Last Week’s Team Tennis Match in Sherman Ruled No-Contest
Coach Tony Martinez and team tennis were set and prepped for Thursday’s spring-opener for the Wildcats in Sherman, but it was postponed and ultimately cancelled due to weather.
Coach Martinez told his team early last week to keep their Saturday open due to fears that the competition would not make its Thursday slot due to poor weather.
Ultimately, the game was pushed to Saturday, still in Sherman, but finally the decision was made that the Wildcats could not make the trip and compete due to extreme mist that rolled through North/Northeast Texas on Saturday.
With harsh weather making it difficult for Sulphur Springs to not only make the trip but to compete as well the opening contest for team tennis in spring 2022 was called off.
Last week’s contest versus Sherman as a result was ruled a no-contest.
With that, Coach Martinez and team tennis practice this week in preparation for the Hallsville tournament Friday after next on Jan. 21.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Commissioners Court Again Approves Reinvestment Zone For BT Solterra Solar, As Well As 381 Agreement
Hopkins County Commissioners Court Monday morning, Jan. 10, 2022, again approved a reinvestment zone for and also approved a 381 agreement for BT Solterra Solar, LLC.
Austin Willis, director of Solar and Storage for Belltown Power Texas, Monday morning explained that the reinvestment zone is exactly the same as the one approved by the court in November 2021 for BT Solterra Solar. However, due to an oversight on behalf of the local newspaper, notice for the reinvestment zone were never published as required.
“We believe it was just an oversight by the newspaper. We do not believe there was any malice. It was just overlooked and pushed out for something else,” County Judge Robert Newsom.
Thus, the notices that were supposed to go out before the November 2021 voted have been posted since the error was discovered and the court again held a public hearing, then the three court members present (Precint 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley and Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price were both absent from the Jan. 10, 2022 court session) voted to establish the reinvestment zone as presented for BT Solerra.
During the public hearing conducted Jan. 10, 2022, prior to the vote approving the reinvestment zone for BT Solerra Solar to be constructed in the Saltillo area, Sulphur Springs-Hopkins County Economic Development Director Roger Feagley noted that the reinvestment zone simply established a geographic area for which the solar facility developer may request a tax incentive at some point in the future. This is particularly important as it is required for the BT Solerra to request a Chapter 312 agreement from Hopkins County Hospital District Board for a tax abatement for the solar project.
Hopkins County Resident Mac Pitts asked what the duration of the reinvestment zone will be. Feagley advised it would be for 5 years, but would be renewable for up to 10 years. The zone begins in January 2022 and would be valid through 2027, when it could be renewed for five additional years through 2032. The zone spans 1354 acres.
BT Solterra has asked for tax incentives from Saltillo ISD and Monday asked and received a 381 agreement from Hopkins County Commissioners Court. The company will be required to pay all taxes, for the approximately 1,354 acres across 15 different parcels leased from Los Senderos Cattle and Ranch Company and Delbert Chip Tully. Upon meeting terms of the agreement, BT Solterra Solar would receive a 100 percent reimbursement of taxes for tax years 2023-2033, or beginning the tax year in which on-site construction of the project has begun and at last 25% of the minimum investment of $100 million as of the appraisal date for that tax year.
According to the 381 agreement, the investment for the project will be a minimum of $100 million with a target of $140 million in improvements, new business personal property and equipment, but excluding inventory placed on the property. The project must be a complete construction by Dec. 31, 2023, and the developer is required to present to the court invoices, receipts or other documentation to the county for expenditures made toward the $100 million minimum investment, and a certificate of completion by Dec. 31, 2023.
The project will provide a minimum of one full-time employment position to be paid an average wage by Dec. 31, 2023, for which an annual compliance verification is to be provided for all 10 year years of the 381 agreement. The developer also must present an anual tax appraisal by the local appraisal distirct and pay the the taxes each year, then will be reimbursed for them, upon meeting all requirements.
The developer has agreed upon construction of at least 25% of the minimum investment in tax year 2023 or later to pay a PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) payment each year through 2032 equal to $880 multiplied by the greater of the overall nameplate capacity located in the county and the 140 megawatt AC. The developer may also pay a one-time amount to be included in the tax year 2023 PILOT payment equal to the greater of $440 multiplied by the greater of the overall nameplate capacity (defined in the agreement at as the total or overall generating capacity of the improvements on the property in megawatts AC) located in the county and 140 megawatt AC for road repairs and maintenance.
