants and go on that route. Um again, this one is more higher resource demand.

[02:10:34]Uh there's more authority since they're actually conducting investigations as opposed to the warrant service where they're simply serving paperwork and holding for 48 hours. Uh the third model uh which is the most authority for local law enforcement from an immigration standpoint uh is task force model and again that is basically field-based immigration enforcement and so that would be granting local law enforcement sheriff's deputies authority to go out into the community to actually enforce immigration laws. Uh the training is more extensive still not a lot. 40 hours online ICE training required. Um of course this will create a lot more legal exposure. uh it's a lot more complex um and most definitely would have the greatest impact on uh public safety, community relations. Um but that's a task force model. So those are the three obviously some key considerations uh the sheriff needs to keep in mind um was the jail enforcement task force obviously require more resources and affect the public trust greater than the warrant service officer um their impact on jail capacity staffing and training. Um, like I said, of course that public trust, that community uh relations. Um, and of course keeping in mind that that grant of 120,000 over two years is unlikely to cover the cost for any of these programs. Um, so obviously you keep that in mind when deciding which model to go with. So I'll turn it back over to uh Chief Sodia kind of talk a little bit more about sheriff's plans and and going with Warren Service officer model.

[02:12:04]>> Charlie, I'm sorry before before you leave the mic. So I'm just trying to understand operationally what the difference is between the current detainer system that exists. Is it just the actual service of the administrative warrants? So our officers now are going to be actually serving paperwork to the detainees whereas before they were just getting I think by facts they would get the detainers from ICE.

[02:12:23]>> So the way it works right now so obviously ICE or Border Patrol whoever they have a warrant uh administrative warrant and then they fill out a detainer form and they send that detainer form to the jail. I don't know the exact process whether it's facts or how that works out but they send it to the jail. There's a jail personnel off you need more details on that but they send it to the jail. Uh the jail uses that um if you read the detainer form they're served on the inmates. Um the detainers are so uh inmates serve with that and they hold the uh the inmate for up to 48 hours unless ICE comes to pick them up. Of course the they'll release them earlier. If they don't come pick them up, then they release them to the streets within 48 hours. So, the way I see this in Renol, the proposed contract and everything, really the difference is the paperwork. So, instead of getting the detainer, uh the jail would actually receive the actual administrative warrant uh or removal order or whatever the case might be, they'll actually receive that paperwork. Um the process, again, it's a little bit different because they got to go through training.

[02:13:26]So, it's going to be specific people that can serve uh the paperwork that have done the training and all that, but they'll get the warrant instead of a detainer and then that warrant's going to be used to hold them for up to the 48 hours. So, in many ways, it's the process that's already being done, but different paperwork uh in the file. Um but again, there's some issues on training and who can actually do the service and so that will probably have some sort of operational impact there.

[02:13:51]>> Yeah. So it will affect staffing if only certain individuals can do the the serving of the warrants.

[02:13:57]>> Yeah, that's a presumption.

[02:14:01]>> Uh real quick, I just wanted to echo what Charlie said. Um on the operational side, it's already this practice has been in place for quite some time now.

[02:14:10]The only difference is now they're changing the name on it. Um but as as we discussed u ideally how it works is when when an in individual is taken into custody taken to the jail ICE will walk a detainer into the intake window and say we need this individual uh once he's done with state charges uh this changes nothing as far as on our end. Uh it's not a proactive measure for us to be um in in the immigration business. Um, so I I think that's the big takeaway from this for the community to know is this is not uh a proactive approach from the sheriff's office or from from anybody.

[02:14:47]It's a practice that's been in place and uh at the end of the day whether we enter those administrative warrants um they still have 48 hours to comply. if not those individuals get released and that's but as far as far as significant impacts that that we would have to uh I guess uh take over in terms of uh the jail and and operations um you know I I don't even think we will see a significant shift once we go into this model Um, do we do we members of the B&H want to did you all want to speak Fernando? Did you have did you have >> We have three members of the public uh for public comment. Mr. Fernando Garcia, >> welcome Fernando Tardes. Uh, Commissioner Judge, thanks for having this conversation.

[02:15:54]Um, first I'm Fernando Garcia. I'm the executive director of Border Network for Human Rights. Um, let's make it clear.

[02:16:03]Border Network opposed this kind of enforcement because we must insist in the principle that no local enforcement, no local police officer should enforce immigration laws. It is not their responsibility.

[02:16:21]It is not their duty.

[02:16:24]and they shouldn't do it. So from the get-go, we oppose any of the models that are here because this is the they going to act in detriment of our communities one way or the other.

[02:16:37]We al we also need to understand that this is part of the of a larger strategy. This is the the massive deport detention and deportation strategy imposed not only by the federal government but also by the state government. I mean, this is this is not only a B9 effort at the in a in a county jail. This is part of a machine that is working to actually stop and detain millions and families, hardworking families, children that uh just children being impacted by this. I mean if you if you read the New York Times today you will you will you will actually read the story that 100,000 children be being separated by by their par for from their parents because of this immigration enforcement strategy. So this is not a benign effort. This is part of a larger machine.

[02:17:29]Um, and it is an imposition of on on the county and it's an imposition on the sheriff to do this. I mean, this is not something that our communities here asked for it.

[02:17:44]You didn't ask for it. The sheriff didn't ask for it. It's been imposed upon us and ourselves. I mean, this is something that nobody in El Paso wants to do.

[02:17:55]and and it's also an unfunded mandate at the end of the day. I mean, we're a a little bit u disappointed uh because we don't I mean, I don't believe that our state delegation did enough to stop this efforts at the state level. I mean, they could have they could have did much more to not allow these kind of dangerous poisoning uh strategies coming into our into our community. I just have a couple of um concerns. I mean first the f the first one is how many officers are going to be if it's if the if that's the warrant officer model that is going to be followed how many officers are going to be dedicated to it and how much money you going to spend on it. Also this is going to come with a cost and some of that cost not only is a political cost a community cost but also in terms of lawsuits I mean who's going to be responsible if something fails?

[02:18:50]It's going to be the state. It's going to be the sheriff, the officer, it's going to be the it's going to be the county commissioners. Who's going to be responsible of potential mistreatment or mis uh distorted enforcement of this uh strategy at the jails? So, I think there are many questions and we wanted to be here to say that we're ready to actually fight continue fighting this back because this is not only SV8, it's SB4 also. the 2017 SB4 that allows ask asking for immigration status and the 20 the SB8 the SB4 that is in the in the course right now that actually would force police officers to ask immigration questions. So this is not a benign effort. I mean this is something that is very troubling. I know that the sheriff is trying to do the minimum. Uh we recognize that but I think this is something that we should not be doing.

[02:19:44]Thank you.

[02:19:46]>> Thank you Fernando.

[02:19:53]Our next speaker is Marisol Gonzalez.

[02:20:06]Welcome So, I Our next speaker is Ivon. from DAS.

[02:21:20]>> Welcome.

[02:21:21]>> Hello. My name is Ivon Diaz. I'm the policy and advocacy strategies of the ACLV of Texas in El Paso. I'm here to speak about the implementation of SB8, which mandates our sheriff to enter into a 287G contract with ICE.

[02:21:37]And thank you, Commissioner Staff, for moving this item forward. And while we understand that this bill has passed and the implementation will start soon, it is important to acknowledge that our community, which is majority Hispanic, Latino, and majority immigrants, deserve transparency, accountability, and safeguards against harm. SB threatens the dignity. SBA threatens the dignity, safety, and trust of our communities.

