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Public meetings go paperless, broadcast live on Web

Agenda management technology connects citizens, public entities

Computer Guy

Public entities throughout the state are using technology, chiefly e-innovations, to bring public meetings into the homes and offices of Texans. Many governments are posting meeting agendas and documents online, while others are going a step further - broadcasting public meetings live on the Web.

New tools are adding another dimension to Web broadcasts, by tying in the documents that were previously only available at the actual meeting.

Agenda management technology is designed to be practical for both novice and expert users, and includes posting agendas with attachments, summaries, minutes and video to the Web. The technology has the ability to attach staff reports, maps or other documents electronically, and enables users to view documents with a laptop, by e-mail or in print.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) on March 7 began posting reference materials for each commission agenda online. The service offers access to the supporting material of each agenda item before the commissioners. Citizens can also watch the twice-monthly commission meetings.

 Larry R. Soward

"Right now you can pay permitting fees, renew a license, submit an application and provide comments on proposed rules to us, all from your computer," said TCEQ Commissioner Larry R. Soward (pictured). "[This] is yet another step in our efforts to provide accessible, open and efficient decision-making here at the TCEQ."

The Texas Railroad Commission will Webcast its conferences live, beginning March 29, and then post them online.Railroad Commission Chairman Elizabeth Ames Jones said the Webcast "will provide a valuable service to our industry partners as well as to the general public who cannot always travel to Austin to attend meetings."

Paperless board and commission meetings may be the wave of the future. The Dallas Independent School District last month issued a request for proposal for an electronic school board document management system. The goals are to efficiently provide public access to information, and to increase communication with the public they serve.


TxDOT facing loss of federal highway funds

Federal funding that will affect road construction, maintenance and enhancements in Texas is expected to be cut by as much as 2 percent and the Texas Transportation Commission is discussing where to make the nearly $300 million in cuts ordered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA). The commission's proposed cuts must be submitted to the FHA by April 19.

This round of cuts comes from the nearly $14 billion in federal funds that was to be allocated to Texas from 2006-09 as a result of the 2005 transportation bill passed by the U.S. Congress. The funding benefits numerous state transportation programs - with approximately 70 percent allocated for highway construction, maintenance and enhancements. Pressures on the federal budget have led to cuts in funding to the states for transportation and other programs.

The states are allocated funding based on an 18.4 cents-per-gallon federal gas tax collected by the states and then allocated back by the federal government. Texas' return on its collection is approximately 86 cents on the dollar. Some 70 cents of that goes to highway projects.


Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' rising Lone Stars

TDLR Frank Denton

This week's salute is to Frank S. Denton, chairman of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

Career highlights and education: I graduated from Sam Houston State University with a BBA and have spent my entire career working in the private sector. I managed a division with 30 manufacturing facilities and 200 over the road trucks with 3,500 employees. During this period of time, I also owned and operated a chain of automotive service centers. Currently, I am the President of Denton Investment Corporation.

What I like best about my job is: Clearly working with other commissioners and the staff at TDLR is the most enjoyable part of my job. It is gratifying to see the quality service and efficiencies that can be achieved when everyone has the same objective.

The best advice I've received for my current job is: The best advice I ever received about doing any job is - take on any assignment like you have personal ownership in the company or agency.

Advice you would give a new hire in your office: I would offer them the best advice I ever received as stated above.

If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: At my ranch in Houston County.

People would be surprised to know that I: I enjoy working on a tractor. I find it relaxing and therapeutic.

One thing I wish more people knew about my agency: Coming from the private sector, I was pleasantly surprised at the dedication and efficiency with which the TDLR employees accomplish their jobs. When it comes to quality service, efficiency and cost consciousness, I would put the TDLR employees up against any private sector group I have ever seen in terms of performance. I consider it a model state agency and wish others could see the efficiencies with which they accomplish some huge tasks.

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.


Two more resign at Texas Youth Commission

Two more officials at the troubled Texas Youth Commission (TYC) resigned this week, and the special master appointed to oversee the investigation of the state youth corrections facilities is indicating more changes could be forthcoming. TYC's Deputy Executive Director Linda Reyes and the agency's general counsel, Neil Nichols, both resigned Tuesday.

The resignations stem from an ongoing investigation of TYC facilities after allegations of abuse and the reported cover-up of the allegations were disclosed. Since then, the executive director of the TYC resigned, the board chair was demoted and replaced, a special master was appointed by Gov. Rick Perry and a new interim executive director was put in place. A select legislative committee of House and Senate members was appointed to review the TYC and last week proffered a vote of "no confidence" regarding the sitting board. By last Friday afternoon, the board approved a rehabilitation plan for the agency and then collectively resigned.

This week, a Ward County grand jury opened its investigation into the abuse allegations at the West Texas State School in Pyote.


Senate passes bill to put defibrillators in public schools

The Texas Senate Monday unanimously approved legislation to require automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on every public school campus in Texas.

