Texas Government Insider
Volume 9, Issue 6 - Friday, Feb. 11, 2011

Local governments prepare to fight for CDBG grant funding

 

Feds propose cutting $300 million; quality of life in some communities at risk

Larry NaakeGlen WhitleyLocal governments in Texas and throughout the country are linking arms in preparation for a fight to ensure that Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding in the federal budget is not cut.


Just this week, officials in the White House Office of Management and Budget indicated the administration is prepared to cut some $300 million - or 7.5 percent - of CDBG funds.


"CDBG funds provide immediate, direct and tangible benefits to millions of Americans right where they live," said National Association of Counties (NACo) Executive Director Larry Naake (left).


Naake and NACo President and Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley (right) earlier this month sent a letter to President Barack Obama and members of Congress warning that cuts to domestic programs will affect the very people local governments serve. 


"When a recession occurs or the economy falters and there is high unemployment, services at the county level are needed most," reads the letter. "Historically, there is a greater need for social services, health care, counseling, job training and local economic development during times like we are facing now. Domestic, discretionary programs are critical to the ability of counties to carry out their responsibilities as service providers for both the federal and state governments."

 

Whitley said that he will bring forward a NACo policy resolution calling for Congress to consider "alternatives to control the rising budget deficit" during NACo's Legislative Conference in March in Washington, D.C. NACo's Board of Directors is expected to adopt the policy resolution on Monday, March 7.
 

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Governor's budget:

 

Shutdown, consolidation of agencies proposed; $500 million in savings touted

BudgetFrom state employees possibly paying more for insurance for their spouses, to the possible shutdown or consolidation of some state agencies, Gov. Rick Perry's proposed budget for the 2012-2013 biennium mirrors the words of his State of the State address - "there should be no sacred cows."


When Perry's budget proposal was released, fine-toothed combs began poring over it, page by page. It reflects a savings of close to $500 million.


Among his recommendations related to state agencies - moving the Texas Department of Rural Affairs into the Texas Agriculture Commission and suspending what he called "non-mission-critical" state agencies such as the Texas Historical Commission or the Texas Commission on the Arts. He would also do away with the Board of Professional Geoscientists and the Board of Professional Land Surveying.

 

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Brian Gutherie named TRS executive director

Brian GuthrieLeaders at the Teacher Retirement System of Texas have named deputy director Brian Guthrie (pictured) the new executive director, effective Sept. 1.


Guthrie succeeds Ronnie Jung, who has agreed to help smooth the leadership transition by serving as an executive liaison to the TRS board through Jan. 31, 2012. 


Gutherie, who has served at TRS since September 2008, holds two bachelor's degrees from Franklin and Marshall College, and a master's from The University of Texas at Austin's LBJ School of Public Affairs.

 

Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' Lone Stars

 

Rick RhodesRick Rhodes, assistant commissioner for Rural Economic Development Division, Texas Department of Agriculture
  
Career highlights and education: I earned a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from The University of Texas at Austin. After graduation, I returned to my hometown - Sweetwater, Texas - where we owned and operated an oil field service company for 25+ years. During that time, I had the unique opportunity of serving four terms as the mayor of Sweetwater. We moved to Austin in 2001. I joined Gov. Perry's economic development team and later served as a fulltime staff member at Hill Country Bible Church in northwest Austin. In 2007, I came to work for the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). I currently serve as assistant commissioner for the Rural Economic Development Division.

What I like best about my job is: It is a pleasure to work on a daily basis with a team of highly qualified, passionate professionals to help rural communities across the state in their efforts to grow their local economies. Agriculture is vital to our culture and to the Texas economy. Producers in agriculture depend heavily on the local communities for support. It is gratifying to deliver services and programs to help create new jobs and strengthen the rural areas.

The best advice I've received for my current job is: Work diligently to deliver customer service with excellence to our stakeholders.

Advice you would give a new hire in your office: 
Strive to be a good listener. Determine the specific needs of our stakeholders. Utilize the expertise and resources within TDA to help meet those needs. Do not hesitate to call on other state agencies to assist as needed.

If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: enjoying one of the many beautiful golf courses in Austin.

People would be surprised to know that I: enjoy water skiing on Lake Travis.

One thing I wish more people knew about my agency: TDA is very diversified. Current duties include promoting Texas agricultural products locally, nationally and internationally; assisting rural communities and businesses to create and retain jobs; assisting in the development of the agribusiness industry in Texas; regulating the sale, use and disposal of pesticides and herbicides; controlling destructive plant pests and diseases; and ensuring the accuracy of all weighing or measuring devices (like grocery scales or gas pumps) used in commercial transactions.  TDA also guides educators, nutrition professionals and parents in improving student nutrition and health.
  

 

Permanent School Fund hits $25 billion level

Gail LoweThe Permanent School Fund, which posted a best-ever return of 13.14 percent on investments in 2010, recently grew from a value of $16 billion in 2009 to a current value of $25 billion.


The fund was previously valued at $25 billion in 2007, before financial turbulence caused the value to plunge in 2009.
 

The fund, which is overseen by the State Board of Education, is the second largest educational endowment in the country and provides support to Texas public schools by helping pay for basic education costs like textbooks. The fund is scheduled to fund $1.9 billion for education over the next two years.
 

"The State Board of Education in recent years has taken steps to diversify the fund's portfolio and reduce risk," said Gail Lowe (pictured), chair of the board. "The results announced today show that this strategy is working well."

 

 

Results-Oriented Procurement class rescheduled; seats available

As we watched vehicle after vehicle sliding on ice and hitting the curb or landing in a flower bed at the SPI offices last week, and as SPI was one of the victims of the rolling electric blackouts, we realized we made the right call in postponing our Results-Oriented Procurement class that had been scheduled for last week.


Now that things have thawed out, we have rescheduled the class for Wednesday, Feb. 16. A few previously registered participants could not make the new date, so there are still several open seats. If your calendar is open next Wednesday, here's a chance to learn what potential vendors think about doing business with the public sector. The class offers a unique perspective that will enable you to get better solutions when you put together projects that include vendor involvement.


SPI and The University of Texas at Austin's LBJ School of Public Affairs' are partnering to offer the training session, which is also part of the LBJ School's continuing education program. Registration is done through the LBJ Web site.

 

 

TCEQ reports 24.3 million pounds of computer equipment recycled

Second-year results on Texas' computer recycling program, which requires computer manufacturers that sell in Texas to offer consumers convenient, free recycling for their brands of computer equipment have Computer Recyclingresulted in manufacturers collecting more than 24.3 million pounds of computer equipment for reuse or recycling. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) reports the recycled materials collected in Texas from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31 of last year is nearly twice as much as the previous year.
 