Lady Cats Soccer Goes 1-1-0 in Kilgore Tournament
Lady Cats soccer got a win, tie and loss from Jan. 6-8 in the Kilgore tournament, their first regular-season tourney of the year.
Thursday’s opening match versus Bullard was the first regular season contest for the women’s soccer squad.
It did not go as planned for Coach Javier Aguayo’s squad, as Sulphur Springs fells to Bullard 3-1 on Thursday, Jan. 6.
It was a tough loss for the girls, as the Lady Cats trailed 3-0 at the half and were able to get one in early in the second half.
Coach Aguayo said the second half was a better, in that they were able to control the game and create more chances. The women’s soccer coach said his squad kept getting shots on goal but couldn’t convert.
Injuries are hurting the Lady Cats at the moment, as Coach Aguayo missed six starters in the loss to Bullard.
Friday, Jan. 7 was a better day for women’s soccer, getting a 2-1 win over Spring Hill.
Springs Springs was able to score two goals in the first half and conceded one in the second half. Coach Aguayo said he was glad his squad shook things off from the Bullard loss and rebounded by starting out with a great first half against Spring Hill.
Due to injuries, the women’s soccer coach moved up some JV players who are getting plenty of playing time. Coach Aguayo said this will help the Lady Cats be ready for district.
Wrapping up tournament play in Kilgore on Saturday, Jan. 8, Sulphur Springs were scheduled to take on Pleasant Grove. That game was cancelled due to weather, Coach Aguayo confirmed over text.
With that, women’s soccer come in to their Monday, Jan. 10 game day sporting a 1-1-0 record.
The Lady Cats will look to extend their win streak to two if they can best visiting Princeton at Gerald Prim Stadium on Monday, Jan. 10.
That game kicks off tonight at 7:15 P.M.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Wildcats Soccer Goes 0-2-2 in Forney Tournament
Coach Alexi Upton’s team fought hard Thursday through Saturday in the Forney tournament, but could not stream together wins, going 0-2-2.
The three matches for Wildcats soccer were tough ones. They tied Coach Alexi Upton’s alma mater in Mesquite Poteet 2-2 on Thursday, Jan. 6 in their first regular season contest.
Friday, Jan. 7 provided the men’s soccer squad with two more quality opponents in Ennis and Crandall.
Sulphur Springs lost both of Friday’s contests, first shutout by Ennis 2-0 then getting beat 3-1 by the Pirates.
Edgar Salazar scored the lone goal in the loss to Crandall and was assisted by Jose Rodriguez.
Coach Upton said his varsity squad dominated over all four tournament games but just could not get results. The men’s soccer coach said several coaches come up to the team and said both how good they look and how they perhaps should have won.
Coach Alexi Upton did not attend Saturday’s 1-1 tie with Corsicana, citing illness. The Wildcats soccer coach said he did not attend Saturday’s tourney finale as a precaution.
Defensive/keeper errors, bad luck and an inability to put the ball in the net proved to much to overcome as the Wildcats wrapped up participation in the Forney tournament going 0-2-2.
The men’s soccer coach said his squad will stay positive and keep working. “Results will come,” Coach Upton said.
Next up, Wildcats soccer are back at Gerald Prim Stadium on Tuesday, Jan. 11 when they host Terrell.
That match kicks off on Tuesday at 7:15 P.M. for the varsity. JV2/freshmen and JV precede the varsity at 4 and 5:30 P.M. respectively.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Meal A Day Menu – Jan. 10-14, 2022
Volunteers prepare meals at the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Center and deliver them five days a week to Meal A Day program recipients in Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County. The Meal A Day Menu for Jan. 10-14, 2022, includes:
- Monday – Chicken Parmesan, Egg Noodles, Squash and Garlic Sticks.
- Tuesday – Smothered Beef Patties, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans and a Roll.
- Wednesday – Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole, Corn and Pinto Beans.
- Thursday – Vegetable Beef Soup, Cornbread and Tossed Salad.
- Friday – Poppy Seed Chicken, On a Bed of Rice, Broccoli with Cheese Sauce and a Roll.
The Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Center is a place where Senior Citizens age 50 and over can have a good time with old friends and make some new ones. Meal-A-Day is just one service the center provides. The coffee pot is always on and a smile is on each face. The SCC has a full library with all different kinds of reading books that can be taken, read and returned. Take as many as you like and bring some of your books in to share with others. Click here to find more information for seniors citizens.
NETEX Board Approves 4 Of 5 ROW Matters For Elevon Development
Board Officers Elected, Audit Progressing, Counties Urged To Consider Designating ARP Funding For Replacement Of Cross Ties
Northeast Texas Rural Trasnsportation District (NETEX) Board approved four of the five right-of-way (ROW) related matters from RAMS, Inc. For the Elevon Development being constructed in Collin County.
The NETEX Board his week also elected officers, heard a report on finances and progress of a multi-year audit, and the president urges counties to consider designating American Rescue Plan funding for replacement of cross ties on the railroad.
Elevon Development
The NETEX Board agreed to four of the five ROW related matters presented from RAMS Inc. for Elevon Development, and authorized their attorney and chairman to handle final documents. Approved as recommended were:
- Utility agreements, pipeline and wireline;
- Public road crossing agreements – as a one-time payment per crossing by the developer to NETEX in lieu of future payments at a rate of about $250,000 for Inspiration Grove and $400,000 for Elevon Parkway;
- Support removal of Bear Creek bridge, which has been in disrepair for some time, with support of North East Texas Connector (NETEX rail operator), who would like to salvage some reusable parts of the bridge for emergency repairs or temporary parts, if the dissembled bridge pieces are intact after removal; and
- Stipulations of parties, detailing who holds responsibility and liability for what, and including one addition to be worked out by counsel and chairman.
Board members indicated the private road agreement ROW mattersfor the Elevon Development should be tabled until the next meeting, pending futher negotiation and ironing out of additional matters.
Financial Update
Treasurer Neal Barker on Jan. 6, 2022, reported NETEX received two checks from NETC, one each for August and September car counts, for a deposit of $6,120 for the month of December. NETEX made two payments of $4,500, one per month, to NETC to be applied toward the lease payment for the machine used to cut brush from crossings. NETEX also had a small legal bill. That gives NETEX a balance of $246,277.19, and the money market account balance of $51,755.
Barker also reported that Mike Ward has continued making progress on the audit or three years worth of finances for NETEX. While the audit wasn’t complete by the Jan. 6 NETEX meeting, Ward indicadted he expects to have a report ready to present to the NETEX Board for review at the February meeting.
Hopkins County Commissioners Court, Neal reported, has been talking, trying to figure out a way to provide some additional funding to NETEX to purchase some additional ties for the railroad. He received a check from Hopkins County Jan. 6, 2022, for NETEX in the amount of $25,225. Hopkins County Commissioners Court on Dec. 27, 2021, voted to designate that portion of the American Rescue Plan funding the county received to assist the railroad group with the purchase of cross ties to help improve the railroad.
Although Hopkins County Precinct 1 Commissioner/NETEX Board member Mickey Barker was unable to attend the Jan. 6, 2022 NETEX Board meeting to present the check, Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom and NETEX Treasurer/Hopkins County NETEX Board representative Neal Barker was on hand for the presentation of the $25,225 from Hopkins County to NETEX.
The treasurer said Mickey Barker also wanted to make clear that as far as he and Hopkins County Commissioners Court are concerned the funding is not given for rail improvements in Hopkins County but to purchase cross ties to be installed wherever along the roadway the most ties are needed.
“Give thanks to Mickey whenever you all see him for kind of spearheading that and encouraging me to write letters to each of your county judges, which has been done. Hopefully, as you are considering those ARP fundsand how you might use them, this is an excellent way if you can find some room in your expenditure budget,” NETEX Board President/Chairman Brian Lee said Thursday. “Thank you also Judge Newsom in your role in getting this done. I assume you were not a dessenting vote there.”
“It was unanimous,” Newsom said of Hopkisn County Commissioners Court’s decision to contribute American Rescue Act funding to to NETEX.
“TI appreciate that very much, you taking the lead on that,” Lee said.
Election Of NETEX Officers
The NETEX Board then was asked to elect from members four to serve as officers, who compose the executive team. Entering the meeting, Lee served as president, Cheryl Williams as vice president, Neal Barker as treasurer and Paul Burt as secretary.