Senate Bill 7 requires school districts to make the devices - used to restore normal heartbeat by applying a brief electric shock - available at all public school campuses, and requires nurses, coaches, trainers and other public schools employees to be trained in the use of AEDs.

The bill authorizes the use of state funds to cover school districts' costs for purchasing AEDs, but also allows districts to accept donations of cash or equipment to balance the cost. The bill now goes to the House for its consideration.


UNT receives $2.27 million for technology center

The University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth has received $2.27 million in funding from the Texas Emerging Technology Fund to set up a new center for fluorescence technology to propel the center's discoveries into the marketplace for public use.

Fluorescence-based imaging is used in developing new technology for security systems, biomedical diagnostics and tissue imaging, among other uses.

The $200 million Texas Emerging Technology Fund was established in 2005 to facilitate technology companies to get their commercial discoveries from the lab to consumers quickly, as well as to improve research at Texas universities.

Some $7.5 million was awarded last week to North Texas ventures: Optisense Network Inc. in Bridgeport received $1.5 million for sensor technology application. The University of Texas at Tyler received $3.75 million to establish a facility to study indoor air quality.


Hinshaw selected by DADS for position

Linda Hinshaw

Linda Hinshaw, an employee of the Abilene State School for more than 30 years, has been named by the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) as the school's new superintendent. Hinshaw, who began working for the school in 1972, has served the last seven years as assistant superintendent of programs.

Hinshaw, who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington and a Master of Science degree in nursing from the University of Texas at El Paso, has also served the Abilene State School as a part-time clinical instructor with the Associate Degree Program and the Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing Program at the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing.

"It has been my mission to provide the highest quality of care to all Abilene State School residents for almost 35 years now," says Hinshaw. "I am dedicated to continuing that mission in my new role." The school, which is operated by DADS, is home to some 500 individuals with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities.


Emerging Technology Fund awards $2 million

A $2 million grant through the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (TETF) has been awarded to Xtreme Power Inc. of Kyle to develop a large-scale energy system to store and deliver large quantities of electric power efficiently and cost effectively.

The TETF, a $200 million initiative created by the Texas Legislature in 2005 at the governor's request, provides funding for emerging technology projects that demonstrate an economic benefit to the state. The fund provides capital for the development of start-up and growth stage technology companies.

Since 2005, the TETF has distributed $73.4 million in grant funds to Texas companies and universities.


Branch to chair new education committee

Dan Branch

Rep. Dan Branch (pictured) of Dallas was appointed by House Speaker Tom Craddick last week to chair the House Select Committee on Higher and Public Education Finance. The committee will seek to improve college and workforce preparedness by coordinating public and higher education finance policy.

Additional members serving on the committee will be Rep. Scott Hochberg of Houston as vice chair, Reps. Harold Dutton of Houston, Rob Eissler of The Woodlands, Helen Giddings of Dallas, Ryan Guillen of Rio Grande City, Lois Kolkhorst of Brenham, Geanie Morrison of Victoria, and John Otto of Dayton.

The committee's hearings will review state programs to increase student achievement, and the alignment of funding for public and higher education programs. The committee is also tasked with developing ways to better appropriate federal money to meet the state's responsibilities under the Texas Guaranteed Tuition Plan.


Defense communities receive $49 million

More than $49 million in low-interest loans went to the City of Corpus Christi and the Port of San Antonio last week for critical road improvements and infrastructure projects. The money was the first allocation of funds under the Texas Military Value Revolving Loan Fund (TMVRLF).

In 2003, the $250 million TMVRLF, distributed by the Texas Military Preparedness Commission, was created. The fund targets defense communities that are adversely impacted by a Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) 2005 action, through economic development projects to attract new industries and create new jobs; and assists defense communities positively impacted by a BRAC 2005 action by funding new infrastructure, utilities or transportation needs.

The recent awards include $10.6 million to the City of Corpus Christi to alleviate Port Avenue's jammed configuration for port access. Redevelopment of the roadway will enhance the port's capability as a strategic military port, facilitate military deployments through the Port of Corpus Christi and support the extension of the Navy's Waldron Field Runway.

A grant of $38.3 million went to the Port of San Antonio to build a 90,000-square-foot Air Cargo Terminal as well as two office and warehouse buildings.


Rep. Gonzales appointed to NCSL health committee

Veronica Gonzales

Rep. Veronica Gonzales of McAllen has been appointed by House Speaker Tom Craddick to serve a two-year term on the Health Committee of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL).

The committee's group of state legislators will meet to form policy guidelines on various health issues ranging from cancer prevention to children's health insurance and substance abuse. As a member of the NCSL Health Committee, Gonzales will participate in legislative forums that focus on policy innovation among different legislatures and guide the NCSL's lobbying efforts with the federal government.

Gonzales said she viewed her appointment as a "vital opportunity" to support South Texans' health needs.


Base realignment funds are in question

The White House has threatened to veto a supplemental spending bill that contains $3.1 billion for base realignment projects ordered by the Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC) in 2005. Loss of that funding would impact several Texas military installations.

