Aug. 5 COVID-19 Update: 6 New Cases, 7 Recoveries For Hopkins County
Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom announced 6 new positive COVID-19 cases and seven recoveries for Hopkins County at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5.
That’s 32 new cases and 37 recoveries reported so far this week, including 1 new case on Sunday, 12 on Monday and 13 Tuesday. Hopkins County Emergency Management officials reported 30 recoveries on Monday and 7 today.
That brings the overall cumulative total to 184 COVID-19 cases since mid March. Of those, 135 Hopkins County residents have recovered, leaving 49 active cases of COVID-19 in Hopkins County on Aug. 5 according Newsom.
Four patients were also reported to be in the COVID-19 unit at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital-Sulphur Springs on Aug. 5, one more than on Tuesday but still four less than Sunday. There were no patients on ventilators in the COVID-19 unit on Aug. 5, HCEM officials reported.
Texas Department of State Health Services and Texas Health and Human Services Commission’s dashboard continues to show one fatality for Hopkins County. The death was first reported on the DSHS/HHS dashboard on July 29. The DSHS “COVID-19 Total Fatalities by County” spreadsheet shows the fatality to have been assigned to Hopkins County on July 23.
Hopkins County Emergency Management officials still report neither they or regional DSHS officials have received any information regarding any COVID-19 deaths of Hopkins County residents.
Texas Health and Human Services reports show as of July 22 no patients in Sulphur Springs nursing homes and assisted living facilities had contracted COVID-19 since the state began collecting the data. HHS reports two cumulative positive cases among employees but no active cases as of the July 22 report date at local nursing homes. An employee at the facility was reported from July 13-20 as actively having COVID-19. All data in this report is 2 weeks behind so that information self-reported by these facilities can be entered and error-checked, according to DSHS
Sulphur Springs City Council Approves 380 Agreement Policy Change Providing Infill Housing Incentives
Sulphur Springs City Council Tuesday evening approved an a zoning amendment and an incentive agreement which the city manager anticipates will help with street and infrastructure maintenance and costs, and provide homes on under-developed or under-utilized areas of town.
The city has for a while had trouble maintaining street, only able to afford repairs at half the rate of decay. A street maintenance fee added to city water bills has increased funding for additional repairs annually. While helpful, the city does not receive enough revenues to fully keep up with the rate of deterioration of streets. A zoning amendment to allow accessory dwelling units and a change to the 380 agreement policy should help both. The agreement also offers incentives for home construction on certain lots as well.
380 Policy Agreement Amendment
Resolution 1205, approved Tuesday amends the city’s 380 policy agreement, adding economic incentives for specific housing infill development. Essentially, builders would utilize existing infrastructure to provide affordable housing using existing infrastructure, and would be eligible for a refund of some fees. The new construction would extend the tax base utilizing the existing infrastructure.
“Most new housing developments today don’t make sense in a financial sustainability of the city in the long run as the cost often exceeds revenue,” Community Development Director Tory Niewiadomski told the council at their 7 p.m. meeting, conducted via Zoom and broadcast on the city’s YoutTube channel, Tuesday, Aug. 4.
Niewiadomski said city staff identified about 900 vacant properties in the city limits. While not all of those properties are able to be developed. Some don’t meet the terms for the “specific housing infill policy,” because of inadequate access to existing city-maintained streets, water and sewer infrastructures. Some have not been developed because they have construction challenges such as liens due to back taxes, cost of removal of dilapidated structures.
Maxwell emphasizes this is only for building constructed on lots located on city maintained streets. Existing lots on streets that are not developed or city-maintained would not be eligible.
The city identified a geographic area that includes most of the city, including properties between State Highway 19 go Loop 301 and north of Interstate 30 with a few exceptions. Lots meeting set criteria within that area may be eligible for which 380 infill housing agreements, according to Niewiadomski.
Those approved for the 380 agreement would have three years to complete the construction project.
