Smith County Commissioners Court is committing millions of dollars to health care efforts following Tuesday’s meeting.
$4 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) will be used to renovate and transform a former behavioral health center on University Boulevard in Tyler into a fully accredited behavioral health hospital.
The facility will include new inpatient beds, crisis care, and expanded inpatient and outpatient programs.
Inmate health services are managed by UT Health and cover the Smith County Jail, low-risk security facilities, and juvenile centers. This includes intake screening, tuberculosis testing, sick calls, medication dispensing, and psychiatric services.
Emergency transportation, dental care, and medication management are also part of the plan. On-site emergency medical assistance for employees and visitors will be provided if needed. The interprovincial agreement provides medical services to inmates and will go into effect Oct. 1.
The court also completed the Voluntary Medical Services Notification to the Texas Department of Health and Human Services for the Smith County Indigent Care Program for 2025, providing for the continuation of services such as diabetic supplies, durable medical equipment, and an outpatient surgery center. was allowed.
Additionally, Laura Newsom has been appointed to the Northeast Texas Public Health District Board of Directors for a two-year term beginning Oct. 1.
In commemoration of National Recovery Month, the court passed a resolution honoring individuals who have overcome substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health issues. The resolution highlighted the Great Texas Rally for Restoration, which Tyler is returning to for a second year.
Beyond health care, the court is strengthening election integrity by expanding its election investment and financial crimes divisions.
The court approved an addition of $18,119 to Voter Focus System to include a voter registration database backup and recovery system, bringing the annual recurring cost to $6,845.
An amended agreement with ERAD Group Inc. was also approved to enhance the county’s ability to recover stolen funds and contraband hidden in re-encoded electronic cards.
The court set the 2025 regular meeting time at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, approved a holiday schedule and increased several 2025 sheriff’s and constable fees.
The court appointed Danny Brown as Justice of the Peace, Fifth Precinct. Mr. Brown previously served as Tyler ISD Police Chief and will begin his position on October 1, the day after current 5th Precinct Judge John Johnson retires. Since Johnson’s term has not yet expired, commissioners were asked to appoint a replacement. Four candidates were considered prior to Mr. Brown’s final unanimous appointment.
The court also accepted the resignation of Smith County Law Library Director Kristen Marquez, effective September 27.
The Law Library Committee recommended that Chandelyn Barnett, currently Marquez’s part-time assistant, be appointed to the position.
Several county employees were recognized for their years of service, including:
