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| Volume 8, Issue 5 · Friday, February 12, 2010 | |
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Texas community colleges being asked to cut costsEnrollments increase by double digits, many show record numbers
Community colleges in Texas are caught between a rock and a hard place.
While the struggling national economy and an increasing number of unemployed Texans caused their student populations to increase by an average of 12 percent during the last year, community colleges have been asked like every other state agency to trim their costs by 5 percent. Those budget reduction proposals are due later this month. So the institutions are being asked to take on more students and do it with less money. Rock, meet hard place.
Many are seeking exemptions or waivers from the cuts sought by the state's leadership - Gov. Rick Perry, Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and House Speaker Joe Straus. Letters from community college officials have been hitting the desks of state officials in recent weeks.
The proposed cuts couldn't come at a worse time, according to Dr. Rey Garcia, president and CEO of the Texas Association of Community Colleges (TACC), "because of the unique role community colleges play in the economy right now." Garcia noted that because of the downturn in the economy, many displaced workers are showing up on the doorsteps of the 50 TACC member institutions "trying to get the skills they need to get a job." [more]DPS recruiting for troopers; shortens trainingAgency says shorter training saves money, helps recruitingTulsa has suddenly turned into a hotbed for recruiters - and we're not talking would-be college football players. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) was among nearly a half dozen law enforcement agencies to send recruiters to Tulsa recently to visit with dozens of current police officers there and officers who were recently laid off. More than 125 officers in the Oklahoma city were laid off because of budget shortfalls. Recruits to the DPS trooper training academy will face a training period nine weeks shorter than in the past as the state's law enforcement agency tries to save money and attract more would-be troopers to the academy. DPS has close to 400 vacancies in its ranks and officials are hopeful the new 18-week training program will draw more possible recruits. The Public Safety Commission has approved the eight-week training for certified peace officers who seek to become DPS troopers. Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' Lone Stars
Dr. Meria Carstarphen, superintendent, Austin Independent School DistrictCareer highlights and education: I earned a doctorate in Administration, Planning, and Social Policy with a concentration in urban superintendency from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. I also have a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and Spanish from Tulane University, and Master of Education degrees from Auburn University and Harvard University. I also studied at the University of Seville, Spain, and University of Innsbruck, Austria. Prior to becoming superintendent of AISD, I served as the superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools in Minnesota, and as chief accountability officer for the District of Columbia Public Schools. I also served in similar leadership and accountability positions for public school systems in Kingsport, Tennessee, and Columbus, Ohio. I have also taught Spanish and documentary photography at the middle school level, as well as elementary education in Seville, Spain, and Caracas, Venezuela. What I like best about my job is: The ability to improve the quality of education for all children of the Austin Independent School District, and spending time with the kids is the best part. The best advice I've received for my current job is: "Do what is right for the kids." Advice I would give a new hire in my office: Work smart, work hard, work until the job is done and be nice to parents when you answer the phone. If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: In the truancy office, because I would turn myself in. People would be surprised to know that I: like armadillos! One thing I wish more people knew about my agency: is that AISD is amazing and we are launching more innovative approaches to better serve our children each and every day. Each week, the Texas Government Insider profiles a key government executive or decision-maker. If you would like to suggest a "Lone Star," please email us at editor@spartnerships.com. Cox retiring from TEA after 33 years in public sector
John Cox (pictured), associate commissioner for information technology and agency operations/chief information officer at the Texas Education Agency (TEA), will close out his 33 years of public service when he retires March 31. Cox has been involved in information technology for more than 50 years, a career that began as a computer operator with a major oil and gas industrial supplier in Houston. In the public sector, he has worked for Stephen F. Austin State University, Midwestern State University, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and TEA. Cox has served on the Board of Directors of the Texas Association of State Systems for Computing and Communications (TASSCC) since 1994 and is currently the organization's Past President. He is a past recipient of the TASSCC President's Award and the InnoTech IT Executive of the Year - Public Sector Award. Cox is on the Department of Information Resources Board of Directors and is a member of the Texas Education Telecommunications Network Governing Committee. Texas Lottery Commission extends bid deadline
Because of the chance that there was sharing of information between the Texas Lottery Commission's main vendor and a lottery consultant who was working for the vendor and the agency, the agency has extended the deadline for bids to run the state's lottery. Lottery Deputy Executive Director Gary Grief (pictured) said the bid deadline is being extended 30 days while officials look into the issue. The firm that holds the current contract is reported to have had a contract with a lottery consultant at the same time that the consultant also was helping lottery officials write their bid specifications. While the consultant's contract has been canceled, the RFP the firm helped write remains in place. Smisko returns to TEA as associate commissionerAnn Smisko is set to return to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) as associate commissioner for school support and improvement. In her new post, Smisko will help determine which rules can be eliminated or modified as she oversees an across-agency review of the commissioner's regulations. She will also help coordinate TEA's turnaround efforts at struggling schools. Smisko worked for TEA from 1977 until 2003, where she served in a number of capacities, most recently as associate commissioner for curriculum, assessment and technology. Smisko has worked as associate vice chancellor for the Texas A&M University System and as supervisor of student teachers at Boston College. She most recently served four years as assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction at Austin Independent School District. Smisko holds a bachelor's degree from Pennsylvania State University, a master's degree from Boston College and a doctoral degree from The University of Texas at Austin. Texas ETF awards $1.1M to San Antonio call center
The Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) will award $1.1 million to the Allstate Insurance Co. for the opening of a bilingual customer information center in San Antonio. The center is set to provide 200 jobs through the TEF investment but expects to generate up to 600 occupancies and reap $11 million in capital investment. The call center will improve customer service by expanding Allstate's bilingual capacity. Employees, most of whom will speak both English and Spanish, must be licensed in property and casualty insurance in all 50 states. San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro (pictured) said he looks forward to "the employment opportunity that will be afforded to hundreds of San Antonians."