As an incentive for developing on these underdeveloped or underutilized lots, the city would reimburse certain fees upon completion of the home. Those granted the agreement would pay these fees up front, upon completion the city would reimburse them. Among the items the city would reimburse would be permitting fees, water and sewer tap fees, delinquent taxes owed to the city and liens. The city also under the amended 380 terms could participate in demolition costs associated with clearing a lot to redevelop a single family house on it, or other incentives deemed necessary to carry out the intent of the program.
“This will help promote incremental growth, in neighborhoods not seen in recent years. It will put additional back on the city tax base. The incentives will be recouped within 1 to 2 years,” Nieiwiadomski siad.
“We want builders and realtors to know about this program,” Maxwell said. ” This is for builders really, not developers. They pay the fees and we refund them on completion. There’s no loss to the city. We will recover any fes through collection of property taxes from there on. It’s a win for the taxpayers, Tehy do not have to carry the burden of street upkeep. As others come in, they will help carry the burden,” Maxwell said.
Councilman Doug Moore asked if county, school and hospital district officials have been contacted to see if they too would be offering a similar 380 agreement.
Maxwell noted that in conversations with County Judge Robert Newsom, he had indicated a willingness for the county to also offer a similar incentive. Superintendent Michael Lamb, Maxwell said, seem willing but wasn’t sure if school regulations would allow it.
The city council then approved two resolutions authorizing eligible 380 agreements for property located at 943 Putman St. and 206 West Backham St. The applicant plans to construct a single family home on each lot, but sought relief for delinquent taxes owed on the property, according to Niewiadomski fall within the scope of the 380 policy.
ADU Zoning Amendment
The City Council also approved on first reading a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance to allow for accessory dwelling units, which will also utilize existing infrastructure and provide additional housing.
This would allow a smaller secondary structure to be constructed in the back yard or over a garage of a primary structure. Often called granny flats, in-law suits, backyard cottages and garage apartments, these structures would need to match the appearance of the original structure on lots of less than 2 acres.
The ADU would have to meet all other terms for the primary structure and property, including setback and parking requirements of the principle structure. The ADU would also tie into the existing utilities infrastructure, but provide additional tax dollars. An ADU may be attached to existing structures, detached or conversions of existing space. They would need to be constructed on permanent foundations
The owner would be required to live in one of the two structures. There would be deed restriction for the property.
Following 8 months of discussion, the Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing regarding the proposed ADU zoning change. There were no public comments. The P&Z recommended the zoning amendment proposal to the City Council. City staff too recommended the policy change for ADUs, as a way to provide new development while utilizing existing infrastructure while increasing revenue per square foot of frontage, bringing in more revenue to maintain that infrastructure.
“We think this is a sensible way of doing it. This is the way cities used to be done a long time ago until for some reason we started prohibiting. We wholeheartedly recommend this policy change,” Maxwell told the council.
“I think this is a fabulous things for us to take advantage of,” Councilman Freddie Taylor said.
Taylor described this type of smaller dwelling as a “great opportunity” for grandparents, parents and adult children to live close but still maintain their independence.
The city council approved the proposed zoning ordinance change to allow ADUs that meet city criteria to be constructed on the same property as another structure. The proposed ordinance amendment will need to be read and approved a second time in order for it to become effective.
North Hopkins ISD’s New Athletic Director Announced
Superintendent Darin Jolly today announced the selection of Kelley Clark as North Hopkins ISD‘s new athletic director.
“He is replacing the legendary Coach Jeff Bell, who he assisted for the past three years in the boys basketball program at North Hopkins ISD. Coach Bell resigned in July to be closer to family in the Weatherford area and will be coaching Basketball in Graford ISD. Coach Clark is a positive, focused, and diligent servant-leader who will passionately coach and make a difference as he continues the momentum of the boys basketball program and coordinate Athletics in North Hopkins,” Dr. Jolly stated in a release Wednesday morning, Aug. 5.
Vote Winnsboro Farmer’s Market as ‘Best’ During Ntl. Farmers Market Celebration!