[02:22:03]Policies that expand the criminalization of hardworking immigrants do not solve the real challenges our region faces, such as housing, health, and education.

[02:22:15]These policies are designed to deepen fear, separate families, and place vulnerable people at risk. As a border community of three states, three cities, and two countries, we are impacted by detention expansion, the militarization of our border, and we should reject the idea of mass incarceration that does not represent our values of diversity and unity. I urge this court to stand on the side of human rights and community well-being to continue and continue to ask difficult questions before the implementation of the disastrous bill.

[02:22:51]And as residents of this country of of this uh county, I also have these questions.

[02:22:57]What oversight mechanisms will exist? How will racial profiling be prevented? and how do we ensure the sheriff's office is accessible and open to conversations with organizers and constituents? I look forward to continue these conversations and urge you to continue refusing the normalization of detention expansion in our region.

[02:23:20]>> Thank you.

[02:23:29]>> Welcome.

[02:23:31]>> Thank you. Good morning everyone. U my name is Samantha Singleton and I'm the policy director at uh B&H and I wanted to provide before I give my com my comments context as to why um we reached out to Commissioner Stout. We have uh directly been working with the sheriff's and his department on 287G agreement since we learned about it. And obviously as an organization that is um is is accountable to the community, the community wants to know what this agreement is going to look like. And so although we have hosted town halls where the sheriff's and his his department has been a part of that process, it's really difficult to go throughout the entire community um and have a town hall. So we thought the best way to do this would be obviously have them do a presentation here. It shows transparency. It shows accountability and it shows that they want the community to know what's going on, that they're not trying to hide anything. And so I wanted to provide that context as to why we even uh reached out to have this presentation done. So, with that being said, obviously I do want to recognize the sheriff's office through for their transparency throughout this process and their decision to select the warrant service officer program. Although we are against it as a organization, um we do understand that El Paso County is navigating through a difficult state mandate and do we although we do commend efforts to minimize harm to the community while remaining in compliance with state law, at the same time, we have to be very clear that SBA is a harmful state mandate that focuses local law enforcement into collaboration with federal immigration enforcement. These policies do not reflect the values of El Paso County or our border community.

[02:25:12]They place local leaders in an impossible position between complying with state law and preserving the trust that is essential for public safety.

[02:25:19]Even under the least invasive mo model, collaboration between local law enforcement and ICE undermines community trust. When families fear that reporting a crime or cooperating with local law enforcement could lead to detention or deportation, people stay uh silent.

[02:25:36]Victims stop seeking help, witnesses stop coming forward, and public safety suffers for everyone. And while county officials may be legally required to comply with SBA, they also have a moral responsibility to minimize the impact of policy. So, we urge the sheriff and the commissioner's court to ensure that this program remains strictly limited to the jail setting and is never expanded into community policing activities. We also call for strong safeguards against wrongful detention, a transparent compliant process for civil and human rights violations, and regular reporting, regular public reporting on all interactions and outcomes connected to this program. Ultimately, this conversation is about more than legal compliance. It's about the kind of Texas we want to build. Public safety should be rooted in justice, inclusion, dignity, and trust, not fear and exclusion. We will continue monitoring implementation closely and advocating for the pi highest possible standards of human rights protections for every member of our community. Thank you.

[02:26:35]>> Thank you.

[02:26:48]>> Good morning, judge. Good morning, county commissioners. Um my name is Alan Saraga. I'm the communications manager at Bordon for Human Rights. Um just to come up here again and thank um Commissioner Style for his leadership and putting this item in the agenda as well as uh the sheriff and his staff for doing this presentation. Um I just want to echo a lot of the um things that have already been said by um my colleagues and by our executive director. Um we really want to acknowledge that what the state of Texas is doing here. Uh it's really important to know that there the state is not merely participating in immigration enforcement. it is trying to create its own system to force local communities into uh aiding this mass deportation agenda. Um this has effectively again turned local communities into extensions of of federal immigration and the deportation machine. Um and SBA is part of this. Um this law again legally mandates virtually our sh all sheriffs to comply and sign into 287G agreements. There are over 371 agreements currently active in the state of Texas. Um again, this is stripping local officials of any discretion to prioritize community safety and in the battles of its community over federal and political mandates. Um it's really important for us to also remember that we have seen and we have experienced um Texas disastrous involvement in immigration policy um through Operation Lonar. Over 14 billion dollars have been spent in this operation all while our communities continue to struggle to buy groceries, um to access education, health care, and just quality jobs. It's very important that we keep talking about the things that we have already seen our our state do. Um I want again to make emphasis on this because we cannot continue to use fear as the foundation to build community um safety. SB SBA is going to continue to force sheriffs across our state to diverse scars uh personnel and funding away from solving real community needs. When we allow our state to transform local law enforcement into federal deportation agents, the only thing that thrives is a climate of fear where victims of crime become too terrified to call for help. Um today again we know that the sheriff has been legally mandated to follow with with this agreement but we also have to remember that all of us have a moral and civil civic duty um to commit to minimizing the impact in our community.

[02:29:13]So as um my colleague Samantha mentioned we want to make sure that this county takes the necessary steps to limit the scope of of this agreement to make sure that it only operates within the jails.

[02:29:24]We want to prioritize civil um and human rights. So we would like to see a comprehensive and and expansive uh complaint process uh where people can report you know situations um where things are not going right. Um, one of the things I also wanted to encourage and and for this um for for all of us to look into is establishing a reporting system, a public reporting system where we can really keep track and be transparent about what's happening inside uh our jails in our in our community in regards to this agreement.

[02:29:59]Um, you know, a lot of the times us as advocates, we do need information to be able to know how this is a affecting our community and how we can continue to defend and and promote our community's rights. And I think establishing um a system that can, you know, let us know how this is functioning, our community will be of a lot of help. Um, just to close out, you know, we heard earlier today from speakers that El Paso is, you know, a great community, that there's no community like El Paso and we all need to work together to make sure that we keep that the way it is. We need to make sure that we continue uplifting the values that unite all of us and again working um for for the betterment of of all of our communities. Thank you.

[02:30:39]>> Thank you.

[02:30:45]Is that is that all the >> I have one more question. Okay. If there's no more public comment, >> is there anybody else in the audience who' like to speak in public comment?

[02:30:59]um what is the mechanism that we have in place or that we're putting in place to make sure that folks don't re re um to stay detained past the 48 hours >> if ICE doesn't pick them up. Uh so once we give notification there's a time stamp that goes on on the inmates file and uh once that 48 hours we don't call back and say you know you're we we just released you know we we made our due diligence and and that's >> but I guess that's my question. So how who's keeping track of the 48 hours?

[02:31:31]What do we have in place to make sure that we know when the 48 hours expires from the date from the time >> stamp? That would be the the intake officers.

[02:31:38]>> Yes. Yes.

[02:31:41]Thanks. Uh uh thanks chief and thanks uh Mr. Murid for for the presentation. Um I do uh you know want to want to take into account some of the feedback that was given by the the public. Um, Betsy and staff, is is is there I know that there's I'm sure the sheriff's department is going to be recording the the number of people that are that are um processed through the system with with the 287g, right? Is there is there a way that we can work with the B&H to make sure that that is something that's that's publicized or or um to to kind of fulfill that request that that that was made to to be more transparent?

[02:32:25]>> Yes, we can work with the sheriff's office to get that information. We can make it a public report.

[02:32:30]>> Okay.