One board member asked if the members could simply make a motion to keep the current slate of officers on the board. Lee noted that mixing it up and giving others an opportunity to assume leadership roles on the NETEX Board is recommended.
Lee thanked the other board members for giving him that opportunity for more than one term, but said he was more than willing to pass the president’s baton to another member of the board if any have aspirations of a leadership role. He then asked if those serving as officer at that point wanted off the board.
Neal Barker said he would prefer not to serve yet another term as treasurer of the group. He said NETEX Administrative Assistant to the Board Mitzi Y’Barbo actually does the actual accounting work and provides a report for the treasurer to read aloud. The position requires from less than an hour to about 2 hours a month, and as a member of the executive team, could be called upon by contractors such as Jarrett Mankin of RAMS Inc. or others to answer questions or make calls related to NETEX business to check on things.
Suggested for treasurer were Mickey Barker who lives in Sulphur Springs where a new facility is to be constructed and where the board meets and assistant keeps track of records and business, and Hunt county Precinct 1 Commissioner Mark Hutchins, who had previously indicated a desire to have an active role on the NETEX Board. Neither were able to attend the Jan. 6 meeting, so both were contacted by text message. Hutchins responded with a willingness to serve, and the board unanimously approved the nomination.
Titus County Judge Brian Lee was again elected to serve as president, Collin County Precinct 2 Commissioner Cheryl Williams as vice president and Paul Burt (Delta County) as secretary.
NETC Operators Update
Amanda Fernandez, Northeast Texas Connector Railroad customer service representative, reported that NETC finished the year strong. In December 2021, 116 cars made it through interchange, 2 less than in November 2021. Overall, NETC reported 1,350 cars on the rail from Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2021, NETC’s first full year as rail operator. NETC officially stepped in as rail operator on July 1, 2020, but reported 563 carloads fro July thoruigh December of 2020. From July 1 through Dec. 31, 2021, NETC reported having 628 carloads on the rail, an increase of 65 cars from 2020.
She too reported the average number of inbound cycle days was 2.0, breaking even. Outbound cycle time increased by 0.02 to 4.4 days.
“We did have one derailment in Franklin County, and we were able to get that picked up with no problem and repaired a little bit,” Fernandez said. “It took about 2 days to repair. We had to get a crane in there to help pick up, but no significant damage- or no damage at all – to cars or engine, just a few repairs on the track.”
The derailment occurred just east of Franklin County Road 1020 past the cemetery just off Highway 67 in Franklin County, according to Miguel Fernandez.
Amanda Fernandez also reported 172 ties installed throughout the line, 17 FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) 30 day defects and brush-cut four road crossings: FM 118, FM 2736, CR 4201 and CR 4202.
2 Hopkins County Men Jailed Friday On Felony Warrants
Two Hopkins County men were jailed Friday on felony warrants, according to arrest and jail reports.
David Alan “Toots” Deaton was taken into custody at 8:20 p.m. Jan. 7, 2022, at his Merrell Drive residence by Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Tanner Steward, and Deputies Zack Horne and Drew Fisher, on a possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance warrant. The 51-year-old Sulphur springs man was released from Hopkisn County jail Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022, on a $5,000 bond on the felony charge, according to jail reports. The offense, the deputies noted in arrest reports, was alleged to have occurred on Nov. 9, 2021.
HCSO Deputy Steve Huffman transported John Robert Sievers Jr. to Hopkins County jail, where he was booked Friday, Jan. 7, 2022, on a warrant for continuous sexual abuse of a young child. The 43 year-old Brashear man remained in Hopkins County jail Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022, on the first-degree felony charge, according to jail reports.
Paris District Road Report for January 10, 2022
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district from Jan. 10, 2022. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, Grayson County: Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Thursday night. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
FM 1753, Grayson County: from FM 120 to FM 1897. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and then overlay the roadway.
FS 121 (Grayson Parkway), Grayson County: from the Collin County line to FM 121. Construction is ongoing on this new-location roadway. The new roadway will be two lanes with shoulders and will be an extension of the frontage road of the Dallas North Tollway. Local traffic on CR 60 (Marilee Road) and Stiff Chapel Road should expect occasional road work at those intersections with flaggers present to control traffic.
