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Ed Emmett named Harris County judge

Republican will have to run in 2008 to complete Eckels' term

Ed Emmett

The Harris County Commissioners Court has named Ed Emmett as Harris County judge. Emmett replaces Robert Eckels, who held the position for the last 12 years. Eckels was re-elected in November but is stepping down to become a partner in the Fulbright & Jaworski law firm.

Emmett, a Republican, was a state representative in the Texas House from 1979 to 1987 and has focused on transportation issues throughout his career, both in the legislature and in his subsequent positions with public and private entities. Transportation is a key issue in Harris County, where an 83-mile toll road system is located.

Under former President George H.W. Bush, Emmett served four years on the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission. He then served 10 years as president and CEO of the National Industrial Transportation League. He was most recently a self-employed consultant in policy development, product marketing and campaign consulting.

Emmett received his bachelor's degree from Rice University and his master's degree from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin. He will have to run for office in 2008 if he wants to complete Eckels' four-year term.


Kimbrough moving quickly in TYC investigation

Jay Kimbrough

Jay Kimbrough (pictured) recently named Special Master at the troubled Texas Youth Commission (TYC), moved swiftly in his new role earlier this week, sending some 70 law enforcement officers, including Texas Rangers and Texas Department of Public Safety officers, to be positioned at the nearly two dozen lockups and halfway houses operated by the TYC. The officers were charged with not only the protection of youth residents of the TYC facilities, but also the protection and preservation of documents and other possible evidence.

The Joint Select Committee on the Texas Youth Commission held its first hearing Thursday and following hours of testimony recorded a vote of no confidence regarding the TYC board. Committee member Sen. Florence Shapiro called the board's testimony during the hearing "vague and flippant," and lamented the board's "lack of procedures, control and accountability." Rep. Jim Dunnam called on the governor to fire the entire board, calling them "incapabale of reforming the TYC."

A spokesman for Gov. Rick Perry said after the hearing that Perry believes board members should be willing to devote their full time and attention to correcting the myriad of problems or "resign immediately." The spokesman added that "any crimes committed by TYC personnel - staff or administration - will be uncovered, investigated and prosecuted."

The TYC came under the scrutiny of the Legislative Audit Committee last week following allegations of abuse of teen-aged residents at TYC and an alleged cover-up by agency staff of the numerous allegations. The committee recommended to the governor that the agency be placed in conservatorship. In reponse, the Governor appointed Kimbrough as Special Master.

Perry last week demoted the TYC board chairman following the resignation the previous week of the agency's executive director. Ed Owens, named by the board as acting executive director, is charged with developing a comprehensive Rehabilitation Plan with the assistance of the State Auditor's Office. Other state agencies that will provide support resources for the investigation include the Texas Attorney General's Office, DPS and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Perry said the appointment of a Special Master allows the state to "aggressively investigate reports of abuse and hold people accountable for their actions," while a plan is developed to "rebuild this broken agency from the ground up."


Janek bill would abolish TBPC

Primary duties of the Texas Building and Procurement Commission (TBPC) would be transferred to the State Comptroller and the Texas General Land Office (GLO) under a bill filed this week by Sen. Kyle Janek. SB 1507 would abolish TBPC while transferring to the GLO charge and control, building and maintenance of state buildings and grounds, construction of buildings and purchase or lease of state buildings, grounds or property. All other powers and duties of TBPC would fall under the State Comptroller's umbrella.

All TBPC employees would be transferred to either the GLO or the comptroller's office, but management-level employees of TBPC would have to apply for similar jobs at the two agencies.


Chief Information Officer leaves DPS for private sector

Ed Kelly

Ed Kelly¸ Chief Information Officer for the Texas Department of Public Safety, is leaving his state position March 16 to work in the private sector.

Kelly is responsible for management and support of all systems, networks and databases for DPS and also manages and ensures daily delivery of critical information to all law enforcement organizations throughout the state.

Kelly said what he will miss most about his job at DPS is "working with a wide variety of people throughout the state and the country. This includes small town sheriffs, police department personnel, other Texas agency professionals, FBI, Homeland Security and other states representatives."

He came to DPS four years ago as Assistant Chief of Information Management Services, and has served as Chief since 2005.