Harrell, Gadow leaving TYC, Hudspeth retiredWill Harrell, former Director of Special Projects at the Texas Youth Commission (TYC), has left the agency to pursue other interests in Louisiana. Harrell had previously served as head of the agency's Office of Independent Ombudsman and was promoted to Director of Special Projects in May of last year. TYC Executive Director Cherie Townsend also announced that Dianne Gadow, director of Treatment Services/Assessment, also will leave the agency as Townsend said there is no longer a critical need for an executive-level position solely responsible for treatment and assessment. A third member of the TYC team, Administrator of Transportation Rex Hudspeth, has retired from the agency after 24 years at TYC. UNT President Bataille to leave university Feb. 28
University of North Texas President Gretchen Bataille (pictured) will step down from her post on Feb. 28. She gave no reason for her sudden planned departure. Bataille was named president of UNT in August. In announcing her resignation, Bataille noted, "As a university community, we have made significant progress in many areas, including academics, arts, research, athletics and image and reputation. A better infrastructure is in place to achieve our strategic goals and to embrace new opportunities. Pride in our university is at an all-time high, and we have achieved unprecedented levels of state and national recognition. I am proud of these accomplishments." The UNT System Board of Regents is expected to accept Bataille's resignation at its regular quarterly board meeting this week. At that meeting, board members also are expected to consider processes for the appointment of an interim president and the search for a new university president. Emmett delivers State of the County addressHarris County Judge Ed Emmett this week delivered his "State of the County" address, mostly taking on lifestyle issues that affect Harris County residents. Emmett said he views the current economic situation as "providing county officials with the incentive to move closer to 'zero based budgeting' whereby spending programs have to be justified each year." He also stressed the need for partnerships in transportation, flood control, criminal justice, health care and emergency management issues. To view the State of the County address, click here. UTHSC-San Antonio receives gift for nearly $4M
Methodist Healthcare Ministries has awarded $3.9 million to The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio to advance and transform nursing education in South Texas. The gift, which marks the largest in the school's 40-year history, will be used to create three new accelerated education programs designed to bring in more bachelor's, master's and doctoral nursing students. Dr. Eileen T. Breslin (pictured), dean of the School of Nursing, and the Dr. Patty L. Hawken Nursing Endowed Professor in the Department of Family Nursing Care, said a limiting factor in admitting more nursing students is "hiring and supporting qualified nursing faculty" with many faculty members retiring. The gift will provide $2.7 million for faculty and curriculum specialists to design and teach three new nursing degree programs, including an accelerated bachelor's degree in nursing, an accelerated online master's degree and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree. The remainder of the funds will be used to purchase equipment and provide scholarships. Adams picked for position at Prairie View A&M
Dr. Jimmy L. Adams, Jr. (pictured) has been chosen as the Assistant Vice President for Continuing Education and Institutional Relations at Prairie View A&M University. He will have oversight of continuing education programs and lifelong learning activities. He will also be director of the Office of Institutional Relations, which includes public relations, governmental affairs, equal opportunity and affirmative action and multicultural affairs. Adams is a veteran of 10 years with the Lone Star College system, where he held a number of positions, including Dean of Workforce Training and Community Development, Career Technology Division and professor of both business and visual communication. Previous to that, he owned and operated a graphic design firm and worked in the private sector in Houston. Adams holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Montevallo, a master's from Houston Baptist University and a doctorate from Sam Houston State University. University of Houston names director of law center
Tracy Hester (pictured) has joined the University of Houston Law Center as director of the Environment, Energy and Natural Resources (EENR) Center. Hester, a longtime partner of a Houston-based law firm and head of its environmental group, has served on the adjunct faculty at the UH Law Center since 1995, teaching environmental law and related courses. Hester holds a bachelor's degree from The University of Texas at Austin and a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from Columbia School of Law.
