County OKs additional hazmat supplies

The county’s Office of Emergency Services, particularly the hazardous material responders, got additional support from the Hays County Commissioners Court last week.

The commissioners voted to authorize the Office of Emergency Services to replace supplies for the county hazmat response vehicle after the hazmat team responded to numerous incidents that depleted their supplies. The recovery of a body in Buda on Feb. 11 led to the use of several suits, sets of gloves and other equipment totaling $2,005. A fuel spill at a Kyle gas station on Feb. 15 led to the use of 24 absorbent pads and two 10-foot booms, for a cost of $250, and a motor vehicle accident in Kyle on Feb. 16 led to the use of two patch kits that cost $150.

County commissioners also authorized a contract with First Responders Solutions LLC to bill for hazmat incidents in Hays County. The use of the company will allow local departments to recover costs associated with hazmat incidents across the county. The commissioners’ agenda noted that the hazmat billing company should be able to help cover future costs for the hazmat team such as those incurred in February.

In other business, the commissioners approved the form of an interlocal agreement between the county and fire departments throughout the county to protect the public, property or environment from the adverse effects of hazardous materials, chemicals or substances. The agreement will serve to provide the capability to respond to emergency incidents throughout the county and the Capital Area Council of Governments region.