Press Releases

COMMISSIONERS COURT HIGHLIGHTS FOR MONDAY, JANUARY 05,2009

2009-01-05T20:41:00Z

Public Information Office             Aracely Lazcano I PIO
County of El Paso, Texas           500 E. San Antonio I Suite 301
                                                (P) 915.546.2098 I Ext 4106 I
                                                (C) 915.496.5984 I
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MONDAY, 05,2009

FIRST MEETING WITH NEW COMMISSIONERS

(El Paso, Texas) - During today's regular session the current members of the El Paso County Commissioners Court welcomed the new members.

County Commissioner Anna Perez is representing Pct. 1 (east side of the county) and County Commissioner Willy Gandara Jr. represents Precinct 3 located in the far east of the county.

Right after introducing the members of their staff, the new County Commissioners stated that they were very excited about their first meeting as public servants and reasserted their compromise of an open-door policy to all residents of El Paso County.

"I look forward to working with all the departments and the county and have unity in this court," Perez said while addressing the court.

Commissioner Pct. 3 Gandara also agreed that his main goal as County Commissioner would be to serve his constituents to the best of his ability.

BOARD APPOINMENTS

During Monday's regular session, the court also appointed several of its members to represent the county in outside boards.

The appointments are as follow:

Central Appraisal District's Board of Directors					Commissioner Pct. 1, Anna Perez


El Paso County Purchasing Board					Commissioner Pct. 1, Anna Perez
					Commissioner Pct. 4, Daniel R. Haggerty

Obama's Presidential Infrastructure Packet Committee					Commissioner Pct. 3, Willy Gandara Jr.

MPO Transportation Policy Board					Commissioner Pct. 3, Willy Gandara Jr.

Rio Grande Council of Governments					Commissioner Pct. 2, Veronica Escobar

THE MONTH OF JANUARY IS

DESIGNATED AS THE "CRIME STOPPERS MONTH"

The members of Commissioners Court adopted a resolution designating January 2009 as the Crime Stoppers Month.

The resolution sponsored by County Commissioner Pct. 4, Daniel R. Haggerty, was approved by unanimous vote.

Commissioner Haggerty stated that Crime Stoppers of El Paso is celebrating its 30^th anniversary of successful operation in which more that 3,600 suspects have been arrested, over 4,350 cases have been cleared and over $47 million dollars in narcotics have been removed from El Paso streets.

Crimes Stoppers of El Paso works in partnership with the media, all regional law enforcement agencies and the public as the only crime fighting, non-profit organization that serves El Paso, Hudspeth and Culberson Counties.

Other actions taken:

The commissioners Court decided to support legislation that helps the reopening of the Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo Casino.

The court directed Commissioners Anna Perez and Veronica Escobar to speak with city officials about the possibility of handing over the Sportspark and Ascarate Park.

The court also approved the creation of a committee that will develop a list of county projects that could eventually be funded by the federal government. Several department heads were listed as members of the committee and County Commissioner Pct. 3 Willy Gandara was appointed as the chairman.

In a 4-to-0 vote, the court approved the signing of an Inter-local Agreement with the City of El Paso on property tax of foreclosed estates. A total of 25 properties, some that have been on default for six years or more, vacant or abandoned were eligible for the Fresh Start Project.

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NEW YEAR'S HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

2008-12-29T16:36:00Z

Christmas Holiday Schedule

(El Paso, TX) -- Commissioners Court will not have its regular weekly meeting on Monday, December 29, 2008.

On Monday, December 15, 2008, the members of the commissioners court decided that the court will hold their next regular meeting on Monday, January 5, 2009, at 9:30 a.m.

Although the court will not meet, the county courthouse and its satellite offices will be open for business during regular hours on Monday, Dec. 29 and Tuesday, Dec. 30.

Additionally, in observance of the holiday season, the county courthouse will be closed on New Year's Eve, Wednesday, December 31; New Year's Day, Thursday, January 1, 2009 and the Day after New Years, Friday, January 2, 2009.