[02:32:31]Um yeah, I I appreciate the B&H for for for um their attention to this matter as well. And you know, unfortunately, we're in between a rock and a hard place because this is a community that does not, in my opinion, largely accept this type of policy, but we're forced to do it. Um and and and if we and if we don't then there there could be legal and monetary repercussions as well further than than what we're already experiencing. Um, you know, so I know that this is part of our legislative agenda and I and I hope we can continue to prioritize this as we have conversations with our um legislative delegation uh especially our state senator uh when it comes to u you know being being a little more forceful and being a little more ausive when uh in in advocating against these types of uh policies that really do burden local taxpayers.

[02:33:31]uh and uh you know the state legislature talks ad nauseium about how they're providing uh tax relief and and support for taxpayers but but in in my opinion it's smok and mirrors. uh you know when 70% almost 70% of our our local budget is an unfunded mandate or goes to unfunded mandates and the cost of that unfunded man those unfunded mandates has increased by tens of millions of dollars over the last number of years because of the state's decision to uh put local uh local local in communities in in into the into the fray of of immigration enforcement. which is a federal authority, you know, and under the guise that the the the border was was insecure or not secure under the Biden administration. Well, now we're a year and a half into the Trump administration. Uh why do we have to continue to do this locally and why do we have to continue to spend so much money on quote unquote border security uh if the border is now secure under the Trump administration?

[02:34:37]um it just it it makes no sense and uh you know it's rooted in xenophobia and racism and and we need to do as much as we can to to continue to fight against that as a community and speak out. Um, and so I hope, you know, I I won't be here as much longer as much um longer as the rest of the court, but I really hope that the that the commissioner's court will continue um this work into the future and and continue to to fight back and continue to push our state legislators to um to do the right thing and and make sure that we are not just um speaking out, but we are the leaders when it comes to speaking out and and that we that we prioritize this very highly in our legislative agenda. Thank you.

[02:35:24]>> Thank you, Commissioner. You know, one of the craziest thing for us is that this is a federal situation driven by the state and that makes it very confusing plus the fact that we use the word collaboration.

[02:35:39]Um, you know how difficult it is for us and myself when people ask me questions about things that are taking place with ICE and I tell them I have no communication that there's no one I can contact when people call me and say somebody just got picked up and what do I do and we're not able to do anything and so this word collaboration uh what they mean is we collaborate but they don't collaborate uh and that makes it very difficult and like I said it's the state driving a federal ederal initiative just is totally counterintuitive for all of us. Uh especially when we know that when it's driven by the state, we don't get any money uh or any funding and and some people say, well, you know, you're going to get some funding back. We we've never been able to get any the proper funding.

[02:36:28]And so for us to believe that that we are engaged in something like this and we're going to get the proper funding um I mean you know um we'd have to be extremely innocent to believe uh that that's the case. So um very difficult situation you know something that's mandated on us. Uh but you all talked about the values and and us supporting uh what's right and we'll look for every we have an amazing uh legal team. So, we continue to look for anything anything that could help us not get involved in something that doesn't make sense for for anybody. Especially, as it's been said, for this community, this community has been extremely engaged in humanitarianism, doing the right things, and and putting us in that predicament of siding with someone that has never helped us, have always done some bad things to our community, and putting us sort of collaborating with them. uh just is extremely difficult for for me to understand. So, thank you, Commissioner Stout, for for your advocacy.

[02:37:34]>> Thank you. And thanks to the sheriff's office once again.

[02:37:37]>> Thank you, sir.

[02:37:43]>> Judge, it's 12:04. Would you like to take the afternoon recess?

[02:37:47]>> Yes, please.

[02:37:49]Unless Betsy, any Okay, thank you.

[02:37:55]At this time, Commissioner's Court will recess for 1 hour. It is 12:04 p.m.

[02:39:35]Heat. Heat.

[02:39:55]Heat. Heat.

[02:40:18]Heat. Heat.

[02:40:26]Heat.

[02:40:40]Heat.

[02:40:48]Heat.

[02:41:02]Heat.

[02:41:19]Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[02:41:31]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County, and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard, and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[02:42:19]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Tornneo Independent School District, and Tornneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Tornneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing torneo area veterans who served.

[02:42:44]The site will also include a tornado veterans memorial dedication monument.

[02:42:49]This community-driven project requested by the Torneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County neighborhood improvement grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Estraa Park improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Asa Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[02:43:36]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of $155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[02:44:10]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[02:44:24]Hey, hey, hey.

[02:44:49]Hey, hey, hey.

[02:45:30]Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey.

[02:46:03]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy.

[02:46:12]clarity and a commitment to excellence.

[02:46:15]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[02:47:15]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly.

[02:48:04]Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children.

[02:48:25]Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments.

[02:48:48]Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved. Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adal item for their case. In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[02:49:13]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[02:49:45]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics. Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 9152733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[02:50:15]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[02:50:25]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[02:50:40]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[02:51:14]Ah, hey.

[02:51:47]Hey.

[02:51:52]Hey.

[02:51:54]Hey.

[02:53:18]Heat.

[02:53:40]Heat.

[02:53:56]Heat. Heat.

[02:54:23]Heat. Heat.

[02:54:39]Heat. Heat.

[02:54:49]Heat. Heat.

[02:55:24]Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[02:55:36]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces. the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[02:56:24]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Torneo Independent School District, and Torneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Torneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing tornado area veterans who served. The site will also include a Torneo Veterans Memorial Dedication Monument. This community-driven project requested by the Torneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County neighborhood improvement grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Rubenstea Park improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Esa Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[02:57:41]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[02:58:15]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[02:58:29]Hey, hey, hey.

[02:58:54]Hey, hey, hey.

[02:59:35]Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, hey.

[03:00:08]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy.

[03:00:17]clarity and a commitment to excellence.

[03:00:20]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[03:01:20]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly. Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family's situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children. Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments. Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved.

[03:03:06]Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adel item for their case.

[03:03:10]In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[03:03:18]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution, and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[03:03:49]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics. Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 915-2733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[03:04:20]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[03:04:30]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[03:04:45]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[03:05:19]Ah, hey.

[03:06:27]Ah.

[03:06:31]Heat. Heat.

[03:07:10]Okay.

[03:07:16]Heat. Heat.

[03:07:53]Heat. Heat. N.

[03:08:01]Heat.

[03:08:12]Heat.

[03:08:39]Heat. Heat.

[03:09:04]Heat up Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[03:09:40]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard, and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[03:10:29]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Torneo Independent School District, and Torneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Tornneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing torneo area veterans who served.

[03:10:54]The site will also include a Tornneo Veterans Memorial Dedication Monument.

[03:10:58]This community-driven project requested by the Tornneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County Neighborhood Improvement Grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Eststera Park Improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Esa Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[03:11:46]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[03:12:20]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[03:12:40]Hey, hey, hey.

[03:13:02]Hey, hey, hey.

[03:13:40]Hey, hey, hey, hey.

[03:14:13]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to excellence.

[03:14:25]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[03:15:25]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly.

[03:16:14]Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family's situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children.

[03:16:35]Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments.

[03:16:58]Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved. Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adel item for their case. In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[03:17:23]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution, and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[03:17:54]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics.

[03:18:00]Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 9152733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[03:18:25]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[03:18:34]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[03:18:50]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[03:19:27]Ah, hey.

[03:19:41]Heat. Hey. Hey. Hey.

[03:20:22]Huh?

[03:20:29]Heat.

[03:20:52]Hey, Heat.

[03:21:37]Heat. Heat.

[03:21:43]Heat.

[03:22:02]Heat.

[03:22:33]Heat up here.

[03:22:35]Heat.

[03:22:49]Heat.

[03:22:57]Heat.

