Ark-Tex Council Of Government Meeting

JOINT AGENDA
NORTHEAST TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT AND
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

December 10, 2020
The Northeast Texas Economic Development District (NETEDD) and the Board of Directors of the Ark-Tex
Council of Governments (ATCOG) will meet at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, December 10, 2020, via
teleconference/webinar.
Use the following information to register for the meeting:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJckfuCorjMqHdDsAwGfkegrKCyGH5ljVgbo
If you experience issues while registering or do not have access to a computer, please contact Erin Chewning
no less than two (2) workdays prior to the meeting at 903.255.3555 or echewning@atcog.org.
Item 1. Call to order – Quorum Determination.
Item 2. Invocation.
Item 3. Public Comment.
ATCOG invites members of the public to provide oral comments on any item included on this
agenda under this item. Each person wishing to make public comment shall be limited to 3
minutes with comments directed to the Board as a whole. Reasonable accommodation shall be
made for members of the public utilizing a translator for public comment.
NETEDD Agenda Items
Item 4. Approval of the minutes as submitted for the NETEDD meeting held Thursday, September 24, 2020.
(See page 5)
Item 5. Approval of the minutes as submitted for the NETEDD meeting held Thursday, October 29, 2020. (See
page 10)
Item 6. Revolving Loan Fund status update. (See page 14; to be presented by staff member Melody Harmon)
This concludes all NETEDD Agenda Items.
ATCOG Board of Directors Agenda Items
Item 7. Review and consider consent agenda items. (To be presented by Executive Director Chris Brown)
• Approval of the minutes as submitted for the ATCOG Board of Directors meeting held Thursday,
September 24, 2020. (See page 25)
• Ratification of the Interlocal Agreement between ATCOG and the Housing Authority of the City of
Mount Pleasant. (See page 30)
• Acceptance of the minutes as submitted for the Homeland Security Advisory Committee meeting
held October 1, 2020. (See Addendum page 1)
• Acceptance of the minutes as submitted for the Regional Criminal Justice Advisory Committee
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meeting held November 19, 2020. (See Addendum page 3)
• Ratification of Juvenile Justice Services Contracts between ATCOG and the following:
• Bowie County (See Addendum page 16)
• Cass County (See Addendum page 44)
• Hopkins County (See Addendum page 72)
• Lamar County (See Addendum page 101)
• Red River County (See Addendum page 129)
• Titus County (See Addendum page 157)
Review and Comment
Item 8. Review and comment on Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Permit Renewals by the
following: (See page 32; to be presented by staff member Paul Prange)
• City of Atlanta (Page 32)
• City of Bogata (Page 33)
• City of Linden (Page 34)
• City of Maud (Page 35)
• City of Omaha (Page 36)
• City of Reno (Page 37)
• City of Roxton (Page 38)
• City of Talco (Page 39)
• City of Winfield (Page 40)
• Queen City (Page 41)
• Delta County Municipal Utility District (Page 42)
• Hooks ISD (Page 43)
• Kimberly-Clark Corporation (Page 44)
• Riverbend Water Resources District (Page 45)
• U.S. Department of the Army – Former Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant (Page 46)
• TCI Texarkana, Inc. (Page 47)
• Texana Tank Car & Manufacturing Ltd. (Page 48)
Item 9. Review and comment on an application by Southwestern Electric Power Company to TCEQ to amend
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its permit to authorize the discharge of wastewater in Morris County. (See page 49; to be presented by
Mr. Prange)
Item 10. Review and comment on an application by Ward Timber, Ltd. to TCEQ to amend its Air Quality Permit
to authorize modification of the existing Sawmill located in Cass County. (See page 50; to be presented
by Mr. Prange)
Item 11. Review and comment on an application by Graphic Packaging International, LLC to TCEQ to amend its
permit regarding discharge monitoring reports in Cass County. (See page 51; to be presented by Mr.
Prange)
Regular Business
Item 12. Review and consider approval of the revisions to the Area Agency on Aging Policy and Procedures for
the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. (See page 52; to be presented by staff member Lisa
Reeve)
Item 13. Review and consider approval of the region-wide transit advertising contract two-year renewal as part
of the 9-1-1 Public Education Program. (See page 55; to be presented by staff member Rea Allen)
Item 14. Review and consider approval of the Ark-Tex Council of Governments Housing Choice Voucher
Program Annual and 5 yr. Plan to be effective on October 1, 2020. (See page 58 and Addendum page
186; to be presented by staff member Mae Lewis)
Item 15. Review and consider approval of continued use of the allocation formula for FY2021 as the method for
allocating State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) funds to jurisdictions. (See page 60; to be
presented by staff member Whitney Fezell)
Item 16. Review and consider approval of revisions to the Regional Criminal Justice Advisory Committee
(RCJAC) Bylaws. (See page 64 and Addendum page 257; to be presented by staff member Patricia
Haley)
Item 17. Review and consider approval of the RCJAC local priorities and the grant application scoring
instruments. (See page 66 and Addendum page 268; to be presented by Ms. Haley)
Item 18. Review and consider approval of revisions to the Ark-Tex Council of Governments (ATCOG) Policies
and Procedures Manuals as well as the ATCOG Procurement Policy. (See page 68; to be presented
by staff member Mary Beth Rudel)
Item 19. Review and consider approval of the notice of the intent to award/notice of owner selection of the Mount
Pleasant Housing Authority for PBV and approval to exceed $50,000 in HAP authority contracts. (See
page 72; to be presented by Mr. Brown)
Item 20. Review and consider approval/ratification of the following COVID-19-related policies: (See page 76; to
be presented by Mr. Brown)
• ATCOG COVID-19 Returning to Work at the Office Phase II Policy and Updated Driver Protocols
• TRAX Essential Services Pay Policy – COVID-19
Announcements
The next Executive Committee meeting will be held on Thursday, January 28, 2020, at 10:00 a.m., location
and/or meeting format to be determined.
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Pursuant to the Texas Open Meeting Act, Government Code Chapter 551 one or more of the above items may be considered in an executive session closed
to the public, including but not limited to consultation with attorney pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 and Section 551.074 arising out
of the attorney’s ethical duty to advise ATCOG concerning legal issues arising from an agenda item. Any decision held on such matter will be taken or
conducted in open session following the conclusion of the executive session.
Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need auxiliary aids or services are requested to contact Administration at 903-832-
8636 two (2) workdays prior to the meeting so that appropriate arrangement can be made.
All agendas are sent electronically and available at www.atcog.org. Should any Board Member need a copy printed and available at the meeting, please
call 903.255.3555 or email echewning@atcog.org.
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JOINT MINUTES
NORTHEAST TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT AND
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

September 24, 2020
The Northeast Texas Economic Development District (NETEDD) and Board of Directors of the Ark-Tex
Council of Governments (ATCOG) met at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, September 24, 2020, at the ATCOG
Texarkana office located at 4808 Elizabeth St., Texarkana, Texas, 75503, as well as, via
teleconference/webinar.
Item 1. L.D. Williamson, Judge, Red River County, called the meeting to order.
Item 2. Brian Lee, Judge, Titus County, gave the invocation.
Item 3. Public Comment.
There were no members of the public present.
NETEDD Agenda Items
Item 4. The next order of business was to review and consider approval of the minutes as submitted for the
NETEDD meeting held Thursday, May 28, 2020, via teleconference/webinar.
Motion to approve was made by Judge Brian Lee and seconded by Ann Rushing, Mayor, City of
Clarksville. It was approved.
Item 5. Chris Brown, Executive Director, presented for review and consideration approval of NETEDD’s portion
of ATCOG’s Financial Plan for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2021.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Rushing and seconded by Judge Brian Lee. It was approved.
Item 6. Melody Harmon, Economic Development Coordinator, presented for consideration approval to proceed
in the submission of the Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) COVID-19 Plan with Addendum for the North East
Texas Regional Development Corporation as required by the Economic Development Administration (EDA)
for approved funding.
Motion to approve was made by Marc Reiter, Mayor, City of Hooks, and seconded by Becky Wilbanks,
Judge, Cass County. It was approved.
Item 7. Toni Lindsey, Regional Development Coordinator, presented for consideration approval for the ATCOG
Executive Director to apply for 3 Year NETEDD Planning Grant through the U.S Department of
Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA).
Motion to approve was made by Judge Brian Lee and seconded by Bob Thorne, Mayor Pro Tem, City
of Daingerfield. It was approved.
This concludes all NETEDD agenda items.
ATCOG Board of Directors Agenda Items
Item 8. Mr. Brown presented the following consent agenda items:
 Approval of the minutes as submitted for the ATCOG Board of Directors Meeting held
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Thursday, June 25, 2020, via teleconference/webinar.
 Ratification of the Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between ATCOG and the Public Safety
Office within the Office of the Governor.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Reiter and seconded by Judge Wilbanks. It was approved.
Executive Closed Session
Item 9. At this time, Judge Williamson announced that the Open Session would recess and go into Executive
Closed Session to discuss personnel matters as allowed in the Texas Open Meetings Act, Section
551.074, Executive Director’s performance evaluation.
Open Session/Review and Comment
Item 10. The Board of Directors reconvened in Open Session. Due to the high ratings from board members on
Mr. Brown’s performance evaluations, Judge Williamson moved that he should receive an increase of
2% to his salary.
Motion to approve was made by Sheryl Collum, Mayor, City of Wake Village, and seconded by Mayor
Reiter. It was approved.
Item 11. Paul Prange, Environmental Resources Coordinator, presented for review and comment on
environmental assessments to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for proposed
Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) permit renewals by the City of DeKalb, City of
Paris, City of Texarkana, Texas, and the City of Blossom to authorize the discharge of treated
wastewater.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Pro Tem Bob Thorne and seconded by Mayor Reiter. It was
approved.
Regular Business
Item 12. Mr. Brown presented for consideration approval of ATCOG’s Financial Plan for the fiscal year ending
September 30, 2021.
Mr. Brown noted that this was the ATCOG Work Program and Financial Plan combined, and not
necessarily a budget because ATCOG does not have taxing or oversight authority. As required by
legislation, the ATCOG Work Plan and Financial Plan presents each grant’s objectives, work tasks,
performance measures, implementation schedules, human resource requirements, and budget
information.
Mr. Brown explained that within each State or Federal grant that ATCOG administers, the funding
the agency has complete oversight for the individual grant programs and that funding sources regulate
categories in which ATCOG is allowed to spend funds.
Mr. Brown added that the Plan included recommended merit step increases for staff along
with many position reclassifications. Funding is provided for the Salary Schedule effective October 1,
2020.
Mr. Brown stated that overall, ATCOG’s revenues will increase by $3,641,812. He added that a
a portion of the increase in revenues will result from COVID-19 CARES funding; therefore, ATCOG will
not plan to receive those funds in subsequent years. He explained that changes in funding from the
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prior year include:

 An increase of approximately $300,000 in transportation revenue due to securing localized
funds, CARES funds rolling forward from FY2020, as well as vehicle purchases causing
fluctuation in total revenue amounts for the past couple of years.
 An increase of $1,047,171 in housing revenue due to CARES funding in the HVC and ESG
programs as well as Project-Based Vouchers.
 An increase of $780,910 in AAA revenue due to primarily CARES to fund. Actual funding
amounts from HHSC have not been released yet.
 Criminal Justice and Homeland Security will see a slight decrease in contract amounts of
$5,500 in criminal justice revenue and $1,500 in homeland security revenue. Environmental
revenue will remain stable.
 9-1-1 Emergency Communications program revenue will remain consistent.
 Regional and Economic Development Programs will see large boosts in revenue due to EDA
CARES funding, the absorptions of the CTEDD RLF portfolio, and a focus to bring in new
grant administration and 504 loans.
Mr. Brown added that ATCOG’s health care provider will continue to be Texas Municipal League
(TMLIEBP) and that the premiums for the basic medical plan increased again this year. ATCOG will
increase its defined contribution amount from $743.30 per month for each employee’s basic medical
coverage to $773.04, which is 100% of the employee premium. Employee dental insurance premiums
will remain at $28.44 per month. Rates for life and AD&D did not change.
Mr. Brown explained that the published Indirect rate will fall slightly to 25.16% based on Total Direct
Personnel Cost. The Benefit rate will increase to 47.85%.
Mr. Brown requested to utilize $75,459 of ATCOG Unrestricted Funds for Aging match and dues
payments.
Mr. Brown added that the housing program is budgeted to maintain a three-month reserve balance
and ATRDC will maintain a $20,000 reserve balance per contract.
Judge Williamson asked Mr. Brown if ATCOG still has a contract with Texarkana Trust System and
uses Unrestricted Funds, and if those funds affect Rural Transit. Mr. Brown explained that ATCOG
does have a contract with Texarkana Trust System that uses Unrestricted Funds and added that the
income does not affect Rural Transit and is instead classified as Local Funds.
The Board of Directors did not have any further questions. A motion to approve was made by Mayor
Reiter and seconded by Mayor Collum. It was approved.
Item 13. Leslie McBride, Human Resources Manager, presented for consideration approval of the annual renewal
of the ATCOG Ethics Policy Manual and reviewed Transportation Program funding requirements
pertaining to integrity and ethical behavior as mandated by the Texas Transportation Commission
and Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT).
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Pro Tem Bob Thorne and seconded by Judge Brian Lee. It
was approved.
Item 14. Ms. McBride presented for consideration approval of updates to the Equal Employment Opportunity
Plan as required by the Texas Department of Transportation.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Rushing and seconded by Mayor Collum. It was approved.
Item 15. Ms. McBride presented for consideration approval of the adoption of the ATCOG Flexible Benefits
Cafeteria Plan for FY 2021, as authorized under Section 125 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
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Motion to approve was made by Mayor Collum and seconded by Dale Vickers, Councilman, City of
Nash. It was approved.
Item 16. Lisa Reeve, AAA Manager, presented for consideration approval of the revisions to the Area Agency
on Aging Regional Advisory Council by-laws.
Motion to approve was made by Councilman Vickers and seconded by Councilwoman Hart. It was
approved.
Item 17. Mark Compton, Transportation Manager, presented for consideration approval of the purchase of 30
Operator Safety Barriers for the TRAX Rural Transportation transit fleet.
Motion to approve was made by Judge Brian Lee and seconded by Mayor Reiter. It was approved.
Item 18. Mary Beth Rudel, Deputy Director, presented for consideration approval of a resolution selecting
Pattillo, Brown & Hill, LLP to provide auditing services to begin October 1, 2020.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Rushing and seconded by Mayor Collum. It was approved.
Item 19. Mr. Prange presented for consideration approval of the Ark-Tex Council of Governments joining a
coalition with the cities of Texarkana, TX, Texarkana, AR, and TexAmericas Center to submit a grant
application to the EPA Brownfields Program in an effort to obtain hazardous substances and
petroleum assessment funds in the amount of $600,000.00 to be utilized within Bowie County, Texas
and Miller County, Arkansas.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Reiter and seconded by Judge Wilbanks. It was approved.
Other Business
Item 20. Mr. Brown recognized ATCOG Board member longevity and thanked everyone for their service to the
region. He also recognized staff achievements and announced ATCOG’s Employee of the Year.
Announcements
Judge Williamson announced that the next Executive Committee meeting will be held Thursday, October 29,
2020, at 10:00 a.m., at the Titus County Extension Office, in Mt. Pleasant, Texas.
With no other announcements, Judge Williamson adjourned the meeting.
NETEDD BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Ann Rushing, Mayor, City of Clarksville
Becky Wilbanks, Judge, Cass County
Bob Thorne, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Daingerfield
Brian Lee, Judge, Titus County
L.D. Williamson, Judge, Red River County
Marc Reiter, Councilman, City of Hooks
Robert Newsom, Judge, Hopkins County
Scott Norton, President/CEO, TexAmericas Center
Travis Ransom, Mayor, City of Atlanta
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT
Ann Rushing, Mayor, City of Clarksville
Becky Wilbanks, Judge, Cass County
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Bob Thorne, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Daingerfield
Brian Lee, Judge, Titus County
L.D. Williamson, Judge, Red River County
Marc Reiter, Councilman, City of Hooks
Robert Newsom, Judge, Hopkins County
Scott Norton, President/CEO, TexAmericas Center
Travis Ransom, Mayor, City of Atlanta