In a big way, the City of Winnsboro is getting behind the farm-to-table aspect of a healthy lifestyle. Why not see for yourself, then vote for the Winnsboro Farmers Market! Voting is easy, just go to www.markets.farmland.org and search for Winnsboro Farmers Market.
Haven’t been to the Winnsboro Farmers Market yet? Well, you’ve still got time! Between 8am and 12 noon each Saturday, the City devotes two blocks of downtown street so that growers can present their produce directly to shoppers. There’s a fun and healthy vibe to this market, which usually has twenty or more vendors weekly. Right now, stroll through and find season-ready produce like freshly picked peas, peppers from mild to hot, okra, tomatoes large and small, lettuces and greens, cantaloupe and other melons, as well as peaches and more favorite summer produce.
Vendor stalls offer wide variety: chicken and duck eggs, pasture fed poultry, fresh flowers, plants, honey, homemade breads, gluten-free snacks, jams, pickles and relishes, fresh herbs and lavender, and scented soaps and lotions. Often, woodcarvers work while offering all-natural artwork, and weekly, a knife sharpener sets up his booth where you can bring your cutlery and tools to be sharpened. Masks are frequently worn by shoppers, but not required in the open-air setting. Many bring their dogs on leashes and enjoy the outing in a casual atmosphere. At times, there is live music on market morning.
Winnsboro Parks and Recreation Director Stacy Finley says, “Now more than ever, what you put on your fork matters. Access to fresh, healthy, local food has become more important than ever. Farmers markets, including Winnsboro Farmers Market, have and will continue to provide this essential service to communities across the nation.
“To recognize the vital role of farmers markets, the national nonprofit American Farmland Trust is holding its Farmers Market Celebration again this year. This year marks AFT’s 12th consecutive year showcasing the essential markets across the nation making a difference for farmers, ranchers, and communities. Endorsing Winnsboro Farmers Market this summer can help earn it national recognition and cash prizes.
“The most powerful tool we have to support our local farmers and food economies is our fork. Farmers and food businesses rely on farmers markets to connect directly with you as consumers. Now is your opportunity to show your support for of these essential markets. WFM is now 12th in the nation in this contest, so shoppers already know that it’s a gold standard for farmers markets in the area. If you haven’t been to the market before, here are a few reasons why this market deserves nationwide recognition: Everything sold at WFM is grown/produced/baked/canned by LOCAL hands, assuring customers they are getting the freshest products available & that their hard-earned dollars are staying in their own community & supporting the efforts of LOCAL farms. Here’s the link to vote; www.markets.farmland.org
So, come and enjoy the wholesome feel of a living ‘farmers market’ where you buy directly from the grower or producer. On the second Saturday of each month, we also welcome Crafts vendors which expands the unique selections you’ll find. It’s fun, it’s upbeat and has almost a bazaar feel to it. Some vendors set up colorful canopies while others just sell off the tailgate of their truck. Come to ‘The Bowery’ in downtown Winnsboro across from the Depot, and get there early when the selections are best! You’ll love it, and you’ll be back!
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SSISD Trustees Approve Technology Purchase Agreement
Sulphur Springs ISD trustees, during a called emergency meeting conducted via Zoom Tuesday, Aug. 4, approved an agreement with Region 04 Education Service Center for technology purchases.
Essentially, the inter-local acquisition agreement makes SSISD eligible to apply for SSISD 600 new iPads for SSISD fourth and fifth graders but only pay about half the cost.
A goal of the district is to have enough devices to provide all students with one. Not only would this meet the state’s requirements to transition to all online testing of the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) exams. It would also, in the event of a necessary closure of campuses due to COVID-19, other health concerns, weather or other extenuating circumstances, the district could easily shift all students to online learning.