UT System picks vice chancellor for strategic initiatives
Sandra K. Woodley (pictured) has been appointed vice chancellor for strategic initiatives for The University of Texas System. In her new charge, which begins March 1, Woodley will supervise the UT System offices of Strategic Management and Institutional Studies and Policy Analysis and oversee the development and production of the annual UT System Accountability and Performance Report. Woodley currently serves as chief financial officer for the Arizona Board of Regents, the state's top higher education finance official. Woodley holds a bachelor's and master's degree from Auburn University and a doctoral degree from Nova Southeastern University. UTHSC-Houston: Just call us 'UTHealth'
Dr. Larry Kaiser (pictured), president of The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, has unveiled the university's new brand identity. UTHealth will now serve as the university's dba (doing business as) name. Regents have also approved a new logo and descriptive phrase - "academic health center at Houston." "The community knows far too little about what we do," Kaiser said of the branding initiative. "We are poised to take a big step in creating a brand that is as strong as this university, and which tells the community who we are and what we achieve." UNT-Dallas announces inaugural provost
John Beehler (pictured) has been selected to serve as the inaugural provost and vice president for academic excellence and student success at the University of North Texas at Dallas. He begins his new charge March 1 in preparation for the campus opening, slated for this fall. UNT-Dallas marks the city's first public university. Beehler serves as associate provost for economic initiatives and dean of the Halle/US bank College of Business at Northern Kentucky University. He has more than 29 years of higher education experience, including posts at The University of Texas at Arlington, Wichita State University, the University of Oklahoma and Indiana University. Beehler, a certified public accountant, holds a bachelor's degree from Penn State University and master's and doctoral degrees from Indiana University. Tarrant County to add floor for medical examiner siteTarrant County commissioners recently agreed to build an additional floor for the planned expansion of the medical examiner's office. The "shell space" for a third floor will cost about $500,000 more than the proposed $26.5 million voters approved for the project in a 2006 bond election, said David Phillips, the facilities manager, who said adding the additional floor will provide sufficient space for another 15 to 20 years. Plans call for enlarged space for crime investigation, laboratory and storage facilities and for a new building for a biohazard morgue. The cost of the two-story facility is now estimated to cost about $25.1 million. The third floor will increase the cost to about $27 million, less expensive than adding a new floor in the future, officials said. The additional $500,000 will be funded from interest earned on county improvement bonds, county officials said. Goode to serve as interim Austin Energy chief
Austin Assistant City Manager Robert Goode has been named interim general manager of Austin Energy. His appointment, according to Austin City Manager Marc Ott, is effective Feb. 26, when current General Manager Roger Duncan retires. Ott has indicated the city will undergo a nationwide search for a permanent general manager, a process he expects will take approximately four months. Goode has served as Assistant City Manager for Transportation Services since March 2008, with oversight for the Aviation, Code Compliance, Public Works, Solid Waste Services and Transportation departments. A search firm has been hired to assist the city as it looks for a permanent replacement for Duncan. In the meantime, Public Works Director Howard Lazarus will fill Goode's role. An interim replacement for Lazarus has not been announced. Bexar County pushes plan for all-electric streetcarsBexar County commissioners are pushing an aggressive funding plan to have a proposed 2.2-mile, all-electric streetcar system in place along Broadway by summer 2014. The system is projected to cost nearly $90 million and take two years to construct, according to VIA Metropolitan Transit President Keith Parker. Streetcars carry three times the number of passengers as buses. The plan calls for $17 million each from the city and county, $20 million already committed from VIA and $10 million from private sources. Mayor Julian Castro is set to lobby federal offices in Washington on behalf of the VIA application. Castro said private funds, which will mostly come from landowners along the proposed route, are "crucial for this system to succeed, and we have gotten indications from some property owners...that they are anxious to participate." Two new transportation research centers approved
Improving the transportation system in Texas is the goal of two new transportation research centers approved recently by the Texas A&M University Board of Regents as part of the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI). The Center for Strategic Transportation Solutions (CSTS) will focus on long-term transportation solutions for Texas and provide expertise to aid local and state officials as they address transportation problems and opportunities that are global in nature. Some of the issues it will address are transportation financing, mobility, freight movement, public transportation alternatives, border transportation planning, air quality issues and energy-related implications. Cinde Weatherby (left), CSTS director, said the center will assist transportation leaders "through research-based solutions as they confront significant transportation challenges. The CSTS will be based in Austin. The Transportation Economics Center will provide economic-based analyses to formulate transportation policies and programs at the national level. The TTI was selected to operate this center after a competitive procurement process of the U.S. Department of Transportation. "The TEC will help address transportation issues that are critical to the global competitiveness of our nation," says TTI Executive Associate Agency Director Katie Turnbull (right), who is the director of the TEC. Applications pour in for Dallas Police Chief postApplicants in line for Dallas Police Chief David Kunkle's position include a local sheriff's deputy, an assistant chief in the Houston Police Department and an assistant director for the U.S. Marshals Service. The new chief will help oversee a 3,600-officer brigade and an annual budget of $415 million. Applicants include: George T. Buenik, assistant chief at the Houston Police Department, where he has 27 years of law enforcement experience; Sylvester E. Jones, U.S. Marshals Service assistant director for witness security and prisoner operations since 2004; Jamie Fields, adjunct professor of criminal investigations at Wayne State University and former deputy chief of the Detroit Police Department; Brian K. Jordan, captain of the District of Columbia Metropolitan Police Department. Austin considers extending light-rail or streetcar line