San Antonio is slated to receive funds for projects at Fort Sam Houston, Brooke Army Medical Center and Randolph Air Force base. The City of El Paso has also been awarded a grant of nearly $1 million as it prepares for its population to explode by thousands when new troops arrive at Fort Bliss. The Naval Station Ingleside is set to close by 2010, and portions will be returned to the Port of Corpus Christi.

The White House has indicated the president would veto the current bill, which is supposed to be a military spending bill but also contains $29 billion in domestic programs.


Texas legislator joins Energy Council

Ryan Guillen

House Speaker Tom Craddick appointed Rep. Ryan Guillen to the board of the Energy Council, an organization of 10 states that makes policy suggestions on growth and development of the energy production business.

The council is headquartered in Dallas. Member states include Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming.

Guillen will address issues including clean energy and ways to provide less expensive energy to Texas families.


Communications towers revamped in Panhandle

Joel Richardson

Palo Duro Canyon State Park, nearly 800 feet at its deepest area, can be a hindrance for first responders trying to communicate in an emergency, especially with no working communications tower.

After the driver of a U-Haul truck crashed into Palo Duro's communications tower last year, Randall County deputies now have to use the park rangers' signal when they are in the canyon to communicate when assisting rangers in emergency calls, said Sheriff Joel Richardson.

In spite of the temporary fix, Sheriff Richardson said a new tower exclusively for Randall County Sheriff use is needed. Cell phones do not work in the canyon.

The Panhandle Regional Planning Commission plans to replace the Palo Duro tower this summer, and will also begin using a digital signal instead of its former analog. In addition, the commission is revamping all communication towers in the Texas Panhandle, a $6 million project that began in 2005.


Federal grants available for Texas health clinics

Eligible health centers across Texas can apply through mid-May for funding to increase the number of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) in rural and underserved counties. The funding is available through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, under the President's High Poverty Counties initiative.

Thirty counties in Texas - Bell, Blanco, Callahan, Chambers, Coke, Coryell, Delta, Ector, Ellis, Falls, Grayson, Gregg, Guadalupe, Hays, Hudspeth, Johnson, Lee, Live Oak, Marion, Martin, Milam, Nueces, Red River, Sabine, Sherman, Smith, Taylor, Upshur, Van Zandt and Wilson - are eligible for grants.

The initiative includes new access point grants, which supply funding to establish new locations to provide health center services, and planning grants, which are designated for the development of new health centers.

Federally Qualified Health Centers focus on preventive care, reducing the likelihood of emergency room visits and hospital stays. Last year, FQHCs served 717,106 underinsured and uninsured Texans.


Pearson appointed to technology advisory council

Bob Pearson

Bob Pearson of Austin has been appointed by Gov. Rick Perry to the Texas Emerging Technology Council, which makes recommendations to the governor, lieutenant governor and Speaker of the House for the award of grant money to emerging technology projects.

Pearson is the vice president of corporate communications at Dell, and serves on the board of directors of the Dell Foundation. He is the former head of corporate communications at Novartis and past president of the GCI Group.

Pearson received a bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University.


Three cities all seeking managers

Three towns in Collin County - Prosper, Anna and Princeton - are currently all seeking full-time city managers. All of the towns have fewer than 6,000 residents.

The Prosper Town Council is looking to hire a town manager as the council could not work out an agreement to hire interim Town Manager Doug Mousel as its permanent city manager.

The city of Anna is currently accepting applications for city manager after former City Manager Lee Lawrence resigned last month. Anna Chief of Police Kenny Jenks is serving as interim city manager.

After former City Administrator Joe Gambill resigned Feb. 4, Princeton also began its search. Assistant City Administrator Lisa Thornhill has been serving as the acting city administrator, but she has not applied for the city administrator position.


Baylor fills administrative positions

Paul W. Powell David E. Garland Pattie Orr

Baylor University has announced the appointment of two new administrators, effective June 1. Pattie Orr (left) is the new vice president for information technology and dean of libraries. David E. Garland (center) has been named dean of the George W. Truett Theological Seminary.

In her new roles, Orr will be in charge of the university-wide information technology organization that provides library services as well as administrative and academic technology services and technology infrastructure.

Orr comes to Baylor from Wellesley College, where she was the director of user services and the policy and planning officer for the information services division. She has a bachelor's degree in education from Abilene Christian University and a master's degree in education from Lesly College in Cambridge, Mass. She is currently pursing a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Massachusetts.

Garland has been promoted to seminary dean from his position as associate dean for academic affairs and the William B. Hinson Professor of Christian Scriptures at Baylor. He succeeds Paul W. Powell (far right) who will retire at the end of May.

Before coming to Baylor in 1997, Garland taught at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary for more than 20 years. He is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University and is a U.S. Navy veteran. Garland received his master's and doctoral degrees from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.


UTPA awarded USDA grant

The public service division of The University of Texas-Pan American, The Office of Center Operations and Community Services (CoSERVE), recently received a $198,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for its Texas Rural Cooperative Development Center.

