An example of Smith County’s new armored vehicle, designed for improved maneuverability in tight spaces, is set to enhance safety during high-risk operations. (Contributed Photo)

Smith County Commissioners on Tuesday approved a plan to save money and simplify purchasing, which includes using a cooperative and buying an armored vehicle for safety in high-risk situations.

By joining the Florida Sheriff’s Association Cooperative, the county can save money, reduce paperwork and make the buying process easier. Using the cooperative, Smith County will buy a Terradyne Armored Vehicle costing $389,420 and paid for with Senate Bill 22 funds.

Capt. Jason Railsback said the new vehicle, purchased at the county level, will have fewer restrictions on its use compared to the existing one, which is part of a federal lease program with limitations. The new vehicle will be free from presidential orders that could restrict its use.

“The president can’t limit our ability to use this in a life or death situation, with this armored vehicle it is used for our purposes under our policies and procedures,” Railsback said.

This smaller armored vehicle is designed for better maneuverability in tight, compact neighborhoods with narrow roadways, making it ideal for rescue situations.

In addition to purchasing a new vehicle, the county is also approving claims for totaled law enforcement vehicles.

The commissioners approved an insurance payment from the Texas Association of Counties to cover the loss of a 2020 Chevrolet Suburban used by the Smith County Sheriff’s Office. The vehicle was badly damaged after a county employee hydroplaned on Loop 49.

The total settlement amount was $24,365, but the county had to pay a $2,500 deductible. Before deciding the car couldn’t be fixed, the insurance company sent an initial payment of $9,071.56 based on the first repair estimate. After a closer look, the insurance adjuster declared the car a total loss. To finish the claim, the county will get a final payment of $12,793.44.

The county is also addressing retirements, new staff and appointments to various boards and commissions.

On March 12, the District Judges of Smith County approved the appointment of Karin Smith as the new Smith County Auditor, starting on April 14 for a two-year term. The order also sets her salary at $162,642. Ann Wilson, the current county auditor, will retire on April 13.

The commissioners approved the appointment of new members to the Animal Shelter Advisory Board for a two-year term, beginning on May 1, and ending on April 30, 2027.

The court increased the size of the Smith County Historical Commission from seven members to nine members, and added two more members to help with preserving the county’s history. Kevin McCall, who lives near Bullard in Precinct 1, and Vickie Betts, who lives near Lindale in Precinct 3, were added to the commission.

The commission will meet regularly at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. They have also set up five committees with chairs to lead them. They are still working on updating their bylaws, but they plan to have them ready for county review and approval by April 8.

In other business:

• The commissioners approved a legal services contract related to child welfare cases, ensuring the county has the necessary support for these matters and a contract with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS).

• The commissioners approved awarding contracts for three road improvement projects. The projects include a seal coat and road improvements on County Road 178 from FM 2868 to County Road 168 and road improvements on County Road 411 from IH 20 to FM 849.

The public is invited to attend the Smith County Commissioners Court weekly meetings. It meets in the courtroom on the first floor of Smith County Courthouse Annex on Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m.