[03:23:12]Heat.

[03:23:34]Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[03:23:45]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[03:24:34]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Torneo Independent School District, and Torneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Tornneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing torneo area veterans who served.

[03:24:59]The site will also include a Torneo Veterans Memorial Dedication Monument.

[03:25:03]This community-driven project requested by the Toronto Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County Neighborhood Improvement Grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Estrea Park Improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Esta Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[03:25:51]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[03:26:25]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[03:26:39]Hey, hey, hey.

[03:27:03]Hey, hey, hey.

[03:27:45]Hey hey, hey, hey, hey, hey.

[03:28:18]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy.

[03:28:27]clarity and a commitment to excellence.

[03:28:30]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[03:29:30]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly. Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family's situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children. Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments. Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved.

[03:31:15]Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adel item for their case.

[03:31:20]In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[03:31:28]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution, and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[03:31:59]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics. Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 915-2733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[03:32:30]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[03:32:39]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[03:32:55]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[03:33:20]Heat. Heat.

[03:34:38]Heat. Heat.

[03:35:02]Heat. Heat.

[03:35:32]Heat.

[03:35:44]Heat.

[03:36:07]Heat.

[03:36:11]Heat.

[03:36:38]Heat. Heat.

[03:36:54]Heat. Heat.

[03:37:03]Heat. Heat.

[03:37:39]Hola, El Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[03:37:50]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[03:38:39]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Torneo Independent School District, and Torneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Torneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing tornado area veterans who served. The site will also include a Torneo Veterans Memorial Dedication Monument. This community-driven project requested by the Torneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County neighborhood improvement grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Estraa Park Improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Esterea Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[03:39:56]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[03:40:30]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[03:40:44]Hey, hey, hey.

[03:41:09]Hey, hey, hey.

[03:41:50]Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey.

[03:42:23]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy.

[03:42:32]clarity and a commitment to excellence.

[03:42:34]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[03:43:35]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly. Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family's situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children. Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments. Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved.

[03:45:20]Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adel item for their case.

[03:45:25]In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[03:45:39]>> Go ahead.

[03:45:43]>> Commissioner's Court has reconvened into regular open session. It is 1:12 p.m.

[03:45:51]I'd like to read in the following two items together, judge, if uh you're okay with that, >> please.

[03:45:56]>> Item number 9A from purchasing. And we do have a correction to read in per the county administration department.

[03:46:03]Item number 9A should read GO bond A19.

[03:46:08]Approve and authorize the award recommendation of CSP26-00003 El Paso County Parks Administration building to Aztec Construction Incorporated of El Paso, Texas. The firm offering the best value for the county.

[03:46:24]Purchasing approved on May 4th, 2025.

[03:46:28]Funds are available in A19 slash2-C annex construction and item number 12A from public works GO bond 19 approve and authorize the county judge to sign AIA document A101-27 standard form of agreement between owner and contractor with Aztec contractors incorporated. ated for the construction of the El Paso County Parks Administration building per the MNK construction design package in the amount of 3,280,000 uh dollars. Funds are available in A19/2- CK annex construction contract number 2026331.

[03:47:27]Good afternoon, judge. Good afternoon, commissioners.

[03:47:30]Karen, >> welcome.

[03:47:32]>> Hi.

[03:47:33]>> Thank you. Karen Davidson, your county purchasing agent. And I did ask for these both to be read in together um because I was a great demonstration to you all how we managed and worked together on the process improvement of adding the contract during the CSP so that we could bring both of the items together. This is another one of your go bond projects. So today we are asking for the courts approve to approve and authorize the award recommendation of the CSP for the uh El Paso County Parks Administrative Building to Aztec Construction for 3,280,000.

[03:48:10]And we also are asking for you once that award is made to authorize the sign to authorize and approve the agreement that goes with it. This is a bond project that we're excited about because we've got it ahead of schedule and well below budget and um I'm certainly here to answer any questions you might have on the procurement and of course public works is here. I just want to mention that this is a great collaboration of your powerhouse team. It took county county attorneys, it took public works, it took purchasing, it took all of us working hard on this one to bring it to you so early. And we hoped once this agreement is signed and you have your notice to proceed, you'll have a beautiful building in the next 12 months. So I'm here to answer any questions you might have.

[03:49:07]Commissioners, while you're um voting on this item, I just want to mention this is our first competitive seal proposal.

[03:49:13]And as Karen mentioned, um it's remarkable the work the team has done, the way legal has worked to bring this forward. Contracts have been included in a lot of the package information we're putting out in advance, the template. Um and then the fact that they're able to bring the contract the same time as the bid award is is significant. It's it's really uh just an overall collective team effort. I really appreciate purchasing for taking on this new approach and for legal for getting the the contracts ready in advance.

[03:49:46]>> We have a motion to approve from Judge Sango, a second from Commissioner Butler. Voting is open.

[03:49:53]>> I vote I.

[03:49:55]>> Thank you, Commissioner Coronado. Motion carries.

[03:49:58]>> Thank you, Court.

[03:50:04]>> Thank you, Karen.

[03:50:08]Item number 10A, auditor, discuss and take appropriate action regarding overages and shortages for the period of October 1st, 2025 through March 31st, 2026.

[03:50:33]You got here a lot faster, Barbara, than last week.

[03:50:36]>> Every day is better.

[03:50:37]>> Good afternoon, judge, commissioners.

[03:50:39]Barbara Parker, your county auditor.

[03:50:41]This is an a regular item that we bring to you once every six months. Um, elected officials are responsible by statute for any losses of county funds, but the commissioner's court by statute is allowed to um indemnify them against personal liability for the loss of county funds if the loss was a result of the was not a result of the officer's negligence or criminal action. So, departmental shortages and overages for the period of October 1st through March 31st have been summarized and we've reviewed them. And at this time, we're letting you know that the aggregate shortages of 27420 we do not feel are due to negligence or criminal actions and we recommend that you identify the officers.

[03:51:32]So, Barbara, what happens with the amount that's not being recommended for indemnification?

[03:51:37]>> Um, it's still under investigation and we're working with county attorneys. So, that one we'll bring back at a later date depending upon what it results in.

[03:51:44]>> Got it. Great. Thank you.

[03:51:52]We have a motion to approve by Commissioner Stout, a second from Commissioner Gin. The voting is open.

[03:51:59]I vote I.

[03:52:01]>> Thank you, Commissioner Coronado. Motion carries.

[03:52:04]>> Thank you.

[03:52:12]>> Item number 11A, Health and Social Services.

[03:52:17]Approve and authorize the county judge to accept the community project funds grant award for the senior meals and community kitchen project on behalf of the community services department to construct a new kitchen facility and program offices at the Isleta annex from February 17, 2023 through August 31st, 2031 in the amount of $4 million.

[03:52:41]further authorize the county judge to sign all required documents and the CPF grant agreement contract number 2026357.

[03:52:52]>> Afternoon judge commissioners. My name is Norma Wyn, grant analyst in the budget and finance department. Um, this grant will be used u to construct a new multi-use kitchen facility at the Sled Annex and it'll serve the vulnerable populations of our community by providing them with food access and other community services as well as improving county capacity for emergency response. Um, also available to speak on the subject is Miss Irene Gutierrez from community services.

[03:53:24]>> Hi Irene. Any further comments? ring.

[03:53:27]>> Um just uh good afternoon uh commissioners court. I ring Gutierrez with community services for the record.