The funds will help fuel economic development in South Texas through the Texas Rural Cooperative Development Center, a component of CoSERVE. The Texas Rural Cooperative Development Center provides business training and technical assistance to existing and start-up cooperatives, cooperative members, and member businesses.


A&M-San Antonio campus funds in jeopardy

Rep. Ruth Jones McClendon

A promised $10 million in funds for a Texas A&M University campus in San Antonio is not included in the $150 billion spending bill that is about to go before the Texas House. It is on the "wish list," which means money would have to be added to the spending plan for the funds to be included.

Texas A&M University currently operates a two-year, upper level campus in San Antonio, using Palo Alto College facilities. The university system would like to transform it into a four-year program, which would allow the school to use tuition revenue bonds to build facilities.

The campus is already slated to receive $3.3 million over two years from the state, not enough to make the transition to a four-year institution.

The Senate will act after the House passes its budget and differences between the two budgets will be worked out in conference committee. Rep. Ruth Jones McClendon, a member of the budget-writing House Appropriations Committee, said the school's prospects to receive funding are still good.


Waxahachie reviews city's sports complex plans

The Waxahachie Community Development Corporation recently met to discuss additions to the city's sports complex and review plans.

After discussing options for improvements - including four new baseball fields, upgrading the stands at the football field and adding a hike and bike trail, concession stands, a large playground, a track and a central pavilion - the board instructed a landscape architect/planner to prepare estimates. The proposals total nearly $8 million.

The city will generate funds for the project through the sale of $10 million in bonds and through refinancing of $13.3 million in existing bonds. Improvements at the Waxahachie Civic Center are also planned.


Falls County receives infrastructure grant

Charles Stone

The Office of Rural Community Affairs has awarded Falls County a $27,000 grant from the agency's Urgent Need Fund to replace a clay sewer main in the unincorporated community of Chilton. The existing sewer main failed in January.

"The Office of Rural Community Affairs is pleased to be able to assist Falls County and the community of Chilton in their efforts to protect public health," said Charles S. Stone, ORCA's executive director. "ORCA understands that rural communities operate on a tight budget, so when an urgent need such as this occurs, the agency is ready to provide support."

ORCA's Urgent Need Fund is part of the Community Development Block Grant program, which provides assistance to cities with fewer than 50,000 residents or counties with fewer than 200,000 residents. The program's funds come from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.


West Texas schools receive crisis preparedness grants

Six West Texas school districts have received federal grant funds to establish emergency preparedness systems.

Midland, Coahoma, Big Spring, Stanton, Monahans and Pecos districts, all in the Region 18 Education Service Center of the Texas Education Agency, applied for a competitive grant last year, and have been awarded $650,000.

A crisis management systems company from Washington will create a secure Web site for each district, containing crucial operations information for school officials and law enforcement agents to use during a crisis.


Texas A&M names new Ag Communications Director

Jason Cook

Jason Cook has been named director of communications and marketing for Texas A&M Agriculture, and will begin his new position April 16.

Cook will coordinate communications efforts for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station and Texas Cooperative Extension. He has served as director of public relations and marketing for the Texas Engineering Extension Service, also part of the Texas A&M University System, since October 2003.

Cook began his career as athletic media relations assistant for Mississippi State University in 1991 upon completing a bachelor's degree in communications at the school. He was assistant vice president for media and communications at HealthSouth Corp. in Birmingham, from 1997-2003.

Agricultural communications, which handles the news, marketing, publications, video and printing needs of Texas A&M Agriculture, is based in College Station and has 10 locations throughout Texas.


College Station may land $435 million facility

Texas A&M University at College Station is one of 18 potential sites being considered for a $450 million agro-biodefense facility. Finalists will be selected in June.

Garry Adams, associate dean for research at Texas A&M's College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, will host U.S. Department of Homeland Security officials on May 10 to show them the proposed 110-acre site at Raymond Stotzer and Harvey Mitchell parkways.

Members of the intergovernmental committee looking at the proposal, including Adams, recently discussed the project's potential economic impact and the effect it could have on transportation. If the facility generates the projected 883 permanent jobs, thousands of additional vehicles will be on Bryan and College Station roads.


Lindale ISD hires superintendent

Stan Surratt

Lindale school trustees Monday unanimously approved hiring Stan Surratt as the district's new superintendent. Surratt has served as Fruitvale ISD superintendent for eight years.

School board members selected him as the lone finalist last month, but they are required by law to wait at least 21 days before officially hiring the candidate.

Current Superintendent Dr. Jane Morrison will serve Lindale through June 30. Surratt, if released from his Fruitvale contract before June 30, would be hired by Lindale ISD to work in another capacity.

Fruitvale is a 1A school district in Van Zandt County with some 480 students, while Lindale is a district of 3,000 students, located in Smith County near Tyler.


Awards to honor counties, cities

The Texas Association of Counties Leadership Foundation County Best Practices Awards recognize counties and county leaders for accomplishments in various areas such as safety and corrections, health and human services, finance and management, community improvement and technology.