US 75, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes, bridges, and retaining walls. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91. The northbound Washington Street exit ramp is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Houston/Lamar Street exit ramp. The southbound exit ramp for Park Avenue is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Lamar/Houston Street exit. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
Northbound and Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic has been shifted onto the existing frontage road near West Staples Street and transitions back to the existing mainlanes near West Cherry Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 mainlanes and the bridge over Center Street. Within this area, the US 75 frontage road traffic has been reduced to a single travel lane, while US 75 mainlane traffic still maintains two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic are separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Center Street under US 75 are closed to traffic. To detour, eastbound Center Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Park Avenue, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Center Street. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Houston Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Center Street.
Video animations of the northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch and Center Street detour can be viewed online at:
- Northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLyVQ6rYNhM
- Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Detour for the Center Street closure at US 75: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIMoHaqAFGg
Northbound and Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic has been shifted onto the existing frontage road from just north of Houston Street and transitions back to the existing main lanes south of North Travis Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 main lanes and the bridge over Washington Street. Within this area, the US 75 frontage road traffic has been reduced to a single travel lane, while US 75 mainlane traffic still maintains two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic are separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Washington Street under US 75 are closed to traffic. This closure is necessary to complete work in preparation of the mainlane detour. To detour, eastbound Washington Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Lamar Street, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Washington Street. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on North Travis Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Washington Street.
Video animations of the northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch and Washington Street detour can be viewed online at:
- Northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Detour for the Washington Street closure at US 75:
US 75, Grayson County: at the US 82 intersection. Watch for shoulder closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between North Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street as crews work on building new exit ramps. Watch for shoulder closures and lanes shifts on the eastbound and westbound US 82 main lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews perform bridge construction. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts for the frontage roads at the US 75 and US 82 intersection as crews work on bridge construction and construction of new frontage road lanes.
FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews are working to construct the new roadway pavement. The ultimate roadway will be a four-lane divided section with turn lanes. A reduced speed limit of 45 mph has been set for this construction project.
FM 121, Grayson County: from Jim Jones Road to FM 3356. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to complete the remaining work on the project. Watch for lane shifts and narrow lanes throughout the project as crews have moved traffic to a portion of the new concrete pavement. The ultimate roadway will be a five-lane section consisting of concrete pavement when the project is completed.
US 377, Grayson County: Willis Bridge at the Oklahoma State line. Watch for occasional lane closures on the existing bridge as workers pour concrete for the new bridge structure.
US 377, Grayson County: from US 82 to FM 901. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
US 75 debris pickup, Grayson County: from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday and Wednesday during the nighttime.
FM 996, Grayson County: from FM 120 to FM 1417. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
SH 56, Grayson County, in Southmayd at McElroy Street. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on the roadway.
FM 1753, Grayson and Fannin County: from FM 1897 to SH 78. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
SH 34, Fannin County: from FM 64 to FM 1550. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as workers build the new SH 34 bridge over the future Lake Ralph Hall.
FM 1552, Fannin County: from SH 78 to County Road 3710. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 898, Fannin County: from the Grayson County line to SH 121. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 824, Fannin County: from SH 56 in Honey Grove to the Lamar County line. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 1550, Fannin County: from County Road 3330 to SH 34. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
SH 121, Fannin County: from the Collin County line to SH 56. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
US 82, Fannin County: from SH 121 to the Lamar County Line. Watch for slow-moving construction equipment as crews work reestablishing vegetation on the project. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews complete the remaining work.
FM 68, Fannin County: from SH 78 to SH 34. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway. FM 68 will be closed to through traffic between SH 78 and FM 281 on Jan. 18 in order for maintenance crews to replace a drainage structure across the roadway.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
SH 37, Franklin County: from the elementary school to US 67. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews install sidewalk.
IH 30, Hopkins County: from Hunt County Line to Franklin County Line. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews perform concrete repair.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
SH 37, Red River County: from US 82 to Texas-Oklahoma state line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
US 271, Red River County: from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
FM 906, Lamar County: from FM 2648 to CR 47400. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 38, Lamar County: from US 82 to US 82. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and upgrade bridge rail and metal-beam guard fence.
FM 195, Red River County: from the Lamar County line to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and replace bridge rail.