SSISD had planned to purchase new laptops for fourth and fifth grades in the next budget; administrators had weighed the cost and benefits of iPads versus laptops for this age level. While laptops would cost extra per device, they come with attached keyboards, which would allow them to be used for writing. IPad purchases would require the additional cost of keypads as well, and the laptops likely could provide additional options not available on the iPads if the district chose to add those options.
For fourth and fifth grades, the district anticipated purchasing 600 devices. That’s exactly the amount of iPads district administrators were notified SSISD could likely qualify for through a funding program. The iPads would come with cases and keypads for typing. The district would receive them at half the estimated $250,000 anticipated to be budgeted for the laptop purchases.
Half of the cost would come from funds available through the federal government, with the state filtering this part of funding to schools through Region 04 ESC. An inter-local agreement is needed with Region 04, and had to be approved Aug. 4 to apply for funding assistance, superintendent explained.
The state is able to obtain the devices in bulk for the entire state. It’s unclear if they would be ready and in by Sept. 1. The date of receipt of the 600 iPads will depend on when that purchase will hit the district fund balance, in the 2019-2020 budget or the anticipated 2020-21 budget.
Trustees also previously gave approval for SSISD to apply for other federal funding to help reimburse some of costs the district is incurring to ensure all SSISD students can have a iPad, laptop or similar device to use in class but also take home in the event in-person classes have to be canceled, as well as other connectivity needs.
Sulphur Springs ISD earlier this summer approved the purchase of 1,400 iPads so that students up through grade 3. Those devices have been purchased and are in, being readied for distribution soon.
Additional keypads may have to be purchased for third graders to use with their iPads depending on STAAR and other future needs.
More hot spots are needed to better meet students’ connectivity needs for online learning as well. The district currently pays a monthly fee to Verizon for hot spots, but needs additional hot spots. The district is looking at adding 100 additional hot spots from AT&T, in the hope that service will be available to students in areas with no Verizon service. The district completed a survey seeking some federal funding to help with that cost.
If the funding doesn’t come through from the federal sources for these connectivity and technology purchases, there are a few other grant funding sources the district may pursue to help, Lamb noted.
CANHelp Back to School Fair Traffic Map
Parents/Guardians should have received emails on Tuesday evening if they registered their child/children for backpacks and school supplies from CANHelp’s 2020 Hopkins County Back to School Fair. Just a reminder that the pickup date is Friday, August 7th, 2020 from 3pm-6pm at the Sulphur Springs Middle School located at 835 Wildcat Way. Below are a few details that everyone will need to know:
- You will enter the event from CR 1103 as shown above in the traffic map.
- Signs and people will be posted to guide you.
- It is a DRIVE THRU event. You will stay inside your vehicle at all times.
- Please DO NOT line up before 3pm. You may be turned back if you do.
- You must have preregistered to attend and receive backpacks/school supplies.
- Please bring your identification.
- Each car will also receive a family bag of community resource information, free sno-cone coupons from The Pink Stand, goodies, and other fun stuff!
The fair will have a small number of vendors handing out items as well as drinks provided by Starbucks. If parents/guardians (or someone they have previously designated) are not able to attend to pick up the child/children’s backpacks and supplies, please let CANHelp know prior to Friday.
Due to COVID-19, CANHelp is taking the necessary precautions for our staff, volunteers, and exhibitors. Everyone will be wearing masks and some will be wearing gloves. Thank you for understanding and working with us to keep everyone safe. While CANHelp is not able to provide a full-scale event as in year’s past, they are happy to still be able to provide the students with the necessary supplies to start school thanks to the generous sponsors throughout our communities as well as The Supply Kit.
If a parent did not receive their email, CANHelp suggests checking your spam or junk folder. If you have any questions, please email CANHelp at [email protected] or call 903-885-9797 ext. 3.
CANHelp also suggests avoiding Wildcat Way in you do not have to travel in that direction in case of very heavy traffic.
Looking forward to an amazing event!