JOINT MINUTES
NORTHEAST TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT AND
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

October 29, 2020
The Northeast Texas Economic Development District (NETEDD) and The Executive Committee of the ArkTex Council of Governments (ATCOG) met at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, October 29, 2020, at the Titus County
Extension Office, 1708 Industrial Road, Mt. Pleasant, Texas, as well as, via teleconference/webinar.
Item 1. L.D. Williamson, Judge, Red River County, called the meeting to order.
Item 2. Brian Lee, Judge, Titus County, gave the invocation.
Item 3. Public Comment.
No members of the public made a comment.
NETEDD Agenda Items
Executive Closed Session
Item 4. At this time, Judge Williamson announced the Open Session would recess and go into Executive
Closed Session as allowed in the Texas Open Meetings Act, Section 551.074.
Open Session
Item 5. The Board of Directors reconvened in Open Session. No action was necessary.
Item 6. Chris Brown, Executive Director, presented for consideration approval of a resolution authorizing the
Executive Director to execute a Professional Services Contract for Grant Administration Services with
TexAmericas Center for EDA Project Number 08-01-05128.
Motion to approve was made by Robert Newsom, Judge, Hopkins County, and seconded by Brandon
Bell, Judge, Lamar County. It was approved.
This concludes all NETEDD agenda items.
ATCOG Executive Committee Agenda Items
Item 7. Chris Brown, Executive Director, presented the following consent agenda items:
 Approval of the minute as submitted for the ATCOG Executive Committee Meeting held Thursday,
August 27, 2020.
 Acceptance of the minutes as submitted for the Area Agency on Aging Regional Advisory Council
Meeting held Thursday, September 3, 2020.
Motion to approve was made by Judge Brian Lee and seconded by Stan Wyatt, President, Northeast
Texas Municipal Water District. It was approved.
Review and Comment
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Item 8. Mr. Brown presented, for information only, the Executive Director Report. He reviewed indirect finance
reports and explained that ATCOG is approximately $100,000 below budget due largely to travel and
training. Mr. Brown also provided updates and statistics for all ATCOG programs.
Item 9. Paul Prange, Environmental Resources Coordinator, presented for review and comment on
environmental assessments to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for the
renewal of Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit Renewals by the City of
Clarksville, City of Como, City of Cooper, City of Hughes, City of Mt. Vernon, City of Mt. Vernon, City
of Naples, City of Texarkana, City of Bloomsburg, Prairiland ISD, Rivercrest ISD, and Texas Military
Forces to authorize the discharge of treated wastewater.
Motion to approve was made by Judge Brian Lee and seconded by Marc Reiter, Mayor, City of Hooks.
It was approved.
Item 10. Mr. Prange presented for review and comment on an application by Kempenaar Real Estate LTD to
TCEQ for authorization to expand an existing dairy cattle facility in Hopkins County, Texas.
Motion to approve was made by Judge Newsom and seconded by Bobby Howell, Judge, Bowie
County. It was approved.
Item 11. Mr. Prange presented for review and comment on an application by Nalco Company to TCEQ to
renew TPDES Permit No. WQ0002955000 to authorize the discharge of treated non-contact cooling
water in Texarkana, Texas.
Motion to approve was made by Scott Norton, CEO, TexAmericas Center, and seconded by Ann
Rushing, Mayor, City of Clarksville. It was approved.
Item 12. Mr. Prange presented for review and comment on an application by Paris Generation LP to TCEQ for
an amendment to TPDES Permit No. WQ0003021000 to authorize the removal of the total copper
effluent limitation at Outfall 001 in Paris, Texas.
Motion to approve was made by Judge Bell and seconded by Judge Howell. It was approved.
Item 13. Toni Lindsey, Regional Development Manager, presented for review and comment on the submission
of a grant application by Detroit Independent School District to the Department of Health and Human
Services, Office of Head Start, for a grant for new 5-year refunding of Head Start.
Judge Williamson asked Ms. Lindsey if Clarksville ISD is participating in the Head Start program with
Detroit ISD. Ms. Lindsey clarified that Detroit ISD is applying for the refunding grant and will include
Clarksville ISD in the program.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Rushing and seconded by Judge Brian Lee. It was approved.
Regular Business
Item 14. Mr. Brown presented for consideration approval of the utilization of ATCOG’s indirect cost rate for
ATCOG employees working on behalf of the Texarkana Urban Transit District.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Reiter and seconded by Mr. Norton. It was approved.
Item 15. Rea Allen, 9-1-1 Program Director, presented for consideration approval of the region-wide Billboard
Advertising contract renewal as part of the 9-1-1 Public Education Program.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Reiter and seconded by Mr. Wyatt. It was approved.
Other Business
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Item 16. Ms. Allen presented the ATCOG Telecommunicator of the Year award to Cheryl Murphy, Chief
Dispatcher of Morris County.
Item 17. Erin Chewning, the Executive Assistant, presented for consideration approval to combine the November
and December ATCOG Board meetings into one Board of Directors meeting to be held Thursday,
December 10, 2020.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Reiter and seconded by Mr. Norton. It was approved.
Item 18. Mr. Brown presented for discussion of COVID-19 Responses and Updates.
Mr. Brown explained that ATCOG staff has been asked to work 50% of their time in the office. He
added that the plexiglass barriers have been ordered for TRAX drivers to increase isolation and protection.
TRAX busses are also running at 50% capacity. Judge Williamson added that Red River County now
has 30 or more active cases of COVID-19, therefore the county citizens are required to wear face
masks.
Mr. Brown asked Board Members for their input on the use of face shields in replacement of face
masks. Judge Williamson and Judge Howell added that face shields can be worn in addition to a
mask but the face shield alone is not effective protection against COVID-19.
Judge Howell also stated that Bowie County has over 500 active COVID-19 cases and are receiving
nearly 25 new positive cases daily. He added that after attending a webinar presentation, he learned
that state departments are preparing for the distribution of a vaccine once it becomes available.
Mr. Brown asked if Board Members would like a routine regional meeting to discuss COVID-19
updates. No members expressed interested in scheduling the meetings and Mr. Brown added that a
group discussion of COVID-19 updates is always a possibility in the future.
Announcements
Mr. Brown announced the next TEX-21 Meeting will be held on Friday, November 6, 2020, and will feature Cal
Jillson – Political Professor at SMU, Author and Elections Commentator.
Mr. Brown announced that the Workforce CEOs meeting will be held immediately following this meeting.
Lastly, he announced that the next Board of Directors meeting will be held on December 10, 2020, at 10:00
a.m., location, and/or meeting format to be determined.
With no other announcements, a motion to adjourn was made by Judge Brian Lee and seconded by Mr. Norton.
The meeting was adjourned.
NETEDD BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Ann Rushing, Mayor, City of Clarksville
Becky Wilbanks, Judge, Cass County
Bob Thorne, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Daingerfield
Bobby Howell, Judge, Bowie County
Brandon Bell, Judge, Lamar County
Brian Lee, Judge, Titus County
L.D. Williamson, Judge, Red River County
Marc Reiter, Councilman, City of Hooks
Robert Newsom, Judge, Hopkins County
Scott Lee, Judge, Franklin County
Scott Norton, President/CEO, TexAmericas Center
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Stan Wyatt, President, Northeast Texas Municipal Water District
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT
Ann Rushing, Mayor, City of Clarksville
Becky Wilbanks, Judge, Cass County
Bob Thorne, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Daingerfield
Bobby Howell, Judge, Bowie County
Brandon Bell, Judge, Lamar County
Brian Lee, Judge, Titus County
L.D. Williamson, Judge, Red River County
Marc Reiter, Councilman, City of Hooks
Robert Newsom, Judge, Hopkins County
Scott Lee, Judge, Franklin County
Scott Norton, President/CEO, TexAmericas Center
Stan Wyatt, President, Northeast Texas Municipal Water District