[03:53:34]Uh just a few details. This is a community project funded uh project by the U. Congresswoman's office. We applied for this some years back uh and received an award uh years back on this except we had a lot of work to do ahead of this grant award finally. So, we had to complete the environmental review process. Uh, before that, we had to determine the property where we were going to build this kitchen. And so, there was a lot of design and environmental review leg work that we had to do before HUD released these funds. And so, we're at that point where HUD has finally accepted all our design work, the environmental review, and they finally have released it. So, this is that grant award agreement for those release of funds. And this is for the senior meal kitchen uh that as um the grants division has mentioned it has the capacity to serve up to 10,000 people not just for the senior meals but it could be used in case of a crisis uh you know meal service as well.

[03:54:37]>> Thank you Irene.

[03:54:40]>> Um Betsy the remaining funding the 6 million is that coming from the 2023 tax notes? Is that where the remaining funding would come from?

[03:54:49]I believe it is. Let me pull exactly. I believe it's the 2023 tax note. Just one moment.

[03:54:58]>> Yes, tax note 23B.

[03:55:00]>> Okay. Thank you.

[03:55:08]>> We have a motion to approve by uh Judge Sango, a second from Commissioner Oolen.

[03:55:13]The voting is open.

[03:55:16]I vote I.

[03:55:18]>> Thank you, Commissioner. Motion carries.

[03:55:21]>> Thank you.

[03:55:29]>> Item number 13A, grant applications.

[03:55:33]Grant application. approve and authorize the county judge to submit the FY26 Safe Streets and Roads for All grant application on behalf of the public works department with a project start date of October 1st 2026 through September 30th 2031 in the amount of 1,461,15216 with a match of $365,2884.

[03:56:03]The match will be covered by CRRMA use of VRF funds. Further approve and authorize the county judge to sign the accompanying application contract number 2026362.

[03:56:18]>> Good afternoon, judge commissioners.

[03:56:20]Lisette Sulttero for budget and finance the grants division and we're here today to request your approval to submit the FY26 safe streets and roads for all grant application to the US Department of Transportation. The request is for a total of 1,461,52 with 16 cents with a match of 365,000 288 with 4 cents. This is a five-year project and if funded, the project will start October 1st, 2026 through September 30th, 2031.

[03:56:56]And from the public works department, we have Roxanna Medina, who will be providing you with a project presentation.

[03:57:02]>> Thank you.

[03:57:13]>> Miguel, do we have a presentation up for this item?

[03:57:16]Stand by, please.

[03:57:33]>> Good afternoon, uh, county judge, commissioners. I'm Roxan Nadina with planning and development from public works. Um, we're here to present the safe streets for all, our grant application. Uh we are looking at safe streets for all is a part of the um infrastructure in investment and jobs act that was uh initiated uh about five years ago from Congress and it was uh initiated for $5 billion. and FY uh 26.

[03:58:10]There's a billion dollars allocated to the Department of Transportation for this program. Um this grant is for to improve uh roadway safety by significantly reducing um or eliminating fatalities and serious injuries on our uh through development, refinement, and um implementation of action plans. Um, as part of uh FY2022 safe streets for all, the MO created a uh border plex mobility plan which encompasses the entire uh MO region, so included El Paso County. And so we're using that plan as our backup for this grant application for implementation. Uh the county did provide the match for that uh plan. And so that's why we're able to use that plan uh for to support this uh grant application. Uh we are looking at um putting two priority uh intersections on this uh for this grant application. The Vista del Soul Basel Grande intersection and Rojas Bill Bernett intersection. Uh Vista Soul um Basel Grande has had significant uh crashes over the last few years. And in fact in 2025 we had a fatality on that at that intersection.

[03:59:25]Uh Bill Bernett has also had uh with increased traffic a lot of uh increases in traffic uh crashes there. Um and we did have a fairly serious injury crash in 2024. So uh these locations have a history of uh serious crashes and then they are also identified in the border plex um mobil uh safe mobility plan as on and part of the um high injury network.

[03:59:53]Uh as part of to help facilitate some of those crashes, we did implement an always stop at both intersections. So they're all controlled right now by always stops. However, those always stops are creating other issues with uh delays and um and in fact the Roas, I mean the um the Vista del Soul is creating another potentially uh safety issue where it's backing up traffic to the loop. So we need to look at a different uh oper uh ways to operate those intersections. So we are proposing uh to signalize the intersections Just a moment.

[04:00:57]So, as I said, the uh Vist Pasel Grande has experienced um a the time frame that we're looking at for this grant was 2019 to 2023. However, we do have crash data up to about 2025. And actually if we look at our crash data um from 2020 to 2024 uh we had a significantly more uh crash injuries that were occurring and then as I said the fatal crash in 2025. Uh Bill Bernett and Rous intersection has increased has been seeing a steady increase in crashes over the last few years and then included a serious injury in 2024. Um both areas are experiencing rapid growth. um increased congestion and therefore we have a lot more conflicts uh with traffic that's going through there. Um current conditions experience increased delays during the peak hours and they've had we have various conflict points with having an allway stop. Not everyone treats always stops as um they should and so some people stop lower stop for less time than others and so you have a lot of uh potential for um uh angle crashes and in fact we've had a couple of studies that were done especially at Bill Bernett and there were several near misses where they did not actually have a crash but there were a a lot of potential for uh near misses where you could have had a crash if someone had been going just a little bit faster. So what we're proposing is to install uh traffic signals at both intersections. So the intersections would be fully signalized.

[04:02:32]Um the grant we're asking for the grant money for the design and construction and environmental clearance uh for both intersections. Um we will be in at uh Bill Bernett is pretty well uh the infrastructure there is fairly good. Um it's up to-date and compliant. So there will probably be primarily the updating uh pavement markings and then installing the traffic signal arms at all four approaches and then any additional updates that we might need to do there.

[04:03:01]Um at Pel Pasel Grande and uh Vista del Soul, we are proposing installing a crosswalk on one side to cross across Vista Deloul. Um and then pavement markings and updates. Um the the crosswalk would include um installing a uh new ramps and then plus the infrastructure for the traffic signals.

[04:03:24]Um it we're expected to decrease uh angle crashes by 40 to 50%. Um and 20 to 30% for fatality and serious injury crashes. Um this supports the USD uh US do uh US dot um safe approach and vision zero goals. And then um for the estimated cost of the project, it's the total cost is 1.8 million for both with uh 80% uh federal participation at 1.461 million and then a non-federal uh local match at 3 365,288.

[04:04:01]Uh the local match would be used we will use the VRF funds through the RMA for the local match.

[04:04:09]Um the readiness for this project both intersections are in a rapidly growing area of El Paso County. Uh we'll we're expecting a NEPA uh categorical exclusion for them since they've already been developed. Um and there's will be no new um it's already a a developed roadway. Uh we are expecting construction in um existing rightway with minimal utility relocations and uh through the interlocal agreement the RMA will provide the design and construction management services and the NEPA uh clearance for the project and so we do expect the project to be completed within the five-year aotment for the grant. Um actually I would expect it to be completed within about two years after we receive the grant. Any questions?

[04:04:59]>> When do we expect to know um to have a decision? Do you know?

[04:05:03]>> I believe it's October of this year.

[04:05:05]>> October. Okay.

[04:05:11]>> I know that the Vista del Sol intersection, we had a resident who was who called repeatedly asking for a signal there. Um and right after the fatal crash, that that intersection has had terrible accidents. Terrible accidents.

[04:05:27]Yes. And that's that's why it was on our list of I've been looking for money for about a year now.

[04:05:32]>> Thank you. Thank you for identifying potential.