As one option for extending a proposed light-rail service or streetcar line, City of Austin officials are considering building a rail bridge across Lady Bird Lake. The bridge would extend from Brazos Street across the river east of Congress Avenue and could extend further east or west, according to city Transportation Director Robert Spillar (pictured). City officials and consulting engineers are in the final stages of determining a preferred route, which they plan to unveil in a Feb. 25 briefing to the Austin City Council. Spillar said officials are not ready to make any recommendations as to specified routes until voters are given a say on the proposed measure, which could come as early as November in the form of a bond referendum. He said construction on existing bridges could prove difficult and disruptive to traffic. Washington Co. OKs Brenham interlocal agreementWashington County officials have approved an interlocal agreement with the City of Brenham to pursue Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grant money for the purchase of 70 radios. The county matched 20 percent - or $46,350 - in order to receive the Assistance to Firefighters Grant totaling $231,750. Amarillo sports complex to benefit from energy grantAmarillo city officials have decided to implement an environmentally sound lighting project at Rick Klein Sports Complex, thanks to an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant totaling $760,000 to $780,000. "We're going to be able to just about double up everything we do out there" with the lighting project, said city Athletics Director Jan Edwards. The city has already purchased the $481,000 green-technology lighting system and will choose a contractor to install the system later this month. The project is slated to be completed by May 15. Harris County commissioners approve $50K in dues
The Harris County Commissioners Court has approved $50,000 in dues to join the Texas High Speed Rail and Transportation Corporation, hoping to influence state legislators who will eventually deicide where to build a $12 - $20 billion train system known as the Texas T-Bone. The proposed system includes two lines connecting San Antonio to Dallas and another joining the Killeen-Temple area to Houston. Precinct 4 Commissioner Jerry Eversole (pictured) wants Harris County to actively lobby for a route linking Dallas and Houston, saying he would like to see an alternative to airports that would allow passengers to travel to Houston from Dallas in less than one hour. Houston ISD may end higher pay for advanced degreesTrustees for the Houston Independent School District recently began discussing whether to discontinue the salary increase traditionally awarded to teachers who earn a master's degree or a doctoral degree. District officials said the extra salary incentive for teachers who receive advanced degrees cost about $7.8 million this year. Superintendent Terry Grier said he is studying whether those funds could be spent in a more productive way. HISD, the state's largest school district, is also looking at ways to save money and whether to base higher pay on student learning. Bee County seeks $94,000 grant for technologyBee County commissioners recently authorized the Bee County Sheriff's Office to apply for a $94,000 grant from the Border Star Technology Project. The grant, if approved by the state, will be used to purchase thermal imaging cameras and in-car computers, said a spokesman for the sheriff's office. The new computer system will be synchronized with the data records management currently in use and will be mounted in all patrol vehicles. A portion of the grant also will be used to buy two thermal imaging devices to help with search and rescue incidents. Atascosa County firefighters/EMS win grantsEmergency responders in Atascosa County recently won $224,210 in grants from the Firefighters Grant program of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Included in the grant awards was a $46,550 grant to the Pleasanton Volunteer Fire Department to purchase new breathing equipment and a thermal imaging camera. The grant funds also included $177,660 to provide fire departments and EMS in other Atascosa County communities such as Jourdanton and Poteet with 43 new mobile radios and 70 hand-held radios to improve coordinated responses to emergencies. Valdez may resign as Nueces County District Attorney
Carlos Valdez (pictured) recently announced he intends to resign as the district attorney in Nueces County in March if Corpus Christi city council members confirm him as the new city attorney. The city manager of Corpus Christi named Valdez his choice to replace former city attorney Mary Key Fischer, who retired in September. Council members are expected to vote Tuesday on the confirmation of Valdez, city officials said. Valdez, who has served 18 years as the district attorney of Nueces County, also has served as an assistant county attorney and as county attorney. Fort Worth to decide on site for wastewater plantFort Worth city officials have narrowed the list of potential sites for a new wastewater plant to three sites in the western area of the city. The new plant, which is expected to cost from between $40 million to $50 million, will provide recycled water for irrigation and other uses. The three potential sites include two sites located near Camp Bowie Boulevard and Loop 820, while the third site is near a landfill that is more isolated from residential areas. The two sites near Camp Bowie would be more economical to operate than the landfill site because the Camp Bowie sites have the lowest elevation and would flow via gravity. Officials also are concerned that some residents will object to a plant near Camp Bowie that would be located too close to their neighborhoods, city officials said. The site near the landfill would cost more to operate because some areas of that site require water to be pumped uphill. Water Department officials said they plan to hold meetings to hear input from potential neighbors before identifying the final site for the new wastewater plant. Ysleta ISD sets $160 million bond election in MayTrustees for the Ysleta Independent School District in El Paso recently agreed to ask voters to approve $160 million in bonds for five projects in a May 8 election. Voters will have the opportunity to vote on each of five projects, including $59 million to replace swamp coolers with refrigerated air, $15 million for renovating high school science labs, $48 million for building two new schools, $25 million for renovating existing schools and $13 million for renovations at several campuses to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. District officials said voters will pay less than half of the cost of the projects if the bonds are approved because they estimate the state will provide funding for 57 percent of any of the projects approved by voters through the state's Instructional Facilities Allotment program. That program provides funding to poor, growing school districts to repay bond initiatives. TxDOT funds Fan with $132K research grant