FM 1487, Red River County: from FM 909 to FM 910. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews widen and rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82, Red River County: from FM 1159 to the Bowie County line. Watch for work zones and drive safely through construction areas as final work is being performed.
Loop 286, Lamar County: from FM 1497 around the North Loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures.
FM 64, Delta County: from FM 128 to SH 1532. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82, Red River County: from FM 44N to FM 44S. Watch for temporary shoulder closures while crews construct safety lighting.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Sidewalk and Curb Ramp Project (several counties): The contractor has set barricades at the Wolfe City, Texas, location. This project will improve pedestrian sidewalks and construct ADA-compliant curb ramps at these locations: Hunt County, SH 34 at Crockett Street to SH 34 at FM 816 in Wolfe City. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 903, Rains County: From US 380 to FM1560. The contractor set barricades and bulletin boards on Dec. 13. The contractor began preparing right-of-way on Dec. 20. Contractor has initiated grading existing ditches at cross structures for rock filter dams and silt fence installation at various locations. Next week contractor will begin temporary shoring.
FM 275, Rains County: from SH 19 to FM 514. The contractor has set barricades and plans to begin preparing the right-of-way soon. The contractor has reworked base material and widened subgrade from Lake Fork Creek to the north for one mile, graded out and prepared for new flex base, and begun hauling base material. The contractor has demolished the bridge and will continue placing flex base on the first mile. Drill shaft installation has begun and five shafts have been completed. Please be aware of lane closures, detours, and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
SH 276, Hunt County: from FM 36 to SH 34 (Quinlan Bypass). The contractor has placed project barricades and has prepared and cleared the right-of-way. Preliminary embankment, excavation, and bridge work has begun with all shafts being completed. This work should not affect existing traffic on SH 34 or SH 276. Roadway construction affecting closures on Spur 264 has begun, this work will affect through-traffic between Meyers Avenue to County Road 2304. Weekend work is to be expected. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
FM 1566, Hunt County: from FM 272 near Celeste to State Highway 34. Contractor is finishing up with Mile 6 to SH 34 this week, geo-grid has been installed in the lane areas. 8 inches of flex base is nearly complete. Dallas Lite and Barricade will be performing traffic control at the intersection of SH-34 and FM-1566.Contractor is compacting and grading the roadway, preparing for density testing and prime coat. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
Maintenance crews in Hunt County will be performing seal coat preparation on FM 816 north of Wolfe City from SH 34 to the County line. Crews will be performing potholing at various locations in Hunt County. Maintenance contract crews will be performing debris removal on I-30 and guard rail repair at various locations around Hunt County. Please be careful when traveling in these areas, watch out for workers and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
Maintenance crews in Rains County will be performing seal coat prep work on IH 30 south frontage road from CR3102 to FM 1737. Crews will be performing various sign installations, potholing, edging, and debris removal. Maintenance crews will be performing herbicide operations on various roadways. Please watch for lane closures, work zones and workers along the roadway, and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
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City Hiring Expert To Help Determine How Best To Maximize Fire Department Resources And Maintain ISO Rating
The City of Sulphur Springs is hiring an expert to help determine how best to maximize fire department resources while still maintaining the city’s ISO rating. Essentially, Mike Pietsch of P.E. Consulting Services in Garland is being tasked with evaluating and recommending where best to locate existing and future required fire stations based on Sulphur Springs’ present city limits.
While city staff feel they’ve answered some of the questions involved in that determination, an expert is needed to be sure all important factors have been considered, Maxwell noted.
“We are looking at a good portion of the Thermo site to be an industrial park … so that brings up the question how we are going to provide fire services to that industrial area and as well as the rest of the city of Sulphur Springs and still maintain our ISO that’s 2 rated,” explained Sulphur Springs City Manager Marc Maxwell said.
Currently, Sulphur Springs Fire Department has two stations: Station 1 or Central Fire Station, located at 627 Church St. facing Bonner Street; and Station 2, located at 1100 Gilmer, across street from CVS on the other side of the traffic lights at the Gilmer, Bill Bradford Road and Lynda Drive, and the Tennessee Street and Gilmer Broadway Street split.
“What we don’t want to do right away is build a third station. We’d like to relocate a station and then, the next phase on that would be to build a third station as Thermo develops. We don’t know if that’s possible, and if possible, how that happens,” the city manager said.