TCEQ reports there are currently 78 manufacturers representing 123 brands participating in the program. Officials say recycling used computer equipment helps conserve the reusable materials in them, including copper, lead and steel. Thus, computer owners are encouraged to recycle computer equipment when it is no longer of use.
 
To help cities, counties, community groups and schools promote computer-equipment recycling in newsletters and Web sites, TCEQ is providing free print ads and Web banners available for download at TexasRecyclesComputers.org as well as information for consumers to learn how to recycle their computer equipment. The site provides a link to each manufacturer's program as well as additional information for consumers, manufacturers and retailers. TCEQ also urges cities and counties to encourage residents to take advantage of the free program. For more information on the program contact TCEQ's Pollution Prevention and Education section at 512-239-3143.

 

HHSC selects Debra Wanser as interim commissioner of DARS

Debra WanserThe second-ranking administrator of the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, Debra Wanser (pictured), was recently named interim commissioner, effective immediately.
 

In her new role, Wanser will represent the agency during the legislative session. Before coming to DARS three years ago as deputy commissioner, Wanser served as assistant commissioner for Adult Protective Services and associate commissioner for Family Health with the Texas Department of Health.
 

Wanser, who has more than 30 years of nursing and health care administration experience, has degrees from St. Edwards University and Oklahoma State University's School of Nursing, as well as a master's from The University of Texas LBJ School of Public Affairs.

 

Bordelon reappointed as commissioner of Workers' Compensation

Rod BordelonRod A. Bordelon Jr. (pictured) of Austin was recently reappointed Texas Commissioner or Workers Compensation at the Texas Department of Insurance, a position he has held since September 2008.
 

The current term, which is subject to Senate confirmation, expires Feb. 1, 2013.
 

Bordelon, who has a bachelor's from The University of Texas at Austin and a law degree from South Texas College of Law, previously served as public counsel for the Office of Public Insurance Counsel and as an advisory member of the Interstate Insurance Product Regulation Commission.

 

Congleton reappointed commissioner at Workforce Commission

Ronald CongletonRonald Congleton (pictured) of Austin was recently reappointed to the Texas Workforce Commission, which oversees and provides workforce development services to employers and job seekers of Texas.


The term, which is subject to senate confirmation, expires Feb. 1, 2017.


Congleton, who has more than 30 years of experience as a labor representative, is the former president of the Teamsters Local 745 in Dallas. He is also a Vietnam veteran who served in the U.S. Navy.

 

Reinbeck reappointed to position with Texas Facilities Commission

Betty ReinbeckBetty Reinbeck (pictured) of Sealy was recently reappointed to the Texas Facilities Commission, which manages state government buildings. Her term expires Jan. 31, 2017.


Reinbeck, executive director of the Tomball Economic Development Corporation, served as the mayor of Sealy for 18 years.


She received a bachelor's degree from Sam Houston State University.

 

Comptroller says January sales tax revenues up over last year

Local governments across the state will soon receive rebates from January sales tax revenues, which were $1.83 billion - up 10.4 percent - compared to last year. Comptroller Susan Combs, who said revenues were up across the board, will distribute $654.8 million to tax districts. This was the 10th month in a row of year-to-year improvements.
 

Texas cities will receive $440.3 million, up 5.4  percent compared to a year ago; Texas counties will get $39.7 million, up 13.1 percent; local transit systems will collect $146  million, up 3.8 percent; and 175 special purpose taxing districts will take $28.6 million, up 16.1 percent compared to last year.
 

The Comptroller's March sales tax allocation will be made on Friday, March 11.
 

To view the allocations by city, click here. To view the allocations by county, click here.


Gene Powell elected to chair UT System Board of Regents

Gene PowellSan Antonio real estate developer and technology entrepreneur William Eugene "Gene" Powell (pictured) was recently elected chairman of The University of Texas System Board of Regents. Powell, who was appointed to the board in 2009, succeeds Colleen McHugh of Corpus Christi, who has served as chairman since last March.


Powell received a bachelor's degree from The University of Texas at Austin while on a full athletic scholarship playing football under Coach Darrell K Royal. He later earned a master's degree from UT Austin.
 

The board also selected three vice chairmen: Paul L. Foster of El Paso, R. Steven "Steve" Hicks of Austin and James D. Dannenbaum of Houston.

 

 
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Kaiser to step down April 1 as president of UTHealth 

Larry KaiserLarry R. Kaiser, M.D., (left) will step down as president of The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) on April 1. Kaiser, who has served at UTHealth since 2008, will return to his hometown of Philadelphia to become chief executive officer of the Temple University Health System, Senior Executive Vice President for Health Sciences and Dean of the School of Medicine.
 

After earning his M.D. degree from Tulane University, Kaiser completed his internship and residency in surgery at the University of California at Los Angeles. He completed his education in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at the University of Toronto serving as Senior Resident in Thoracic Surgery. He joined the faculty Giuseppe N. Colasurdo on the Thoracic Service at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center immediately following the completion of his residency. He joined the Washington University School of Medicine later and rose to associate professor. He then went to the University of Pennsylvania as Associate Professor of Surgery, Chief of General Thoracic Surgery, founder and Director of the Lung Transplantation Program, and Director of the Center for Lung Cancer and Related Disorders.
 

 

A search for Kaiser's replacement will begin in April 2012. Until then, UT Health Medical School Dean Giuseppe Colasurdo (right) will serve as interim president, effective April 1.


Colasurdo, a pediatrician who became dean in 2007, earned his medical degree from G. D'Annunzio School of Medicine in Italy, and completed his residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He joined the Medical School faculty in 1995 as a pediatrics professor in the Division of Pulmonary Medicine.

 

Texas A&M System plans to merge research administration

The Chancellor of the Texas A&M System recently announced plans to consolidate research administration now performed by five university organizations with a goal of increasing efficiency and cost savings.

The administration of research generates large amounts of paperwork, including the issues associated with writing and receiving grants as well as overseeing the contracts and budgeting of millions of dollars in funding associated with the additional overhead money the organization receives with each grant.
 

The five entities currently serving the A&M system are the Research Foundation, a 501(c3) nonprofit organization, Texas A&M University and state agencies such as Texas AgriLife Research, the Texas Transportation Institute and the Texas Engineering Experiment Station, the chancellor said.
 

The consolidation plan is expected to save between $2.7 million to $3.8 million based on the average cost of $60,324 per employees of the five research administration organizations now operating within the A&M System. The cost savings would mean the elimination of between 45 to 64 employees, according to a consultant's study paid for by regents. 