ATCOG BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Frank Estes, Councilman, City of Avery
Lowell Walker, Mayor, City of DeKalb
GUESTS PRESENT
April Corbit, Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas
Cheryl Murphy, Morris County Sheriff’s Office
JoAnne Gray, City of Texarkana
Randy Reed, Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas
Troy Hornsby, Miller, James, Miller & Hornsby LLP
STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT
Chris Brown, Executive Director
Erin Chewning, Executive Assistant
Lisa Reeve, Area Agency on Aging Manager
Leslie McBride, Human Resources Manager
Mary Beth Rudel, Deputy Director
Melinda Tickle, Finance Director
Merle Luster, 9-1-1 PSAP Operations Coordinator
Paul Prange, Environmental Resources Coordinator
Rea Allen, 9-1-1 Program Manager
Toni Lindsey, Regional Development Coordinator
__________________________________
L.D. Williamson, President
Ark-Tex Council of Governments
ATTEST:
_________________________________
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The Northeast Texas Economic Development District, Inc. (NETEDD) has been approved by the Economic
Development Administration (EDA) to administer COVID-19 Revolving Loan Funds (COVID RLF) in the
amount of $500,000 for existing businesses impacted by, or new businesses developed as a result of,
COVID-19.
The purpose of COVID RLF is to provide immediate assistance to eligible businesses, which will then allow
additional time for businesses to apply for assistance through other programs such as the SBA Disaster
Loan Program. The intent of the loans is to save existing jobs or create new jobs within the EDA COVID
RLF service area.
NETEDD is offering low-interest COVID-19 loans for working capital to small businesses that are (1)
suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19 or (2) opening a business that is designed to
prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus. Businesses must also be located in one of the
following counties: Bell, Bosque, Bowie, Cass, Coryell, Delta, Eastland, Erath, Falls, Franklin, Freestone,
Hill, Hopkins, Johnson, Lamar, Limestone, McLennan, Milam, Morris, Navarro, Red River, Somervell, and
Titus Counties in Texas, and Miller County in Arkansas..
It is important to consider the following before proceeding with the loan
application process:
• The loan MUST be COVID-19 related.
• The loan cannot cover payroll-related expenses.
• The loan has no prepayment penalty.
• Existing businesses must have been in operation for at least
two (2) years.
For more information, please contact:
Melody Harmon
Economic Development Manager
Main: (903) 832-8636
Direct: (903) 255-3538
mharmon@atcog.org
Sarah James
Development Specialist
Main: (903) 832-8636
Direct: (903) 255-3566
sjames@atcog.org
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Short-Term, Personal Guarantee COVID-19 Loan:
Loan:
 The current minimum is $5,000 –
The current maximum is $50,000
 No loan fee
 Use personal guarantees as
collateral
 Executive management staff
approval on loans $25,000 or less
(no NETEDD Loan Committee
approval required)
Criteria:
 Business in operation for at least
two years
 Provide 2019 Tax Return (CPA
prepared financials) showing
positive earnings and current
supporting financials for 2020
 Potential to save existing jobs
 Verified through SAM.gov
(Business must be registered in
SAM.gov which includes DUNS
number registration)
Terms:
 Payments deferred for three (3)
months (as requested)
 The interest rate of 2.5%
 Five (5) to seven (7) year
repayment period preferred but
up to ten (10) years based on
circumstances
 No prepayment penalty
“New” Small Business COVID-19 Loan:
Loan:
 The current minimum is $10,000 –
Current maximum is
$300,000.
 1.5% processing fee required
upfront
 Collateral required
 NETEDD Loan Committee
approval required
Criteria:
 Business emphasis relating to
deficits identified in the
service area during COVID-19
that prevents, prepares for,
and or responds to the
coronavirus pandemic
 Potential to create jobs
 Meets loan checklist
requirements
 Verified through SAM.gov
(Business must be registered
in SAM.gov which includes
DUNS number registration)
Terms:
 Payments deferred for three
(3) months (as requested)
 Interest rate of 2.5%
 Up to twenty (20) year
repayment period for
maximum loan
 No prepayment penalty
About Ark-Tex Council of Governments (www.atcog.org)
The primary goal of ATCOG is to improve the quality of life for all citizens of the region on behalf of regional
governmental organizations by providing a perspective on information and problem solving and by coordinating
funding, resources, programs, and services. Please feel free to contact our offices regarding any particular program
in which you have an interest.
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development
agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation’s regions for growth and success in the worldwide
economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed
communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation and accelerate long-term
sustainable economic growth.
Page 15 of 82
Page 16 of 82
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM
 “New” Small Businesses
 Operating 2 years or more
 Building out of needs created
from COVID-19 pressures
 Those located in:
 Bell
 Bosque
 Bowie
 Cass
 Coryell
 Delta
 Eastland
 Erath
 Falls
 Franklin
 Freestone
 Hill
 Hopkins
 Johnson
 Lamar
 Limestone
 McLennan
 Milam
 Morris
 Navarro
 Red River
 Somervell
 Titus
 Miller, AR
Page 17 of 82
HOW TO USE FUNDS
Eligible
 Inventory
 Raw materials, stock
 Working Capital
 Business operation expenses,
professional fees, leaseholder
improvements,
Ineligible
 Payroll expenses
 Speculative projects
Page 18 of 82
LOAN DETAILS
Amounts
 $5,000
 $10,000
 $25,000
 $50,000
 Other amounts available upon
detailed request
Terms
 1-7 years
 “New” Small Business Loans may
requested for up to 20 years, subject
to Board Approval
Page 19 of 82
REQUIREMENTS
 NETEDD COVID-19 RLF Application Form
 2 Years of Business Tax Returns (most recent)
 Interim Financials Statements — Balance Sheet
& Profit and Loss Statement (signed & dated
within the last 45 days)
 Personal Financial Statement for each business
owner over 20%
 Applications may be submitted via mail or
shipped to:
 NETEDD
Attn: Sarah James
4808 Elizabeth Street
Texarkana, TX 75503
Email: sjames@atcog.org Questions: (903) 255-3566
Page 20 of 82
Sole Partnership Proprietorship LLC C-Corporation Business Type
(check one)
DBA or Trade Name
(if applicable)
Business Legal Name
TX Business Phone:
Physical Address City ST Zip code Business TIN (EIN, SSN):
TX Primary Contact:
Mailing Address (if different from physical) City ST Zip code Primary Contact Phone:
Primary Contact Email:
Loan Amount Request (Circle One)
$5,000 $ ,000 $ $
Other:
_________________
Other (explain):
T of Loan:
(Select one)
Term of Loan:
Purpose of Loan:
(Select more than one)
Owner Name Title Ownership
% TIN (EIN, SSN) Mailing Address City ST Zipcode
If questions (1) or (2) below are answered “Yes,” the loan will not be approved.
Eligibility Questions YES NO
Inventory Utilities Other (explain):
Page 21 of 82
Eligibility Questions YES NO
Page 22 of 82
Page 23 of 82
By signing below, You make the following Representations, Authorizations, and Certifications
REPRESENTATIONS AND AUTHORIZATIONS
I represent that:
I have read the Required by Law and Executive Order inc used in this form, and I understand them.
I will comply, whenever applicable, with the Civil Rights and other limitations in this form.
All loan proceeds will be used only for business-related purposes as specified in the loan application.
To the feasible, I will purchase only American-made equipment and products.
The Applicant is not engaged in any activity that is illegal under Federal, State, or local law.
CERTIFICATIONS–The Business and each 20% or greater owner must certify in good faith to all of the below by initialing next to each one:
_______
_______
_______
Current uncertainty makes this loan request necessary to support the operation of the Applicant.
The funds will by used to finance short-term working capital/operating needs including raw materials, inventory, and
other operating expenses. Funds MUST NOT by use of existing debt or payment of taxes.
I affirm the tax documents provided are identical to those submitted to the IRS.
_______________
Date
_______________
Title
_______________
Date
_______________
Title
_______________________________________________________
Signature of Authorized Representative of Business
_______________________________________________________
Print Name
_______________________________________________________
Signature of owner of Applicant Business
_______________________________________________________
Print Name
PLEASE ENCLOSE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WITH THIS APPLICATION FORM:
Two years worth of the most recent federal income tax returns for the applicant business;
Current business financial statement (no older than 90 days)—balance and profit and loss statement;
Personal financial statement for each officer and director with 20% or more ownership in the business (no older than
90 days).
Page 24 of 82
JOINT MINUTES
NORTHEAST TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT AND
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
September 24, 2020
The Northeast Texas Economic Development District (NETEDD) and Board of Directors of the Ark-Tex
Council of Governments (ATCOG) met at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, September 24, 2020, at the ATCOG
Texarkana office located at 4808 Elizabeth St., Texarkana, Texas, 75503, as well as, via
teleconference/webinar.
Item 1. L.D. Williamson, Judge, Red River County, called the meeting to order.
Item 2. Brian Lee, Judge, Titus County, gave the invocation.
Item 3. Public Comment.
There were no members of the public present.
NETEDD Agenda Items
Item 4. The next order of business was to review and consider approval of the minutes as submitted for the
NETEDD meeting held Thursday, May 28, 2020, via teleconference/webinar.
Motion to approve was made by Judge Brian Lee and seconded by Ann Rushing, Mayor, City of
Clarksville. It was approved.
Item 5. Chris Brown, Executive Director, presented for review and consideration approval of NETEDD’s portion
of ATCOG’s Financial Plan for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2021.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Rushing and seconded by Judge Brian Lee. It was approved.
Item 6. Melody Harmon, Economic Development Coordinator, presented for consideration approval to proceed
in the submission of the Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) COVID-19 Plan with Addendum for the North East
Texas Regional Development Corporation as required by the Economic Development Administration (EDA)
for approved funding.
Motion to approve was made by Marc Reiter, Mayor, City of Hooks, and seconded by Becky Wilbanks,
Judge, Cass County. It was approved.
Item 7. Toni Lindsey, Regional Development Coordinator, presented for consideration approval for the ATCOG
Executive Director to apply for 3 Year NETEDD Planning Grant through the U.S Department of
Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA).
Motion to approve was made by Judge Brian Lee and seconded by Bob Thorne, Mayor Pro Tem, City
of Daingerfield. It was approved.
This concludes all NETEDD agenda items.
ATCOG Board of Directors Agenda Items
Item 8. Mr. Brown presented the following consent agenda items:
 Approval of the minutes as submitted for the ATCOG Board of Directors Meeting held
Page 25 of 82
Thursday, June 25, 2020, via teleconference/webinar.
 Ratification of the Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between ATCOG and the Public Safety
Office within the Office of the Governor.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Reiter and seconded by Judge Wilbanks. It was approved.
Executive Closed Session
Item 9. At this time, Judge Williamson announced that the Open Session would recess and go into Executive
Closed Session to discuss personnel matters as allowed in the Texas Open Meetings Act, Section
551.074, Executive Director’s performance evaluation.
Open Session/Review and Comment
Item 10. The Board of Directors reconvened in Open Session. Due to the high ratings from board members on
Mr. Brown’s performance evaluations, Judge Williamson moved that he should receive an increase of
2% to his salary.
Motion to approve was made by Sheryl Collum, Mayor, City of Wake Village, and seconded by Mayor
Reiter. It was approved.
Item 11. Paul Prange, Environmental Resources Coordinator, presented for review and comment on
environmental assessments to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for proposed
Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) permit renewals by the City of DeKalb, City of
Paris, City of Texarkana, Texas, and the City of Blossom to authorize the discharge of treated
wastewater.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Pro Tem Bob Thorne and seconded by Mayor Reiter. It was
approved.
Regular Business
Item 12. Mr. Brown presented for consideration approval of ATCOG’s Financial Plan for the fiscal year ending
September 30, 2021.
Mr. Brown noted that this was the ATCOG Work Program and Financial Plan combined, and not
necessarily a budget because ATCOG does not have taxing or oversight authority. As required by
legislation, the ATCOG Work Plan and Financial Plan presents each grant’s objectives, work tasks,
performance measures, implementation schedules, human resource requirements, and budget
information.
Mr. Brown explained that within each State or Federal grant that ATCOG administers, the funding
the agency has complete oversight for the individual grant programs and that funding sources regulate
categories in which ATCOG is allowed to spend funds.
Mr. Brown added that the Plan included recommended merit step increases for staff along
with many position reclassifications. Funding is provided for the Salary Schedule effective October 1,
2020.
Mr. Brown stated that overall, ATCOG’s revenues will increase by $3,641,812. He added that a
the portion of the increase in revenues will result from COVID-19 CARES funding; therefore, ATCOG will
not plan to receive those funds in subsequent years. He explained that changes in funding from the
Page 26 of 82
prior year include:

 An increase of approximately $300,000 in transportation revenue due to securing localized
funds, CARES funds rolling forward from FY2020, as well as vehicle purchases causing
fluctuation in total revenue amounts for the past couple of years.
 An increase of $1,047,171 in housing revenue due to CARES funding in the HVC and ESG
programs as well as Project-Based Vouchers.
 An increase of $780,910 in AAA revenue due to primarily CARES to fund. Actual funding
amounts from HHSC have not been released yet.
 Criminal Justice and Homeland Security will see a slight decrease in contract amounts of
$5,500 in criminal justice revenue and $1,500 in homeland security revenue. Environmental
revenue will remain stable.
 9-1-1 Emergency Communications program revenue will remain consistent.
 Regional and Economic Development Programs will see large boosts in revenue due to EDA
CARES funding, the absorptions of the CTEDD RLF portfolio, and a focus to bring in new
grant administration and 504 loans.
Mr. Brown added that ATCOG’s health care provider will continue to be Texas Municipal League
(TMLIEBP) and that the premiums for the basic medical plan increased again this year. ATCOG will
increase its defined contribution amount from $743.30 per month for each employee’s basic medical
coverage to $773.04, which is 100% of the employee premium. Employee dental insurance premiums
will remain at $28.44 per month. Rates for life and AD&D did not change.
Mr. Brown explained that the published Indirect rate will fall slightly to 25.16% based on Total Direct
Personnel Cost. The Benefit rate will increase to 47.85%.
Mr. Brown requested to utilize $75,459 of ATCOG Unrestricted Funds for Aging match and dues
payments.
Mr. Brown added that the housing program is budgeted to maintain a three-month reserve balance
and ATRDC will maintain a $20,000 reserve balance per contract.
Judge Williamson asked Mr. Brown if ATCOG still has a contract with Texarkana Trust System and
uses Unrestricted Funds, and if those funds affect Rural Transit. Mr. Brown explained that ATCOG
does have a contract with Texarkana Trust System that uses Unrestricted Funds and added that the
income does not affect Rural Transit and is instead classified as Local Funds.
The Board of Directors did not have any further questions. A motion to approve was made by Mayor
Reiter and seconded by Mayor Collum. It was approved.
Item 13. Leslie McBride, Human Resources Manager, presented for consideration approval of the annual renewal
of the ATCOG Ethics Policy Manual and reviewed Transportation Program funding requirements
pertaining to integrity and ethical behavior as mandated by the Texas Transportation Commission
and the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT).
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Pro Tem Bob Thorne and seconded by Judge Brian Lee. It
was approved.
Item 14. Ms. McBride presented for consideration approval of updates to the Equal Employment Opportunity
Plan as required by the Texas Department of Transportation.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Rushing and seconded by Mayor Collum. It was approved.
Item 15. Ms. McBride presented for consideration approval of the adoption of the ATCOG Flexible Benefits
Cafeteria Plan for FY 2021, as authorized under Section 125 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
Page 27 of 82
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Collum and seconded by Dale Vickers, Councilman, City of
Nash. It was approved.
Item 16. Lisa Reeve, AAA Manager, presented for consideration approval of the revisions to the Area Agency
on Aging Regional Advisory Council by-laws.
Motion to approve was made by Councilman Vickers and seconded by Councilwoman Hart. It was
approved.
Item 17. Mark Compton, Transportation Manager, presented for consideration approval of the purchase of 30
Operator Safety Barriers for the TRAX Rural Transportation transit fleet.
Motion to approve was made by Judge Brian Lee and seconded by Mayor Reiter. It was approved.
Item 18. Mary Beth Rudel, Deputy Director, presented for consideration approval of a resolution selecting
Pattillo, Brown & Hill, LLP to provide auditing services to begin October 1, 2020.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Rushing and seconded by Mayor Collum. It was approved.
Item 19. Mr. Prange presented for consideration approval of the Ark-Tex Council of Governments joining a
coalition with the cities of Texarkana, TX, Texarkana, AR, and TexAmericas Center to submit a grant
application to the EPA Brownfields Program in an effort to obtain hazardous substances and
petroleum assessment funds in the amount of $600,000.00 to be utilized within Bowie County, Texas
and Miller County, Arkansas.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Reiter and seconded by Judge Wilbanks. It was approved.
Other Business
Item 20. Mr. Brown recognized ATCOG Board member longevity and thanked everyone for their service to the
region. He also recognized staff achievements and announced ATCOG’s Employee of the Year.
Announcements
Judge Williamson announced that the next Executive Committee meeting will be held Thursday, October 29,
2020, at 10:00 a.m., at the Titus County Extension Office, in Mt. Pleasant, Texas.
With no other announcements, Judge Williamson adjourned the meeting.
NETEDD BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Ann Rushing, Mayor, City of Clarksville
Becky Wilbanks, Judge, Cass County
Bob Thorne, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Daingerfield
Brian Lee, Judge, Titus County
L.D. Williamson, Judge, Red River County
Marc Reiter, Councilman, City of Hooks
Robert Newsom, Judge, Hopkins County
Scott Norton, President/CEO, TexAmericas Center
Travis Ransom, Mayor, City of Atlanta
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT
Ann Rushing, Mayor, City of Clarksville
Becky Wilbanks, Judge, Cass County
Page 28 of 82
Bob Thorne, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Daingerfield
Brian Lee, Judge, Titus County
L.D. Williamson, Judge, Red River County
Marc Reiter, Councilman, City of Hooks
Robert Newsom, Judge, Hopkins County
Scott Norton, President/CEO, TexAmericas Center
Travis Ransom, Mayor, City of Atlanta