Senate bill would give part of red light fines to state

The Senate Transportation Committee heard a bill this week that would require cities to share with the state traffic violation fines generated by red-light cameras. Fines would also be limited to $75 per violation under the bill, but cities could collect an additional $25 late fee.

Sen. John Carona of Dallas described his SB 125 as a "compromise" since many lawmakers want to ban cities' use of red-light cameras. The bill, which is headed to the full Senate after being passed out of the Senate committee, is timely as an increasing number of Texas cities are installing cameras at intersections to deter drivers from running red lights.

Profits from the fines would initially be used to pay for installation and operation of the cameras - about 35-40 percent of the money - and the remaining funds would be split equally between the state and cities. The bill requires cities to use the revenue for public safety and transportation-related needs, while the state would allocate its money to the state trauma care fund.


Texas to receive $10 million for emergency planning

Texas will receive more than $10 million from the nearly $200 million the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has recently allocated for state emergency management agencies.

The $10,096,516 designated for Texas is the second largest grant to any state. California was awarded more than $15 million.

Through the Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) program, emergency managers have been awarded more than $750 million since fiscal year 2004. State agencies use EMPG funds to enhance their emergency management capabilities for planning, equipping and training, conducting exercises, and providing for all-hazards emergency management operations.


School districts are putting checkbooks online

To increase "financial transparency," a number of Texas school districts are placing their checkbooks online, allowing taxpayers see the cost of all materials, from books to paper towels.

However, by posting check registers on the Internet, districts can avoid complying with Gov. Rick Perry's executive order to shift more money to classroom instruction. Perry's 2005 order mandated districts allocate 65 percent of their funds for instruction and decrease administrative costs. Perry did not object when the Texas Education Agency created a loophole allowing districts to ignore the order by posting check registers online.

Ted Royer, a spokesman for the governor, said the goal of the check register exemption was to provide flexibility for school districts and more financial information to the public.

Texas school districts that are posting check registers online include Dallas, Big Spring, Katy, Marble Falls and San Angelo. Houston ISD plans to post spending online as well.


New workers' comp medical advisor named

Howard L. Smith, M.D., was recently named Medical Advisor for the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI), Division of Workers' Compensation by Commissioner of Workers' Compensation Albert Betts.

Smith, who began work in his new position Tuesday, will review complaints on quality of care received through the TDI Complaint Resolution and Customer Services section and serve as chair of the Medical Quality Review Panel (MQRP).

A practicing physician since 1985, Smith specializes in brain and spinal surgery and has served as a designated doctor in the Texas workers' compensation system since 2005. Also a practicing attorney and former independent medical examiner, Smith graduated from the Oklahoma College of Medicine in 1985 and holds a Diplomate from the American Board of Neurological Surgeons. He received his Doctor of Jurisprudence from the Loyola School of Law in 2002.


Officials say Alamodome needs $10 million in repairs

Richard Perez

San Antonio city officials claim that $10 million in repairs are necessary to attract major sporting events to the city's 14-year-old Alamodome. They say the 65,000-seat dome needs work on sideline suites, a new roof, new carpet, new furniture and a shade for an outdoor walkway.

City Council member Richard Perez, pictured, said the Alamodome generates revenue to the hotel industry and ultimately to the city of San Antonio.

The Alamodome will host the NCAA's Men's South Regional basketball tournament this month, the Men's Final Four in 2008 and the Women's Final Four in 2010. Tourism officials say the three events could produce nearly $70 million.


Fort Worth will be home of largest VA clinic

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs plans to build the largest veterans' outpatient clinic in the country in Fort Worth. The clinic, expected to open in the spring of 2010, will offer expanded services in a building five times the size of the current facility.

The federal agency is considering an approximately 25-acre site and by April 1 plans to seek developers to buy the land and build the clinic. Groundbreaking is projected for the summer of 2008. Congress has already approved the $13.4 million clinic and the funding will come from VA appropriations.

The existing VA clinic was designed to accommodate 45,000 patient visits per year. Last year, there were 149,433 patient visits, the VA said. The new facility will be designed to handle the projected 192,375 annual visits by 2025.


Texas Enterprise Fund grant awarded

Some $3.5 million from the Texas Enterprise Fund was awarded this week to Comerica, Inc. for relocation of the company's corporate headquarters from Detroit to Dallas.