 

Jergins selected Tarleton State University VP of student life

Rusty JerginsThe Texas A&M University System Board of Regents recently named Rusty Jergins (pictured) vice president of student life at Tarleton State University.


Jergins, who had been serving in the position on an interim basis, has worked at Tarleton for 22 years. For 18 of those years, he worked as dean of students and, more recently, associate vice president for student life.
 

Jergins, who earned a bachelor's and a master's degree from Tarleton, will be succeeded by Gilbert Hinga as student life associate vice president.

 

Retired Rear Admiral Smith to serve as president of TAMU-Galveston

Robert SmithThe Texas A&M University System Board of Regents recently named retired Rear Adm. Robert Smith III (pictured) chief executive officer of Texas A&M at Galveston and vice president of Texas A&M University, effective April 18.

 

Smith, who served in the U.S. Navy for nearly 35 years, has held his current position as senior vice president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas since 1987.
 

Smith, who earned a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M, is also a graduate of the School of Banking of the South at Louisiana State University and the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

 

Three appointed to Texas A&M System Board of Regents

Judy MorganElaine MendozaThree new regents were recently appointed to the Texas A&M University System board for terms that expire Feb. 1, 2017.

 

If OK'd by the Senate, new members are: Texarkana businesswoman Judy Morgan (left), Victoria convenience store owner Cliff Thomas and San Antonio entrepreneur Elaine Mendoza (right). 

 

The outgoing regents are: Lupe Fraga of Houston, Gene Stallings of Powderly and Ida Clement Steen of San Antonio.


Three emerging technology companies win $6M in state funding

The Texas Emerging Technology Fund recently awarded more than $6 million in investments to three companies to assist in commercializing their innovative technologies.
 

FireFly LED, a lighting company, will receive a $3 million investment to commercialize its full range of LED light bulbs that are less expensive, last longer and are more energy efficient than fluorescent and incandescent bulbs. The company is working with The University of Texas at Austin to commercialize the LED bulbs. RadioMedix Inc. will receive a $2.8 million investment to develop a new process to manufacture radiopharmaceuticals, or tracers, used to diagnose and treat diseases through positron emission tomography. The new process is designed to provide a portable alternative to current technology located on-site at medical-imaging facilities or research labs. RadioMedix is working with The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center to develop and commercialize tracers. Biometric Signature ID will receive a $550,000 investment to commercialize its patented identity management products that authenticate a user's identity by how they log in and by examining the way their password is created. This company also is working with UT-Austin to commercialize their product.

 

Texas A&M System tags Seemann as vice president for research

Jeffrey SeemannTexas A&M officials recently selected Jeffrey Seemann (pictured) as vice president of research for Texas A&M University. The chancellor of the Texas A&M System also announced that Seemann will be the chief research officer for the A&M System and the 11 institutions of higher education included in that system.


The chancellor also selected Brett Giroir as the new vice chancellor for research. In that newly created position, Giroir will focus on the system's emerging biotechnology corridor, the chancellor said.
 

In his new position, Seemann will oversee the implementation of the proposed changes in research administration, which is expected to produce a 20 to 30 percent reduction in the current 218 full-time positions directly involved in research administration in the five organizations currently performing that service for the A&M System.

 

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McClendon approved by regents as TAMU vice president

The Texas A&M System Board of Regent recently approved Rodney McClendon, who previously served the university as chief of staff under former president Robert Gates, as vice president for administration. He begins Feb. 21.

 

McClendon currently works at the University of North Texas in Denton, where he has served as senior vice president for operations since 2009. Previously, he has served as acting vice president of the Texas A&M Galveston campus, and has held several positions at Texas A&M since beginning there in 1995.
 

McClendon has a bachelor's degree from Morehouse College, a law degree from Emory University and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University.

 

Bullard to pay more to upgrade wastewater treatment plant

Teresa Adams-WilksBullard City Council members recently agreed to a new $2 million price tag to pay for expanding the city's wastewater treatment plant from 214,000 gallons per day to 465,000 gallons per day. Council members, however, must still decide which of three options presented by a consultant to pursue for the sewer expansion.


The need to make more upgrades than previously planned became apparent as consultants surveyed the plant and learned that the existing influent pump station could not handle demand, said Mayor Teresa Adams-Wilks (pictured). The mayor also said the expansion is a quick fix needed to meet current demand, but that the city plans to build a new $4 million water treatment plant in the next five to 10 years to meet the city's growth.
 

The options for the sewer upgrade are: to expand and rehabilitate the existing pump station and building; to buy a new submersible pump station and expand the building; or, to buy a new suction pump and build a fiber glass enclosure. The pump station upgrade will add from $180,000 to $270,000 to the treatment plan expansion, which was originally estimated to cost $1.6 million. Council members are scheduled to vote on which option for the sewage plant to pursue at their meeting on Feb. 15.

 

New Braunfels, Seguin and Schertz to partner on business center

Michael MeekNew Braunfels, Seguin and Schertz city officials recently agreed to partner in a small business development center to be located in New Braunfels.
 

Directors of the Seguin Economic Development Corp. agreed to share the cost of the first year of operation of The University of Texas at San Antonio Small Business Development Satellite Center, said Michael Meek (pictured), president of the chamber of commerce in New Braunfels.  Officials estimate that the first year of operating the small business development center will be about $169,000, with New Braunfels paying 50 percent of that cost while Seguin and Schertz will each kick in 25 percent of the cost, or about $42,304 during the first year of operation.
 

UT-San Antonio officials agreed to hire staff to operate the satellite center that will offer the same range of services to small businesses as the small business development center in downtown San Antonio, Meek said. The satellite center also will offer seminars for entrepreneurs and owners of small businesses in the three participating cities, he added.

 

Arlington ISD to open new firefighter academy

Craig WrightIn a partnership with the Arlington Fire Department and Tarrant County College, officials of the Arlington Independent School District recently announced plans to open a firefighter academy offering a two-year vocation program to train students into ready-to-hire firefighters and emergency medical technicians. Students who complete the academy also will earn 24 hours of college credit.
 
Officials plan to begin with 25 juniors this fall and increase to 50 junior and senior students the next year, said Craig Wright (pictured), director of career and technical education for the district. The fire academy is designed to provide a steady stream of qualified applicants for the Arlington Fire Department, where 40 percent of its 300 firefighters are now eligible to retire. Once the students near graduation, the academy will assist students in taking the state certification tests for firefighting and emergency medicine.