After doing some research, Pietsch was identified as the “premiere guy” in his field. The consultant’s services and expertise continued to be recommended by officials in other agencies across the region who have already conducted similar evaluations for their service area.
Sulphur Springs Fire Chief David James said those in the area of Terrell and Rockwall have utilized his services. Thus far, of the 15 departments he knows of that have used the Pietsch, James said he’s talked to officials at 10 who have all been “very pleased with him.” The consultant’s background make him uniquely qualified to know the ins and outs of ISO and these issues; Pietsch retired after 30 years with ISO, then started PE Consulting Services 12-15 years ago.
The object will be for Pietsch to evaluate the city, for current and future fire service needs, and make a recommendation on the best location for the current fire services, with a goal of maintanining the city’s current ISO rating of 2, which can help residents and businesses hundred, potentially thousands in insurance costs annually, if at all possible.
One thing Sulphur Springs Place 1 City Councilman Jay Julian said would be interested in knowing whether moving one or both of the city’s fire stations would cost the city one or more ISO rating point, and how much extra that would likely cost property owners and renters in insurance costs.
Maxwell indicated Pietsch likely will be able to answer that question or at least give a good estimate, as well as other questions city officials might have, including whether a city can have a split rating, and if that’s possible, how that would work. The city manager expressed confidence in Pietsch’s abilty to answer these types of questions and point out other factors that city officials may not have considered.
Hopkins County Records – Jan. 7, 2022
Land Transactions
- Amy Waddell to Ross-Gill Farm LLC; tract in the Stephen Churchill survey
- Randall Mark Clark to Randall Mark Clark and Regina Patricia Clark, trustees for the RGC Living Trust U T D; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Randall Mark Clark to Randall Mark Clark and Regina Patricia Clark, trustees for the RGC Living Trust U T D; tract in the Calvin Click survey
- Glynda Jean Waters to GJ Waters Trust, Glynda Jean Waters trustee; tract in the MG Shoemaker survey
- Barry Ray Moore and Douglas Ray Moore to Buckhead Energy LLC and Lazy S Minerals LLC; tract in the Simon Derrick survey
- Shirley J. Hamilton estate, Tracie L. Hamilton independent executor, to Tracie L. Hamilton and Marjories S. Troyer; tract in the EP Gaines survey
- Kevin Willard to Jacob R. Poole; tract in the J Lee survey
- Bobbie Gordon and David Gordon to Brenda Walker and Scotty Walker; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Christopher L. Hill and Sharon E. Hill to James Crisamore and Rachael Crisamore; tract in the Nacogdoches University survey
- Cedar Ridge Egg Farm LLC to Gregory Scott Smith and Shellie Lyn Smith; tract in the William B. Jordan survey
- Kelly Jack Broyeles and Linda Gayle Broyeles to Courtney Brown and Ty Brown; tract in the Alexander Richey survey
- Robin Hemani and Frank Hemani, doing business as Star Mart, to Growth One Busines LLC; tract in the E Melton survey
- Billie M. Evans to 100 MPH + Property Management LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- David L. Hass to Clinton Ray Bradford and Jodi Lynn Bradford; tract in the Precious Seats survey
- Clifford Barrett Littleton and Shannon Littleton to Olivia Pinion Powell; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Nancy E. Tubb and Steven D. Tubb to Landon L. Overly and Lexi R. Overly; tract in the James Hawkins survey
- Ngoan Thi Tran to Van Thi Kieu Dinh, Thi Kim Oanh Do and TND Group Investment LLC
- Micheal Pearson to The Pearson Family Trust, Michael Reynolds Pearson trustee
- Aubrey D. Jenkins Trust, Michael J. Hastings trustee, to Odice Jenkins; tract in the E. Esparsa survey
- Lawrence Ray Chambly Estate, Texas Bank And Trust Company independent executor, to Debra Aldridge; tract in the Ira Stephenson survey
Applications for Marriage Licenses
- Joseph Chase Lucas and Elizabeth Dayle Singelton
- Juan Resendiz Mendieta and Tabitha Michelle Renner
- Carlos Alonso Nava and Jessica Mendez
- Javard O. Clayton McGill and Destiny Mariona Conley
- Carlos Ray Barela and Sherry Denise Dean
