Commissioners honor Cameron Fire Chief for service to county

Milam County Commissioners heard an update on the progress of the County Annex on Monday along with honoring longtime Cameron Fire Chief Henry Horelica.

Milam County Judge Steve Young gave an update on the renovations to the annex saying that they were waiting on chips that needed to be put in, but have decided to use regular circuit breakers instead so that construction can be completed.

“We have been bogged down with completion of the annex because of the availability of chips,” Young said. “Chips are a hard thing to come by. These were specifically designed for this project. We have decided to just put in regular circuit breakers and hopefully within 60 days of getting those we will be done with the project.”

He also said that the front parking lot has been finished and Commissioners are starting work on the side parking lot of the building. The county will be looking for a new contractor to build a parking canopy and install solar panels. 

A cornerstone ceremony will be held for the new Annex on April 23 at 2 p.m. 

The court also recognized recently retired Cameron Volunteer Fire Department Chief Henry Horelica for his 50 years of service to the community. He was awarded a plaque for his service.

“He has done so much for Milam County over the years,” Young said. “He has been with the Cameron Fire Department for 50 years and has done so many other things. He is a good, trustworthy person who is very dependable. We recognize his many years of service to the City of Cameron and Milam County.”

He joined the fire department at age 17 as a volunteer and was a volunteer for about 30 years before becoming Fire Chief. He also served as the president of the Milam County Fire Chief’s Association.

Cameron Mayor Bill Harris said Horelica has always been a part of the community and was always there. He also recognized Penny Horelica for her support of Henry over the years and all she has done with the Ladies Auxiliary.

Precinct 1 Commissioner Henry Hubnik also announced that County Road 230 will be closed at Sandy Creek for about a month to repair the road.

They also announced that the household hazardous waste cleanup that was set for April 9 has been rescheduled for April 30 in Thorndale.Hazardous waste includes paint, chemicals, fluorescent bulbs, petroleum products, pesticides, herbicides, acids, household cleaners, antifreeze and batteries.  It does not include tires, electronics, fire alarms, smoke detectors, explosives or pressurized containers. The drop off point will be at the Milam County Precinct 4 headquarters, located at 501 East Highway 79 inThorndale..  Commissioner Jeff Muegge will be in charge of the operation.