TAC will also join the Texas Municipal League to present the City-County Cooperation Awards, which honor programs in which cities and counties worked together to meet the challenges of local government.

Past Best Practices Award recipients have developed a Web-based crime mapping program, a motor vehicle inventory tracking system, and an early intervention program for children in foster care. Nominated programs must have been completed during 2006, and must be replicable in other counties. Nomination forms, due May 15, are available online at www.county.org/cms/leader/practices.asp or by contacting Kali O'Neill at 800-456- 5974 or kalio@county.org.

Last year, the City of Weatherford and Parker County received a City-County Cooperation award for a Special Crimes Unit. Nominated programs must have shown significant results between Nov. 1, 2005 and May 1, 2007. These nominations are due by May 4. More information is available on the TML Web site, http://www.tml.org, or by calling Karla Vining, 512-231-7400.


University of Houston president considers Auburn

Jay Gogue

Jay Gogue, president of the University of Houston, is the lone candidate for the top position at Alabama's Auburn University, his alma mater.

Gogue will be the only applicant to visit the Auburn campus for interviews this week, according to the university's search committee. He would replace Ed Richardson, who is expected to retire in June after more than three years as president at Auburn, Alabama's largest university.

While Gogue said that he was not looking to leave UH, he described this as a "once-in-a-lifetime possibility" he could not ignore. In addition to Gogue, his wife and daughter graduated from Auburn. After earning his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Auburn, Gogue received a Ph.D. in horticulture from Michigan State University in 1973. He has also served as president of New Mexico State University.

Since becoming president at UH in 2003, Gogue guided an ambitious makeover for the campus, and had planned to launch a major fundraising campaign.


Del Mar college plans campus improvements

Del Mar College has $7.4 million remaining from a 2003 bond, and school officials are now trying to decide how to spend it. The extra funds are a result of being cost-efficient with bond projects, including performance hall renovations and a Health Sciences and Emerging Technology Center.

Regents are reviewing options, but have previously discussed using $3.7 million to renovate the East Campus' music facilities and putting $1.8 million toward the West Campus' Flato Technologies Building. Other options include $1.2 million for classroom and science lab renovations and $600,000 to build racquetball courts, both on the East Campus.

Last month regents approved a $4 million renovation project, being paid for with bond funds, for the East Campus Harvin Center, a kinesiology building.


Ron Baugh retires from TVCC

Ron Baugh

Ron Baugh, president of Trinity Valley Community College, recently announced his retirement after two decades of leading the school.

Baugh wrote in a letter to the board of trustees that he will leave the college on Feb. 29, 2008, his 21-year anniversary as president.

Baugh served as assistant to President Bill Campion and was named interim president upon Campion's departure. Even though Baugh did not apply for the position, the board offered him the president's job in 1987.

During his tenure, the college adopted a master building plan, and has constructed or renovated more than 10 buildings on the college's four campuses.

In the coming months, the board will decide whether to bring in a new president before Baugh's retirement or to wait until after his departure. The board has elected not to hire a search firm, and has requested that Baugh be heavily involved in the process.


Amarillo school board approves $5 million in projects

The Amarillo Independent School District is set to begin almost $5 million in construction projects following the school board's approval earlier this week.

With construction beginning immediately, a high school and two elementary schools will receive new classrooms, labs and office renovations. The high school will also get an addition to the wrestling facility. Six other facilities will undergo routine maintenance, painting, and improvements to facilitate the needs of people with disabilities.

After school is out, five middle schools will have their gym floors refinished and two elementary schools will have asbestos removed.


Texas Guard's new van prevents operation disruption

van

Texas Military Forces this month received a new communications van (pictured) to enhance the military's ability to continue command and control operations when a stationary structure is unusable.

The van will be used if a plant, base or post is rendered unsafe or destroyed during a disaster. This alternate location will enable officers to continue essential functions without major interruptions, a concept called the Continuity Of Operations Planning, or COOP doctrine.

Texas Military Forces complies with COOP, has been training all Emergency Relocation Group (ERG) and non-ERG personnel, and has purchased surplus equipment ensuring that communications will be restored if land lines and cell towers are compromised.

Six different communications systems are in the new communication van, according to Major Micah Bell, officer in charge of emergency communications for Texas Military Forces.

"The systems include satellite phones, ultra high frequency [UHF] and very high frequency [VHF] radios for communications with aircraft. The van is also equipped with a dual-band radio UHF/VHF for communications with local law enforcement agencies, and a PRC 117 model radio to communicate with military units . . ."


International bridge gets $7.4 million boost

The proposed Anzalduas International Crossing project, a bridge over the Rio Grande, recently received a $7.4 million federal grant to pay for inspection and administration facilities.

The grant comes from The U.S. General Services Administration, which will design and build the facilities housing border inspectors. The international bridge is a joint project of the cities of McAllen, Hidalgo and Mission.

Congress has previously appropriated $17.9 million for the project, which is expected to be completed in 2009.


Bonham names new city manager

The Bonham City Council this week named Corby Alexander of Jefferson the new city manager. Alexander's start date is April 16, allowing for collaboration with outgoing City Manager Blaine Hinds, who leaves April 30.