 

Students from all six high schools in the district can apply for the academy class. In addition to classroom study, students also will receive hands-on training in fire suppression and other skills at the 23-acre training center at the Northwest Campus of Tarrant County College and at the Arlington Fire Department training center. Arlington officials say that the new firefighter academy could be at risk if the district loses state funding for the program. The state currently covers the $15,400 tuition cost for 25 juniors.

 

Texas Forest Service to deliver eight new fire engines

In a first of its kind award, the Texas Forest Service, through the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) grant program, recently delivered eight new fire engines valued at more than $800,000 to eight fire departments throughout the state.

 

Fire departments receiving the new $100,000 fire engines are in Big Spring, Brownwood, Cedar Hill, Flower Mound, Georgetown, Lewisville, Mission and Nacogdoches.
 

Legislators approved the TIFMAS grant program in 2009. TIFMAS is a collaborative effort of the Texas Fire Chief Association, State Firemen's and Fire Marshal's Association, Texas State Association of Fire Fighters, Texas Commission on Fire Protection and the Texas Forest Service. The group also offers training, credentialing standards and mobilization standards. TIFMAS also plans to deliver eight more Type VI Units in late March, a spokesman said.

 

West Rusk CISD backs away from May bond election

Tommy AlexanderTrustees for West Rusk Consolidated Independent School District recently cited uncertainty over state budget cuts when agreeing to delay a bond election previously planned in May.


The proposed bonds were to be used to replace a gymnasium and the bleachers at the football stadium, said Superintendent Tommy Alexander (pictured). The prospect of being forced to lay off teachers, aides and bus drivers while asking voters to approve bonds convinced him that the proposed bond election should be delayed, Alexander said.
 

The district's football stadium was closed before the opening of the football season this fall because of deteriorating support beams on the home side bleachers. The superintendent said he is studying the option of renting bleachers to be set up at Raider Stadium, so that some home games on the 2011 schedule can be played at home rather than at the field in Tatum. District officials also said they intend to go forward with replacing the stadium bleachers and adding new lighting in the future as the economy improves.

 

Alice to build new convention center, natatorium

John LemonCiting larger than expected sales tax receipts for the city, Alice Mayor John Lemon (pictured) said city officials plan to move forward on building a new convention center and natatorium as part of a citywide cleanup campaign and upgrades to streets and utilities.


The city ended this fiscal year with a $4 million surplus as a result of sales tax receipts being $10 million rather than the $6.2 million projected, Lemon said. The city should be able to pay for the new convention center and natatorium without borrowing for the project or dipping into reserves, Lemon said.
 

Plans call for the city to soon hire a consultant to help decide on the type and size of meeting facilities needed for a convention center, the mayor said. The natatorium will be located next to the convention center, he added.

 

Bexar County eyeing more options for proposed $72.7 million jail

Paul ElizondoBexar County Commissioners recently agreed to look for more options for handling its growing population than the previously proposed $72.7 million project for inmate-processing and jail-diversion facilities west of downtown. County officials now plan to explore less costly options such as a scaled-back construction plan and revamping of some jail and judiciary processes.
 

The proposed 189,000-square-foot building was designed to hold detainees for 72 hours while being screened for jail diversion programs, but Commissioner Paul Elizondo (pictured) said the new building had too many "goodies" that could be eliminated to lower costs. County officials also will explore building an addition to the jail, expanding the use of the current leased space now used to process prisoners and relocating medical services to a separate facility.
 

County planners also are examining several processes and policies for the jail and the judiciary that could be changed to save funding. These processes include reducing the number of times a court date is reset and finding alternatives to jailing those who fail to appear for court dates.

 

Missouri City wins $950,000 to build tennis, recreation center

Allen OwenThe Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission recently approved a $950,000 grant to build a new tennis and recreation center in Missouri City.
 

Legislators approved funding during the 2009 legislative session and required Missouri City to match the grant, said Mayor Allen Owen (pictured). City council members also authorized staff to begin steps for the sale of $9.5 million in general obligation bonds to pay for the tennis and recreation center.
 

Current plans call for the center to have tennis and basketball courts in addition to community meeting rooms, two gymnasiums, an aerobic exercise room and space for senior programs. City officials plan to begin construction on the new recreation center this summer.

 

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El Paso to build four new parks, expand two more in 2011

Steve OrtegaOfficials of the El Paso Parks and Recreation Department recently announced plans to spend about $11 million to build two new parks on the East Side, a new park in the central area of the city and another park in the northeast. The new parks are an example of the city's commitment to providing for the needs of citizens, said Steve Ortega (pictured), a city representative. 

 

The largest project carries a $4.8 million price tag and will create a storm water ponding area and an 8.7-acre park in a neighborhood near IH10, city officials said. The park will have two soccer fields, a walking trail, landscaping and picnic areas as well as a pump station for sending storm water into the new storage pond. Plans also call for spending $252,000 to add playground equipment, a walking path, lights and landscaping at a new 1.6-acre park on the east side of the city. Another new 6.7-acre east side park will cost about $800,000 and will include grass, landscaping, a parking lot, a playground and walking path. Construction is scheduled to begin in late February.  

 

City officials also plan to spend about $2.4 million to expand and improve the Westside Sports Complex by adding lights to four playing fields and increasing the number of lighted fields to eight. The city also will build a 3-acre ballpark with fencing, trees, grass and lights at a cost of about $300,000. City officials also have approved $1.5 million for a new playground and $680,000 for swings to be installed in 30 existing parks. Construction is scheduled to begin in March on a $366,000 project to renovate the tennis courts at Memorial Park.

 

Harker Heights to seek $8 million loan for projects

After deciding to seek pass-through financing for a new U-turn bridge and adding soccer fields to a capital improvement project list, Harker Heights City Council members agreed to increase the amount of loans it will seek to $8 million to pay for the projects.
 

Although the city must pay between $200,000 to $300,000 for engineering for the approximately $3 million U-turn bridge and an additional $20,000 to $30,000 to the engineering company for submitting the pass-through finance application to the state, the project will be worth the expense, the city manager said. Under the agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the city also must pay for right-of-way acquisition and moving the utilities, he said. If the pass-through financing is approved for the project, TxDOT will repay the city for the construction costs within 10-13 years, depending on traffic counts, the city manager said.
 

Other projects on the approved project list are street reconstruction, new sewer service along FM 2410, upgrades to two parks and the new $500,000 project to add soccer fields with lighting, parking and restrooms to a soccer complex.

 

Proposed Collin County arts complex seeking new partners

Mike SimpsonOfficials of The Arts of Collin County recently began looking for new cities, new corporate sponsors and more patrons of the arts to join in the effort to move forward with construction of a proposed arts and nature complex. The decision to find more participants in the project came after Plano, Allen and Frisco city officials failed to reach an agreement on when to sell the remaining $16.4 million in bonds.
 