This move makes Comerica Texas' largest bank holding company with its headquarters in the state. More than $47 million in capital investments in Texas and 200 new high-paying headquarters jobs are expected because of the relocation.


Friendswood moves on conference center study

David Smith

Friendswood City Council members decided to pay $10,000 for a joint feasibility study with the developer of what may become the city's first hotel/conference center facility.

Proponents emphasized that this decision was not a final approval of the building project, but only a decision to study the project's feasibility. The planned 200-room, full-service hotel and conference center would be located at The Falls at Friendswood.

Mayor David Smith said the possibility of a conference center was a good investment for the city. During the city's Vision 20-20 study several years ago, many citizens said a large conference center was important.


Texas is first in nation with offshore wind farm

Jerry Patterson

The first wind-testing platform for the nation's first offshore wind farm was ready this week to be shipped from the Texas coast to the Gulf of Mexico.

"The dream of developing offshore wind power in Texas is becoming a reality," said Jerry Patterson, Commissioner of the Texas General Land Office. "While developers in other states struggle with bureaucratic hurdles, Texas is pulling ahead."

Built by Galveston-Offshore Wind, LLC, the offshore platforms will test wind velocities and conduct avian research off the coast of Galveston. The wind-testing platform was constructed with the recycled deck, platform and materials from an offshore oil and gas platform.

The meteorological towers will gather data to determine where the 150 MW wind energy development should be built on the 11,355-acre lease, which is located approximately seven miles from Galveston Island.


Governor announces three appointments

Allan B. Polunsky of San Antonio has been appointed by Gov. Rick Perry to the Texas Public Safety Commission, which is responsible for formulating and overseeing policies for the Texas Department of Public Safety, the state's chief law enforcement agency.

Polunsky is a managing partner and founder of Polunsky and Beitel, LLP law firm.. He is also a member of the American Bar Association's section on Real Property, Trust and Probate, and the State Bar of Texas' section on Real Estate and Probate Law. Polunsky received a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at Austin and a law degree from St. Mary's University.

James C. Wendlandt of Austin has been appointed to the Texas Board of Orthotics and Prosthetics, which sets rules for the regulation of orthotic and prosthetic professionals in Texas.

Wendlandt is a financial advisor with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network. He received a bachelor's degree Texas A&M University, where he was a distinguished military graduate. He also received a Master of Science in financial services from The American College.

Cynthia Tauss Delgado of El Paso has been appointed to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct, which is responsible for investigating allegations of judicial misconduct or judicial disability, and for disciplining judges.

Delgado most recently served as a Gulf Coast regional representative with the Office of the Governor. She also served as a board member and a victim's liaison on the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. Delgado received an associate degree from Saddleback College and a bachelor's degree from the University of Houston at Clear Lake.

All appointments are subject to Senate confirmation.


Athens mayor to serve on state board

Athens Mayor Randy Daniel was recently named to the Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC), an advisory group of the Texas Municipal League board of directors. The group guides the TML on how it can better serve small cities.

Daniel is one of 32 members of the board, which meets three times per year to discuss common issues facing cities with populations of fewer than 15,000. Formed in the early 1990s, the council has helped to develop training videos for elected officials, held more than 30 small cities problem-solving clinics and most recently, established the Small City, Texas Web page.


Redevelopment group plans for Ingleside's closing

The Coastal Bend Redevelopment Planning Committee, tasked with planning the reuse of Naval Station Ingleside, has decided to focus solely on portions of the naval base that will be returned to the Port of Corpus Christi. Naval Station Ingleside is set to close by 2010.

San Patricio County Judge Terry Simpson, chairman of the committee, said the group needs to begin the process for planning the reuse of Naval Station Ingleside and continue to seek available funds. The San Patricio County base is divided into three portions: two parts, approximately 1,000 acres total, regress to the port when the Navy exits, but the ownership of 155 acres of "surplus property" has not been decided.

Those interested in the 155-acre surplus property must form a redevelopment authority, recognized by the federal government, to receive any planning funds for the port's land. The federal planning money is based on the amount of property. If both pieces were combined, the group could request as much as $1 million.