ATCOG BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Dale Vickers, Councilman, City of Nash
George Moore, Board Trustee, Texarkana College
Jean Matlock, Councilwoman, City of Texarkana
Lowell Walker, Mayor, City of DeKalb
Mary Hart, Councilwoman, City of Texarkana
Sheryl Collum, Mayor, City of Wake Village
GUESTS PRESENT
Ray Wilson, Office of United States Senator Bryan Hughes
Rea Donna Jones, Texarkana Metropolitan Planning Organization
Taylor Nye, Sulphur Springs News-Telegram
STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT
Angela Glass, Benefits Counselor
Chris Brown, Executive Director
Erin Chewning, Executive Assistant
Lisa Reeve, Area Agency on Aging Manager
Leslie McBride, Human Resources Manager
Mae Lewis, Housing Manager
Mary Beth Rudel, Deputy Director
Melinda Tickle, Finance Director
Melody Harmon, Economic Development Coordinator
Patricia Haley, Criminal Justice Coordinator
Paul Prange, Environmental Resources Coordinator
Rea Allen, 9-1-1 Program Manager
Toni Lindsey, Regional Development Coordinator
Whitney Fezell, Homeland Security Coordinator
__________________________________
L.D. Williamson, President
Ark-Tex Council of Governments
ATTEST:
_________________________________
Page 29 of 82
Page 30 of 82
Page 31 of 82
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 10-27-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: City of Atlanta, Texas
Project Description: The City of Atlanta has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to
renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0010338001, to authorize the
discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed an annual average flow of 2,000,000 gallons per day. The
domestic wastewater treatment facility is located approximately 0.25 miles east of the intersection of State Highways
77 and 43, south of the City of Atlanta in Cass County, Texas. The discharge route is from the plant site to a
conveyance ditch; thence to an unnamed tributary/marsh; thence to Black Bayou.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Atlanta, Cass County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves the needs of all residents living within the City of
Atlanta. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility is in good operational condition. Before being discharged, the water passes through
particulate filters and is then piped to a sedimentation pond located at this facility.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which directly serves the needs of all citizens living
within the City of Atlanta. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact on the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by the City of Atlanta,
TX.
Page 32 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-23-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: The City of Bogata, Texas
Project Description: The City of Bogata has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to
renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0010065001, to authorize the
discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 332,000 gallons per day. The
domestic wastewater treatment facility is located southeast of the City of Bogata, approximately 3,100 feet
southwest of US Highway 271 and 5,000 feet east of State Highway 37 in Red River County, Texas. The discharge route
is from the plant site to Morrison Branch; thence to Little Mustang Creek; thence to the Sulphur/South Sulphur River.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Bogata, Red River County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves the needs of the entire population of the City of
Bogata. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility is in good operational condition. Before being discharged, the water passes through
particulate filters and is then piped to a sedimentation pond located at this facility.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which directly serves the needs of all citizens living
within the City of Bogata. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by the City of Bogata,
TX.
Page 33 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-23-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: City of Linden, Texas.
Project Description: The City of Linden, Texas has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
(TCEQ) to renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0010429003 to authorize
the discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 450,000 gallons. The domestic
wastewater treatment facility is located approximately 7000 feet southeast of the intersection of FM 125 and US
Highway 59 in Cass County Texas. The discharge route Is from the plant site to Beach Creek; thence to Iron Ore
Lake; thence to James’ Bayou.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Linden, Cass County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more of governmental levels? Yes. These permits application meet all statutory
and regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves the needs of the residents of Linden, TX. All
guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
the permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment and the plant is in good operational condition.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of the facility, which serves the population of the City of Linden, TX
and the surrounding residents. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by the City of Linden,
TX.
Page 34 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 10-30-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: The City of Maud, Bowie County, Texas
Project Description: The City of Maud has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to
renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0014025001 to authorize the discharge
of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 192,000 gallons per day. The facility is
located in Bowie County, Texas. The discharge route is from the plant site to an unnamed tributary; thence to Big
Creek; thence to Wright Patman Lake.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: The City of Maud, Bowie County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more of governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves approximately 1,000 residents within the City of
Maud. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility was constructed in 1994 and is in excellent operational condition. Before being discharged,
the water passes through particulate filters and is then piped into sedimentation ponds located at this facility.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which directly serves the needs of all citizens located
within the City of Maud. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by the City of Maud, TX.
Page 35 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-10-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: City of Omaha, Texas
Project Description: The City of Omaha has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to
renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0010239001, to authorize the
discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 200,000 gallons per day. The
domestic wastewater treatment facility is located approximately 2,800 feet southwest of the intersection of US Hwy 67
and US Hwy 259 in Morris County, Texas. The treated effluent is discharged to an unnamed tributary; thence to Okry
Creek; thence to Boggy Creek; thence to Big Cypress Creek below Lake Bob Sandlin in Segment No. 0404 of the
Cypress Creek.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Omaha, Morris County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves the needs of all residents living within the City of
Omaha. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility is in good operational condition. Before being discharged, the water passes through
particulate filters and is then piped to a sedimentation pond located at this facility.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which directly serves the needs of all citizens living
within the City of Omaha. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by the City of Omaha,
TX.
Page 36 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 10-20-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: City of Reno, Texas
Project Description: The City of Reno has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to
renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0012162001, to authorize the
discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 522,000 gallons per day. The
domestic wastewater treatment facility is located approximately 1 1/3 miles southwest of the intersection of FM 195
and Northwest 7th Street in Lamar County, Texas. The discharge route is from the plant site to Sixmile Creek; thence
to Pine Creek; thence to Red River below Lake Texoma.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Reno, Lamar County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves the needs of all residents living within the City of
Reno. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility is in good operational condition. Before being discharged, the water passes through
particulate filters and is then piped to a sedimentation pond located at this facility.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which directly serves the needs of all citizens living
within the City of Reno. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact on the environment, as determined by TCEQ.

RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by the City of Reno, TX.
Page 37 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 10-27-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: City of Roxton, Lamar County, Texas.
Project Description: the City of Roxton has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to
renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0010204001 to authorize the discharge
of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 100,000 gallons per day. The domestic
wastewater treatment facility is located approx. 2400 feet southeast of the intersection of FM 137 and Chaparral
Railroad on the north side of Denton Creek and on the south side of the City of Roxton in Lamar County, Texas.
The discharge route is from the plant site to Denton Creek; thence to Cane Creek; thence to the North Sulphur River.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Roxton, Lamar County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the wastewater treatment plant, as it currently serves the needs of approximately 277 residents of the City of
Roxton. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed and minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
the permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this plant which has received several upgrades, including a
reinforced concrete holding tank and a recently installed aerator. The disruption of the environment is minimal
compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by the City of Roxton,
TX.
Page 38 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-10-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: The City of Talco, Texas
Project Description: The City of Talco has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to
renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0010869001, to authorize the
discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 125,000 gallons per day. The
domestic wastewater treatment facility is located on the north side of FM 71, approximately one mile northeast of the
City of Talco in Titus County, Texas. Discharge route is from the plant site to an unnamed ditch; thence to Prairie
Lake; thence to an unnamed tributary of the Sulphur River; thence to the Sulphur/South Sulphur River.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Talco, Titus County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves the needs of the entire population of the City of
Talco. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility is in good operational condition. Before being discharged, the water passes through
particulate filters and is then piped to a sedimentation pond located at this facility.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which directly serves the needs of all citizens living
within the City of Talco. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by the City of Talco, TX.
Page 39 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-30-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: City of Winfield, Texas
Project Description: The City of Winfield has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to
renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0012146001, to authorize the
discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 84,000 gallons per day. The
domestic wastewater treatment facility is located approximately 400 feet north of IH-30 access road and 1,500 feet
west of FM 1734 in the City of Winfield, Titus County, Texas. The discharge route is from the plant site to an
unnamed tributary of Smith Creek; thence to Smith Creek; thence to Lake Monticello; thence to Lake Bob Sandlin.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Winfield, Titus County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves the needs of all residents living within the City of
Winfield. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of
the environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility is in good operational condition. Before being discharged, the water passes through
particulate filters and is then piped to a sedimentation pond located at this facility.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which directly serves the needs of all citizens living
within the City of Winfield. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by the City of Winfield,
TX.
Page 40 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-02-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: Queen City, Cass County, Texas
Project Description: Queen City has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to renew
Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0011225001 to authorize the discharge of
treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 250,000 gallons per day. The facility is located
on the south side of Cypress Creek in Cass County, Texas. The discharge route is from the plant site to Cypress
Creek; thence to Cypress Slough; thence into the State of Arkansas.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Queen City, Cass County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves approximately 1,600 residents within Queen City.
All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility was constructed approximately 7 ½ years ago and is in excellent operational condition.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which directly serves the needs of all citizens located
within Queen City. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact on the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by Queen City, Texas.
Page 41 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-02-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: Delta County Municipal Utility District
Project Description: The Delta County Municipal Utility District has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No.
WQ0010744001, to authorize the discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of
40,000 gallons per day. The domestic wastewater treatment facility is located approximately0.3 miles southwest of
the intersection of FM 64 and FM 128, in Delta County, Texas. The discharge route is from the plant site to Jennings
Creek; thence to East Fork Jernigan Creek; thence to Jernigan Creek, thence to Jim Chapman Lake.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Delta County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves the needs of all residents living within the area. All
guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility is in good operational condition. Before being discharged, the wastewater is chemically
treated to reduce harmful bacteria levels and to remove suspended solids.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which directly serves the needs of all citizens living
within the area. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by the Delta County
Municipal Utility District.
Page 42 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-02-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: Hooks ISD
Project Description: Hooks ISD has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to renew
Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0013634001 to authorize the discharge of
treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 12,500 gallons per day. The facility is located at
3884 FM 560 North, on the east side of FM 560, approximately 3 miles north of IH-30 in Bowie County, Texas. The
discharge route is from the plant site to an unnamed tributary; thence to Black Bottom Slough; thence to the Lower
Red River.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Hooks, Bowie County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area-wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account the preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves the faculty and all students enrolled within the
Hooks ISD. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of
the environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility was constructed in 1991 and is in good operational condition.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which directly serves the needs of all citizens associated
with Hooks ISD. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to their accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact on the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by Hooks ISD.
Page 43 of 82

ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 10-21-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: Kimberly-Clark Corporation
Project Description: Kimberly-Clark Corporation has applied to the TCEQ for renewal of TPDES Permit No.
WQ002648000, to authorize the discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of
300,000 gallons per day via Outfall 001 and at an intermittent and flow variable volume via Outfalls 002 and 003. The
facility is located at 2466 FM 137, southwest of the intersection of State Hwy Loop 286 and FM 137 in the City of
Paris, Lamar County, Texas. Discharge route via Outfalls 001 and 003 flows east from the plant site to the North
Sulphur River; and via Outfall 002 flows west, also to the North Sulphur River.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Paris, Lamar County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more of governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the continued operation of the Kimberly-Clark Plant. The facility
provides employment for citizens who live within our region and manufactures disposable diapers and training pants.
This facility has been in operation for many years and all guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are
being followed, thus minimal disruption of the environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not allow for an increase in the number of gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment and the facility is in good operational condition. All treated wastewater passes through particulate filters
before being discharged into the environment.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. This plant
produces goods that are purchased by many citizens located in and around our region. The disruption of the
environment is minimal compared to the benefits provided.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this TPDES Permit renewal by Kimberly-Clark
Corporation.
Page 44 of 82
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-12-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: Riverbend Water Resources District
Project Description: Riverbend Water Resources District, 228A Texas Avenue, New Boston, Texas, which owns a
wastewater collection and treatment system facility, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
(TCEQ) to renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0004664000 to authorize
the discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 1,500,000 gallons per day. The
facility is located 2.4 miles south of the intersection of Bowie Parkway and U.S. Highway 82 and approximately 10
miles east of New Boston, Bowie County, Texas. The discharge route is from the plant site to East Fork Elliot Creek;
thence to Elliot Creek; thence to Wright Patman Lake.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Red River Army Depot.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more of governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of the domestic wastewater treatment facility. This facility serves the employees of Red River Army Depot. All
guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal disruption of the
environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. This facility is in excellent operational condition. Before being discharged, the water is chemically
treated, passes through particulate filters and is then piped to a sedimentation pond located at this facility.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The
renewal of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which serves the employees at Red River Army
Depot. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to the accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by Riverbend Water
Resources District.
Page 45 of 82
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 10-21-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: U.S. Department of the Army – Former Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant.
Project Description: This application to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is for renewal of
TPDES Permit No. WQ0004978000 to authorize the discharge of stormwater at an intermittent and flow variable rate.
The facility is located on U.S. Highway 82 West, in Bowie County, Texas. The discharge route is from the plant site to
an unnamed tributary; thence to Elliott Creek; thence to Wright Patman lake.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Bowie County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more of governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes, the TCEQ
Executive Director may prepare a draft permit and will issue a preliminary decision on the application.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this stormwater discharge permit at the former Lone
Star Army Ammunition Plant. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed and
minimal disruption of the environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will only allow the discharge of stormwater from this facility.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. Lone Star
Army Ammunition Plant was a non-commercial industrial and hazardous waste storage, processing, and disposal
facility. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to the accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this TPDES Permit Renewal by the U.S. Department of
the Army.
Page 46 of 82
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-02-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: TCI Texarkana, Inc.
Project Description: TCI Texarkana, Inc. has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to
renew Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ000274200 to authorize the discharge
of treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 152,000 gallons per day. The facility is
located at 300 Alumax Drive, Texarkana, Bowie County, Texas. Discharge route is from the plant site to a drainage
ditch; thence to an unnamed tributary; thence to Wagner Creek; thence to Days Creek.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Texarkana, Bowie County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more of governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the renewal of this TPDES Permit to allow the continued operation
of TCI Texarkana, which is an aluminum coils manufacturing plant. This facility has been in operation for
approximately 32 years and all guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus
minimal disruption of the environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The renewal of this
permit will not authorize an increase in the number gallons of treated wastewater that can be discharged into the
environment. The vast majority of the treated wastewater discharged from this site is considered “non-contact” water,
which has been passed through cooling towers within the facility. Before being discharged, the water passes through
two particulate filters, as well as a carbon filter to remove any contaminants.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The renewal
of this permit will allow the continued operation of this facility, which employs approximately 300 citizens who produce
high quality aluminum to be used for a variety of purposes. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to
the accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by TCI Texarkana, Inc.
Page 47 of 82
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-19-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: Texana Tank Car & Manufacturing, LTD.
Project Description: Texana Tank Car & Manufacturing, LTD., has applied to TCEQ for renewal of air quality permit
Number 76962, which would authorize continued operation of a Rail Car Cleaning Facility located at 2474 Tri State
Road, Texarkana, Bowie County, Texas. The existing facility is authorized to emit the following air contaminants:
organic compounds, particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns and 2.5 microns or less, sulfur dioxide, carbon
monoxide and nitrogen oxides.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Texarkana, Bowie County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more of governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the continued operation of this facility, which provides employment
to residents within our region. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus
minimal disruption of the environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The facility has been in
operation for many decades, is located in an industrial area adjacent to U.S. Highway 82, and all precautions to
reduce air pollution associated with this operation will be taken.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The
disruption of the environment is minimal compared to the accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit renewal will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit renewal application by Texana Tank Car &
Manufacturing, LTD.
Page 48 of 82
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 10-20-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: Southwestern Electric Power Company.
Project Description: Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to amend Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No.
WQ0001464000 to authorize the discharge of wastewater generated from the post-retirement operation of the
circulating and low pressure service water pumps, and discharges through various drains via Outfall 001. The plant is
located on State Highway 259, on the east side of Ellison Creek Reservoir approximately 0.5 miles north of the
reservoir dam, one mile west of the intersection of State Highway 259 and State Highway 729, and approximately one
mile southwest of the City of Lone Star in Morris County, Texas. Discharge route is from the plant site to Ellison
Creek Reservoir; thence to Big Cypress Creek below Lake Bob Sandlin.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Lone Star, Morris County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more of governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the amendment of this TPDES Permit to allow the periodic
operation of this plant. This plant serves as a peaking unit and is brought on line during times of excessive demand
for electrical power. All guidelines required by TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed, thus minimal
disruption of the environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The amendment of this
permit will not produce any significant adverse effects on the environment since it is only used for an average of 15 to
20 days during the year. All water released into the environment is non contact and no biological controls are being
used.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. The
amendment of this permit will allow the continued operation of this plant, which serves as an additional source of
emergency electrical power for our region and can provide up to 75 mega-watts if needed. The disruption of the
environment is minimal compared to the accomplishments.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit amendment will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this permit amendment application by Southwestern
Electric Power Company.
Page 49 of 82
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 11-06-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: Ward Timber, Ltd.
Project Description: Ward Timber, Ltd. has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for
amendment of Air Quality Permit 152115, which would authorize modification of the existing Sawmill located at 1154
highway 155 West, Linden, Cass County, Texas. The amendment will authorize an increase in emissions of the
following air contaminants: particulate matter including matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or
less, and organic compounds.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Linden, Cass County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined that the application
is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more of governmental levels? Yes. This permit renewal application meets all
statutory and regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the continued operation of the sawmill. Ward Timber employs
approximately 120 citizens and provides valuable wood products to consumers throughout the nation. This facility
has been in operation since 1978 and is the largest hardwood sawmill in the State of Texas. All guidelines required by
TCEQ to protect the environment are being followed and minimal disruption of the environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. The TCEQ has
determined that the emissions of air contaminants from this facility will not violate any state or federal air quality
regulations and will have no significant adverse impact on soils, vegetation, wildlife or visibility.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. This plant is
currently operating at a 97% usage rate, leaving little to no waste of resources. Recent modifications include the
installation of 2 dry kilns, a dip tank and a new building to allow the timber to be cured onsite. The mill has received
numerous safety awards and routinely hosts educational tours to promote awareness about conservation and timber
management practices. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to the benefits provided.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit amendment will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support this of Air Quality Permit Amendment application by Ward
Timber Ltd.
Page 50 of 82
ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
APPLICATION / PROJECT STAFF REVIEW FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Project SAI No: N/A Date Received: 10-20-20 Staff Assignment:
Paul Prange
Applicant: Graphic Packaging International, LLC
Project Description: Graphic Packaging International, LLC has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental
Quality (TCEQ) to amend Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0001339000 to
authorize the addition of a provision to Other Requirements to address Outfall 001 flow reporting for discharge
monitoring reports. The Facility (Texarkana Mill) is located at 9978 FM 3129 in Queen City, Cass County, Texas.
PROJECT/EA REVIEW:
Area to be served: Cass County, Texas.
Does the project comply or furnish reasonable assurances of compliance with applicable federal, state, and
local laws, regulations, and ordinances? Yes. The TCEQ executive director has determined the application is
administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
Is the project consistent with state, area wide, and/or local planning or does it contribute toward goals or
objectives identified at one or more of governmental levels? Yes. This permit application meets all statutory and
regulatory requirements.
Has this project been coordinated through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality? Yes,
coordination is in progress.
Does the project address a clearly defined need and does the project take into account preservation of the
environment? There is a clearly defined need for the continued operation of the Graphic Packaging International
Plant. The facility employs approximately 780 citizens who live within our region and provides valuable paper goods to
numerous consumers. This facility has been in operation since 1970 and all guidelines required by TCEQ to protect
the environment are being followed and minimal disruption of the environment is expected.
Is the project likely to produce any significant adverse effects on the environment? No. This facility
manufactures paper products to be used as cup stock for both hot and cold beverages and high quality paper for
upscale packaging. This permit amendment will not authorize any increase in emissions or any new construction.
Do the anticipated accomplishments of the project justify the disruption to the environment? Yes. This plant
produces goods that are consumed by many citizens within our region and is the largest single employer located
within Cass County. The disruption of the environment is minimal compared to the benefits provided.
STAFF ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The permit amendment will not create any significant
detrimental impact to the environment, as determined by TCEQ.
RECOMMENDED COMMENT: Staff recommends support of this TPDES permit amendment application by Graphic
Packaging International, LLC.
Page 51 of 82
BRIEFING PAPER
ITEM 12:
Review and consider approval of the revisions to the Area Agency on Aging Policy and
Procedures for the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.
BACKGROUND:
The Area Agency on Aging is seeking approval by the Ark-Tex Council of Governments’ (ATCOG)
Board for approval to revisions made to the AAA Policy and Procedures. The revisions were
requested by the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman program during their monitoring in
September of 2020. The proposed changes will be presented to the Regional Advisory Council
on December 5, 2020, by Lisa Reeve.
DISCUSSION:
The proposed change will delete the term “maintenance of effort” and will replace it with “minimum
funding requirement.” The other requested change was to delete everything under the
ombudsman program policies and replace it with the wording found in the attachment.
The changes will be presented to the Regional Advisory Council on December 5, 2020, for
approval. Upon approval the changes will be presented to the ATCOG board on December 10,
2020.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of these changes to the by-laws.
Page 52 of 82
Page 53 of 82
Page 54 of 82
BRIEFING PAPER
ITEM 13:
Review and consider approval, in the form of a Resolution, of the region wide transit advertising
contract two-year renewal as part of the 9-1-1 Public Education Program.
BACKGROUND
The Commission on State Emergency Communications (CSEC) Program Policy Statement 025:
Public Education Program deems enhancement of public awareness of the 9-1-1 system,
including outreach and training programs as required public service messages. The CSEC
approved strategic plan for Public Education for ATCOG includes Outdoor/Billboard, Transit,
Cinema, and News publication advertising within allocated appropriated funds.
DISCUSSION
The Transit Advertising Campaign costs total $100,160 for a region wide campaign. The costs
include a two-year contract for 18 vehicles that transport within the ATCOG region.
The ATCOG Procurement Policy states that all purchases of $50,000 and above require
ATCOG Board approval.
RECOMMENDATION
In adherence to ATCOG Procurement Policy staff requests approval of the region wide transit
advertising campaign purchase (as part of the CSEC approved 9-1-1 Public Education
Program).
Page 55 of 82
ADVERTISING QUOTE FOR
YEAR 2021-2022:
12.5’ x 2.5’ Full Driver Side Window = $255 Monthly
18 Vehicles x 1 year contract for 2021= $50,080
Total Cost: $50,080
12.5’ x 2.5’ Full Driver Side Window = $255 Monthly
18 Vehicles x 1 year contract for 2022= $50,080
Total Cost: $50,080
Call
TRAX
Transportation
844-437-7497
────
Monday – Friday
8am – 5pm
Vehicles per County:
1) Bowie – 3
2) Cass – 2
3) Morris – 1
4) Titus – 3
5) Franklin – 1
6) Lamar – 3
7) Delta – 1
8) Red River – 1
9) Hopkins- 3
Page 56 of 82
RESOLUTION NO. ABD21-01
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF
GOVERNMENTS APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH TRAX TRANSPORTATION TO
PROVIDE TRANSIT ADVERTISING FOR THE ATCOG REGION.
WHEREAS, ATCOG Procurement Policy and Procedure Manual states ATCOG Board approval
is required for all purchases of $50,000 and above; and
WHEREAS, Texas Local Government Code Ch. 252, Section 252.002(a) exempts certain
purchases from the competitive requirements of the chapter – including advertising; and
WHEREAS, the 9-1-1 Program, wishes to continue the contract with TRAX Transportation for
transit advertising for the 9-1-1 Public Education plan at total cost of $100,160 which includes a
two-year contract for 18 vehicles; and
WHEREAS, the funding for the purchase is approved and available through 9-1-1 Local Funds
allocated to the Ark-Tex Council of Governments 9-1-1 Program by the Texas Commission on
State Emergency Communications.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE ARK-TEX
COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS:
Section 1 That the Board approves the contract for transit advertising for the ATCOG
region.
Section 2 That the Executive Director, Chris Brown, has full signature authority to act on
behalf of the ATCOG Board relating to the aforementioned purchase.
Section 3 That this resolution is approved by majority vote in accordance with the bylaws of
Ark-Tex Council of Governments and applicable law, and shall be in effect
immediately upon its adoption.
SIGNED AND APPROVED THIS 10TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2020.
____________________________________
L. D. Williamson, President
Ark-Tex Council of Governments
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Page 57 of 82
BRIEFING PAPER
ITEM 14:
Review and consider approval of the Ark-Tex Council of Governments Housing Choice Voucher
Program Annual and 5 yr. Plan to be effective October 1, 2020.
BACKGROUND:
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires an Annual and 5 yr.
Plan to be submitted to locate basic PHA policies, rules, and requirements concerning the PHA’s
operations, programs, and services. These Plans inform HUD, families served by the PHA, and
members of the public of the PHA’s mission, and goals. The Annual Plan is submitted annually,
whereas the 5 yr. Plan submission every 5 yrs. These Plans provide objectives for serving the
needs of low-income, very low-income and extremely low-income families. Any revisions made to
either plan must be formally adopted by the Board.
DISCUSSION:
The current policy under Local Preferences (24 CFR 982.204 and 205; HCV 4-1) states, “That
ATCOG will support and maintain single waiting list for the HCV program.”
1. The PHA request to support the addition to administer and maintain a single Rental
Assistance Demonstration (RAD) waiting list for 75 RAD units, and waiting list for 50
Project Based Vouchers for Gladewater Housing Authority, in Gladewater, Texas.
2. The PHA request to administer 145 Project Based vouchers and a single waiting list for
Project Based vouchers for Mt. Pleasant Housing Authority, in Mt. Pleasant, Texas.
3. The PHA request to administer 185 Project Based vouchers in New Boston, Texas for
New Boston Property Manager, in February 2021.
4. The PHA request to support the addition of Ch. 17 Project Based vouchers and Rental
Assistance Demonstration to the Ark-Tex Council of Housing Choice Voucher
Administration Plan.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the Annual and 5 yr. Plan to take effect immediately upon its
execution.
Page 58 of 82
RESOLUTION NO. ABD21-02
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF
GOVERNMENTS FOR APPROVAL OF THE PHA CERIFICATIONS OF COMPLIANCE WWITH
THE PHA PLANS AND RELATED REGYULATIONS REGARDING THE 5-YEAR AND
ANNUAL PLAN FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING ON OCTOBER 1, 2020.
WHEREAS, the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of 1998 enacted by the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (DHUD) requires the 5-year and Annual Plans
to be submitted to establish goals and operating procedures for achieving PHA goals within the
HCV program.
WHEREAS, the Annual Plan and 5-year Plan for the fiscal year beginning on October 1,2020, is
now due and must be approved and certified by the Board of Directors; and
WHEREAS, a public meeting was available at 4:00 p.m. on November 4, 2020 to hear comments
and or recommendation for changes into the Plans; and no comments or recommendation were
received by phone or emails.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE ARK-TEX
COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS:
Section 1- That the Annual and Five (5) year Plan for the fiscal year beginning on October
1,2020 to include the administering of Project Based Vouchers, administer
additional tenant -based vouchers, maintain separate Project-Based voucher
waiting lists for Gladewater Housing Authority and Mt. Pleasant Housing Authority.
To administer 185 PBV and Tenant Based Vouchers to New Boston Property
Management in New Boston, Texas, beginning 2021.
Section 2- That this resolution is approved by majority vote in accordance with the bylaws of
Ark-Tex Council of Governments and applicable law,and shall be in effect
immediately upon its adoption.
SIGNED AND APPROVED THIS 10TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2020.
______________________________________
L.D. Williamson, President
Ark-Tex Council of Governments
ATTEST:
______________________________
Page 59 of 82
BRIEFING PAPER
ITEM 15:
Review and approve continual use of allocation formula for FY2021 as the method for allocating
State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) funds to jurisdictions.
BACKGROUND:
The ATCOG HSAC, with Board approval, has allocated funds to jurisdictions in many different
ways since the inception of the SHSP in 2003 including the use of scoresheets and discussions.
The process of deciding allocations has been subjective rather than objective. During the last
three years, ATCOG has been utilizing a risk based formula to allocate funds to eligible
jurisdictions. This formula was designed to provide all eligible applicants with funds, but did not
fulfill the capability gaps of smaller jurisdictions in our region. The state requires HSAC to
prioritize applications using a risk-informed methodology process. The proposed scoring
process will score projects in several areas including risk and prioritization. Adopting ATCOG’s
scoring process would reflect the regions priorities and be in line with the State’s principles.
DISCUSSION:

The ATCOG HSAC met on October 1, 2020, and discussed and approved a scoring process as
the method for allocating FY2021 Homeland Security Grant Program funds to eligible
jurisdictions.
The scoring process will score projects in categories of risk, reasonableness, and priority level.
The scoring process will allot additional points to applicants applying for regional projects,
applicants whom participated in development of the THIRA/SPR/IP, and applicants who did not
receive funding the previous year grant year. Scores will be calculated and projects will be
prioritized/ranked by scores and recommended for funding in that rank order.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff and the HSAC recommend approval from the Board to adopt a scoring process as the
method for allocating State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) funds to jurisdictions for
FY2021.
Page 60 of 82
Ark-Tex Council of Governments Homeland Security
Allocation Process
The ATCOG Homeland Security Advisory Committee (HSAC) consists of emergency
management coordinators, judges, mayors, fire chiefs, EMS directors, volunteer fire fighters,
police chiefs, and representatives from the Texas Forest Service and Texas Department of
Public Safety. Each of ATCOG’s nine counties is represented as well as the two major cities:
The City of Texarkana and the City of Paris. The HSAC was created by Ark-Tex Council of
Governments to advise the Board of Directors in all matters related to regional homeland
security and to recommend to the Board of Directors plans and programs which improve the
emergency response and recovery throughout the region which support and maintain the
State of Texas Goals for Homeland Security in order to maximize effective and efficient use
of resources.
Each year, ATCOG receives State Homeland Security Program funding to help
prevent, mitigate, respond and recover from terrorism activities. ATCOG HSAC uses a
scoring process to prioritize HSGD application.
The scoring process will score projects in categories of risk, reasonableness, and
priority level. The scoring process will allot additional points to applicants applying for
regional projects, applicants who participated in Development of the THIRA/SPR/IP, and
applicants who did not receive funding the previous year grant year. Scores will be
calculated, and projects will be prioritized/ranked by scores and recommended for funding
in that rank order.
Up to 100pts Up to 100pts Up to 100pts Bonus Points Awarded
Risk Reasonableness priority level
Regional
Project +5
participated in
development
of
THIRA/SPR/IP
+5
Did not
received HSGD
funding prior
grant year +15

Grant Application Workshop
All grant applicants must attend the Grant Application Workshop in order to be eligible for grant
funding.
The grant application workshop will include the following information:
a. Who can apply and what activities are eligible under each funding opportunity
b. Requirements for project problem statements with supporting data, goal statement, project
activity explanations, current and target output and outcome measures, and budget
categories and line items
c. The project period for each funding opportunity
Page 61 of 82
d. Applicable rules, regulations, and certifications required
e. Any prohibitions
f. Civil rights rules related to applicant employees and projects or activities
g. State strategies or funding preferences
h. Potential jurisdictional funding allocations based on risk-based funding allocation formula
i. Local policies and procedures that affect the COG’s prioritization process
j. Due dates for applicants to submit and certify applications
ATCOG Staff Review and HSAC Recommendation for Funding
Once all applications are received, the applications are reviewed by ATCOG staff to ensure
completion and that all requested items are allowable. The HSAC reviews the projects to ensure
all projects are in line with regional priorities (if applicable) and have met the regional eligibility
requirement of 75% participation in the monthly ATCOG Communication Repeater Tests.
Applications are then scored via ballot in categories of risk, reasonableness, and priority level.
The scoring process will allot additional points to applicants applying for regional projects,
applicants whom participated in the Regional Communication Exercise and Development of the
THIRA/SPR/IP, and applicants who did not receive funding the previous year grant year. Each
HSAC member has plans and reports in possession and may bring these documents to the
meeting for reference, but are not required. The committee’s involvement provides an
overarching knowledge of each jurisdiction within the region, which guides and aids the HSAC
during the scoring of projects. Scores will be calculated and projects will be prioritized/ranked by
scores and recommended for funding in that rank order.
ATCOG’s project will be ranked as number (1) in the prioritization process and shall receive full
funding. Any other special projects approved by the HSAC committee will be ranked as number
(2) and so forth. LETPA projects will have priority funding until the 25% LEPTA threshold is met.
Once met, the remaining LEPTA projects will resume ranking with the regular SHSP projects.
In the event of a tie between two or more projects, the lowest rankings on each project involved
will be dropped until the tie is broken. Any representative from the agency applying is prohibited
from including his or her agency’s project in the prioritization due to the conflict of interest policy
in ATCOG’s HSAC bylaws. All projects must be scalable. If the amounts of LETPA projects
submitted do not meet the 25% LETPA requirement, ATCOG HSAC can increase the LETPA
projects’ amounts to meet the requirement.
Final Project Allocation
Following the committee meeting, the project allocation recommendation and prioritization
results will be presented to the ATCOG Board of Directors for approval. Once ATCOG receives
official notification of State approved projects, all applicants will be notified via email within three
(3) business days.
Page 62 of 82
RESOLUTION NO. ABD21-03
RESOLUTION OF THE ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS TO ADOPT THE USE OF A
SCORING PROCESS FOR ALLOCATING FY2021 HOMELAND SECURITY GRANT PROGRAM
FUNDS TO ELIGIBLE JURISDICTIONS.

WHEREAS, the ATCOG Board of Directors and Homeland Security Advisory Committee
finds it to be in best interest to adopt a scoring process as the method for allocating
FY2021 Homeland Security Grant Program funds to eligible jurisdictions;
WHEREAS, the scoring process will score projects in categories of risk, reasonableness,
and priority level. The scoring process will allot additional points to applicants applying for
regional projects, development of the THIRA/SPR/IP, and applicants who did not receive
funding the previous year grant year. Scores will be calculated and projects will be ranked
by score from highest to lowest and recommended for funding in that rank order.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
THROUGH VOTE AND APPROVAL BY THE ATCOG BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Section 1 – That the ATCOG Board of Directors has adopted a scoring method for allocating
funds FY2021 Homeland Security Grant Program funds to jurisdictions.
Section 2 – That all other previous allocation processes adopted by the ATCOG Board of
Directors are now null and void.
REVIEWED THIS 10TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2020.
______________________________________
L.D. Williamson, President
Ark-Tex Council of Governments
ATTEST:
______________________________
Page 63 of 82
BRIEFING PAPER
ITEM 16:
Review and approve revisions to the Regional Criminal Justice Advisory Committee
(RCJAC) Bylaws.
BACKGROUND:
The RCJAC conducts an annual review of the current RCJAC Bylaws. Amendments
were necessary for FY21. The Bylaws were reviewed and amendments were discussed
and recommendations were made by the RCJAC.
DISCUSSION:

The Bylaws are very important in conducting the business of the RCJAC and scoring
the CJD grant applications. The Office of the Governor – Public Safety Office (PSO),
Criminal Justice Division (CJD) requires ATCOG Criminal Justice Staff to submit a copy
of the current RCJAC Bylaws annually.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the revisions to the Regional Criminal Justice Advisory
Committee Bylaws.