Dr. Wei "David" Fan (pictured), assistant professor of civil engineering at The University of Texas at Tyler, has received research funding of $132,000 from the Texas Department of Transportation to enhance the department's fleet management. He will be charged with creating a software system that tests the validity of equipment based on that class of equipment's age, mileage, resale value and replacement costs. A UT-Tyler faculty member since 2006, Fan holds a Ph.D. in civil engineering with a specialization in transportation from The University of Texas at Austin. Belton approves $1.9M to improve road near new schoolBelton City Council members recently approved $1.19 million to upgrade Avenue D to improve traffic flow and access to a new middle school. The council also approved $300,000 for a wastewater improvement project. The upgrade includes new curbs and gutters, pavement, sidewalks and a new concrete intersection in addition to improvements to the storm drainage and extension of a water line. The road project should be completed in the fall. The wastewater improvement project is funded through a $250,000 grant from the Texas Department of Rural Affairs and a $50,000 required contribution from the city. The project will upgrade 1,400 feet of wastewater pipeline and manholes to benefit 1,748 persons, 57 percent of whom are low-to-moderate income. Galveston County drainage district proposes $3.6M pond
Officials of the Galveston County Consolidated Drainage District #1 recently asked League City council members to contribute about $700,000 toward a proposed $3.6 million, 80-acre drainage pond in southwest League City. The project is part of a $120 million drainage plan being developed by drainage district officials. The drainage district currently has $2.2 million remaining from bonds approved earlier by voters, but district officials hope to demonstrate to voters they can work with cities to complete one drainage project before asking voters to approve more money for future projects included in the new plan. The drainage district plans to spend between $500,000 and $600,000 to buy land for the pond and $400,000 to pay for engineering, excavation and surveying costs, said Mike Fitzgerald, the Galveston County engineer. Even if League City officials decide not to contribute to the proposed drainage pond, the drainage district plans to proceed with the project, said County Judge Jim Yarbrough (pictured). The long-term drainage plan, developed in 1994, calls for nine regional drainage ponds, five located in the Dickinson Bayou Watershed at an estimated cost of $120.5 million. An updated cost estimate for the plan is not yet available, Yarbrough said. New Braunfels ISD studies bond election in MayTrustees for the New Braunfels Independent School District recently begin considering whether to hold a bond election in May or November of this year to ask voters to approve up to $55 million for improvements to district facilities. While some board members backed a bond election in May, other trustees said they supported a November bond proposal because Comal County already has a large bond proposal for a new justice center on the May ballot, which could increase opposition to the school bond proposal. Trustees agreed to ask the 26-member Facilities Planning Committee to approve possible changes in timing for some of the projects. Because of changes in the growth outlook, district officials may want to shift priorities scheduling work on new middle-school and ninth-grade center projects rather than on new elementary schools as currently recommended in the two-year-old facilities plan. To place a bond proposal on the May 8 ballot, board members must make that decision by March 8. Richardson mulling $2.8M road project for bond vote
Richardson city officials recently began considering whether to include a $2.8 million road and trail project to improve traffic flow to The University of Texas at Dallas if council members decide to schedule a bond election in May. The proposed road and trail is designed to draw traffic from UTD away from Floyd Road and the adjacent subdivision and route more traffic around the campus, said Susan Rogers (pictured), vice president for communications for UTD. UT regents approved an agreement with the city to trade a long-term lease of land at no cost in return for the city's agreement to build roads and trails that will keep more traffic internal to the campus. Currently, most campus travel is occurring on external roads, but that needs to change as the campus grows and develops, said City Manager Bill Keffler. The proposal is part of a long-term vision to use about 60 acres of land north of the campus near the planned Cotton Belt commuter rail line for future development such as an event center, hotel, retail or housing that would connect the main campus with pedestrian malls and encourage rail use to commute to the college. UTD also is adding buildings and beautifying the central and southern areas of the campus to accommodate growth. Richardson City Council members are expected to vote later this month on the UTD agreement and decide whether to schedule a May bond election. TxDOT grants Midland schools $1M in safety grantsThe Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is set to construct a pair of Safe Routes to Schools projects in Midland with more than $1.18 million in grants. The program is geared to enhance safety in and around school zones with the intention of getting more kids to ride their bikes and walk to school. Grants totaling $1,183,298 will be tapped to construct sidewalks, crosswalks, erect traffic signs and implement bicycle storage racks at Emerson and Goddard schools and Fannin Elementary. Education and awareness initiatives will also be funded as part of the program. Kerr County nets more than $122K in forfeiture funds
The Kerr County Sheriff's Office has received $122,649 in forfeiture funds from 198th District Attorney Amos Barton that will go toward the purchase of needed equipment. The funds arrive as the result of seized drugs, vehicles and more than $1.1 million in trafficking busts. Kerr County Sheriff Rusty Heirholzer (pictured) said the funds, derived from forfeiture processing under Chapter 59 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, can only be applied to law enforcement purchases. The money will be used to update jail systems, including new equipment for an interviewing room. "The currency has been discovered in large hidden compartments in vehicles being investigated for narcotics-related offenses," Heirholzer said. Once proven contraband, the funds are distributed to law enforcement agencies based on the location of the seizure and other circumstances. Northside ISD looks to $535M bond referendumNorthside Independent School District (NISD) trustees have approved a $535 million bond referendum for the May 8 ballot. The bond calls for building additions at O'Connor High School and Michael Elementary in lieu of portable trailers serving as classrooms, as well as classroom and library upgrades, cafeteria renovations, window replacements and athletic improvements. NISD grew by some 3,200 students this year, making it the fourth largest district in Texas and by far the largest in Bexar County. Brenham approves lease-purchase for radio equipmentThe Brenham City Council has approved a lease-purchase proposal totaling $782,650 for emergency-responder communication equipment at an interest rate of 3.3 percent. The 84-month contract will result in monthly payments of $10,476. The new radio system will allow emergency responders in multiple counties to communicate with each other. The council has also approved six interlocal agreements with other governmental agencies regarding $362,880 in grant funds that will be used to purchase the radios. Harker Heights council seeking federal funds
Harker Heights City Council is looking to the federal government to help fund three infrastructure projects, including a Central Texas Expressway U-turn. City Manager Steve Carpenter (pictured) asked the council to select projects to submit to the city's congressional representatives in consideration of funds. Carpenter said the city has looked at funding roughly $500,000 to complete the U-turn project. Other projects to be considered include construction of another U-turn and the reconstruction of Comanche Gap Road with a hike-and-bike trail connecting Dana Peak Park to the Harker Heights Community Park. NCTCOG taking applications for security grantsThe North Central Texas Council of Governments' (NCTCOG) Emergency Preparedness Department is now accepting applications for the 2010 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NGSP). The program provides funding to nonprofit organizations listed as at high-risk of a terrorist attack. Nonprofits applying for funds must be located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. Applications are due before 11:00 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 19. For more information, click here. Brownsville names Juarez housing authority directorBrownsville city officials recently selected Antonio Juarez as the executive director of the Brownsville Housing Authority. Juarez, who previously served as the chief financial officer of the Brownsville Independent School District, will replace Esiquio Luna Jr., who left the position last year. Juarez, who grew up in the Citrus Gardens projects in Brownsville, has a bachelor's degree from The University of Texas-Pan American, a master's degree from the University of Phoenix and a Ph.D. from The University of Texas at Austin. He previously served as deputy superintendent for finance and business operations for the San Antonio School District. McKinney moving forward on $3.5 million tennis complex
After several years of delay, McKinney City Council members are planning on moving forward on design and engineering for a new $3.5 million tennis complex. Voters in 2006 approved bonds to pay for the tennis complex project and council members are expected to vote on Feb. 16 on a proposed contract with a Dallas-based design firm to perform design and engineering work for the complex, said Mayor Brian Loughmiller (pictured). The complex will include a concrete park road, parking, a tournament court and a building with concessions, restrooms and a pro shop. The complex will include at least 10 tennis courts, the mayor said. City officials also are seeking funding from the United States Tennis Association to help pay for the tennis complex, Loughmiller said. Kendall Appraisal District seekng new officesKendall Appraisal District officials are proposing to build new offices totaling $720,000, including $180,000 for a one-acre lot and $540,000 for the construction of a 5,000-square-foot facility. Chief Appraisal Gary Eldridge said the District has been in its current location for 19 years, "and its functionality and security are not up to standards." The Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce plans to relocate to the District's current historic downtown location to the tune of $750,000, which means the move would not cost taxpayers. |
Wow! Unique and innovative ways government is cutting costs!
By Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc. The city of Monahans is facing a budget shortfall. The case is the same for almost every other governmental entity in Texas. The interesting thing is how this particular city is dealing with it. The Monahans Chamber of Commerce, counting on Dallas Cowboys fans, is selling $50 raffle tickets for four tickets to the Cowboys game next Thanksgiving Day, including round-trip air fare and free stadium parking. The raffle proceeds will go into the city coffers to help plug the $44,000 budget hole. Texans are a pretty ingenious lot! Many government entities facing shortfalls - some in the millions of dollars - are preparing to increase fees or taxes, lay off workers or cut services. No possible revenue stream, however small, is being discounted. No expenditure cut, however large or unpopular, is off the table. [more]
Grayson Co. seeks adviser to help sell $20M in bonds
Grayson County commissioners recently agreed to request qualifications for bond counsel and financial services experts to help the county stage a $20 million bond election in May to pay for renovations to the county jail. Despite requests by some residents to postpone the proposed bond election until November 2010, County Judge Drue Bynum (pictured) urged commissioners to stay with the current plan of holding a bond election in May rather than waiting. Commissioners expect to select the bond counsel in about three weeks. Early voting in primary begins next TuesdayEarly voting for the March 2 Primary election in Texas begins Tuesday, Feb. 16, at a variety of locations throughout Texas. The last day for early voting is Friday, Feb. 26.