[04:05:34]>> We've kept it on the list. And then Bill Bernett, it was also Bill Bernett was actually on the county's um county safety program that uh was done about a couple years ago >> and so that it just didn't make the cut to the for the first round of design. So it was one of the top uh higher priorities. So we put that one.

[04:05:53]>> Great. Thank you for that.

[04:05:58]We have a motion to approve from Commissioner Gin, a second from Judge Sango. Voting is open.

[04:06:05]>> Thank you, >> Commissioner.

[04:06:09]>> I vote I.

[04:06:10]>> Thank you, sir.

[04:06:12]>> Thank you.

[04:06:13]>> You motion carries.

[04:06:22]Before we leave public works items, uh, I'd like to read in consent agenda item 4 that was pulled for discussion by Commissioner Butler. approve and authorize the county judge to sign work order number one on call civil engineering contract with CEA Engineering Group Incorporated for engineering services related to the Texas Water Development Board House Bill 500 Water Supply and Infrastructure Grant application for the East Montana Water System in an amount not to exceed $29,35.98.

[04:07:01]Funding for this work order will be supported through existing budget allocations for grant development and or reimbured through future grant funding contract number 2026325.

[04:07:14]>> Commissioner Butler.

[04:07:15]>> Yes. Thank you, Judge. I uh pulled this item because I wanted to highlight the important work that our public works teams are doing um to try to find some solutions and funding for um for some of the the consistent issues that we're having with the East Montana water system. Um these discussions really began in earnest last year when we started looking at um these last mile water connections. We were meeting with the Texas Water Development Board um last February and I was uh explaining this issue that we keep coming across which is people living near a waterline but not being able to connect to it. um and really um narrowed down one of the solutions which would be to to find ways to loop our entire system. So close the loops where where currently um they are not connected um which would help to address some of these issues with residents not being able to access water. Um uh obviously they went through session and allocated additional funding for water through the Texas Water Development Board and um I think in the fall released some grant um parameters for House Bill 500. And I really wanted to um give Denise a chance to talk a little bit about how important this project will be. But I also want to recognize um Monzer Als and Denise because early in the process when we were trying to figure out um what we could apply for and how we could qualify. There was an issue with some ambiguity around population numbers and how much uh grant funding would we would be eligible for. and Monzer and Denise really pushed um and we had a meeting with the Texas Water Development Board to get us to to the higher population and grant funding levels which hopefully um can get us up to $15 million to help solve some of the closed loop issues we have with the TE uh with the East Montana water system but also address um uh water capacity and water storage issues and some of the water loss that we have in the existing system. So, I'll turn it over to Denise. And um again, thank you so much, Denise, for your hard work on this.

[04:09:42]>> Thank you. Good afternoon, judge, commissioners. Um Commissioner Butler, you summarized it great. Um the House Bill 500 uh um is it's being administered by the Texas Water Development Board. And this this grant was released and open applications in March. Um it is a very highly competitive one-time funding opportunity which focuses on the water supply and infrastructure.

[04:10:08]Applications are due July 30th and the eligible projects must address water loss resolved TCQ violations uh provide additional water supply and they also have to be consistent with the 2027 state water plan. Um the East Montana water system rehabilitation is part and consistent with the plant. We are proposing the project to enhance uh the reliability and resiliency of the East Montana water system through the rehabilitation and replacement of aging water distribution lines, installation of system looping, which would bring the system into compliance with TCQ standards, the addition of a water storage tank to increase storage capacity, and system metering improvements, And um to support the development of this competitive application um we are utilizing CA group which is one of the county's on call engineering firms.

[04:11:15]Thank you.

[04:11:17]>> Thank you Denise. Um again I'm really really excited. I have I have a really good feeling about the competitiveness of this grant application. Um, Denise, is there going to be an opportunity for us to get letters of support at at some point for this grant?

[04:11:35]You know, >> we we can't um we can get some letters of support is is not um our requirement on the application, but we can definitely seek some letters of support.

[04:11:47]>> Okay, great. Thank you.

[04:11:50]>> Thank you.

[04:11:52]>> So, I'll move to approve.

[04:11:57]We have a motion to approve from Commissioner Butler, a second from Commissioner. Voting is open.

[04:12:04]>> I vote I.

[04:12:06]>> Thank you, Commissioner. Motion carries.

[04:12:16]>> It's the first time I see it.

[04:12:19]>> Item number 14A, budget and finance.

[04:12:22]Approve budget amendment number 26A to the El Paso County's 202526 operating budget. This budgetary amendment is to transfer appropriations within the sheriff's office jail annex in the amount of $6,569 within the general fund to cover the cost to replace monitors in central control for viewing security camera footage. Additionally, this budgetary amendment will transfer appropriations within the jail annex commissary profit fund in the amount of $9,944 to cover the cost to purchase a first aid AED alarm cabinet. This budgetary amendment will not increase or decrease the county of El Paso's 202526 overall operating budget of 661,283,58.3.

[04:13:18]>> Thank you, Jamgo. Commissioners Carminia Candel budget and finance department. Uh this particular budget amendment is uh one is for the general fund and one is for the special revenue fund. And on the general fund side, it transfers money from one line item to the other from maintenance repairs general to ops equipment uh in alignment with our policies that those have to come to the court in the amount of 6569.

[04:13:46]Uh so we feel that that one is an appropriate uh transfer. The second is a special revenue that does the same. It transfers from the ops expense line item to the ops equipment line item uh for that special revenue fund for the general annex um commissary pro profit fund um and in the amount of n $9,944.

[04:14:08]Are there any questions with regards to this amendments? These two amendments.

[04:14:21]We have a motion to approve from comm uh from Judge Sango, a second from Commissioner Gin. Voting is open.

[04:14:28]Commissioner, >> I vote I.

[04:14:29]>> Thank you, sir. Motion carries.

[04:14:43]Before we move into executive session, I would like to read in item number 15E.

[04:14:49]And there is a correction to read in per the county attorney's office.

[04:14:53]Item number 15E um pursuant to tech should be pursuant to Texas government code section 551.0725 discuss financial information and economic development negotiations regarding a chapter 381 agreement with Popular Building El Paso LLC contract number 20250084.

[04:15:17]Thank you, Caesar. Good afternoon. Anna Schumacher, assistant county attorney.

[04:15:21]So staff is asking that item 15E be heard in executive session pursuant to Texas government code 551.0725.

[04:15:27]On March 17, 2025, the county entered into a chapter 381 economic development program agreement uh with Popular Building El Paso LLC for the redevelopment, rehabilitation, and improvement of a development located on the real property commonly known as the Popular Building located at 301 East San Antonio, El Paso, Texas 79901. The county is now considering a first amendment to 381 agreement. The information to be discussed includes issues involving business and financial information related to those contract negotiations and the court must be free to discuss those issues without undermining the court's position.

[04:15:59]Therefore, I as your legal adviser have determined that deliberation and open meeting concerning these business and financial issues relating to those negotiations would have a detrimental effect on the position of commissioner's court in negotiations. Therefore, I am requesting that commissioner's court unanimously vote that deliberations in open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the commissioner's court in negotiations and that all said deliberations take place in close session. I would further request that commissioner's court direct the county administration commissioner's court reporters to ensure that all proceedings in close session be recorded. If the commissioner's court agrees, I need a motion and a second and a recorded vote at this time, please.

[04:16:32]And a copy of this legal memo has been provided to county administration commissioners court reporters to be made a part of the official court records.

[04:16:39]Thank you all.

[04:16:43]We have a motion to approve from Commissioner Gin, a second from Commissioner Stout. Voting is open.

