Karnes County’s Commissioners Court heard good news about the county’s finances during its regular meeting on April 30.

Wayne Beyer presented information from the county’s annual audit and complimented the county on its current financial condition.

Beyer said the county’s finances are in excellent condition and an increase of funds this year amounts to $593,000.

The county’s recent ambulance purchase did not have a significant impact on the budget as the county opted to lease-purchase the vehicle, avoiding a lump sum expenditure.

Beyer did have some words of advice for the county, though. He recommended that the county begin using a different type of ledger, such as a spreadsheet program for recording financial information.

In other business, the court approved an interlocal cooperative agreement with the Texas Department of Agriculture for the Orobanche Ramosa (Branched Broomrape) survey. State and local funds are used to control the parasite plants through spraying Roundup wherever the plant is sighted.

The court discussed the Rialto Theater in Kenedy, which was sold to a church organization with certain expectations that have not yet been met. The discussion indicated that there was some uncertainty over the current status of the project aimed at remodeling and restoring the theater.

Approval was given to add the name of Sgt. Peter J. Dziuk to the road sign on County Road 228 between FM 81 and FM 887. Dziuk, who served and died in the Korean War and was the brother of Tony Dziuk, reportedly grew up on the road now known as County Road 228.

The court went into closed session to discuss personnel in connection with the county treasurer’s office. No action was taken on this item.

The county can expect higher juvenile court costs as a result of an increase in the caseload, according to discussion. Most of the juveniles who are involved with these cases are not enrolled in school, county officials said.

Sheriff David Jalufka reported that the jail inspection showed that the county jail is currently up to code and in compliance with state standards.