Alice ISD pondering $31 million bond electionTrustees for the Alice Independent School District recently discussed asking voters to approve $31 million in bonds to pay for a new elementary school and other facility improvements throughout the district. The discussion occurred at a workshop meeting to discuss bond options for the district. A financial adviser also told trustees that the Texas Education Agency will have more than $75 million available through the Instructional Facilities Allotment Program, which can be used for additions or renovations to existing instructional facilities or for new construction of instructional facilities. Board members took no action. Free webinar to explain energy security billsThe U.S. Department of Energy Gulf Coast Clean Energy Regional Application Center will host a free one-hour webinar on the energy security provisions of HB 1831 and HB 4409, passed during the last legislative session. The webinar is slated for Wednesday, Feb. 17, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Among other things, the "Hurricane Ike" bills now require operators of critical government buildings to conduct CHP feasibility studies prior to construction or major renovation. For more information, click here. To register FREE, click here
Abilene ISD looking at new computers for teachersThe chief technology officer for Abilene Independent School District recently urged board members to replace the aging computers used by teachers. The old computers do not have sufficient memory and the processors are too slow to work with the applications that teachers need, said Mark Gabehart, technology director for the district. As many as two-thirds of the computers used by teachers are seven to eight years old. They cannot process some of the new computer-based programs such as the one that helps teachers schedule and plan classroom activities based on state-required skills, Gabehart said. He urged trustees to develop a long-term strategic funding plan to pay for the new computers for teachers at every high school. Students will be required to take state standardized exams on each core course at the end of every school year and those exams will eventually be taken on computers, he said. Trustees took no action on the recommendation. Paris wins $1M grant for new Daisy Farms water line
The Texas Capital Fund of the Texas Department of Agriculture recently awarded a $1 million grant to the city of Paris to help pay for a new waterline to a dairy farm south of the city. Council members are expected to name Municipal Development Services as administrator of the grant for a fee of $50,000 said Mayor Jesse Freelen (pictured). The grant should benefit Paris, Lamar County and the Daisy Farms Dairy, the mayor said. Montgomery County backs off on $335M bond electionMontgomery County commissioners recently cited concerns over the economy and taxes when deciding to postpone a proposed $335 million bond issue to repair and replace several major roads in the county. Commissioners face a March 8 deadline to decide whether to schedule a bond election on May 8, but County Judge Alan B. Sadler said commissioners deferred action on the matter to an undetermined later date. Commissioners began discussion last year on a proposed bond election, but decided to wait until 2010 to hold an election that would include funding to pay for repairing and replacing major roads such as Woodlands Parkway, Grogan's Mill Road, Hardin Store Road and Fostoria Road. Commissioners may consider a bond election later this year if economic conditions improve, Sadler said. Where are they now?Where do folks go when they leave state government? Some go to work in the private sector or for nonprofits. Some transition to executive-level positions in higher education while others may seek elected local government positions. And some just retire and spend a lot of time with their grandkids at the fishin' hole. This column focuses on where former state government officials and employees are now.
Jim Chapman began his public service career in 1976 as district attorney for the Eighth Judicial District of Texas. He served eight years, until 1985, when he was elected to the U.S. Congress representing the 1st Congressional District. He served six terms in Congress, leaving the U.S. House of Representatives in 1997. Today, Chapman practices law in the Austin and Washington, D.C., offices of a Houston-based law firm.
Jim Turner's political career began when he served as a member of the Texas House of Representatives from 1981 to 1984. He then served as chief of staff and chief legislative liaison for Texas Gov. Mark White from 1985 to 1987. In 1989, he was elected mayor of his hometown of Crockett, serving until 1991, when he ran for and was elected to the Texas Senate. Turner served in the Senate from 1991 to 1996. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing the 2nd Congressional District, from 1997 to 2005. Today, he is a partner in the Public Policy and Legislative Practice Group of a Washington, D.C., law firm.
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD mulling $125.9M bondTrustees for the Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District recently continued discussion on whether to ask voters to approve a $125.9 million bond proposal in November. District officials plan to use the funding for maintenance, transportation and technology needs throughout the district if a bond election is scheduled and voters approve the bond issue. Orange County approves $185,000 for new radiosOrange County commissioners recently approved $185,000 to buy new radios for the sheriff's office. Funding for the new radios was from a grant from the U.S. Homeland Security Department and the Federal Emergency Management Administration. County officials, who originally intended to use the grant funds to pay for cameras along FM 1005, redirected the funding when the sheriff reported a series of obstacles prevented the cameras from being installed. The grant now will pay for 50 digital radios, 20 car radios and 30 portable radios for officers.
ACC board approves $2.1M purchase for propertyThe Austin Community College Board of Trustees has approved a contract for the purchase of about half an acre of additional property for ACC's Rio Grande campus. The $2.1 million purchase, part of a land banking initiative approved by trustees in 2007, will allow for future expansion in downtown Austin. ACC's district-wide facilities master plan - scheduled to be completed this year - will recommend specific uses for the property. Stephenville ISD board to consider calling bond voteAt next week's meeting, the Stephenville ISD board will consider calling a May 8 facilities bond election. The board is considering a single proposition - with a $59 million price tag - for facility improvements recommended by the community's facilities action planning team and approved by a 31-member Strategic Planning Committee.
Lubbock County looks to open new detention centerLubbock County officials recently learned installation of security and fire alarm systems at its new, 500,000-square-foot detention center could be completed in time to open the facility to inmates this summer. Construction on the new detention center began five years ago with contractors finishing structural building in December 2008. However, work on the security electronic and fire alarms, which has proceeded slowly, could be completed this summer so that the facility can be opened and the county can discontinue paying other counties to house inmates to avoid jail overcrowding and possible state sanctions, county officials said. West Central Texas Council wins $130,000 grantThe West Central Texas Council of Governments recently received a $130,000 Solid Waste Management grant to help communities in 19 counties reduce solid waste. The United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development program awarded the grant, which is available to nonprofit corporations and public bodies serving rural areas with a population of 10,000 or fewer. Funding from the grant may be used to identify and evaluate solutions to solid waste problems related to collection, treatment and disposal, including paying for training to increase the skill of operators of active landfills.
Austin Community College eyeing campus in LeanderOfficials of the Austin Community College recently began negotiations to acquire about 100 acres of land in Leander for a new campus. The new campus in Leander is part of the plan for ACC to open campuses in Round Rock, San Marcos, Elgin/Bastrop and Kyle/Buda. A pre-budget report by ACC confirmed the location for the new campus is near the Metro Rail Station in Leander, but did not identify the exact location, said Kirk Clennan, the director of Leander's economic development corporation. West Orange wins $8,550 grant for fire departmentThe Assistance to Firefighters Grant program of the Department of Homeland Security recently awarded an $8,550 grant to the West Orange Volunteer Fire Department. The grant may be used for training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness and health and safety modifications to stations and facilities.
