Tyler

By ADAM RUSSELL
Staff Writer

Smith County Commissioners will discuss and take necessary action on items aimed to bring efficiency, cost-effectiveness and financial transparency to county services Monday during its regular meeting.

Commissioner JoAnn Fleming said the court diligently seeks new ways to maximize taxpayers' dollars and that commissioners will consider the formation of a Smith County Performance Measurement Team and taking part in a Local Government Management Assessment, an independent review provided by the Office of the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Ms. Fleming said the county was last reviewed in 1998 and that many county departments implemented efficiency practices recommended by the state.

She said the assessment could bring the ongoing implementation of a business model for county entities to a new level.

"It will make sure we are using tax dollars effectively and providing county services at the best possible price," she said.

One small part of the move toward efficiency will be presented by Commissioner JoAnn Hampton regarding a feasibility study and review of policy for the establishment of a public defender for indigent defendants in Smith County. Currently local lawyers are hired case by case and the court is investigating if establishing a public defender office would be more cost-effective and provide better service to the public.

Commissioners will also be updated on the Fuelmaster Pilot Program designed to bring efficiency and security to countywide fuel stations. Road and Bridge Administrator Doug Nicholson said the program will cut down on inefficient usage and theft of fuel.

Commissioner Bill McGinnis said he was excited about the program and others that can save money for the county and allow for better service to residents.

"Anything where we can save a little here and a little there, it adds up," McGinnis said.

Commissioners meet at 9 a.m. on the first floor of the Smith County Courthouse Annex, 200 E. Ferguson St.

Other items to be considered for approval on Monday include:

Commissioners will also hold an executive session to seek and receive legal advice regarding amendment to the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance; and available facility options and security issues relevant to the Cotton Belt Building.

During a special meeting workshop scheduled for 1:30 p.m. commissioners will hold an executive session to discuss and consider contractual issues related to upgrading the county's communication infrastructure and receive advice from their attorney.

Following the executive session a workshop will be held in which commissioners will discuss, consider, and receive any information and take any necessary action regarding long-range planning and/or facilities planning for Smith County.

At 3:30 p.m. a special workshop is scheduled for commissioners to discuss and consider the operations, activities and expectations of the Environmental Crimes Program and the License and Weights Program. The court will take any necessary action.

All scheduled meetings will be held in the Smith County Commissioners Cour-thouse Annex at 200 E. Ferguson.