[04:16:50]>> I vote I.

[04:16:52]>> Thank you, Commissioner Coronado. Motion carries.

[04:16:57]Commissioner Court will now recess into executive session to discuss items 15A through 15E. Pursuant to Texas Government Code section 551.071 551.072. 072 and 551.0725.

[04:17:13]Commissioner Court will reconvene to take official action. It is 1:43 p.m.

[04:18:11]Hey, hey, hey.

[04:18:54]Heat. Heat.

[04:18:56]Heat.

[04:19:10]Heat.

[04:19:31]Heat. Heat.

[04:19:55]Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[04:20:06]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[04:20:55]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Torneo Independent School District, and Torneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Tornneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing torneo area veterans who served.

[04:21:20]The site will also include a Tornneo Veterans Memorial Dedication Monument.

[04:21:24]This community-driven project requested by the Tornneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County Neighborhood Improvement Grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Rubenstea Park improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Esta Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[04:22:12]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[04:22:46]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[04:23:04]Hey, hey, hey.

[04:23:27]Hey, hey, hey.

[04:24:06]Hey, hey, hey.

[04:24:39]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to excellence.

[04:24:51]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[04:25:51]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly. Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family's situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children. Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments. Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved.

[04:27:37]Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adel item for their case.

[04:27:41]In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[04:27:49]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution, and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[04:28:20]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics.

[04:28:26]Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 9152733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[04:28:51]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[04:29:00]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[04:29:16]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[04:30:00]Ah, hey.

[04:30:58]Ah, Okay.

[04:31:30]Okay. Heat. Heat.

[04:31:57]Heat.

[04:32:16]Heat.

[04:32:35]Heat. Heat.

[04:32:59]Heat.

[04:33:03]Heat.

[04:33:08]Heat. Heat. Heat.

[04:33:25]Heat. Heat.

[04:34:00]Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[04:34:11]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[04:35:00]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Torneo Independent School District, and Torneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Torneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing torneo area veterans who served. The site will also include a Torneo Veterans Memorial Dedication Monument. This community-driven project requested by the Tornneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County neighborhood improvement grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Estrea Park Improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Esa Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[04:36:17]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[04:36:51]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[04:37:09]Hey, hey, hey.

[04:37:30]Hey, hey, hey.

[04:38:11]Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey.

[04:38:44]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy.

[04:38:53]clarity and a commitment to excellence.

[04:38:56]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[04:39:56]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly. Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family's situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children. Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments. Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved.

[04:41:41]Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adel item for their case.

[04:41:46]In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[04:41:54]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution, and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[04:42:25]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics. Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 915-2733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[04:42:56]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[04:43:05]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[04:43:21]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[04:43:46]Heat. Heat.

[04:44:53]Huh?

[04:45:03]Ah.

[04:45:58]Heat.

[04:46:21]Heat.

[04:46:36]Heat. Heat.

[04:47:04]Heat. Heat.

[04:47:20]Heat. Heat.

[04:47:30]Heat. Heat.

[04:48:05]Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[04:48:16]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fable's Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[04:49:05]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Torneo Independent School District, and Torneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Torneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing torneo area veterans who served. The site will also include a Torneo Veterans Memorial Dedication Monument. This community-driven project requested by the Tornneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County Neighborhood Improvement Grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Estraa Park Improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Esterea Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[04:50:22]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[04:50:56]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[04:51:14]Hey, hey, hey.

[04:51:41]Hey, hey, hey.

[04:52:16]Hey hey hey, hey, hey, hey, Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to excellence.

[04:53:00]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[04:54:01]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly. Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family's situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children. Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases.

[04:55:23]In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments.

[04:55:34]Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved. Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adel item for their case. In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[04:55:58]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution, and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[04:56:30]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics. Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 915-2733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[04:57:01]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[04:57:10]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[04:57:26]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[04:57:51]Heat.

[04:58:10]Heat.

[05:00:26]Heat. Hey, heat. Hey, heat.

[05:00:30]Heat.

[05:00:45]Heat.

[05:01:08]Heat. Heat.

[05:01:15]Heat. Heat.

[05:01:38]Heat up Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[05:02:21]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a veterans resource fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard, and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[05:03:10]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Tornneo Independent School District, and Tornneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Tornneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing torneo area veterans who served.

[05:03:35]The site will also include a tornado veterans memorial dedication monument.

[05:03:39]This community-driven project requested by the Torneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County neighborhood improvement grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Estraa Park Improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Asa Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[05:04:27]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of $155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[05:05:01]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[05:05:14]Mhm.

[05:05:46]Hey, hey, hey.

[05:06:21]Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey.

[05:06:54]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to excellence.

[05:07:05]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[05:08:06]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly.

[05:08:55]Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children.

[05:09:16]Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments.

[05:09:39]Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved. Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adal item for their case. In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[05:10:03]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[05:10:35]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics.

[05:10:41]Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 9152733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[05:11:06]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[05:11:15]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[05:11:30]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[05:12:08]Ah, hey.

[05:13:22]Heat. Heat.

[05:13:45]Okay.

[05:14:08]Heat.

[05:14:10]Heat.

[05:14:23]Heat.

[05:14:39]Heat. Heat.

[05:15:13]Heat up here.

[05:15:16]Heat.

[05:15:30]Heat.

[05:15:49]Heat up Hola, El Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[05:16:26]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County, and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard, and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso Countyy's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[05:17:15]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Torneo Independent School District, and Tornneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Torneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing tornado area veterans who served. The site will also include a Torneo Veterans Memorial Dedication Monument. This community-driven project requested by the Torneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County neighborhood improvement grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Estraa Park Improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Asa Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[05:18:32]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[05:19:06]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[05:19:31]Hey, hey, hey.

[05:19:44]Hey, hey, hey.

[05:20:25]Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey.

[05:20:59]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy.

[05:21:07]empathy, clarity, and a commitment to excellence. As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being. When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly.

[05:23:00]Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children.

[05:23:21]Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments.

[05:23:44]Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved. Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adal item for their case. In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[05:24:08]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[05:24:40]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics. Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 915-2733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[05:25:11]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[05:25:20]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[05:25:35]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[05:26:01]Heat. Heat.

[05:26:50]aha.

[05:26:52]Nah.

[05:27:50]Okay.

[05:28:06]Heat. Heat.

[05:28:40]Heat. Heat. N.

[05:28:49]Heat. Heat. N.

[05:28:59]Heat.

[05:29:18]Heat.

[05:29:24]Heat. Heat.

[05:30:02]Heat up Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[05:30:31]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso County's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[05:31:20]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Torneo Independent School District, and Torneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Tornneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing torneo area veterans who served.

[05:31:45]The site will also include a Tornneo Veterans Memorial Dedication Monument.

[05:31:49]This community-driven project requested by the Tornneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County Neighborhood Improvement Grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Eststera Park improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Esa Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[05:32:37]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[05:33:11]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[05:33:28]Hey, hey, hey.

[05:33:55]M hey a a hey a e a Hey hey hey, hey, hey.

[05:35:04]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to excellence.

[05:35:15]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being.

[05:36:16]When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records. Working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly. Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family's situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children. Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments. Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved.

[05:38:01]Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adel item for their case.

[05:38:06]In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[05:38:13]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution, and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[05:38:45]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics.

[05:38:51]Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 9152733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[05:39:16]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[05:39:25]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[05:39:40]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[05:40:25]Hey.

[05:40:27]Hey. Hey.

[05:40:52]da da.

[05:41:25]Heat. Heat.

[05:42:18]Heat.