We urge the community to be aware and take the necessary precautions to plan ahead in case there is the need to use a service provided by the county. For example; application for passports, birth and marriage certificates, deeds, etc.

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(El Paso, TX) -- La corte de comisionados del condado de El Paso no realizara sus sesiones ordinarias semanales el día lunes 29 de Diciembre del presente año.

El pasado 15 de diciembre, los miembros de la corte decidieron que la próxima junta ordinaria se llevara a cabo el próximo 5 de enero del 2009 en punto de las 9:30 A.M. en donde se les dará la bienvenida a los nuevos integrantes de la corte.

Sin embargo, aunque no habrá juntas ordinarias de la corte de comisionados, el edificio de la corte y sus oficinas satélites continuaran brindando servicio los dias lunes 29 y martes 30 de diciembre a los miembros de la comunidad que requieran realizar algún trámite.

Adicionalmente y en respeto a los días festivos por la celebración de la llegada del año nuevo, el edificio del condado suspenderá operaciones el ultimo día del año, miércoles 31 de diciembre; el primer día del 2009, jueves primero de enero y el día posterior al año nuevo, viernes 2 de enero del 2009.

Se le solicita a los residentes del condado que tomen en cuenta la suspensión de labores por los días feriados y que realicen planes para realizar los trámites que requieran necesarios, como solicitud de pasaportes estadounidenses, actas de nacimiento, defunción, o divorcio entre otras.

Christmas Holiday Schedule

2008-12-22T14:58:00Z

(El Paso, TX) -- Commissioners Court will not have its regular weekly meetings, Monday, December, 22 and Monday, December 29, 2008.

On Monday, December 15, 2008, the members of the commissioners court decided that the court will hold their next regular meeting on Monday, January 5, 2009, at 9:30 a.m.

Although the court will not meet, the county courthouse and its satellite offices will be open for business during regular hours on Monday, Dec. 22 and Tuesday, Dec. 23.

Additionally, in observance of the holiday season, the county courthouse will be closed on Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24; Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25; and the Day after Christmas, Friday, December 26, 2008.

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****ADELANTAR EL CURSOR PARA INFORMACION EN ESPAÑOL****

(El Paso, TX) -- La corte de comisionados del condado de El Paso no realizara sus sesiones ordinarias semanales los días lunes 22 y 29 de Diciembre del presente año.

Sin embargo, aunque no habrá juntas ordinarias de la corte de comisionados, el edificio de la corte y sus oficinas satélites continuaran brindando servicio el lunes 22 y martes 23 de diciembre a los miembros de la comunidad que requieran realizar algún trámite.

Adicionalmente y en respeto a los días festivos por la celebración de la navidad, el edificio del condado suspenderá operaciones el día de noche buena, miércoles 24 de diciembre; el día de navidad, jueves 25 de diciembre y el día posterior a la navidad, viernes 26 de diciembre.

YSLETA ANNEX DEDICATION CEREMONY

2008-12-15T23:23:00Z

For Immediate Release Monday, December 15, 2008

DEDICATION CEREMONY FOR

YSLETA ANNEX

(EL PASO, TEXAS) - County Commissioner Miguel A. Teran, Precinct 3, will host a dedication ceremony at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2008 for the Ysleta Annex in Socorro.

The 30,000 square-foot building is the first energy-efficient facility of El Paso County and will house, at least, nine departments, which provide direct service to the public. Amongst those will be; the Justice of the Peace No. 5, District Clerk, County Clerk, County Attorney, Adult Probation and Tax Assessor Collector.

The firm Wright & Dalbin Architects Inc. designed the facility, which will feature two buildings with a central square. The estimated cost of the project is at about $4.3 million.

IN BRIEF:

WHAT: Ysleta Annex Dedication Ceremony

WHEN: Tuesday, December 16, 2008

TIME: 1:00 p.m.

