By Larry Holt

The Orange Leader

County Health Inspector James Scales was honored during the Orange County Commissioners Court session held Tuesday afternoon for being awarded one of the top 40 under 40 professionals in the Golden Triangle by the Southeast Texas Young Professionals Organization.

Director of Environmental Health and Code Compliance Joel Ardoin presented the honor with high praise to Scales for his professionalism and tireless volunteer work. As the Southeast Texas Young Professionals Organization website states, theirs is an organization of young professionals making a difference in their community and honors the best and brightest under the age of 40 for their academic achievements, professional success and community involvement with the 40 Under 40 award.

Orange County Judge Stephen Brint Carlton led the entire court in a round of applause for Scales efforts and the prestigious award.

In other business, the court accepted on behalf of Orange County a check from Entergy Texas in the amount of $16,540.49 for efficiencies installed in county buildings through contractor Way Services such as LED lighting and HVAC improvements.

The court also approved an 18-month extension waiving restrictions for temporary housing in the special flood hazard area due to Hurricane Harvey.   Also, the county landfill on Farm to Market road 1442 continues to waive fees and continues its operating hours Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ardoin also announced FEMA personnel are conducting substantial damage assessments in special hazard areas in the county. Personnel will be recognized by their FEMA insignia worn on their clothing however, they may not be driving marked vehicles.   FEMA personnel will likely conclude their work in approximately one week.