It’s Time For The 5th Annual Chamber Of Commerce Photography Contest
BY LEZLEY BROWN, CEO/President, Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce
I know that you are all wondering about the 2020 Stew Contest, and whether or not it will be cancelled. The answer is … we don’t know yet, but the Chamber is doing everything in our power to plan this year’s stew in a way that will keep everyone safe. Cooks’ letters have been mailed out this week. Once we know how many cooks will be cooking in the contest, we will take our safety and logistics plan to our city and county officials. We will all sit down together to make a decision.
Until then, we have something fun for you! Last year, we sold a very limited number of shirts that we named Stew + 75482. We are bringing these back by popular demand! These are not the shirts that will be sold for the 51st Annual Contest (BRACE yourself for those!), but these shirts celebrate Stew and the location in which it is held. You may purchase these in short sleeves, long sleeves, and hoodies; and you may choose light grey or royal blue. Call the Chamber to place your order! Deadline to order is Friday, Aug. 14 by noon.
It’s time for the 5th Annual Chamber of Commerce Photography Contest! Let me review the basics. Anyone of any age can enter as we have a children’s category. The picture must be newer than Jan. 1, 2018 and must have been taken in Hopkins County. The contest will be open from Aug. 1 to Aug. 31. There are seven categories you may enter: Natural World, Travel, People, The Hopkins County Experience, Altered Images, Mobile, and Children’s Category. Only digital images are accepted (no prints). To submit your photograph, email the picture to [email protected]. Rules and releases will be available on the Chamber of Commerce website. I cannot wait to see your beautiful photos!
Kjc Beauty Supply is hosting a ribbon cutting celebration
Kjc Beauty Supply, located at 1217 Broadway St. in Sulphur Springs, is hosting a ribbon cutting celebration on Monday, Aug. 10, at noon. Please make plans to stop by to learn about this new business and welcome them to Hopkins County. Please wear a mask if attending.
Goodwill is hosting a bottled water drive
Goodwill is having a Bottled Water Donation Drive from July 15 through Aug. 15. They are collecting cases of water (6 bottles and up) to deliver to the homeless shelters and food banks. They will accept water donations at our local store located at 1320 West Shannon Road in Sulphur Springs.
Ribbon Cutting
Wynar Unique Living held their ribbon cutting celebration
Wynar Unique Living held their ribbon cutting celebration on Friday, July 31, at noon. They are located at 143 Lee Street in Sulphur Springs. Wynar is a service that cares for elderly patients who are unable to live at home alone but are not ready to move into a skilled care facility.
Business Highlight
During the year 2020, The Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce is highlighting a business each week.
Please join me in congratulating our Business of the Week for Aug. 6, La Quinta Inn and Suites. You can read biographical stories at the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce’s Facebook page and Instagram page.
CHRISTUS Welcomes A New Orthopedic Surgeon
By Holly Ragan, MS, Senior Market Development, CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs, [email protected]
Sulphur Springs, Texas, August 4, 2020 — CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs has ONE mission: To Extend the Health Ministry of Jesus Christ.
Anticipating the arrival of Chris Meltsakos, MD, Orthopedic Surgery | Sports Medicine
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital- Sulphur Springs is excited to welcome Dr. Chris Meltsakos, our new Orthopedic Surgeon with fellowship training in Sports Medicine. Dr. Meltsakos is a graduate of Boston University with a Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology. He subsequently obtained his medical degree from New York Medical College. Dr. Meltsakos completed his orthopedic surgery residency at New York Medical College at Westchester Medical Center. He completed his subspecialty training in Sports Medicine at the University Of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
Dr. Meltsakos will be accepting new patients at 103B Medical Circle, beginning on Monday, Sept. 7.
Speaking of Sports Medicine, our FREE Saturday Walk-In Clinic for school athletes is just around the corner. The Saturday sports clinic will be held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., on Aug. 22 through Nov. 14. Athletes will get an exam and free x-ray to determine a plan of care to treat their injury. The location will be the CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic Orthopedic
Office at 103B Medical Circle in Sulphur Springs.
For more information about our Sports Medicine program, or Orthopedic services, please call our office at 903.885.6688.
Hospital Visitation
For the safety and health of the community and our ministry, CHRISTUS Health is screening all associates and visitors to our hospitals to help lessen the risk of infectious disease transmission among our patients, associates, and guests.
- 1 Entrance to hospital through Emergency Department 24/7
- 1 Visitor per patient
- Visitors must be between the ages of 16 years-old and 65-years old
- All visitors are screened at the door, including a temperature taken
- All associates are screened at each shift, including a temperature taken
- Visiting hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (subject to change)
- ALL hospital visitors are required to wear a mask. Visitors should bring their own mask; homemade cloth masks are acceptable.
COVID-19 Testing — Experiencing Symptoms?
If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, cough, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, chills, muscle pain or headache, or diarrhea, please call your provider for either a face-to-face appointment or a telemedicine consultation. If your provider determines you need to have a COVID-19 test, they will send you to the appropriate outpatient location for testing.
If you are experiencing an emergency, please present to the Emergency Room. At this time, we are preserving our Emergency Room COVID-19 tests for those who are experiencing an emergency. Otherwise, we would ask that you follow the steps above.
If you do not have a healthcare provider, CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic welcomes new patients. Please call 903.885.3181 to talk to one of our associates about setting up an appointment.
Don’t Delay Care
We want to be perfectly clear – CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances remains a safe place for all to receive quality care. Go to the Emergency Department or call 9-1-1 if you are urgently ill.
While COVID-19 is new, our processes and procedures in place for infection prevention and preventing the spread of illness are not. To learn more about COVID-19, go to ChristusTMF.org or www.cdc.gov.
Hearts of Life Presents Leo and Tigger
“Leo and Tigger are four month old domestic shorthair kittens. The brothers were found and raised together. Leo and Tigger complement each other perfectly with Leo’s rambunctious and playful nature along with Tigger’s more reserved and lazy attitude. The two work best as a team and, because of that, should be adopted together. To help get them adopted together, the adoption fee is $100 total for the pair which includes all previous vetting, neuter and rabies shots. For adoption, these kittens can be found at PetSense in Sulphur Springs. For more information on all animals available, please contact Hearts of Life Animal Rescue by phone at 903-439-5019, email at [email protected], Facebook.com/heartsoflife or Petfinder.com.”
Aug. 4 Update: 13 New COVID-19 Cases, 50 Active Cases Reported For Hopkins County
The number of positive COVID-19 cases in Hopkins County continued to spike this week. Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom announced 13 new positive COVID-19 cases for Hopkins County at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4.
That follows a day in which 12 new cases and 30 recoveries were reported. That’s 26 new cases and 30 recoveries reported so far this month.
That brings the overall cumulative total to 178 COVID-19 cases since mid March. Of those, 128 Hopkins County residents have recovered, leaving 50 active cases of COVID-19 in Hopkins County on Aug. 4 according to Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom.
Three patients were also reported to be in the COVID-19 unit at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital-Sulphur Springs on Aug. 4, one less than on Monday and four less than Sunday. There were no patients on ventilators in the COVID-19 unit on Aug. 4, Hopkins County Emergency Management Coordinator Andy Endsley reported.
Texas Department of State Health Services and Texas Health and Human Services Commission since July 29 has continued to show on the COVID-19 fatality data dashboard one COVID-19 fatality for Hopkins County. The DSHS “COVID-19 Total Fatalities by County” spreadsheet shows the fatality to have been assigned to Hopkins County on July 23.
Hopkins County Emergency Management officials on Aug. 4 continue to report that neither local emergency management officials nor regional DSHS officials have received any information regarding any COVID-19 deaths of Hopkins County residents.
There were no reports available for nursing homes or assisted living centers on Aug. 4. The report should have reflected employee and resident patient cases and deaths, as the counts are 2 weeks behind. However, according to HHS, “Due to an automation issue, data was not consolidated or reported on July 21, 2020.”