Bonham is the county seat of Fannin County.


Anthony ISD superintendent to retire

Vern Butler

Anthony Independent School District Superintendent, Vern Butler, announced this week that he plans to retire after serving the district three years. Butler is moving to Crowley to be closer to his family.

School trustees have decided to hire the Region 19 Educational Service Center to conduct the search for a new superintendent. Anthony is in El Paso County.


Watson joins Automobile Theft Prevention Authority

Richard L. Watson of Spicewood has been appointed by Gov. Rick Perry to the Automobile Theft Prevention Authority for a term to expire in 2013.

The group supports a statewide law enforcement network through grants, theft reduction initiatives, education and public awareness. In addition, the authority funds a statewide vehicle registration program and works with Mexico to reduce the number of stolen vehicles crossing the border.

Watson received a bachelor's degree in psychology from Texas A&I University, Kingsville. He previously worked as a counselor and program specialist at the Texas Rehabilitation Commission, and is a member of the Vaughn House that serves handicapped, hearing impaired adults. Watson was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army Reserves after seven years of service.

This appointment is subject to Senate confirmation.


As the world turns in Texas

Mary Scott Nabers

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

Time passes, scientific data emerges and things change. Environmental impact, energy conservation, and efficient operating systems are definitely in vogue as a result of long overdue attention to all three issues.

A trend evident today in both the public and private sectors is a shift to ensuring conservation of energy. Governmental agencies are definitely "going green." In today's energy-conscious world, "going green" means environmentally smart construction and reduction of energy usage.

In recent years, state agencies have taken on environmentally protective projects. The Texas Department of Transportation installed energy efficient lamps in Houston-area traffic signals. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department also spent $2.4 million on Energy Savings Performance Contracting for its headquarters, while the Texas Health and Human Services Commission installed energy-efficient lighting, low-flow water fixtures faucets, and centralized climate in some of its facilities.

In Austin, the Robert E. Johnson Building is utilizing green concepts, including the maximum use of natural daylight. The Texas Department of State Health Services state lab was also constructed so that the building's orientation optimized sun and shade.

In addition, many local governments are now implementing energy reduction plans. City officials in Denton plan to have the city's new fire station certified under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system. If certified, it would be among the first "green" fire stations in Texas, according to the U.S. Green Building Council.

The $3.4 million fire station, which includes four 5,500-gallon tanks to store rainwater, is expected to open later this month. Other green features include recycled construction materials, natural lighting and a geothermal well system to heat and cool the building.

Baylor University recently approved a 10-year contract to use Texas-generated wind power. Aside from the environmental impact, the university will also shave a few million dollars from its $13.5 million annual electric bill. Conservation is nothing new for the college. In recent years, Baylor officials estimate they have saved $1 million through the use of motion-sensor lighting, high efficiency electric chillers and thermostat adjustments during semester breaks.

Green power must be contagious in this part of Texas. The City of Waco has replaced streetlights and traffic lights with more efficient lighting, and has also begun operating its sewer system on homegrown methane to generate electricity. Midway Independent School District heats and cools two of its campuses with a geothermal pump system which utilizes the constant temperature of the earth.

The Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce's new downtown headquarters was designed to meet the LEED requirements by using natural lighting, extra insulation, irrigation-free landscaping and recycled construction materials.

Austin Independent School District has also made energy-wise decisions in recent years. AISD's 2004 Bond Program incorporated many energy-saving projects designed to conserve water, establish healthy indoor air quality and protect the environment. All new Austin schools and annexes include storm water run-off, roofing to reduce heat island effects, energy-efficient lighting and low-water-use fixtures.

As the state's energy needs grow with the increasing population, Texans everywhere should consider steps to support conservation and embrace energy-efficiency practices.



SPI welcomes two new employees

Richard Wilson

As the new Director of Information Technology, Richard Wilson brings experience in a variety of technology positions to SPI. He has worked as an analyst programmer and developer for DHI Financial Services, the Texas Legislative Council, and Microsoft, where he designed databases, created Internet Web sites, and wrote software applications. He also has experience as a software engineer and consultant with the Texas Education Agency, and GalleryWatch.com.

Wilson graduated from DeVry Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems. He has also served in the United States Army as a Military Policeman.

Carl Peterson

Carl Peterson, a veteran tax auditor and accounting consultant, has recently been hired as SPI's Controller.

For more than six years, he owned and operated Peterson Enterprises, an accounting consulting firm. He also held management positions in Peterson & Damer, a CPA firm in Dallas. Peterson has worked as an accounts examiner for Travis Central Appraisal District. Peterson developed audit programs for the Florida Department of Revenue, and has trained and managed numerous accounting personnel in several organizations.

Peterson attended Texas Lutheran College and graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in finance. He was a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma National Honor Society of Business, and was on the Dean's List.


Conroe ISD adds associate superintendent

To accommodate rapid growth, The Conroe Independent School District added a new associate superintendent position this week.