[05:42:41]Hey, heat. Hey, heat.

[05:42:56]Heat.

[05:43:00]Heat.

[05:43:23]Heat. Heat.

[05:43:51]Heat. Heat.

[05:43:55]Heat.

[05:44:10]Heat.

[05:44:25]Hola, Al Paso. April was a busy month here in the county. From honoring our veterans to beautifying our parks, we tell you what is happening in this month's county connects.

[05:44:36]Every day is Veterans Day in El Paso County, and several communities celebrated our heroes in April. First, we celebrated the completion of the Fabins Veterans Memorial at Fabins Veterans Park. The celebration featured a Veterans Resource Fair, a flag raising ceremony, and a memorial ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fabins Veterans Memorial honors all six branches of the United States Armed Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard, and stands as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation. This project reflects El Paso Countyy's continued commitment to honoring veterans and was identified as a key initiative in the county's parks and recreations master plan. Thank you to our veterans.

[05:45:25]Just down the road at Coyote Park in Torneo, the local neighborhood association, Torneo Independent School District, and Tornneo Alumni Association held an unveiling ceremony of the Torneo Veterans Memorial. The memorial features six metal cubes representing each branch of the United States Armed Forces. Each cube displays the branch's emblem and includes a nearby plaque listing tornado area veterans who served. The site will also include a torneo veterans memorial dedication monument. This community-driven project requested by the Torneo Neighborhood Association and presented by the county's planning and development department was approved by Commissioner's Court in March 2025 and funded through the El Paso County Neighborhood Improvement Grant. Our voter approved bond projects move forward in precinct 1. Montana Vista residents attended the first community meeting for the Ruben Estrea Park Improvements. The public was encouraged to offer their suggestions, opinions, and questions throughout the course of the meeting. Residents had an opportunity to share feedback on design concepts and amenities like picnic shelters, restrooms, and lighting. The Esterea Park project is one of 19 park projects approved by the voters through the 2024 capital improvement bond.

[05:46:42]A popular eastside park is looking a lot shadier thanks to volunteers who came and planted trees at the El Paso County Sports Park. These trees were part of a total of 155 trees planted across the various parts of the county. These were made possible through a $20,000 community forestry grant that was awarded to the county by Texas A&M Forest Service. This project allows El Paso County to invest in tree planting efforts that improve air quality, provide shade, reduce urban heat, and support healthier neighborhoods.

[05:47:16]That does it for this month's county connects. Until next time, make sure to stay connected with El Paso County.

[05:47:30]He a m a Hey, hey, hey.

[05:48:35]Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, hey.

[05:49:09]Welcome to the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, where we're dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of family law with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to excellence.

[05:49:20]As an integral part of the El Paso County Civil Court system, we strive to provide support during challenging times. We are dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, and children in navigating complex issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and beyond. Whether you are recently divorced, in the midst of a custody dispute, or facing challenges with child support, we stand ready to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering support. Our mission is to assist children and families during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to move forward confidently. We provide services both in person and virtually, collaborating closely with judges, attorneys, and service providers to address each family's unique needs. Our child support enforcement unit plays a vital role in ensuring that children receive the financial support necessary for their well-being. When a court orders child support, it represents not just a figure, but a commitment to a child's future. This unit consists of a team of attorneys, enforcement officers, financial specialists, legal engagement officers, parillegals, and administrative staff who assist with the collection and enforcement of child support and medical support. Domestic relations office attorneys decide what enforcement remedies will be used based on the particular facts of the case. We help enforce court orders by monitoring payments and maintaining accurate records, working with parents who have fallen behind, helping them understand their obligations and options, filing enforcement actions with the court when necessary, and helping parents modify orders if their financial situation changes significantly. Because we know life happens and fairness matters. We know that every family's situation is different. That's why our staff works with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism, helping both custodial and non-custodial parents understand the process, meet their obligations, and keep the focus where it belongs, on the children. Another one of our core responsibilities is through our family court service unit, where we support the courts in making informed child- centered decisions in custody and visitation cases. In contested custody matters, when parents can't agree on who should care for the child, judges often rely on our skilled professionals to provide objective and detailed assessments. Family court services social workers or guardian adult items are appointed by judges to conduct thorough investigations and provide reports to the court based on the interests of the children involved.

[05:52:06]Either party may request the appointment of a guardian adel item for their case.

[05:52:11]In addition, family court services staff are appointed on some adoption cases to conduct evaluations.

[05:52:18]Our cooperative parenting program provides co-parenting classes which focus on the needs of children and parents in the aftermath of separation or divorce. Topics include parent, children and the involvement in the court, positive co-parenting practices, impact of divorce and separation on child development, communication, conflict resolution and anger management. Classes are offered both in person and virtually and are open to everyone. No court order needed.

[05:52:50]Co-parents take the classes separately to ensure participants are comfortable discussing the topics. Individuals may register for classes by either visiting the domestic relations office website or by calling the office at 915-2733533 or by picking up the form inside our office. Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator to discuss attendance and answer questions via email or phone.

[05:53:21]Class schedules can also be found on the website. Once the registration is received, the individual will be contacted by the program facilitator.

[05:53:30]Our office is dedicated to providing essential legal assistance tailored to family law issues. We empower parents to effectively enforce and modify access and possession time with their children, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

[05:53:45]For those seeking to formalize agreements, we facilitate parenting negotiation conferences that transform your arrangements into legally binding court orders. At the El Paso County Domestic Relations Office, we're committed to helping families find solutions that work. So, please visit our website or give us a call today to learn how we can help you move forward.

[05:54:11]Heat. Heat.

[05:55:57]Hey.

[05:56:44]Go ahead.

[05:56:47]Commissioner's Court has reconvened into regular open session. It is 3:23 p.m.

[05:56:55]Item number 16A from regular session.

[05:56:57]Discuss and take appropriate action regarding the city of El Paso Mass Transit Department Sun Metro Service Invoices. County Attorney number 021225PC.

[05:57:10]>> Afternoon Anna Schumacher is a county attorney. We're not requesting any action at this time. Thank you all.

[05:57:15]No action for 16A.

[05:57:20]And I'd like to read in item number 11A.

[05:57:25]Uh, one more time. uh approve and authorize the county judge to accept the community project funds grant award for the senior meals and community kitchen project on behalf of the community services department to construct a new kitchen facility and program offices at the Isleta annex from February 17, 2023 through August 31st, 2031 in the amount of $4 million. further authorize the county judge to sign all required documents and the CPF grant agreement contract number 2026 0357.

[05:58:02]>> Judge commissioners Betsy Keller County Administrator I asked Caesar Caesar to read this back in so I can just correct one thing I said earlier. I said the match is coming from tax note 23b. It's actually CO2B.

[05:58:14]So, just wanted to make that clear.

[05:58:18]And this will help us be able to use those funds timely.

[05:58:26]No action.

[05:58:30]>> And there's no further action required for this item. Correct.

[05:58:32]>> Correct.

[05:58:33]>> Thank you.

[05:58:36]And this completes all the items on the agenda. Judge, >> thank you, Commissioner Coronado. Thank you. I didn't expect you back that quick.

[05:58:46]>> Uh, yes. I'm I'm starting my physical therapy tomorrow. Thank you. I'll uh I sure hope I do come back a lot earlier than last time.

[05:58:54]>> Oh, thank you. We appreciate you. Thank you.

[05:58:57]>> Thank you all.

[05:58:59]>> Thank you back there. Everybody, our promotion team, have a great week.

[05:59:08]This concludes today's meeting at 3:25 p.m.