Commissioners bar pets, except service animals, from courthouse

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Marlene J. Bohr
 
Pet owners will no longer be able to visit the courthouse with a pet in tow, unless the animal is a certified service animal. Morris County Commissioners passed the agenda item at their June 9 meeting. 
 
“This has been on our list for awhile,” Judge Lynda Munkres said. “Before anything happens, we thought we should have a policy. This bars any animals in the courthouse unless it is a service animal.”
 
The commissioners also approved a resolution to oppose the proposed new rule by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the United States Army Corp of Engineers to expand the regulatory definition of ‘waters of the United States.’ 
 
In other business, no action was taken on a request for training funds from James Garner, veterans’ service officer. Mr. Garner took 19 courses in house on his own time instead of traveling for training.
 
“I sure appreciate having other guys in counties around us that work in the same capacity,” Mr. Garner said. “I appreciate the commissioners’ court. You guys are really supportive of the programs. I am here regarding training expenses. The first week in April we were shocked at the VA and on the problems they are having. They are bringing this down to us on this travel. The Texas Veterans Commission has authorized by the Texas Legislature and oversees and make sure our veterans receive their discharge. I have received notice that my training as a service officer that says you will not come to training in the spring, and that is when I take my certification. I have to take many tests every year. I have maintained the process because these people can terminate me. I had 19 courses on the computer. There is a final that will be coming also.
 
“There is $950 that I am asking for since I stayed here and did not go for training.”
 
In other matters, the commissioners approved the auto liability, collision and general liability with the Texas Association of Counties. They also added uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.
 
The following were recognized for certificates of completion:
 
Larry Betts, emergency management coordinator, for completing the 2014 Northeast Texas emergency management Healthcare Conference.
 
Larry Betts for completing pipeline emergencies technician level training.
 
Nita Traylor, county treasurer, for completing 20 hours education instruction during the 42nd annual county treasurers’ continuing education seminar. 
 
Shanna Solomon, county auditor, for 21.2 hours continuing education program 56th county auditors’ institute.
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