Longview, Gregg Co. team for 7,600-seat events center

Jay Dean

Gregg County and the City of Longview have agreed to collaborate on the construction of a multi-purpose special events center, which will be the largest gathering place in the region.

The plan calls for a multipurpose 7,600-seat arena near Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, which also may be remodeled. The arena's floor could be opened up for full-size professional rodeos as well as hockey, basketball, trade shows, theatrical performances, dog shows, motocross and graduation ceremonies. However, plans for the $18.5 million facility are still preliminary.

"This is something that will separate us from Shreveport and our sister city to the west," said Longview Mayor Jay Dean. "There won't be another facility like this in the region."


Deadline for bond elections closes

Cities, counties, community colleges and school districts have until March 11 to call bond elections for the May 12 ballot. Their projects are numerous, but new construction seems to be at the top of most lists.

Among the entities preparing for bond issues are:

  • The City of Alice has called a $20 million bond election to overhaul the city's existing water and wastewater infrastructure and relieve congestion on State Highway 281.
  • The City of Pearland approved a $162 million bond election with six bond propositions to fund various public improvement projects, including drainage improvements, road construction, parks and recreation upgrades, and construction of public safety buildings.
  • Ellis County commissioners decided to hold a $53.9 million bond election to build the Ellis County Civil and Criminal Courts and Detention Center and a $7.5 million parking garage and road improvements downtown.
  • The San Angelo ISD's bond package of more than $130 million includes a new high school, two new elementaries and other campus improvements.
  • The Crowley ISD approved a $416.8 million bond election that includes a new high school, a middle school, several elementary or intermediate schools, a career and technology center, a fine arts and athletic center, agricultural science facilities and an expanded building for the Crowley Learning Center. The proposal also includes safety and technology improvements as well as land for future schools.
  • Alvord school district, located in Wise County, called for a $6 million bond election to build a new junior high and add to the current high school. High school renovations include six new regular classrooms, two science lecture-laboratory combination rooms, an office area and workroom and a band hall.
  • The Caddo Mills ISD has called a $17.7 million bond election to build a new elementary school and upgrade the current elementary to relieve traffic congestion. The district also hopes to build a more efficient transportation facility and a new administration building.
  • Huffman ISD will hold a $20.5 million bond election in part to finance an athletic stadium at Hargrave High School. The $10.8 million track and field complex with synthetic turf would accommodate 4,000 people. The district also plans to replace the administration building and make $2 million in technology upgrades district-wide. Three science laboratories and two elementary math/science/art laboratories are also included in the proposal.
  • Van Alstyne ISD's recently called bond election includes $8 million for campus improvements and $5.5 million to construct a multi-purpose stadium on the high school campus.
  • Joshua ISD has decided to call a bond election, just six months after a similar package failed by a mere 27 votes. The $44.87 million bond vote includes the construction of a new middle school, parking improvements across the district and various additions to campuses.
  • Spring school district has scheduled a $280 million bond referendum, which includes $125 million for six additional elementary schools, $8.6 million for buses, $3.85 million for security and $3 million to renovate Spring High School's auditorium.


Lewisville mayor outlines projects for 2007

Gene Carey

Mayor Gene Carey told the Lewisville City Council this week that the city will see as much progress and as many projects as in 2006.

Projects that will be either completed or at least started this year include: the Hilton Garden Inn and Lewisville Conference Center, scheduled to open in August; the new Steven H. McFadden Jr. Law Enforcement Center, which will to begin this summer; the new $21 million Railroad Street Athletic Complex, which will to begin this summer; a new fire house, which will be started later this year, and a new Arts Activity Center.

The multi-million dollar sports complex will include a skate park, dog park, baseball fields, soccer fields and football fields. This park is more than 200 acres in size and will also offer trails, small lakes and green space where families can enjoy the outdoors.


El Paso launches citywide digital network

Joyce Wilson

The City of El Paso is installing an outdoor wireless network in hopes of improving government efficiencies and providing Internet access to citizens and businesses.

The new wireless network is part of the Digital El Paso Project, a strategic collaboration between the city, county, El Paso Independent School District and the city Housing Authority, which seeks to revitalize the downtown area and grant Internet access to underserved citizens and small businesses.

