KAUFMAN COUNTY—During the regular Kaufman County Commissioners Court meeting held April 30, the county approved the purchase of mitigation credits. An environmental study conducted for the State Highway (SH) 34 and US Highway (US HWY) 175 connector road determined that a negative impact to the wetlands was discovered. Because of the negative impact to the wetlands, the US Corps of Engineers requires a mitigation purchase from a mitigation bank to decrease negative impact to the wetlands.
Also approved during the meeting was the acceptance of dedication and conveyance of land from Kaufman Economic Development Corporation, immediately adjacent to the Kaufman County Justice Center, for public use including future development of SH 34 and US HWY 175 connector road. 
Commissioners also spoke with Robert Hunter and Friends of the Kaufman County Veterans Memorial Park about the acceptance of a donation from Nucor Building Systems for a 40 by 40 pavilion kit. The value of the pavilion kit is $33,000 and would provide coverage for veteran events and other park events for the public. 
Commissioners also approved changes to the county’s purchasing policy. Purchase orders would no longer be required for anything under $500.00 but would be required for all purchases over $500.00. Commissioners and the county auditor were eager to approve a more simplified process. 
In other business, the court:
• Accepted the Commissioner’s Quarterly Report for Kaufman County’s Extension Office. 
• Approved Funding options for the historical courthouse renovation. 
• Approved an interlocal agreement and project for the City of Oak Grove. 
• Approved redesign of the county parking behind the Annex to facilitate a loading dock for both county and private business use. 
• Approved a resolution proclaiming the month of May as Mental Health Awareness Month. 
• Approved the replat of Lot 4A of Meadow Ranch Estates Phase II, located on County Road 4061 in Precinct 4. 
• Approved entering into a project agreement the City of Kemp to mow on Tolosa Road, project totaling $230.32. 
• Approved a resolution to request the City of Mabank annex County Road Chaparral as a city road. 
• Approved the purchase of a Lenco Bearcat armored vehicle for Kaufman County Sheriff’s Department utilizing GSA Contract: GS-07F-169DA and per Sole Source letter from vendor. 
• Approved the purchase of a 3/4 ton truck for Pct. 2 road and bridge utilizing TIPS Cooperative Contract Number 23082. 
• Approved claims for payment in the amount of $3,052,904.51.