WHERE: 9521 Socorro Road

GROUND-BREAKING CEREMONY

2008-12-15T22:16:00Z

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Monday, December 15, 2008

    GROUND-BREAKING CEREMONY
    Access Road to the new Tornillo-Gpe. Int’l Bridge

(El Paso, Texas) – El Paso County Commissioners Court members will headline a ground-breaking ceremony and deliver remarks at the site of the new Manuel F. Aguilera Highway that will connect the new Tornillo-Guadalupe International Port of Entry to Alameda Avenue.
The ceremony site is located at FM 1109 and Tornillo Island Road.
Local, state and federal dignitaries will be in attendance at the ceremony to take place on Tuesday, December 16 at 10:00 a.m.
The estimated cost of this project is $1.5 million and its completion is expected by spring 2009
IN BRIEF:
WHAT:       Ground-breaking Ceremony of Manuel F. Aguilera Highway
WHERE:     FM 1109 and Tornillo Island Road
WHEN:       Tuesday, December 16, 2008
TIME:         10:00 a.m.

COMMISSIONERS COURT HIGHLIGHTS FOR MONDAY DEC. 08, 2008

2008-12-08T23:21:00Z

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MONDAY, DEC. 08,2008

Adventurous Cowboy Recognized

(El Paso, Texas) – During today’s regular session the members of commissioner’s court adopted a resolution praising Bob Jones, also known as Long Rider Bob, for his courage and adventurous spirit to horse riding 2,000 miles and travel to El Paso from the border of Canada.
Long Rider Bob, is a recently retired England native whom has always been a country and western music lover and particularly liked Marty Robbins and his song “El Paso”, making our community destination of choice.
During his four months journey, Jones was helped by many people through the seven states he visited.The resolution sponsored by Commissioner Pct. 4 Daniel R. Haggerty praise the now adopted cowboy rider for his sense of adventure and being able to pursue his dream of seeing America.
“We wish him and his equine partners the very best as they continue their journey through life,” Haggerty stated.
A Texas flag was also presented to Mr. Jones as a symbol of gratitude for his love to this community by State Rep. Pat Haggerty.

COURT DENIES CONSTABLE REQUEST TO OPERATE UNMARKED UNITS

A request made from Constable Pct. 2 Rick Gammon to operate up to three county vehicles without inscriptions was denied today by the members of the court.

“I think you should have mark vehicles because you are representing a law enforcement agency and I don’t agree that you drive without being noticed,” said County Judge, Anthony Cobos.

Gammon based his petition stating that recent incidents involving other constables have misled the public
perception towards their job.

“In light of current and immediate past circumstances I’d rather to proceed with caution in this matter so that we are not creating circumstances which could potentially create more liability for the county in the future,” said Commissioner Pct. 2, Veronica Escobar.

Voting against the use of unmarked vehicles were Judge Antony Cobos and Commissioners Miguel A. Teran and Veronica Escobar, meanwhile Commissioners Luis Sariñana and Dan Haggerty voted against the denial.

BLOOD DRIVE AT THE COURTHOUSE

2008-12-04T17:40:00Z

(El Paso, Texas) – A blood drive for the United Blood Services will be held from 10:30 am- 4:30 pm Thursday, December 04, in the County Courthouse, 3^rd Floor Lobby.
Employees and the public are invited to participate in the drive. Donated blood plays a critical role in surgery and emergency care.
United Blood Services uses special blood collection technology and tools to customize the donation process for each donor and to best match donations to community needs.
Last quarter county employees donated over 50 units of blood. Donors will receive a FREE T-Shirt, a Cholesterol Check, Snacks and a chance to save as many as 3 lives.
IN BRIEF:
WHAT: BLOOD DRIVE
WHERE: 3^RD FLOOR LOBBY, COUNTY COURTHOUSE
WHEN: TODAY
TIME: 10:30 am-4:30 PM

HOLIDAY UPDATE

2008-11-25T20:24:00Z

Thanksgiving Holiday Celebration

Courthouse to be Closed

(EL PASO, TEXAS) – The El Paso County Courthouse will be closed on November 27^th and 28^th (Thursday and Friday) for the Thanksgiving Holidays.