Dreher to be offered Edwards Aquifer post
Karl J. Dreher (pictured) has been chosen by the Edwards Aquifer Authority as its candidate for the entity's general manager. The board of directors this week announced they will be making Dreher an employment offer. If a contract is approved at the board's March meeting, Dreher would succeed General Manager Velma Danielson. She has announced her intention to retire. Dreher is managing partner of a consulting firm and is the former director of water resources for the State of Idaho. He is also a former vice president in the water resources practice of a California law firm. He has been in the water industry for more than three decades. He also is a former engineering manager for the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District, former head of the analytical design group of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and a former design engineer at Denver Water. Sabinal ISD approves $5.1 million bond election in MayTrustees for the Sabinal Independent School District recently scheduled a $5.1 million bond election in May to pay for a new gymnasium, expand science labs and improve other facilities. If voters approve, the bonds will be used to pay for a new $3.5 million, 700-seat gymnasium, renovating two existing science labs while adding another science lab and for upgrading the central kitchen so that a second lunch line can be added.
El Paso approves plan to improve low-income areaEl Paso City Council members recently approved a revitalization plan for the Segundo Barrio, a low-income neighborhood in south El Paso. The revitalization plan, expected to cost $30 million to $40 million to implement during the next five years, calls for upgrading streets, parks and other basic structures as well as helping residents improve their homes and upgrade their job skills through adult education. City officials said they plan to seek grants from the federal and state government as well as from the private sector to help pay for the neighborhood revitalization. Betty Ressel joining SPI
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AACOG to host five-day grant training workshopThe Alamo Area Council of Governments is hosting a Grantsmanship Training Monday through Friday, March 1-5. The training, presented by the Grantsmanship Center, will be in the Northeast Community Learning Center, 8750 Tesoro Drive in San Antonio. The five-day workshop features hands-on learning covering all aspects of researching grants, writing grant proposals and negotiating with funding sources. Those attending will learn how to locate new funding sources for their organizations and will work with a team to prepare an actual proposal for funding. To register, click here. For more information, click here. TML sets March date for Economic SummitM. Ray Perryman, president of The Perryman Group, and Billy Hamilton, consultant and state revenue expert, will be among the featured speakers at the Texas Municipal League's Economic Summit, set for Friday, March 5, at the Dallas Marriott Las Colinas. Perryman will address "The Economic Outlook for Texas" while Hamilton will address "Texas Revenue Sources and the Economy." This educational opportunity for both elected and appointed city officials is designed to help them better understand the future economic outlook in the state, to learn about the state budget and how it affects cities, to find out about Texas revenue sources and to study regional plans for economic development. There is a discount for early registration and elected officials can earn Texas Municipal League Institute (TMLI) credits. For more information, click here. To register online, click here. Region 4 ESC plans Leadership Fusion Summit 2010The Region 4 Education Service Center will present its Leadership Fusion Summit 2010 on Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 17 and 18. Leadership Fusion brings together recognized experts from business and education areas with educational leaders to explore the universal principles of leadership to accelerate learning and success in 21st-century schools. This innovative program has six national speakers: Dr. Todd Whitaker, Dr. Shannon Flumerfelt, Jim Winter and WAVELENGTH, Pegine Echevarria, Garrison Wynn, and Ako Kambon. The times for the two-day workshop (Session #365881) are 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day. Cost is $400 and includes lunch both days. Participants should visit the e-catalog to register or FAX a registration form found on the Web site to Registration Services at 713-744-2723. TxPPA planning annual spring workshop for FebruaryThe Texas Public Purchasing Association Spring Workshop 2010 is slated for Wednesday through Friday, Feb. 24-26, at the Crowne Plaza in Austin. The three-day event features concurrent sessions on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Basic and Intermediate Contract Management, Wisdom from the Attorney General's Office, AP and Purchasing P-Card Partnership and Public and Private Partnerships. There will also be a legislative roundtable and a discussion of the state economy. For more information, click here. To register online, click here. Statewide 2010 Conference on Aging set in MarchThe statewide 2010 Conference on Aging will be held Sunday through Wednesday, March 21-24, at the Inn of the Hills in Kerrville. The conference, whose 2010 theme is "Deep in the Heart of Aging," is designed for professionals who deal with aging with both administrative and direct service responsibilities and who work in a broad range of community-based settings. The conference features technical assistance, best practices and management tools sharing to help promote service delivery excellence. The conference is hosted by the Texas Association of Area Agencies on Aging, the Texas Association of Aging Programs and the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, click here. To register online, click here. Last two BOP sessions with TxDOT are announcedThe last two sessions of the Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT) Business Outreach and Program (BOP) Services Small Business Briefing conferences have been announced for April 1, 2010, in Dallas and June 15, 2010, in Texarkana. 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 allows them to learn more about the economic development opportunities in their regions. It also allows the agencies to show the myriad of opportunities available for small and minority businesses in the state. For more information, click HERE or call 1.866.480.2518, Option 2. 
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