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September 7, 2009

County may sign onto cell phone ban

SHERRY KOONCE

BEAUMONT — A week after a new state law prohibiting the use of cell phones in school zones went into effect, Jefferson County Commissioners will consider whether to post signs in unincorporated area school zones.

State law dictates the new law can only be enforced if signs are posted stating that cell phone usage is not allowed in the school area.

Jeff Branick, assistant to County Judge Ron Walker, said the county would have to post signs in Nederland along Spurlock Road adjacent to the high school. There, a portion of the school district is outside city limits.

Other areas where school districts are in unincorporated areas include the Hamshire-Fannett High School, and a portion of the Hardin-Jefferson district.

Branick said the cost should be minimal since signs can be posted on the same post as existing speed limits.

Commissioners will also whether to adopt guidelines governing residential building code standards.

Previously, residential construction in the state was regulated by the Texas Residential Construction Commission. The Commission was sunsetted, or abolished, during the 81st Legislative Session.

House Bill 2833 authorizes all counties located within 50 miles of an international border or which as a population of at least 100 people to adopt an order continuing the present residential construction inspection program in unincorporated areas.

In other business, Commissioners will look at approving health premiums for 2010 with the Southeast Texas Government Employee Benefits Pool.

Branick said county employees should not see an increase in health care premiums because of favorable negotiations with the provider.

“If we had not moved the administration of the plan, we would have had a significant increase,” he said.

Commissioners will also consider numerous purchasing items, hurricane damage-related items , and airport construction.

skoonce@panews.com

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