Commissioners Court will have its regular meeting on Monday, December 1^st.

The Ascarate golf course will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day and the “Winter Wonderland” holiday light display at Ascarate Park will be open from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on
Thanksgiving night. Admission is $1 per vehicle.

For emergencies please call 911 for immediate assistance or the Sheriff Department Dispatch for non-
emergencies at (915)546-2280.

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*** CELERBACION DEL DIA DE ACCION DE GRACIAS*******

EDIFICIO DE LA CORTE CERRADO

(EL PASO, TX) -- El edificio de la corte del condado estara cerrado el 27 y 28 de noviembre, (jueves y viernes) debido a la celebracion del Dia de Accion de Gracias.

La junta regular de la Corte de Comisionados se realizara el lunes, primero de diciembre.

El campo de golf del Parque Ascarate abrira sus puertas el dia jueves (Dia de Accion de Gracias) desde las 6:00 AM hasta las 2:00 PM.

La exhibicion de luces en el parque Ascarate "Winter Wonderland" abrira sus puertas el jueves por la noche (Dia de Accion de Gracias) de 5:00 a 9:00 PM. Admision por vehiculo al parque es de $1.
Residentes del condado en necesidad de reportar una emergencia deben hablar al 911 o si desean reportar incidentes no emergentes deben hacerlo al (915)546-2280.

COMMISSIONERS COURT HIGHLIGHTS FOR MONDAY, NOV.24,2009

2008-11-24T23:01:00Z

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MONDAY, NOV. 24,2008

El Paso County Adopts State Legislative Agenda

El Paso, TX - El Paso County Commissioners Court unanimously adopted in today's regular session their priorities for the 81^st State Legislative session.

The El Paso County Legislative Agenda for 2009 addresses the expansion of access to affordable and high-quality health care services for all, secures $65 million for the Medical Science Building II at the Texas Tech Medical Center of the Americas, increases funding for renewable energy feasibility and demonstration projects, and advocates resources that will allow for the rapid expansion of necessary community infrastructure as a result of BRAC efforts.

In addition, El Paso County will pursue an exemption from the storm water fees imposed by the City of El Paso and change the Thomason Board size and rules.

Furthermore, the high incidence on family/domestic violence cases that has resulted on the choking or strangulation of the victim has prompted the District Attorney Office to look for initiatives to enhance the criminal penalties applicable to assaults involving family violence in particular that form of abuse.

The firm Bickerstaff, Heath, Delgado, Acosta LLP was hired as the state lobbyist for El Paso County during a Nov. 11 special session.

The 81^st State Legislative Regular Session is set to convene on January 13^th, 2009.

Lighting up Ascarate Park

2008-11-22T00:19:00Z

EL PASO, TEXAS - A week before Thanksgiving and already El Pasoans are gearing up for the Christmas season. In fact, El Paso County will begin celebrating as they transform Ascarate Park into a "Winter Wonderland." The park will be illuminated with life size Christmas displays starting at 5:30pm on Sunday, November 23, 2008.

"The ceremony is a heartwarming tradition and we hope to see many of our families at the park," said County Commissioner Veronica Escobar, Pct. 2.

The lighting ceremony and festivities will include live entertainment, holiday choirs, hot chocolate, cookies and more.

"We hope all El Paso families will come and enjoy the County's gift to our community", said Rosemary Neil, Director of Family and Community Services.

Visitors to "Winter Wonderland" can drive through the park and no admission will be charged on the day of the event only. Ascarate Park will be lit from 5:00pm to 9:00pm every night from Nov. 23rd - Jan. 4th

For more information, please call the County Parks Department at (915) 772-5605.

IN BRIEF:

WHAT: Ascarate Park Winter Wonderland Lights Ceremony

WHEN: Sunday, November 23, 2008

TIME: Program begins at 5:30 p.m.