"This is an important ingredient to our downtown redevelopment efforts, as well as a vehicle to engage an underserved residential community by providing Internet access and connectivity and thus reducing the digital divide that now exists in our lower income neighborhoods," said Joyce Wilson, city manager for the City of El Paso.

The integrated, standards-based wireless mesh network will include voice, video and data services and will be managed from the county courthouse as an extension of the existing wireless network. Coverage will include public areas, as well as parks, buildings and residences.


Travis Co approves $65.7 million jail expansion

Travis County commissioners this week approved a $65.7 million contract to expand the jail complex in Del Valle, a project that will provide temporary relief for the overcrowded jail system.

Expected to begin this month, construction of one large facility will replace several worn-out buildings. But the county will actually have less room for inmate beds when finished. For years, the county has relied on temporary means such as double bunking - legal only on a short-term basis - to house inmates.

Travis County is already planning to propose a bond election in 2009 for funds to build a new courthouse. Some county officials have said more money for the jail system will be needed by then as well.


National Guard battalion HQ moves to Brownwood

Lt. Col. Kimberly Tully

The headquarters of the 111th Engineer Battalion of the Texas National Guard is relocating from Abilene to Camp Bowie in Brownwood. This move is part of a larger plan to transform the 36th Infantry Division of the Texas National Guard to a lighter, more responsive force.

Camp Bowie is currently home to the 3rd Armor Battalion. Those soldiers, who are trained as tank operators, will be retrained as engineers over the next 18 months and will become part of the 111th Engineer Battalion. The 3rd Armor Battalion will retire its colors in September 2008.

According to Lt. Col. Kimberly Tully (pictured) commander of the 111th Engineers, retraining soldiers to operate construction equipment will make the battalion more relevant to the needs of the state and nation.

"In a disaster situation, we can help clean up debris, assist with bringing in electricity and temporary housing to aid in relief efforts, and work in close cooperation with other state agencies because of the training and equipment that we will have," Tully said.

Although the battalion headquarters has moved to Brownwood, other units of the 111th Engineers will remain in Abilene, Denton, Weatherford, Wylie and Stephenville. The battalion will consist of approximately 800 soldiers once the realignment is complete.


Houston mayor waits for 2010 Census to add seats

Houston Mayor Bill White has decided not to add two single-member districts to the city council, saying new seats will be "virtually certain" after the 2010 Census.

City Attorney Arturo Michel advised White that the most recent population estimate of 2,231,335 should not prompt redistricting, since estimates didn't meet the federal standard for using non-census data in redistricting. To calculate new estimates, city officials used methodology the U.S. Census Bureau uses for annual population estimates between official censuses.

Michel cited that estimates must be clear and persuasive to override the 2000 Census of 1.95 million. White and Michel agreed the data was not detailed enough to ensure that newly-created districts had approximately equal populations. The imbalance could weaken the voting power of minorities.

The city council currently includes nine members elected from districts and five at-large members elected citywide.


Consultants: Grayson County Jail needs more space

Keith Gary

Independent consultants recently reported to the Grayson County community that the Grayson County Jail needs more space because inmates are no longer being housed out of the county. In addition, consultants reported the jail needs more high security beds because the state requires inmates to be divided into high and low security categories.

Grayson County Sheriff Keith Gary said the county needs a new jail because the building is "worn out."

County commissioners may consider a bond election to finance a jail project.


El Paso toll roads may become reality

A Regional Mobility Authority is considering the construction of toll roads in El Paso to combat traffic concerns in the growing area.

Mayor John Cook said a Regional Mobility Authority, or RMA, is the way to go since it's the "only vehicle" in the state that can pursue projects in Mexico and New Mexico.

For example, Northeast Parkway, part of which is in New Mexico, will not build through El Paso because New Mexico won't pay for construction.

Mayor Cook only new roads will be tolled, so El Paso citizens will have a choice in travel routes.


Texas National Guard joins 'war games in Japan'

The Texas National Guard's 142nd Rear Operations Center (ROC) recently took part in a two-week simulated battle, which was a cooperative training mission between the Japanese Middle Army, United States Army, United States Navy, United States Marine Corps and United States Air Force.

As in an actual battle, various units from each service branch were given specialized tasks. The 142nd ROC was in charge of rear area security, and along with American counterparts were part of a larger task force, Joint Task Force Ranier. Each American tactical operation center (TOC) was paired with a Japanese TOC for bilateral operations.