Page 64 of 82
RESOLUTION NO. ABD21-04
RESOLUTION OF THE ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS TO ADOPT REVISIONS TO
THE ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS REGIONAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE ADVISORY
COMMITTEE BYLAWS.
WHEREAS, the Regional Criminal Justice Advisory Committee (RCJAC) is an advisory
subcommittee of the ATCOG Board of Directors;
WHEREAS, the bylaws of the committee regulate committee affairs and the behavior of its
members.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS:
Section 1 – That the ATCOG Board of Directors approved the RCJAC bylaw revisions as
shown on the attachment; and
Section 2 – That all other previous bylaws adopted by the ATCOG Board of Directors are
now null and void.
REVIEWED THIS 10TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2020.
__________________________________
L.D Williamson, President
Ark-Tex Council of Governments
ATTEST:
______________________________
Page 65 of 82
BRIEFING PAPER
ITEM 17:
Review and approve the Regional Criminal Justice Advisory Committee (RCJAC) local
priorities and the grant application scoring instrument.
BACKGROUND:
The RCJAC conducts an annual review of the local priorities and the scoring
instruments for each fund source. The local priorities were established by the Regional
Criminal Justice Planning Focus Groups. Those recommendations, as well as the
scoring instrument, were reviewed and approved by the RCJAC, to be incorporated into
the application scoring process, as required by the Criminal Justice Division of the
Governor’s Office (CJD).
DISCUSSION:
The local priorities and the scoring instruments are very important tools used by the
RCJAC to review and score the criminal justice grant applications from CJD. The local
priorities have been reviewed and approved as recommended by the Regional Criminal
Justice Planning Focus Groups. The local priorities are also reflected on the scoring
instrument for each CJD funding source related to the applications that are
reviewed/scored.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the local priorities and the grant application scoring
instruments.
Page 66 of 82
RESOLUTION NO. ABD21-05
RESOLUTION OF THE ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS TO ADOPT REVISIONS TO
THE ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS REGIONAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE ADVISORY
COMMITTEE LOCAL PRIORITIES AND THE SCORING INSTRUMENT FOR CJD
CRIMINAL JUSTICE APPLICATIONS.
WHEREAS, the Regional Criminal Justice Advisory Committee (RCJAC) is an advisory
subcommittee of the ATCOG Board of Directors;
WHEREAS, the local priorities and the scoring instruments are very important tools used by the
RCJAC to review and score the criminal justice grant applications from CJD.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS:
Section 1 – That the ATCOG Board of Directors approved the local priorities and scoring
instruments as shown on the attachment and previously recommended/approved
by the RCJAC; and
Section 2 – That all other previous local priorities and scoring instruments adopted by the
ATCOG Board of Directors are now null and void.
REVIEWED THIS 10TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2020.
__________________________________
L.D Williamson, President
Ark-Tex Council of Governments
ATTEST:
______________________________
Page 67 of 82
BRIEFING PAPER
ITEM 18:
Review and consider approval of revisions to the Ark-Tex Council of Governments (ATCOG)
Policies and Procedures Manual as well as the ATCOG Procurement Policy.
BACKGROUND
The Board of Directors is required to approve all revisions to the Policies and Procedures
Manual and Procurement Policy.
DISCUSSION
The following revisions to the policy and procedures manual are being proposed:
Introduction – Programs and Services. Change Nursing Home Ombudsman to Longterm Care Ombudsman to align with Health and Human Services terminology.
3.12 Communications – News Media. This addition clarifies that if a State or Federal
agency exception to this policy is required, which allows for the creation of media
responses with the approval of the State or Federal governing agency only, staff will
provide a copy to the ATCOG Executive Director prior to release of any information or
statements.
3.19 Information Technology Acceptable Use. This addition clarifies that requests for
records containing confidential information pertaining to the State Long-term Care
Ombudsman Program shall be handled in accordance with 26TAC§88.404 & §88.304.
6.22 Compensatory Leave. This addition allows ATCOG to pay employees for accrued
compensatory leave when it is in ATCOG’s best interest as determined by the Executive
Director.
The following revisions to the procurement policy are being proposed:
“Micro-Purchase” definition and ARTICLE III – PURCHASES OF $50,000.00 and
UNDER PART A: Non-Competitive and Competitive Purchases, Sections 3.0.1 and
3.0.2.
The micro-purchase threshold is set by the Federal Acquisition Regulation at 48 CFR
Subpart 2.1. The threshold has been raised from $3,500 to $10,000. Therefore, ATCOG
is updating its procurement policy to comply with the CFR.
If approved by the Board, the policy revisions will be distributed to all employees and added to
our Policies and Procedures Manual.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of all revisions to the Policies and Procedures Manual in the
sections as outlined above.
Page 68 of 82
ATCOG Policy and Procedures Manual Revisions
Page 4 PROGRAMS AND SERVICES – Area Agency on Aging Program services listed:
change Nursing Home Ombudsman to Long-term Care Ombudsman
3.12 COMMUNICATIONS – NEWS MEDIA
Communication with the news media regarding ATCOG or its personnel is the responsibility of
the Executive Director or his designated staff member. In all instances employees are to refer
members of the news media to the Executive Director. If a State or Federal agency exception to
this policy is required, which allows for the creation of media responses with the approval of the
State or Federal governing agency only, staff will provide a copy to the ATCOG Executive Director
prior to release of any information or statements.
3.19 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE
Internet/Intranet -related systems, including but not limited to computer equipment, software,
operating systems, storage media, network accounts providing electronic mail, internet
browsing, and File Transfer Protocol (FTP), are the property of ATCOG. These systems are to
be used for business purposes in serving the interests of the company, and of our clients and
customers in the course of normal operations.
Effective security is a team effort involving the participation and support of every ATCOG
employee and affiliate who deals with information and/or information systems. It is the
responsibility of every computer user to know these guidelines, and to conduct their activities
accordingly.
The purpose of this policy is to outline the acceptable use of all computer equipment at ATCOG.
These rules are in place to protect the employee and ATCOG. Inappropriate use exposes
ATCOG to risks including virus attacks, compromise of network systems and services, and legal
issues.
This policy applies to employees, contractors, consultants, temporaries, and other workers at
ATCOG, including all personnel affiliated with third parties. This policy applies to all equipment
that is owned or leased by ATCOG.
General Use and Ownership
1. While ATCOG’s network administration desires to provide a reasonable level of privacy,
users should be aware that the data they create on the corporate systems remains the
property of ATCOG. Because of the need to protect ATCOG’s network, management
cannot guarantee the confidentiality of information stored on any network device
belonging to ATCOG.
Page 69 of 82
2. The information contained within all of these systems constitutes official records under
the Public Information Act and may be available to the public upon request. See the
Texas Government Code, Chapter 552. Requests for records containing confidential
information pertaining to the State Long-term Care Ombudsman Program shall be
handled in accordance with 26TAC§88.404 & §88.304.
3. Employees are responsible for exercising good judgment regarding the reasonableness
of personal use. Individual departments are responsible for creating guidelines
concerning personal use of Internet/Intranet systems. In the absence of such policies,
employees should be guided by departmental policies on personal use, and if there is
any uncertainty, employees should consult their supervisor or manager.
4. It is required that any information that users consider sensitive or confidential be
encrypted when sending emails or copying data to an external device.
5. Employees may not transport ATCOG-owned data from the premises without
authorization from their supervisors.
6. For security and network maintenance purposes, authorized individuals within ATCOG
may monitor equipment, systems and network traffic at any time.
7. ATCOG reserves the right to audit networks and systems on a regular basis to ensure
compliance with this policy.
6.22 COMPENSATORY LEAVE
Employees who work in excess of 40 hours in a seven-day workweek will be compensated with
compensatory leave at one and one-half hours times the overtime hours worked. Compensatory
leave is credited to an employee’s account on the last day of each pay period and is not
available for use until the beginning of the next pay period. Pay in lieu of compensatory leave is
not permitted other than upon separation. At the discretion of the Executive Director, employees
involved in the direct delivery of services for the rural transportation program may be paid for
accrued compensatory leave to deplete compensatory leave totals when it is in ATCOG’s best
interest. Employees must use all compensatory time before using annual or sick leave unless
annual will meet maximum accrual within 30 days. Employees with 20 or more compensatory
hours must schedule leave and be given priority for that leave to be taken. Employees must
schedule accrued compensatory hours within 12 months of accrual.
Page 70 of 82
ATCOG Procurement Policy Revisions
PART C: Definition of Terms
“Micro-Purchase” A purchase of supplies or services using simplified acquisition procedures,
the aggregate amount of which does not exceed the micro-purchase threshold of $3,500.00
$10,000.00 in order to expedite the completion of its lowest-dollar small purchase transactions
to minimize the associated administrative burden and cost. The micro-purchase threshold is set
by the Federal Acquisition Regulation at 48 CFR Subpart 2.1, and can be periodically adjusted
for inflation.
ARTICLE III – PURCHASES OF $50,000.00 and UNDER
PART A: Non-Competitive and Competitive Purchases
3.0 A non-competitive purchase is defined as the procurement of supplies, equipment,
services, or other property, that does not cost more than $50,000 in the aggregate. If
the expenditure for a purchase is for less than $50,000 (“bid limit”), ATCOG may
proceed in one of three ways:
3.0.1 Non-Competitive Micro-Purchase – If the price is less than $3,500.00
$10,000.00, the purchase may be made on a non-competitive basis,
meaning that only one written price quotation is required, but three (3)
quotes may be required at the discretion of the Executive Director for
purchases over $1,000. The selection of the supplier can be made to the
convenience of the department without contacting additional suppliers;
however, purchases must be distributed evenly among qualified
suppliers.
3.0.2 Competitive Small Purchase – If the price is more than $3,500.00
$10,000.00, but less than $50,000.00, price quotations should be solicited
from three (3) or more qualified contractors/suppliers to ensure the price
is fair and in line with the current market. The quotation must be in writing
and can be obtained via mail, fax, or e-mail. The Procurement Officer
may negotiate the price as appropriate, or source for additional suppliers,
as required.
3.0.3 Competitive Formal Sealed Bid – If the amount of the purchase is nearly
$50,000, ATCOG may still ask for a sealed bid. This approach gives
several advantages, for example, if later purchases cause the total
purchase price to exceed the bid limit, the competitive bidding
requirement is satisfied. Provisions allowing later purchases on the same
terms might be written into the original contract. In addition, bids may be
more competitive with a sealed bid. And lastly, conflicts of interest
between contractor or supplier and the procuring department are
minimized.
Purchases may not be split to circumvent the competitive requirements or the bid limit.
Page 71 of 82
BRIEFING PAPER
ITEM 19:
Review and consider approval of Resolution for notice of the intent to award/notice of
owner selection of the Mount Pleasant Housing Authority (MPHA) for PBV and approval to
exceed $50,000 in HAP authority contracts.
BACKGROUND:
In March of 2019, the ATCOG Board authorized the amendment of the Housing
Administrative Plan to allow for the administration of Project Base Vouchers and
authorizing the Executive Director to execute needed agreements. An Interlocal
Agreement with the MPHA was presented today for ratification.
DISCUSSION:
• 24 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) §983.51(b)(1) requires a Public Housing
Agency to award Project-Based Vouchers (PBVs) via a competitive selection.
However, HUD approved a waiver for this requirement under the authority provided
at 24 CFR 5.110 (see page 73).
• HUD regulations require a public notice of the intent to award and a notice of owner
selection.
• The ATCOG Procurement Policy requires Board approval of expenditures over
$50,000, and the award of this contract will exceed this threshold.
• This resolution satisfies the HUD required notification as well as the HAP
expenditure approval as required by the procurement policy.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the Resolution.
Page 72 of 82
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
WASHINGTON, DC 20410-1000
ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR
PUBLIC AND INDIAN HOUSING
November 18, 2020
Mr. Chris Brown
Executive Director
Ark-Tex Council of Governments
4808 Elizabeth Street
Texarkana, TX 75503-2910
Dear Mr. Brown:
This letter responds to a request from the Ark-Tex Council of Governments (ATCOG)
for a waiver of 24 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) §983.51(b)(1), which requires a Public
Housing Agency to award Project-Based Vouchers (PBVs) via a competitive selection. ATCOG
seeks the waiver to award PBVs to a Public Housing project that repositioned through a Section
22 Streamlined Voluntary Conversion (SVC) action approved by HUD on June 24, 2020.
ATCOG serves as the partner voucher agency that will administer the 145 tenant
protection vouchers (TPVs) awarded in connection with the Section 22 SVC action. The Mount
Pleasant Housing Authority (MPHA) is the Public Housing-only agency that received the SVC
approval for the 145 units, which comprise MPHA’s entire Public Housing portfolio. Under the
SVC approval, MPHA is required to ensure that the 145 units at the property are developed and
operated as affordable housing for low-income families with incomes at or below 80 percent of
area median income for not less than 30 years. To accomplish this, MPHA proposed to place the
property under a PBV Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) contract. MPHA has ownership of
the project.
ATCOG has gone through the process of obtaining families’ written voluntary consent to
relinquish their right to remain in their unit with tenant-based assistance. To date, you have
received responses from 92 of the 145 residents. Of the 92 responses, 6 have requested a tenantbased voucher and are preparing to port to other jurisdictions, 45 have opted to retain the tenantbased voucher and utilize it in their current unit, and 41 have indicated they would voluntarily
waive their tenant-based voucher and would prefer to remain in the unit under a PBV contract.
Of the 53 that have yet to respond, you expect (based on previous communications) that they will
opt to remain on site with either form of voucher assistance.
Because ATCOG does not have an ownership interest in the project, the Housing
Opportunity Through Modernization Act requirements for non-competitive selection, as detailed
in PIH 2017-21, Attachment L, are not met. Therefore, ATCOG is requesting a good cause
waiver of the PBV proposal selection procedures to award the PBVs directly to MPHA for the
former Public Housing project. To support the request, your agency cited Question 25 of the
HUD-published PBV Repositioning FAQs. In that guidance document, HUD directed voucher
PHAs partnering with a Public Housing-only agency to administer TPVs awarded in connection
to a repositioning action, to request a regulatory waiver if the voucher PHA had good cause to
Page 73 of 82
2
expect that running a PBV competition would likely result in the PBVs being awarded to a
project other than the Public Housing agency’s converted Public Housing project.
Your request explains that ATCOG serves nine northeast Texas counties and one
southwest Arkansas county, covering over 6,400 square miles. Based on this, you expect that
there is a strong likelihood that the PBVs could be awarded to a project other than MPHA’s
converted project. Your request also explains that if MPHA does not receive an award of PBVs,
this would prevent MPHA from complying with the terms of the Section 22 SVC approval and
the tenant’s choice of a PBV. The HUD field office has also confirmed that the project does not
meet the conditions for selection based on a prior competition under 24 CFR 983.51(b)(2).
Pursuant to the waiver authority provided at 24 CFR 5.110, and the good cause presented,
I hereby waive 24 CFR §983.51(b)(1) so that ATCOG may select MPHA’s Section 22 SVCapproved project for an award of PBVs without following a competitive process. Questions
concerning this matter may be directed to Amaris Rodriguez, Senior Housing Program
Specialist, Housing Voucher Management and Operations Division, at
Amaris.Rodriguez@hud.gov.
Sincerely,
R. Hunter Kurtz
Assistant Secretary for
Public and Indian Housing
Page 74 of 82
RESOLUTION NO. ABD21-06
RESOLUTION OF THE ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
GIVING NOTICE OF INTENT TO AWARD / NOTICE OF OWNER SELECTION OF THE MOUNT
PLEASANT HOUSING AUTHORITY FOR UP TO 145 PROJECT-BASED VOUCHERS

WHEREAS, the Ark-Tex Council of Governments (ATCOG) is a voluntary association of local
governments authorized under Texas LGC 391 as a political subdivision for the purpose of
promoting intergovernmental cooperation and strengthening local units of government within
Bowie, Cass, Delta, Franklin, Hopkins, Lamar, Morris, Red River and Titus Counties, Texas and
Miller County, Arkansas; and
WHEREAS, ATCOG currently administers a Section 8 Rental Assistance Program funded by
HUD in the nine northeast counties of Texas, and some adjoining counties; and
WHEREAS, ATCOG may provide up to 20% of its budget authority as allocated by HUD for use
in the Project Based Voucher (PVB) program; and
WHEREAS, ATCOG has been awarded a waiver of 24 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
§983.51(b)(1) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which allows
ATCOG to select the Mount Pleasant Housing Authority’s (MPHA) Section 22 SVC-approved
project for an award of PBVs without following a competitive process.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE ARK-TEX COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Section 1 – That the Board of Directors hereby gives notice of the intent to award and notice
of owner selection of the Mount Pleasant Housing Authority.
Section 2 – That the Board approves utilization of the HUD waiver and the expenditure that is
likely to exceed the $50,000 threshold requiring Board authorization.
Section 3 – That the Executive Director shall have full authority to execute all necessary
contracts and agreements required under HUD guidelines for the PBV program.
Section 4 – That this Resolution shall be in effect immediately upon its execution.
REVIEWED AND APPROVED THIS 10TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2020.
____________________________________
Judge L.D. Williamson, President
Board of Directors

