Nueces County Approves MOU With Youth Odyssey to Expand Truancy-Prevention Programs

The Nueces County Commissioners Court on March 30 approved a memorandum of understanding with Youth Odyssey to expand truancy‑prevention programming in county justice courts.

County Judge Canales and Commissioner Matas led discussion of the MOU after Robstown and other justice‑court judges described high caseloads of juvenile offenses and urged support for mentoring and skills programs. Robstown ISD Superintendent Dr. Moreno and a Youth Odyssey representative outlined programs that provide life skills through outdoor education, team‑building and ropes‑course activities for youth ages 10–17.

Commissioners discussed insurance coverage levels after risk staff said standard market limits had changed. The court inserted an insurance provision of $250,000 per occurrence with a $500,000 aggregate into the MOU before voting. The motion to approve the revised MOU passed on a voice vote.

The agreement covers use of county facilities by Youth Odyssey at no direct cost to the county; judges said they want follow‑up reports on program progress and outcomes. The court directed County Attorney staff to finalize the insurance language in the document and return the executed MOU to the clerk.

The action will allow Youth Odyssey to begin onboarding cases from justice courts and to schedule programming with local schools and community partners. Commissioners said they expect to revisit program updates later this year.