"Working side by side with the Japanese Middle Army was beneficial not only to learn about their way of doing things, but our way as well," said Operations Officer Capt. Christopher Nolan. "In teaching them, we were able to re-evaluate our procedures, and how we can conduct our missions better."

In reality, the 50 soldiers of 142nd ROC are rapidly deployed and tasked with a brigade-, division- or corps-size element. Some of their duties entail area security, damage control, movement control and terrain management. The ROC employed their skills in Iraq as well as in Hurricane Katrina operations. Most members of the 142nd ROC hail from the Dallas-Fort Worth area.


UTPB recognized in national magazine

David Watts

The University of Texas of the Permain Basin (UTBP) is featured this month in U.S. News & World Report. In the article, the school is recognized for outperforming other University of Texas campuses.

UTPB was reported to have a higher percentage of students from 2001-04 who were either employed or enrolled in a graduate program within a year after graduation when compared to students at UT-Dallas and UT-El Paso.

"U.S. News & World Report, which generates the Best Colleges list annually, is one of the top resources parents use when choosing a university for their children," said UTPB President David Watts.

In October, Newsweek magazine recognized UTPB for excellence.


Denton designs 'green' fire station

The City of Denton is going green, so to speak. Officials are working to have the city's newest 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.

Denton's Fire Station No. 7, which includes four 5,500-gallon cisterns to store rainwater, is expected to open later this month. Other green features of the $3.4 million fire station include recycled construction materials, natural lighting and a geothermal well system to heat and cool the building. Builders also used paints, adhesives and sealants with reduced chemical emissions.

The 15,000-square-foot facility is "a point of pride," said Mayor Perry McNeill, adding that the project is protective of the environment in a way that's cost effective. Building green has added approximately $200,000 to the construction cost. But because the station is designed to be energy efficient, city officials expect long-term savings in reduced utility expenses.

Nationwide, the LEED council has certified 735 buildings, and nearly 5,400 projects are seeking certification. LEED-certified buildings use 20-50 percent less energy and some 30 percent less water than traditional buildings.


San Marcos principal to lead Taft ISD

Chad Kelly

Chad Kelly, principal of San Marcos High School, was recently named superintendent lone finalist for Taft Independent School District, located in San Patricio County. School trustees must wait the state-mandated 21 days before officially hiring Kelly, who leaves the San Marcos school April 25.

A Corpus Christi native, Kelly has served as principal for Mathis and Sinton school districts as well.

Superintendent Don Madden, who has been at Taft 11 years, will retire in June.

Also this week, the San Marcos Central Independent School District announced that Patty Shafer has been confirmed as the new superintendent. Currently the deputy director of the Region 4 Education Service Center, Shafer will begin as superintendent March 19.


Defense Dept. awards grants to Texas campuses

Four Texas universities are among 67 institutions of higher education to participate in research projects for which $207 million has been awarded by the U.S. Department of Defense.

The University of Texas at Austin will receive funds to research production science for next generation fuel cells; biologically synthesized quantum electronic systems; and mechanochemically-active polymer composites. Texas A&M University plans to study attosecond sub wavelength optical pulses. The University of Texas San Antonio will receive funds to research atmospheric neutral density. Rice University will work on dynamic modeling of 3D urban terrain.

The program supports multi-disciplinary research in areas of Defense Department relevance that combine science and engineering.


Hurricane season means time for DEM conference

Mary Scott Nabers

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

The Governor's Division of Emergency Management has announced plans for the state's fifth annual Texas Hurricane Conference. The three day event is scheduled for May 8-10 in Galveston and organizers say it may attract as many as 2,500 attendees.

This annual conference is designed to meet the needs of regional officials and the program offers opportunities for them to discuss hurricane preparedness, hear from experts and participate in regional planning workshops. Organizers point out that a catastrophic hurricane is the single greatest natural threat to the state of Texas. Recent natural disasters such as hurricanes Rita and Katrina and the flooding in El Paso point out the importance of all types of weather-related emergency planning and preparation. Hurricane Rita was the second most expensive storm in state history, causing $2.27 billion worth of damage, according to the Insurance Council of Texas.