The cities of Melissa and Fairview also are participating in the public/private partnership in which residents of Allen, Frisco and Plano approved $57 million in bonds to pay the city's share of construction costs. Collin County officials also awarded $3 million in grant funds and individual corporations and foundations have pledged another $10 million to the arts complex project. Collin County has more than 27 cities that may join the project and some Denton County cities also have expressed interest in contributing, said Mike Simpson (pictured), executive director of The Arts of Collin County.
 

While city officials in Celina, Prosper and Little Elm have expressed interest in joining the group following presentations by Simpson, no additional cities have yet approved participation in the arts complex, he said. Plans call for developing a 100-acre park and arts complex that will feature facilities for painters, sculptors, actors, musicians and other artists. Officials plan to complete the project in phases, with a 2,100-seat performing arts hall, performance meadow, and hike and bike trails included in the first phase.

 

Eanes ISD reducing, deleting projects to shrink bond proposal

In an effort to trim the size of a pending bond proposal, Eanes Independent School District officials recently agreed to reduce the scope of one project by more than $2 million. Trustees previously reduced  items from $72 million to $59 million, but plan to delete or reduce more projects from the proposal to encourage more support from voters if a bond election is scheduled in May.
 

After discussing several potential bond projects, trustees directed staff to reduce the amount proposed for modifications for the Americans with Disabilities Act from $4.9 million to $2.6 million by delaying work on "technical improvements." Discussions on deleting a proposed $4.2 million replacement of heating and air conditioning systems at two schools ended with board members taking no action. Trustees also discussed a proposed $2 million renovation of a track at a middle school, but tabled that discussion until two public forums are held to obtain community feedback.

 

Marion ISD group urges up to $14 million bond election in May

James HartmanMembers of a Marion Independent School District planning committee recently agreed to urge board members to call a $12 million to $14 million bond election to pay for a new science and technology building, additional classrooms, renovations and maintenance projects.


The current science and technology building was built in 1968 and is about 25 years out of date and needs to be replaced to offer critical training in science, noted Superintendent James Hartman (pictured).  Board members are scheduled to meet on Feb. 16 to discuss the committee's recommendation.
 

Planning committee members will recommend that the bonds are used to build a project barn for agriculture students, a new band hall, a new gymnasium for an elementary school, additional classrooms to replace portable buildings at several schools and for upgrades to technology and athletic facilities if voters approve. The plan also calls for renovating the current band hall into a black box theater department.

 

Kerrville to appeal PUC decision on proposed power line

David WamplerKerrville City Council members recently agreed to appeal a January decision by the Public Utility Commission (PUC) to build a new power line running alongside Interstate 10 from Comfort through Kerrville to near Junction.

 

The economic impact of the transmission lines along the city's major business corridor would be devastating to the economy, said Mayor David Wampler (pictured). Officials of Kerr County and Junction also are considering challenging the proposed line to link substations in Schleicher and Kendall counties, the mayor said.
 

The process of developing the site for the proposed power line deviates from criteria outlined in state law, the city attorney for Kerrville asserted. The mayor of Junction said he is concerned by the decision to run the power line south of the Kimble County Airport, inside the city limits of Junction. Several landowners south of Junction expressed concern that they had received no letters from the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), the PUC or the Clear View Alliance to notify them that the southern route had been altered. LCRA officials said the letters notifying landowners of the change were sent.

 

Amarillo group urges city to build new indoor sports facility

Downtown Amarillo Inc. (DAI) officials recently urged the city to enter into a public/private partnership to build an indoor sports facility on city-owned land north of the civic center. City officials also have indicated they will allot up to $6 million toward the facility, said an official of DAI, a nonprofit group created to help implement the city's Downtown Strategic Action Plan for revitalization.

 

City officials, who declined to confirm the amount of the financial commitment the city will make, have issued a request for contractors to submit proposals for the sports facility project including both indoor volleyball and basketball courts. The project most likely will not occur if the estimates for the project are more than $20 million, an assistant city manager said.

 

Under current plans, the city would supply most of the money needed for construction of the sports facility and the developer would contribute a smaller amount to the construction funding as well as operate and maintain the sports facility, the city manager said.

 

Katy eyeing bond issue to pay for proposed senior center

Kenneth BergerKaty city officials recently delayed construction of a proposed $1 million, 22,000-square-foot senior/adult center to decide whether to pay for the facility by asking voters to approve bonds or to use the city's $15 million reserve fund to pay for it. The new center is needed to replace the current facility that is too small to accommodate senior center and adult activities, city officials said.

 

The decision to delay the project came after several council members, including Councilman Kenneth Berger (pictured), expressed concern about reducing the city's reserve funds during the current economic climate. Berger said he supports building the senior center, but would like voters to decide how to pay for it.
 

If council members decide to hold a bond election, the project will need to be placed on bid again. Current plans call for a one-story building featuring a covered entryway, meeting rooms, game rooms, storage rooms, offices and a kitchen.


TPWD denies grant to Vernon, awards grants to four cities

Officials of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department recently denied a $500,000 grant requested by Vernon to help pay for a new $1.4 million municipal aquatic center.

 

TPWD officials, however, awarded $500,000 grants to Corsicana, Gun Barrel City and Haltom City, and a $348,209 grant to Vinton to help pay for park facilities.
 

Vernon's grant request ranked ninth out of the 34 grant applications received, and officials cited budget cuts as the reason for not approving the grant.
 

With no grant available, city officials now must make some difficult decisions on how to fund the aquatic center, which called for a zero-entry pool with a lazy river loop and a slide. The project may need to be scaled down or city commissioners could decide to finance all or part of the funds needed to complete the project.

 

Seadrift to ask for bids for harbor improvements

Seadrift City Council members recently agreed to advertise for bids for a harbor improvement project. Council members also decided to complete work in specific areas of the harbor for bulkhead replacement, but delayed setting a timeline for the project until a later date.

 



Tri-County Black Chamber planning 2011 Conference

Galveston County Commissioner Stephen Holmes will be the keynote speaker for the Tri-County Black Chamber of Commerce's 2011 Conference slated to begin on Friday, Feb. 25 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Moody Gardens Hotel and Convention Center in Galveston. With a theme of "Business: Delivering Expectations," the conference is focused on achieving TCBCC's core objectives - business development, business education and business advocacy. The weekend conference also includes a Saturday, Feb. 26, annual meeting from 9 a.m. to noon at the Old Center Cultural Center, with the TCBCC's 2011-2014 Board of Directors and the Galveston County Advisory to be installed at the conference luncheon. Galveston County has recently been installed as a chamber service area. This year's conference features workshops, business coaching sessions, panel presentations and opportunities for networking. The conference will also address Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs), Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE), certification, procurement and bid processes. The conference is open to entrepreneurs, professionals and the public and will include prime contractors, HUB vendors and representatives of more than two-dozen state agencies. Sponsorships and exhibit space are available. For more information and to register, click here.