Chris Hines, currently the CISD assistant superintendent for secondary education, will work strictly with the schools, interacting with secondary and elementary assistant superintendents.

Hines has worked as a principal in the Aldine, Hayes Consolidated, and Eanes school districts.


Wichita Falls looking to revitalize downtown

Judge Woody Gossom

Wichita Falls City officials are expected soon to hire a consulting firm to create a revitalization plan to further economic development downtown. Plans may include building a new city hall, in addition to the relocating downtown of the Museum of North Texas History and the Railroad Museum.

Wichita County Judge Woody Gossom said plans to combine city and county facilities are premature, but both facilities will remain located downtown and "are looking at renovations."


New Braunfels considers $2.5 million for city parks

The City of New Braunfels development board recently approved $2.5 million for improvements to city parks and the recreation department, based on the capital improvement plan developed in 2004.

Projects include: repairing the spring-fed pool, implementing city golf course irrigation and green replacement, improvements to Eikel Field and the HEB Soccer Complex, renovations to the state park, and adding a low-water crossings at Panther Canyon Trail.

The resolution will go before the New Braunfels City Council next week for approval.


San Angelo looks to improve communications

San Angelo's current disaster preparedness measures include an aging radio system and a pile of emergency equipment in a horse trailer, a city official recently reported. In addition, the city is disconnected from the rest of the Concho Valley's emergency workers who communicate on a shared radio system.

Ron Perry, emergency management coordinator for San Angelo and Tom Green County, described the radio system as "totally inadequate," and impossible to find parts for because it's so outdated. Officials plan to seek proposals from contractors for a new radio system this week, although the funding for the project is still in question, Perry said.


Lubbock County ramps up courthouse security

District Judge Ruben Reyes

Additional armed deputies in the courtrooms, more metal detectors, and possibly x-ray machines may soon be added to the Lubbock County courthouse.

District Judge Ruben Reyes has said prevention is key, and that the public "needs to know they're safe at the courthouse." He said family law courtrooms especially need extra security since emotion and tempers often run high.

Officials have yet to include increased security in the county's budget.


Waxahachie Fire Department awarded grant

The Waxahachie Fire Department will receive a grant of $46,840 from the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Grants and Training as part of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program that will be used for training and support operations and to purchase firefighter safety and rescue equipment.

The grant, specifically designated for operations and firefighter safety, will assist the Waxahachie Fire Department in purchasing personal protective equipment, as well as funding facility upgrades, training, and fitness and wellness initiatives for firefighters.


Splendora ISD welcomes new superintendent

Thomas Price

Thomas Price Jr. was hired as superintendent of Splendora Independent School District last week. Price, who is currently superintendent in Sealy, has been working in school administration since 1996.

Price plans to begin work March 22 in Splendora, which is 22 miles from Conroe in eastern Montgomery County. The superintendent's position in Splendora has been vacant since June when Leon Cubillas retired.


Poteet announces new city manager

Peter Maldonado, a former assistant city manager in Del Rio, will become the city manager of Poteet, which is 20 miles south of San Antonio.

The position was vacated last month when Sean Pate resigned to become the city manager in Balcones Heights, a suburb of San Antonio.

Maldonado most recently worked as a business development consultant in San Antonio.


Texas A&M-Corpus Christi provost steps down

Virginia Wheeless

Virginia Wheeless, provost for Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi has resigned her post. She will return to teaching at the university in the fall as a full professor of communication.

University President Flavius Killebrew said that he is beginning an immediate search for an interim provost.


Tomball selects interim city manager

Tomball City Council this week unanimously voted to appoint Assistant City Manager Mary Coker as interim city manager starting April 1, when current City Manager Ben Griffin retires.

Griffin, who has worked with the city 13 years, will be employed as a consultant for Tomball until November. The city plans to hire a search firm to interview potential city manager candidates.

Coker said she will not seek the permanent position.


Bellaire to study options for downtown improvement

Cindy Siegel

Bellaire City Council recently decided to hire a consultant to conduct an analysis of downtown's commercial zoning districts to determine how the city could enhance development and optimize land use.

Mayor Cindy Siegel said the study is essential for downtown improvements and determining a plan of action. Rice University recently completed a report that concluded the downtown area would significantly suffer without city intervention, she said.

Bellaire is located in the Houston metropolitan area.


Henderson names new city manager

The City of Henderson City Council recently appointed longtime Police Chief Randy Freeman as the new city manager. The selection will enable former city manager Greg Smith to begin his new job as city manager of Angleton.

Freeman has been police chief in Henderson for 20 years and has twice served as interim city manager. He will continue to serve as president of the Texas Police Chiefs Association until his term expires this fall.

Council members appointed John Waldie, community services director and retired Texas Department of Public Safety officer, as the interim police chief until a permanent replacement is found.


Laredo hires city manager

The Laredo City Council has hired Carlos Villarreal as the new city manager, effective April 4.

The council members discussed tasks for Villareal to address once he begins his new post, beginning with exploring road construction options for the city. They also want to create a budget calendar and include council members in the budget-making process.