WHERE: Ascarate Park, 6800 Delta Avenue, at the Blue Gill

Winter Wonderland At Ascarate Park

2008-11-18T20:31:00Z

Christmas Arrives Early to Ascarate Park

Ascarate Park will be lit up by Christmas lights and decorations over the forthcoming holiday season, creating a truly festive atmosphere.
The "Winter Wonderland" Annual Celebration will take place on Sunday, November 23, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. at the Blue Gill, next to the boat ramps.
Drive-through admission to view the wonderful magic of the lights on the trees and their reflection on the lake will be waived from 4:30 pm until closing time for that day only.
Hot chocolate and cookies will be free on that day.
Each year, a child from Candlelighters of El Paso helps to turn on the holiday lights and this year, 8 year-old Krystal Morales will do the honors.
This year, the entertainment will be provided by the St. Pius School Choir, Grupo Nazareth; Zavala Middle School, and the Super Senior Y Dance Group.

For more information on the El Paso County’s Winter Wonderland, call (915) 772-5605

IN BRIEF

WHAT: Ascarate Park Winter Wonderland Lights Switch-On
WHEN:    Sunday, November 23, 2008
WHERE: Ascarate Park, 6800 Delta Avenue, at the Blue Gill
                     (Next to the boat ramps)

COMMMISSIONERS COURT HIGHLIGHTS FOR MONDAY, NOV. 17, 2008

2008-11-17T18:48:00Z

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Monday, November 17, 2008

COMMISSIONERS COURT ENDORSES LEGISLATION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF BOARD MEMBERS OF THE EL PASO COUNTY HOSPITAL DISTRICT, ESTABLISH TERM LIMITS AND ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS

In today’s meeting, the members of Commissioners Court approved a resolution endorsing legislation regarding the term length and appointment process for future members of the Board of Managers of El Paso County Hospital District.
With the adopted resolution, the members of Commissioners Court reiterate that they are committed on ensuring that the Hospital District delivers the highest quality and medical care at Thomason Hospital and its community clinics to the people of El Paso and surrounding communities.
According to Ron Acton, Board Chairman, this legislation will promote excellence in governance of the Hospital District and will provide for both, continuity in board leadership and succession planning as well as public participation and opportunities for community service.
Voting in favor of the resolution were Commissioner Pct. 1, Luis Sariñana; Commissioner Pct 2., Veronica Escobar; Pct. 3 Commissioner, Miguel A. Teran and Commissioner Pct. 4 Daniel R. Haggerty.
El Paso County Judge Anthony Cobos did not attended today’s meeting.
Some of the changes, if approved, will contain: an increase in the number of Board members to seven, establishing three-year terms and set a term limit of two full consecutive terms followed by a two year period of ineligibility for reappointment. I
t will also provide a transition from the current two-year terms to three-year terms beginning with the appointments taking place in 2010.
Additionally, it will provide that absence from all regular board meetings and standing committee meetings for a period of 90 days shall constitute an immediate and irrevocable resignation; as well as other reasonable attendance requirements.
El Paso County Commissioners court appoints the members of the Board of Managers of the El Paso Hospital District.

COURTHOUSE CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF VETERANS DAY

2008-11-10T23:40:00Z

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, November 10, 2008
COUNTY COURTHOUSE TO CLOSE
IN OBSERVANCE OF VETERANS DAY

(El Paso, Texas) - Carrying the spirit and tradition of honoring the veterans of the United States, the El Paso County Courthouse and its satellite offices will be officially closed on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 in observance of Veterans Day.
The central offices of the District and County Clerks as well as other departments will not provide any service to the public, neither their satellite offices located on the Westside, Northeast and Lower Valley.
We urge the community to take this into consideration and plan ahead in case there is the need to use a service provided by the county.
For example; application for passports, birth and marriage certificates, deeds, etc.
Normal operations for all offices and facilities will resume on Wednesday, November 12, 2008.

