San Patricio County officials are moving forward with a significant initiative aimed at improving accessibility for residents with disabilities. During the May 5, 2025, Commissioner’s Court meeting, the court approved a motion to apply for the Amy Young Barrier Removal Program, which will provide essential modifications to homes, such as ramps, to ensure they meet ADA compliance.

The program, which had been tabled from a previous meeting, was brought back for discussion by Commissioner Gillespie and seconded by Commissioner Yardley. The court agreed to change the terminology from "rehabilitation assistance" to "reconstruction assistance," reflecting the program's focus on more extensive home modifications.

Melanie Cooper, the grant manager, highlighted the high demand for these services, noting that there is significant public interest in the program. However, she cautioned that the costs associated with administering the program could exceed initial estimates, potentially requiring the county to allocate between $150,000 to $200,000 to get it up and running. This includes a reserve of $80,000 to manage the program effectively.

The program is expected to assist approximately four households under the barrier removal initiative, with similar estimates for other related programs, including tenant-based rental assistance. Cooper emphasized that while there is a strong interest from residents, the actual number of homes that will benefit depends on the approval of individual applications submitted to the state.

In addition to the barrier removal program, the court also approved a memorandum of understanding with WAMSH Mobile Clinic, which has been providing valuable health services to the community. This partnership aims to continue offering accessible healthcare options to residents.

As the county prepares to launch these initiatives, officials plan to issue a press release to inform the public about the application process and eligibility requirements, ensuring that residents are aware of the support available to them.