Bridge City superintendent to take job in Livingston

Bridge City ISD Superintendent Dr. Darrell Myers has accepted a job as superintendent of Livingston Independent School District.

By law the district must wait 21 days to hire the candidate after announcing a sole finalist for the position. Myers expects to finish the 2007 school year at Bridge City, where he has served as superintendent for two years.

Livingston ISD has a slightly larger student enrollment than Bridge City ISD.


Former Bangs ISD superintendent returns

Billy Jack Rankin, a former Bangs school superintendent and principal, has returned to the school district to serve as interim superintendent.

Rankin will lead the district while trustees search for a replacement for James Hartman, who left to become the superintendent of the Marion school district near San Antonio.

Rankin, who was superintendent from 1992-2003, said he is not a candidate for the full-time position. Bangs ISD includes Brown and Coleman counties.


Nearly $10 million raised for Tarrant County park

The Tarrant Regional Water District has raised the $9.6 million needed to buy 400 acres of state land for a park along the shores of Eagle Mountain Lake.

The City of Fort Worth plans to donate $500,000, Tarrant County contributed $2 million, and the water district agreed to fund the remaining $300,000, if needed. Private donations made up the bulk of the money needed.

The water district board voted to buy the park from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, which purchased the land in 1980 for $3.8 million. The state never developed the land, which has scenic views and lake access.


Humble ISD to expand high school campus

Humble ISD trustees agreed this week that the district's new high school, which opened less than one year ago, will be expanded to serve 3,200 students instead of the 2,400 for which it was designed.

The expansion plans for Atascocita High School allow the district to avoid having to build a seventh high school. To pay for the addition, the district will use $11.6 million from its 2005 bond election.

River Pines Elementary and Sterling Middle School will be allocated another $3.15 million of that bond money for furniture, fixtures and equipment.


Huntsville joins county in storm shelter project

The City of Huntsville and Walker County will collaborate on a storm shelter project, which will be used during emergency situations, in addition to serving as a meeting facility for city and county residents.

Grants from the Office of Rural Community Affairs and Federal Emergency Management Agency will cover the estimated $3.2 million cost of the 14,310-square-foot shelter.

The City of Huntsville will work on the parking lot, waive all permit fees, and supply water and sewer at no charge to Walker County for one year, beginning from the date of occupancy.


Grants at a Glance

The Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities (SDFSC) Act Program provides funds to programs that work to prevent violence in and around schools; prevent the illegal use of alcohol, tobacco and drugs; involve parents and communities; and coordinate with related federal, state, school and community efforts and resources to foster a safe and drug-free learning environment that supports academic achievement.

Awards from this program, appropriated from the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, have no maximum limit and do not require matching funds from the grantee. City and county governments, as well as independent school districts, must apply by May 1.

SPI works with local governments and regional coalitions to secure grant funding. To discuss, please e-mail us at grants@spartnerships.com.


Job Opportunities

SPI is seeking researchers and research assistants for short-term engagements. The researcher should have experience in IT concepts and solutions and the assistant should be comfortable making calls. Time commitments and tasks will vary depending on clients' needs. These positions will provide valuable research experience and insight into the government procurement arena. Please send résumé and/or cover letter to jobs@spartnerships.com. For more details on each position, please view the job descriptions at job descriptions.

SPI is looking for individuals with well-established credentials in all sectors who are interested in assisting its consulting teams throughout Texas. SPI has an immediate need for subject matter experts who can assist part-time in the K-12 education arena. To apply for a part-time K-12 consulting position at SPI please send a brief cover letter and a copy of your resume to J. Lyn Carl at jcarl@spartnerships.com and put Application for K-12 Consultant in the subject line, or for more information, send an e-mail to the same address.


Recent Reports



Event Links



Texas Government Insider Archives

Volume 1 - 5 Archives · 11/7/03 - 3/16/07



Resources



State government Internet security forum scheduled

The 7th Annual Internet Security Forum will be held Wednesday, March 28, at the J.J. "Jake" Pickle Research Campus in Austin. For more information, click here.


TASSCC, DIR plan Technology Education Conference

The 6th annual Technology Education Conference (TEC) presented by the Texas Association of State Systems for Computing and Communications (TASSCC) and the Texas Department of Information Resources will be March 29 at the J.J. Pickle Center in Austin.

The conference will explore innovative adaptations of technology in all areas of life and work - medicine and health, education, transportation, security, buildings and homes, and government services. Regular and on-site registration rates are available. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, and to register as a participant or sponsor, click here.


UT Austin presents 14th annual HUB Vendor Fair

The University of Texas at Austin's Historically Underutilized Business and Small and Disadvantaged Business Office (HUB/SADBO) is hosting its 14th Annual Vendor Fair Wednesday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin. The Vendor Fair is an opportunity for Historically Underutilized and Small Businesses to display their products and distribute information about their companies to University procurement personnel and representatives from other state agencies and corporations. Attendance is free. For more information, contact Annette Smith at 512- 471-2850 or click here.