 

Governor's Commission for Women Legislative Luncheon slated

Actress Janine Turner will serve as mistress of ceremonies and will join Gov. Rick Perry and Texas First Lady Anita Perry on Tuesday, April 26, in honoring the women of the 82nd Legislature while enjoying lunch overlooking Austin. The luncheon will be at the Sheraton Austin at the Capitol from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Beacon State Fund, a nonprofit organization established to support the goals of the Governor's Commission for Women. Tickets are $60 each and sponsorships are available. For more information, please contact the Governor's Commission for Women at (512) 475-2615 or women@governor.state.tx.us.

 

TACDC planning conference on 'Going Green Affordably' in March

The Texas Association of Community Development Corporations has announced its 18th Annual Texas Community Economic Development Conference - "Going Green Affordably" - for March 6-8 in Austin. The event will be at the Hilton Garden Inn in downtown Austin. Some of the breakout sessions will feature topics such as Green Building, PR for Nonprofits, Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Tax Credits. Sponsorships are available and there will be exhibitors at the event. Keynote speaker for the Monday event will be Mary Gordon Spence and keynote for Tuesday will be Mark Pinskey with Opportunity Finance and Sam Yoon with the National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations. Early registration will be held through Feb. 18. For more information, click here. To register, click here.  

 

2011 CPM-ASPA Conference planned in Austin on Feb. 18

The 12th Annual Conference of the Texas Certified Public Manager (CPM) Program and the Texas Chapters of the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) will be Feb. 18, at The University of Texas LBJ School Of Public Affairs in Austin. Historian Douglas Brinkley, professor of history at the Baker Institute of Rice University will deliver the William P. Hobby Distinguished Lecture. Theme for the conference is "Fiscal Stress: Hard Choices for the Public Service." Requests are being accepted to organize a panel or submit a paper on a public policy and/or administration topic. They do not have to be related directly to the theme of the conference. Conference participants will receive six (6) hours of Continuing Education Units (CEU) or Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Credit for CPAs from Texas State University for attending thisconference. For additional information on location, parking, registration fees and forms, click here.  Sponsors are Texas Certified Public Manager (CPM) Program, ASPA District IV and the CenTex Chapter of ASPA.

 

Leadership Fusion Summit taking reservations for February event

"Leading with Vision - Igniting to Action" is the title for this year's Leadership Fusion Summit, scheduled for Feb 16-17, 2011, in Houston and sponsored by the Region 4 Leadership Solutions. Extraordinary leaders from both business and education will share a variety of best practices aimed at helping accelerate learning and success in school leadership. Among the speakers is Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, recognized by Forbes magazine as one of the 15 most influential business thinkers in the world. The first 300 to register will receive a free copy of Goldsmith's "MOJO - How to Get It, How to Keep It, How to Get It Back If You Lose It." Registration is open now and there is a reduced Early Bird fee through Dec. 17. For more information, click here. For the agenda, click here. 

 
TxDOT announces Small Business Briefing conferences
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Business Outreach and Program (BOP) Services has announced upcoming FY 2011 Small Business Briefing conferences. An April 20, 2011, conference is slated in Fort Worth and a July 20, 2011, conference is planned for San Antonio. The conference goal is to provide small and minority-owned business communities an opportunity to learn more about contracting opportunities with TxDOT.  Information will be available to help them do business with the agency and the State of Texas.  The sessions not only allow small businesses to be introduced to TxDOT and other state agencies, but also allow them to learn more about the economic development opportunities in their regions.  It also gives agencies a chance to show the myriad of prospects available for small and minority businesses in the state. For more information and to register, click here or call 512.866.480.2519, Option 2.

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The 'new norm' spinning
off lots of change!

 

Mary Scott NabersBy Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.

 

For individuals, the "new norm" usually relates to changes in how they shop and make purchases as a result of the recession. For government, it usually means doing more with less - more output with less money and fewer people.
  
But, like individual citizens, government is facing changes in the way it shops and buys, too. And, the result is that there will most likely be significantly more privatization by government. The public sector is now functioning in a completely new environment and change is rampant. Privatization, once an unpopular concept in government, is becoming the "new norm."
  
Just last year, New Haven, Connecticut, officials proposed privatizing housecleaning services for schools. The Board of Education had been spending $15 million each year on these services. The mayor proposed privatization of the services at an estimated savings of $7 million. The move, studies concluded, would allow the schools to reduce class sizes from 30 to 24 students per classroom.
  
Airport operations are another service category that many cities are outsourcing. Chicago has recently considered the option of outsourcing management of its airport property for 99 years in return for a $2.52 billion upfront payment to the city. New Orleans is also considering privatization of its city-owned Louis Armstrong International Airport and Detroit, too, is in discussions about privatizing its Coleman A. Young International Airport. 
  
  

Port Aransas approves $5 million bond election for improvements

Keith McMullenPort Aransas city officials recently agreed to call a $5 million bond election in May to pay for major improvements to 11th Street.
 

Mayor Keith McMullin (pictured) favored the $5 million option to widen and rebuild the street by adding a turn lane, bike path, sidewalk, curbs and drainage over a $2 million plan and a $7 million plan. The street serves the most densely populated area of homes, apartments, condominiums and hotels in the city, he said. Improving 11th Street will culminate five years of citywide street and drainage projects to upgrade roads and drainage, the mayor said.

 

Austin to spend $1.6 million for backup power for traffic lights

Austin City Council members recently agreed to use $1.6 million in federal grant funds to pay for installing battery units on traffic signals at 400 to 500 of the city's busiest intersections. The decision followed a recent cold snap causing power outages that knocked out many of the city's 907 traffic signals.

 

If contractors are hired to supplement city crews in installing the back-up battery units on the traffic lights, that cost will be additional to the $1.6 million, said a spokeswoman for the transportation department. Installation of the back-up units should take between nine months and one year to complete, she said.

 

Palestine to offer Ohrt

permanent city manager job

Palestine City Officials recently agreed to offer Mike Ohrt the position of city manager. The mayor said he plans to make the proposal at the next council meeting.