ATTEST:
__________________________________
Page 75 of 82
Ark-Tex Council of Governments
COVID-19 Returning to Work at the Office Phase II Policy
and Updated Driver Protocols
The Ark-Tex Council of Governments (ATCOG) Offices will be open to the public by appointment only until
further notice, but will be open to a limited number of employees based on guidelines, as prescribed in
the publication Texans Helping Texans: The Governor’s Report to Open Texas – April 27, 2020. Per the
Governor’s report: individuals, employers, employees and customers are encouraged to follow the
MINIMUM health protocols recommended by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), in addition
to federal and state employment laws and workplace safety standards. The DSHS minimum recommended
health protocols are subject to change based on new and evolving information. ATCOG will be following
these protocols. Due to the fluid nature of the response to COVID-19, protocols and policies detailed in
this document are subject to change at any time based on new and evolving information. Changes will be
sent to all employees when they occur.
Who Should Return to Work at the Office:
• For those with adverse medical conditions, they should continue to telework and remain at home
if their assigned duties allow. This is particularly
important for individuals who have medical issues (such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer or a
weakened immune system, etc.) and/or those who are 65 years or older.
• If an employee or someone in the employee’s home is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or if the
employee has had close contact with someone who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, the
employee is to stay at home and contact the Supervisor immediately. The Supervisor should then
contact the Human Resources Manager immediately.
• Office staff should be scheduled to work in office at least 50% of their schedule on an alternating basis
by department. A log of individuals who are in the building will be kept at the front reception area at
all times. Should extenuating circumstances arise, contact the Executive Director.
• The maximum number of employees authorized to be in any TRAX office is as follows: 3-4 people for
the Texarkana and Paris offices and 2 people for the Mt. Pleasant and Sulphur Springs offices. Once
the maximum number is reached, no additional employees will be allowed to enter. Follow additional
instructions specific to each office for driver and office personnel separation. Should extenuating
circumstances arise, contact the Supervisor.
In accordance with Governor Abbott’s executive order GA-18, the following are minimum recommended
health protocols for all businesses choosing to operate in Texas. Employers may adopt additional protocols
consistent with their specific needs and circumstances to help protect the health and safety of all
employees and customers. (The Governor’s Report to Open Texas – April 27, 2020).
The virus that causes COVID-19 can spread to others by infected persons who have few or no symptoms.
Even if the person is only mildly ill, the people they spread it to may become seriously ill or even die,
especially if that person is 65 or older with pre-existing health conditions that place them at higher risk.
Because of the hidden nature of this threat, everyone should rigorously follow the practices specified in
Page 76 of 82
these protocols, all of which facilitate a safe and measured reopening of Texas. The virus that causes
COVID-19 is still circulating in our communities. We should continue to observe practices that protect
everyone, including those who are most vulnerable. (The Governor’s Report to Open Texas – April 27,
2020).
Health Protocols for Employees:
Entering the Office
• Upon entering, all employees will clean their hands with hand sanitizer placed at the designated
screening area or wash their hands with soap and water at their personal sinks, then return to the
designated screening area.
• All employees will self-screen immediately after sanitizing or cleaning their hands.
Driver Compartments (TRAX staff only)
• Thoroughly clean the driver compartments of the vehicle several times each day. Pay special
attention to the frequently touched items, including, but not limited to:
o Steering wheel, door handles, gear shift, controls, radio, arm rests and adjacent areas
• Routinely clean the frequently touched passenger areas of the bus, including, but not limited to:
o Handrails, seats, arm rests, grab bars, area beside entry and exit doors where
passengers often touch.
• Wear masks and gloves at all times when in close contact with or assisting passengers.
• Remove gloves and sanitize hands before entering the driver compartment.
• Sanitize hands before and after adjusting or removing facial coverings.
• Continuously keep fresh air entering the vehicle by opening the “fresh air vent” and leaving the
air/ac on at all times
Self-Screening
Temperature
• The temperature of each employee reporting to an office or service vehicle will be recorded
daily. If a temperature reading is greater than or equal to 100.4° F, the employee will be sent
home.
• Touchless thermometers or thermal scanner will be provided at each screening station, or
oral thermometers will be issued to drivers who do not normally report to an office.
• For employees utilizing a screening station thermometer, you must wash or sanitize your
hands before and after utilizing the thermometer.
• The employee will point the thermometer at the center of his or her forehead while holding
the device one to two inches away. Hold the trigger until a beep is heard (1-2 seconds), then
note the temp for recording purposes. If the temp is greater than 100.4, then leave the
building immediately and notify your supervisor by phone.
Checklist
Page 77 of 82
• An electronic checklist will be provided for employees, which will be accessible by a
computer or tablet.
• If the employee has any of the signs or symptoms of possible COVID-19 (listed below) that
are new or worsening, he or she will check the symptom, submit the form and be sent home.
If you feel that you have a condition listed that is a chronic condition, please exit the
screening area, return to your vehicle and contact the Human Resources Manager to be
vetted further.
– Cough – Loss of taste or smell
– Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing – Diarrhea
– Chills – Feeling feverish or measured temp
– Repeated shaking with chills greater than or equal to 100.4 F
– Muscle pain – Headache
– Sore Throat – Nausea or vomiting
– Known close contact with a person who is lab confirmed to have COVID-19 or showing the
above symptoms (including 48 hours prior to testing and/or symptoms)

• If non-symptomatic, the employee will check a box stating they have no symptoms and
submit the form.
NOTE: Due to the seriousness of COVID-19, no one should joke, play or tease about symptoms in the
reception area where screening is taking place or anywhere else in the office. All comments/actions made
regarding symptoms will be taken seriously and handled as such.
Social Distancing:
Employees should maintain at least 6 feet of separation from other individuals. If such distancing is not
feasible, other measures such as face covering (over the nose and mouth), hand hygiene, cough etiquette,
cleanliness and sanitation should be rigorously practiced.
Employees should not enter other offices. Phone calls, TEAMS and email should be used for
communication even between offices.
Face Masks:
All personnel in all ATCOG facilities must wear a face covering when entering the building, upon leaving
his or her assigned office, and when entering a shared office space. Personnel may remove the face
covering while working alone in his or her office.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) suggests that an employee wear a face
shield if a cloth face covering is recommended but the employee cannot tolerate wearing a cloth face
covering. If used, a face shield should cover the entire front and sides of the face and extend below the
chin. Face shields must be approved by the Executive Director.

This procedure is being established for the safety of all employees and those we serve. This
requirement will remain in effect until GA-29 is modified or rescinded.
Return to Work at the Office If Employee Has Symptoms of COVID-19:
Page 78 of 82
This section supersedes the conditions stated in the ‘Working from Home While Sick (Non-COVID-19)’
section of the ATCOG Continuity Plan and Policy Relating to COVID-19, which went into effect April 1,
2020.
Per CDC recommendations, employees with new or worsening signs or symptoms of COVID-19, as listed
on the screening checklist, will not be allowed to return to work at the office until:
• In the case of an employee who was diagnosed with COVID-19, the individual may return to work
at the office when all three of the following criteria are met:
o at least 1 day (24 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use
of fever-reducing medications); and
o the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath,
vomiting/diarrhea, muscle aches/pains); and
o at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
• In the case of an employee who has symptoms that could be COVID-19 and does not get evaluated
by a medical professional or tested for COVID-19, the individual is assumed to have COVID-19,
and the individual may not return to work at the office until the individual has completed the
same three-step criteria listed above; or
• If the employee has symptoms that could be COVID-19 and wants to return to work at the office
before completing the above self-isolation period, the individual must obtain a negative test for
COVID-19 and other communicable diseases (flu, strep, etc… if applicable).
Return to Work at the Office if a Household Member Has COVID-19 Symptoms:
This section supersedes the conditions stated in the ‘Working from Home if There Has Been Contact
with Someone Diagnosed with COVID-19’ section of the ATCOG Continuity Plan and Policy Relating to
COVID-19, which went into effect April 1, 2020.
The employee will not be permitted at the office until after the household member has met the above
mentioned 3-step criteria and the employee is symptom-free and obtains a negative COVID-19 test result.
Health Protocols for the Office:
• Regularly touched surfaces in public areas, such as doorknobs, tables, chairs and restrooms are
regularly and frequently cleaned. Employees are asked to wipe down commonly touched
surfaces in public areas such as copy machine display panels, microwave doors/buttons, coffee
pot handles/buttons, water cooler spigots, etc. after use.
• Employees are asked to clean the doorknobs to their offices as well as their keyboards, phones,
work surfaces, etc. on a regular basis.
• Hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, tissues, soap and water or similar disinfectant can be found
throughout the ATCOG Offices. DO NOT remove or change the location of these items. If you
find any of these items running low, or empty, contact the Human Resources Manager.
Page 79 of 82
• Visible signage has been placed throughout the building to remind everyone of best hygiene
practices and employees are asked to follow these practices.
• No more than a maximum of 2 individuals should be in the kitchen or 1 in the copy/mail rooms.
• The use of other employees’ phones, desks, offices or other work tools and equipment is
discouraged.
• Air circulation with building HVAC, even in fan only mode, is strongly encouraged. Personal fans
may also be used in offices.
Questions:
Questions or clarification regarding these guidelines should be directed to the Human Resources
Director, Deputy Director, or the Executive Director.
CDC information for Bus Operator Guidance can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/community/organizations/bus-transit-operator.html
Page 80 of 82
TRAX Essential Services Pay Policy-COVID-19
The number one priority of TRAX is ensuring the safety and well-being of our employees. To support this
commitment, TRAX is putting in place a COVID-19 Essential Services Pay (ESP) program for employees
who are required to either work onsite at our facility in direct face-to-face contact with the public, to
clean and maintain vehicles exposed to the public, or are in the field transporting passengers.
This benefit is applicable only during the time period in which a government or public health authority
order is in effect for our location requiring non-essential businesses to close their facilities or citizens to
“stay-at-home”. This benefit will become nonapplicable when the government or public health authority
orders cease and all non-essential businesses are allowed to re-open at normal capacity or when funding
is no longer available.
ESP will be available as follows:
• Essential Services Pay will begin March 13, 2020 and will continue until the government or
public health authority orders cease and all non-essential businesses are allowed to re-open at
normal capacity and is dependent on funding availability. For eligible employees, the ESP
payment will provide an additional three dollars ($3.00) per hour worked. Hours worked are
defined as hours an employee is actually working at the facility with the public, cleaning and
maintaining vehicles exposed to the public, or is in the field transporting passengers. For the
benefit of ESP, leave time will not be counted as hours worked.
• Overtime hours will be compensated as compensatory leave at one and one-half hours times
the overtime hours worked. At the conclusion of the disaster when ESP is no longer an
applicable benefit, ATCOG will ‘buy back’ any accrued and unused compensatory leave at the
ESP rate from the employee.
• Those employees out on Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) leave will not receive
Essential Services Pay.
Essential Services Pay FAQ
1. What is Essential Services Pay (ESP)?
ESP provides additional compensation to recognize employees whose roles are classified as an
“essential service” and who are required to work either onsite at our facility in direct face-toface contact with the public, to clean and maintain vehicles exposed to the public, or are in the
field transporting passengers, during a time when our local government or public health
authority has ordered non-essential businesses to close or non-essential workers to “stay-athome”.
ESP will be paid as an hourly premium rate. It will provide an additional three dollars ($3.00) per
hour for all eligible hours worked. Eligible hours worked are defined as hours an employee is
actually working in our facility with the public, cleaning and maintaining vehicles exposed to the
public, or is in the field transporting passengers. Overtime hours will be compensated as
compensatory leave at one and one-half hours times the overtime hours worked. At the
Page 81 of 82
conclusion of the disaster when ESP is no longer an applicable benefit, ATCOG will ‘buy back’
any accrued and unused compensatory leave earned at the ESP rate from the employee.
2. How long does the ESP program last?
Essential Services Pay is effective from the time the statewide public health disaster was
declared, which was March 13, 2020. This benefit will become nonapplicable when the
government or public health authority orders cease and all non-essential businesses are allowed
to re-open at normal capacity.
3. Who is eligible for ESP?
Eligible employees are those who provide essential services and are required to work onsite at
our facility in direct face-to-face contact with the public, to clean and maintain vehicles exposed
to the public, or are in the field transporting passengers. Employee must have been employed
on or after the date the ESP policy was approved, April 30, 2020, to be eligible for ESP.
4. Do I need to apply for ESP?
No, employees do not need to apply for ESP. If you are unsure if you qualify for ESP, please
contact HR.
5. When will I start to receive ESP?
The pay will be reflected on your next payroll check.
6. If I need to take COVID-19 sick leave will I qualify for ESP?
No, any hours paid from COVID-10 sick leave will not reflect the additional pay as the pay is only
for hours worked.
7. If I take my accrued vacation or sick leave will I receive ESP?
You will not receive ESP on any leave taken. Only hours worked qualify for the additional pay.
8. If I terminate employment with ATCOG and have not used the COVID-19 compensatory leave
accrued, will I be paid the additional ESP on those hours?
Upon separation from ATCOG employment, an employee who has completed the introductory
period will be paid at the ESP rate for accrued and unused COVID-19 compensatory time, which
has been tracked separately in the employee’s records.

Page 82 of 82

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Ark-Tex Council Of Government Meeting

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Ark-Tex Council Of Government Meeting

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