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PARA DIFUSION INMEDIATA: LUNES 10 DE NOVIEMBRE DEL 2008
EDIFICIO DEL CONDADO CIERRA AL PUBLICO
EL DIA DE LOS VETERANOS

(El Paso, Texas) - Siguiendo la tradición y con el espíritu de honrar a todos los veteranos de guerra de Estados Unidos, el edificio del Condado de El Paso estará cerrado al público el martes 11 de noviembre del año en curso para celebrar el Día de los Veteranos.
Ninguna de las oficinas que prestan servicio al público ya sea en las centrales o en satélites prestara servicios.
Se le informa a la comunidad que considere la suspensión de labores y que tome las medidas necesarias en caso de que tenga que realizar algún trámite o utilizar algún servicio de los que aquí se ofrecen.
Las oficinas del condado abrirán sus puertas de forma normal el miércoles 12 de noviembre.
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COURTHOUSE TO CLOSE IN OBSERVANCE OF VETERANS DAY

2008-11-07T23:24:00Z

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, November 07, 2008

COUNTY COURTHOUSE TO CLOSE
IN OBSERVANCE OF VETERANS DAY

(El Paso, Texas) Friday, November 7, 2008 - Carrying the spirit and tradition of honoring the veterans of the United States, the El Paso County Courthouse and its satellite offices will be officially closed on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 in observance of Veterans' Day.
The central offices of the District and County Clerks as well as other departments will not provide any service to the public, neither their satellite offices located on the Westside, Northeast and Lower Valley.
We urge the community to take this into consideration and plan ahead in case there is the need to use a service provided by the county.
For example; application for passports, birth and marriage certificates, deeds, etc.
Normal operations for all offices and facilities will resume on Wednesday, November 12, 2008.

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##ADELANTAR EL CURSON PARA TEXTO EN ESPAÑOL###

PARA DIFUSION INMEDIATA: VIERNES 7 DE NOVIEMBRE

EDIFICIO DEL CONDADO CIERRA AL PUBLICO
EL DIA DE LOS VETERANOS

(El Paso, Texas) Viernes, 7 de noviembre del 2008 - Siguiendo la tradición y con el espíritu de honrar a todos los veteranos de guerra de Estados Unidos, el edificio del Condado de El Paso estará cerrado al público el martes 11 de noviembre del año en curso para celebrar el Día de los Veteranos.
Ninguna de las oficinas que prestan servicio al público ya sea en las centrales o en satélites prestara servicios.
Se le informa a la comunidad que considere la suspensión de labores y que tome las medidas necesarias en caso de que tenga que realizar algún trámite o utilizar algún servicio de los que aquí se ofrecen.
Las oficinas del condado abrirán sus puertas de forma normal el miércoles 12 de noviembre.

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COMMISSIONERS COURT SPECIAL SESSION SCHEDULE

2008-11-06T00:00:00Z

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 05, 2008

(EL PASO, TEXAS) - On Monday, November 10, 2008 members of El Paso County Commissiones Court will hold several special session meetings after the regular session. Scroll down for more details or visit the agendas posted in the government main website page.

NOTE: The Commissioners Court Special Session to discuss and interview the applicants for the Facilities Manager position originally scheduled at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 10^th was canceled. The issue will be address during the regular meeting.

Special Session #1

WHY: To discuss, receive a presentation and take appropriate action on RFQ#08-142

State Legislative Lobbyist Services for the County of El Paso

WHO: El Paso County Commissioners Court

WHEN: Monday, November 10, 2008

TIME: 1:00 p.m.

WHERE: El Paso County Courthouse/ 500 E. San Antonio Street / County Judges Conference Room, Suite 301 / El Paso, Texas 79901

Special Session #2

WHY: To discuss, receive a presentation and take appropriate action on RFQ#08-143

Federal Legislative Lobbyist Services for the County of El Paso

WHO: El Paso County Commissioners Court

WHEN: Monday, November 10, 2008

TIME: 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: El Paso County Courthouse / 500 E. San Antonio Street / County Judges Conference Room/ Suite 301 / El Paso, Texas 79901

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