During the March 28 meeting of the Austin County Commissioners Court, a discussion was held regarding the installation of security cameras at the Precinct 1, 3 and 4 barns. Theft in the Precinct 4 barn led Commissioner Chip Reed to look into the cost of getting security cameras around the building.

“Each camera is about $250 and $250 for cabling and installation. In my barn alone, he recommended six cameras and a monitor to put it on which is between $300 to $400 bucks. So you are looking at about $3,400-$3,500,” Reed said.

The court held a discussion regarding the installation of a stop sign at Barbara Street in Wallis. Reed motioned for the court to accept the traffic study which passed unanimously. A public hearing was scheduled for the April 11 commissioner’s court meeting.

During court, the topic of adding security personnel to the Justice Center was discussed. Sheriff Jack Brandes addressed the court and said they are in need of extra personnel for security reasons, like running a metal detector and other court needs.

“We checked outside sources and they probably wouldn’t send them here for the hours because sometimes the courts get canceled the morning of court,” Brandes said. “We talked it over and we think the best fix is to give us three more full-time deputy positions. We will tailor those positions to work around the court schedule.”

Brandes said there is enough money to fund these positions for the rest of the budget year. Lamp motioned to approve the three new deputy positions, which passed unanimously.