In continuation of efforts initially confirmed in October of last year, El Paso County is offering an update on the Red Beetle infestation affecting the Lower Valley and surrounding rural areas. At the time, the county approved funding for the distribution of pesticides and looked to address the cause of the infestation – pecan shells, an ideal breeding ground for the beetles. El Paso County has been implementing solutions and has an update on the disposal of pecan shells.

Pecan Shell Removal Initiative

El Paso Water and El Paso County have joined to help the affected communities relocate pecan shells and have obtained a $30,000 grant from the Texas Department of Agriculture to fund large-scale shell removal. Affected residents from all over the county may bring their shells to a community drop-off site at the City of Socorro Public Works Yard (241 Old Hueco Tanks Road). The site will be open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the month of April (April 1–30).

Moreover, removal efforts are proceeding at Fabens ISD and Tornillo ISD, where piles of shells have added to the beetle infestation. Southwest Disposal, led by contractor Jaime Silva, transfers the shells to a predetermined disposal location. El Paso County is working to ensure all communities have access to these resources by working with the City of Socorro and other local partners.urce

El Paso County is excited to announce the opening of Glia’s Coffee Co. inside the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new location will take place on January 27th. 

Founded in 2022, Glia’s Coffee Co. began as a coffee truck at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso and has quickly become a local favorite. Their menu, inspired by Mexican cuisine, presents the rich flavors of our border region while creating a delicious mix of traditional yet innovative pastries and drinks alike. They’re also committed to supporting other small businesses by sourcing ingredients from local El Paso suppliers to create these special creations. 

By choosing Glia’s, courthouse visitors and employees are not just enjoying a great cup of “joe”, but also helping grow our local economy. This partnership between Glia’s and the El Paso County courthouse reflects a mutual promise to our community, making the courthouse a more inviting space for everyone who walks through our doors. 

The El Paso County Parks & Recreation Department is thrilled to announce the official groundbreaking of the Desert Acceptance Linear Park to be built in El Paso County at the intersection of Allemande Road and Sqaure Dance Road.   

Thie new park will feature a 1-mile shared-use path, a modern playground, fitness equipment, enhanced crosswalks, traffic calming and lush landscaping. Additionally, infrastructure improvements including updated drainage systems, curbs, and pedestrian facilities, will ensure a safer environment for residents and visitors alike. 

The Contractor involved with this exciting new venture is E.G.L Construction, Design Consultant is CEA Completion is anticipated to be Spring 2025. 

The Facilities Department recently helped bring the courthouse into the 21st century by digitizing our public directories, making them easier to access and navigate. These new digital directories simplify the process of finding office locations, department contacts, and up-to-date information on elected officials—all without relying on third-party vendors. Located on the third and first floor, the two 70” screens highlight designs and software entirely created in house by the Facilities team. Viviana Hernandez, Facilities director states, “...it’s easier to make corrections and updates, rather than having to wait for a sign company to print inserts…” this helps the county current and enhances user experience for visitors.

This digitization project marks a momentous step forward in improving efficiency and modernizing our courthouse services. Make sure to check out the new directories and see how they’re making navigation easier for everyone!