 

Council members appointed Ohrt as interim city manager after former City Manager Dale Brown was terminated from the position.
Ohrt has a bachelor's degree from Washburn University in Kansas and a master's degree from Kansas University.

 

Hill & Wilkinson

Marble Falls to seek federal

grant for photo-imagery tools

Marble Falls City Council members recently approved a request from the police department to seek a Criminal Justice Program Solicitation grant of $60,000 to buy enhanced photo-imagery equipment.

 

The system requested by police officials features a computer that enhances or enlarges facial features, license plates and other objects recorded by video and still cameras, said Assistant Police Chief Ted Young. The city will not be required to contribute matching funds by the grant, Young said.

 

McAllen eyes grant for emergency shelter/facility

Mike PerezMcAllen City Commissioners recently agreed to seek state and federal grants to help pay for a proposed emergency shelter that also would serve as a practice facility for a development team for the National Basketball Association. South Texas College turned down a similar request for a grant to pay for the proposed emergency shelter/practice facility.


City staff will submit a "bare-bones" application for the grant before submitting a more detailed application in about 30 days, said City Manager Mike Perez (pictured). City officials are considering forming a public-private partnership with the owner of the basketball team and serve as the fiscal agent for the proposed emergency shelter facility, Perez said.

 

Birdville ISD to hire search firm to help find new superintendent

Trustees for Birdville Independent School District recently agreed to interview three search firms to help find a new superintendent to replace Superintendent Stephen F. Waddell, a lone finalist for superintendent of Lewisville ISD. Five firms submitted proposals.

 

District officials plan to make a decision on the search firm soon as they expect Waddell to begin his new duties on March 1 and have set an April 28 target date for selecting a finalist for superintendent.

 

College Station names city manager, attorney from within

David NeeleyTwo current members of the staff of the City of College Station have been elevated to fill vacant executive-level positions. Former Assistant City Manager David Neeley (left) has been named city manager and Assistant City Attorney Carla Robinson (right) is the new city attorney. In spite of receiving some 60 applications for city manager, the City Council chose Neeley out of three finalists as its top choice.

 

Carla RobinsonNeeley was hired in 2008 as assistant city manager to oversee public works, water, capital projects and the parks and recreation departments. He previously spent 14 years as Sugar Land city manager.
 

Robinson has been serving as interim city attorney since October after the resignation of Harvey Cargill. She was chosen city attorney without the council soliciting for applications for the post, based on the approval by the council of the quality of her work. 

 

Northrop Grumman

Water Development Board reveals new Web page

The Texas Water Development Board, which is responsible for the development and conservation of water for the state, recently unveiled a new Web homepage.

 

The page will not replace the current page until the end of February. Over the next several months, the entire site will transition to the new look. The project is expected to be complete by the end of the year.

 

Marian Strauss to resign as superintendent at Pine Tree ISD

Marian StraussSuperintendent Marian Strauss (pictured) of Pine Tree Independent School District recently announced she plans to resign from that position at the end of March.

 

Strauss has served as superintendent at Pine Tree ISD since November 2009. Trustees have not yet selected an interim superintendent to lead the school district once Strauss leaves the position.

 

City of Edinburg to use landfill gas for renewable energy

City of Edinburg officials recently forged a 25-year contract with a Houston green energy company to produce power from gases given off by rotting waste at the city's 147-acre landfill. The alternative energy project is expected to produce electricity to power 20,000 homes, while also decreasing the release of greenhouse gases that put out the equivalent of 15,000 cars.
 

As part of the contract, the Houston company will oversee operations to collect the gas, transform it into power and then deliver it into the electricity grid. Generators are expected to be up and running by the end of the year. The city expects to generate new revenues from the electricity, but the actual dollar figure depends on the sale and amount of gas collected.

 

HDI Solutions

Laredo judge confirmed

by Senate as federal judge

The U.S. Senate has confirmed the appointment of U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Saldana of Laredo, who is the first federal judge appointed to a Texas bench by President Barack Obama. Saldana, who replaces Judge George Kazen, fills one of seven Texas judicial vacancies, which federal officials warn are creating a crisis as court cases stack up from skyrocketing drug and immigration cases along the border.
 

Another vacancy in Laredo, which is in the Houston-based U.S. Southern District of Texas, is expected to be filled by Laredo lawyer Marina Marmolejo. And, Texas District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has been nominated for a vacancy in Corpus Christi. Both nominees await confirmation.

 

Leander selects Zeno as new

economic development assistant

Eric ZenoLeander city leaders recently hired Eric Zeno (pictured), who has served as vice chairman of the city's planning and zoning commission, for the position of economic development assistant. In his new role, Zeno will work on business retention and expansion as well as be research manager for the department.


Previously, Zeno, who holds a bachelor's degree from Grambling State University, worked for New York Life Insurance Company.

 

Bee Cave Council gives go-ahead for $1.19 million in repairs

The Bee Cave City Council recently approved $1.19 million in road repairs that include hot mix overlays, crack sealing and seal coating. The city's road sales tax fund balance, which totals $3.29 million, will be used to finance the improvements that are the first part of a five-year maintenance plan.

 

The repairs are based on recommendations from a Corpus Christi engineering firm that rated nearly 17 miles of road surface in Bee Cave. Engineers with the firm suggested the city reassess all roads in three years.

 

At&T

Lack of funding hampers

road projects in Bryan

Texas Department of Transportation funding issues have recently changed two road projects in Bryan. Accounting errors by TxDOT have delayed plans to widen Briarcrest Drive near Bryan High School. The project, which was expected to finish in 2010, is now projected to be complete in 2014. TxDOT hopes to accept bids in 2012.

 

A second endeavor, the widening of University Drive inside city limits, has been reduced in scope. Original plans from 2008 call for widening the road to six lanes, but funding shortages have scaled that back to only four, which city officials say will be a big improvement for the road.

 

Austin Community College moving ahead on solar array

The Austin Community College real estate department recently urged the board of trustees to select a design/builder for a $1.2 million solar panel project. 

 

The community college received $900,000 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help pay for the solar array panels to be installed on a building that houses automotive, welding and building grade programs. Board members are scheduled to ask for bids for the solar panel project after Feb. 21.

 

 

Emig's success in proposal writing nets $3 billion in awards

Ed EmigEd Emig is SPI's lead proposal writer for the Special Services Division, which offers a wide array of services from grant writing and sales training to media/spokesperson training and keynote speakers. Emig has more than 25 years of experience in all phases of proposal development, including capture strategy development, pricing and cost justification and contract transitions/start-ups. He has an in-depth knowledge of both state and federal government procurement processes.


