Walker County OKs Constable Precinct 3 287(g) Memorandum of Agreement, Authorizes Ratification
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Summary
The commissioners approved participation in a federal 287(g) task‑force model for Constable Precinct 3, accepted potential equipment funding and authorized a formal ratification for a previously signed memorandum; the court also required standard county grant accounting and purchase controls.
Walker County Commissioners Court voted to approve a memorandum of agreement allowing Constable Precinct 3 to participate in a federal 287(g) task‑force model and authorized the county judge to sign a subsequent ratification of a previously executed agreement.
The court heard from Constable Hill, who described the program as “a force multiplier essentially for Homeland Security” and said the federal side had awarded an equipment allotment of approximately $100,000 and a $7,500 per‑person incentive for trained personnel. Hill told the court that because the precinct became operational before Oct. 1, it is “essentially qualify for a reimbursement per hour of salary,” adding that the federal program will reimburse the county for officer hours worked under the task force when properly documented.
The court’s legal adviser, Gracie, and finance staff clarified procedural requirements: any grant revenue and expenditures must flow through the county treasurer and purchasing processes, and time sheets and payroll records must support reimbursement claims. County staff emphasized that no grant funds had been accepted or spent at the time of the vote.
Commissioners discussed audit and signature formalities after learning that Constable Hill had already signed a version of the agreement. The court moved to ratify that signature formally and authorized the county judge to sign a statement of ratification so the county will have a paper trail for auditors.
The court voted to approve the item and “authorize the county judge to sign a statement of ratification addressing the previously signed contract,” with staff instructed to ensure expenditures and any equipment purchases run through normal purchasing and budget amendment procedures.
The court’s action does not itself obligate funds; rather, it establishes the administrative path for receiving equipment incentives and federal reimbursement if and when the funds are released. Commissioners repeatedly emphasized that proper documentation—timesheets, payroll verification and standard purchasing steps—will be required before reimbursements or equipment purchases are recorded in county accounts.
Looking ahead, staff and the constable agreed to coordinate with payroll, the auditors’ office and purchasing to implement the required reporting and invoice processes should federal funds be received.