Emig has been involved with more than 200 different proposals for a variety of industries. Those proposals have resulted in more than $3 billion in contract awards. His expertise in the field of Information Technology is unparalleled. For NASA, he developed transition plans as part of proposal development, created a metrics-based performance evaluation plan and created a pricing model for a $200 million information technology services contract.
 

For a complete portfolio of experts and the services they offer, to inquire about specific services or to inquire about becoming a part of SPI's new Special Services division, contact Brooke Hollimon at 512-531-3948 or bhollimon@spartnerships.com. For information on other individuals in our Special Services division and their areas of expertise, click here.

 

Clifton Gunderson LLP

Belton ISD mulling iPads for students at new middle school

Susan KincannonBelton Independent School District trustees recently began considering a proposed pilot project to provide iPads to students at the new South Belton Middle School this fall.
 

The pilot proposal is an effort to provide a technology-based learning environment, said Superintendent Susan Kincannon (pictured). The pilot program calls for students in the program to work collaboratively to solve real problems with professional development provided by the technology company. A similar classroom technology project at the high school has proven successful, Kincannon said.

 

Midland wins $1 million

grant for wildlife preserve

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department recently awarded a $1 million grant to the Midland Wildlife Preserve and the Jenna Welch Nature Study Center. Plans call for the grant funds to be used to build more trails, bridges, bird blinds, a hawk tower, viewing platform and to create a butterfly garden.

 

21st Century Technologies

Millsap VFD garners $28,200 grant for equipment

The Millsap Volunteer Fire Department recently won a $28,200 Assistance to Firefighters Grant to buy new safety equipment. Plans call for the funding to be used to buy a wireless intercom system for two brush trucks, new headsets for firefighters, new face masks with amplifiers to improve communication during fires and adapters to permanently mount on hydrants to reduce the time for connections to be made, fire department officials said.

 

NEISD superintendent Middleton announces pending retirement

Richard MiddletonNorth East Independent School District Superintendent Richard A. Middleton (pictured) recently announced that he will retire from NEISD, where he graduated high school, started his career and, since 1990, has served as top executive.


Middleton began his teaching career at NEISD's Roosevelt High School in 1972. During his decades in the district, he has seen dramatic growth that includes four bond issues that totaled a combined $1.6 billion.
 

He earned a bachelor's from Trinity University, a master's from The University of Texas at San Antonio and a Ph.D. from The University of Texas at Austin.

 

SPI on Twitter

Rio Hondo nets $136,110

grant for new park

Rio Hondo recently won a $136,110 grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to build a new park to attract eco-tourists. Plans call for purchasing land near an old boat ramp to create a park where bird watchers can launch kayaks on the Arroyo Colorado to gain a new perspective for viewing birds and wildlife.
 

City officials also will expand a parking lot and install security lights at the two-acre park. City officials also plan to seek a second grant to pay for adding a pavilion and picnic grounds to the park and for renovating the flood-damaged boat ramp. The city is required to match 25 percent of the grant.

 

Belton approves $5 million street extension, overpass project

Jim CovingtonBelton City Council members recently agreed to move forward with a $5 million project to extend West Ninth Avenue and build an overpass to cross Nolan Creek and connect Main Street to Loop 121.


The road extension and overpass should provide access to other infrastructure projects and follows the city's plan to expand westward, said Mayor Jim Covington (pictured). The city has $400,000 from certificates of obligation issued in 2007, a federal appropriation as well as a pledge from the University of Mary Hardin Baylor to contribute $200,000 to the project, he said. The city, however, will need to find more funding sources to pay for the project.

 

Recent Reports

Norton to be new chief operating officer for TexAmericas Center

Scott NortonOfficials of TexAmericas Center, owned by the Red River Redevelopment Authority, recently chose Scott Norton (pictured) of Texarkana as the deputy director and chief operating officer of the center.


Norton, who represents Ward 5 on the Texarkana City Council, began his new duties at the center this week. The new position was added to provide more leadership as the TexAmericas Center acquired more responsibilities as it works through the BRAC 2005 process, the executive director of the center said.

 

Texas State Technical College seeks W. Texas president

The Texas State Technical College System has put together a search committee to find a new West Texas campus president.


The college is also accepting online applications, which should include a resume and an essay responding to a prompt at www.tstc.edu/workattstc/context. Applicants, who are encouraged to apply by March 9, can find a description of the position online at www.tstc.edu/workattstc/president.
 
The position became available when Mike Reeser was chosen to serve as the TSTC System chancellor and chief executive officer. Gail Lawrence currently serves as interim president.

 

Texas Government Insider Archives

 

Volume 1-8 Archives -1/8/04 - 2/4/11 
  
Governor's appointments
Governor Rick Perry has announced the following appointments:
  • Ray A. Wilkerson of Austin, presiding officer,Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority
  • Deeia D. Beck of Austin, Office of Public Insurance Counsel
Job Board

Washington County approves land transfer for park in Brenham

The land transfer will give the county's one-half interest in Linda Anderson Park property to the city in exchange for the city to sign a deed to the county for a building housing the county's public health facility.

 

Washington County commissioners recently approved a land transfer between the city of Brenham and the county.  


The transfer is needed as county officials had discussed the land transfer in the 1980s, but had not officially acted on the transfer, county officials said.

 

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Abilene group to finalize priorities for CIP

The Planning and Zoning Commission of Abilene recently agreed to a special meeting to finalize its recommendations for the city's Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for 2011-2015. City officials budgeted $1.5 million for the CIP in 2011 and $9.157 million for 2011 through 2015.

 

Once zoning commission members reach a decision, that recommendation for the CEP will be forwarded to the city manager and then to city council members, who can approve the recommendation as presented or make changes in the projects to be included.

 

Ferris gives OK to baseball

fields,  library project

City of Ferris officials recently approved $1.5 million plans to build baseball fields and a new public library. The 7,200-square-foot library will cost an estimated $835,000 while the Mutz Park fields will cost $553,300.
 

When discussing the bank loan, city officials were assured the interest rate would be less than 5 percent over a 15-year period.

 

The Texas Government Insider is a free weekly e-newsletter detailing important happenings throughout the state and summarizing current political issues relevant to individuals interested in government.
  
Publisher: Mary Scott Nabers
 
The Insider is published by Strategic Partnerships, Inc. (SPI), a research and consulting firm. Founded in Texas in 1994 by former government executives and public sector experts, SPI has developed a national reputation as the premier marketing partner dedicated to helping companies secure contracts in the $1.5 trillion state and local government marketplace.
 
To learn more about SPI services click here or contact our sales department at 512-531-3900.
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