Mayors, county judges, county commissioners and city council members as well as first responders such as EMS workers, firefighters and law enforcement will all be invited to gather at Galveston's San Luis Conference Center. Contractors who provide disaster-related services and/or products are encouraged to participate as well.

The Governor's Division of Emergency Management maintains a comprehensive all-hazard emergency management program for Texas while assisting cities, counties and state agencies in planning and implementing their own emergency management programs. As hurricane season approaches and the state faces drought-like conditions conducive to wildfires, emergency preparedness is on many Texans' minds.

Jack Colley, Chief of the Governor's Division of Emergency Management, said in a letter of invitation that the conference "promises to be an invaluable opportunity for representatives of coastal and inland communities to plan and coordinate. Our paramount goal is to work together to ensure the safety of Texas coastal families and to prepare the host communities who will shelter them when the crisis comes."

The Emergency Management Council includes: the Adjutant General's Department, The American Red Cross, the Department of Information Resources, the General Land Office, the Governor's Division of Emergency Management, the Health and Human Services Commission, the Office of Rural Community Affairs, the Public Utility Commission of Texas, the Railroad Commission of Texas , The Salvation Army, the State Auditor's Office, the Comptroller of Public Accounts, the Texas Animal Health Commission, the Texas Attorney General's Office, the Texas Building and Procurement Commission , the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services and the Texas Department of Agriculture.

Also: the Texas Department of Assisted and Rehabilitative Services, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, the Texas Department of Insurance, the Texas Department of Protective and Family Services, the Texas Department of Public Safety , the Texas Department of State Health Services, the Texas Department of Transportation, the Texas Education Agency , the Texas Engineering Extension Service, the Texas Forest Service, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas Workforce Commission.


Dave Moss to lead SPI national programs team

SPI Dave Moss

Dave Moss, a seasoned business development veteran, has joined the staff at Strategic Partnerships, Inc. as Director of National Programs. Moss will oversee all national programs and engagements. He will also direct SPI's national government sales training programs.

Moss was Regional Director of National Accounts for Tyco Fire and Security, ADT. Prior to that, Moss was president and chief executive officer at Canal+Technologies. Moss has also held senior positions with Motorola BCS, General Instrument, NorTel and Reliance Com/Tec. He is now a member of SPI's Executive Team.


Burleson plans $18.7 million athletic complexes

The City of Burleson is planning to ask voters to approve in May $18.7 million for proposed youth athletic complexes including softball, baseball and football fields.

The project includes the $12.53 million Chisenhall Complex of seven softball fields, 11 baseball fields, one football field; $3.45 million Bartlett Soccer Complex, 16 soccer fields for various age groups, plus one football field; and the $2.28 million Village Creek Trail, four miles of 16-foot-wide trail, which create more than seven miles of the city's pedestrian trail system.


Progreso to build new elementary, auditorium

Fernando Castillo

Progreso school district plans to build a $5 million primary school to house 500 to 600 students as early as the 2008-09 school year. Another project is a 1,200-seat performing fine arts auditorium projected to also cost $5 million. That building is slated to be open for the 2008-09 school year as well.

Superintendent Fernando Castillo said the district is scheduled to begin construction by late April on two projects. Construction, he hopes, will accommodate the district's student growth and channel tourist dollars from those visiting Nuevo Progreso across the Rio Grande.


Pasadena to break ground on police facility

The City of Pasadena will break ground on a new $26 million police department facility in April. The new building will be across the street from the current facility and will include a 100-person capacity jail. The current building's foundation is settling and the jail is nearly at capacity, making the new facility a necessity. The new building should be completed by summer 2008.


Firefighters to receive $485 million in grants

George Foresman

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will distribute $485 million in grants this year to fire departments and first responders nationally. As part of the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program, more than $34.5 million in grants will be issued to 391 fire departments, DHS announced last month. More grant programs are expected be announced in coming days.

"By building emergency response capability through training and first responder equipment, the AFG program is helping to strengthen readiness throughout the country," said Under Secretary for Preparedness George Foresman.

Since 2001, the AFG has provided $2.4 billion to fire departments and first responders.


Bonham names finalist for superintendent

Bonham Independent School District named Sonny Cruse of China Spring as the lone finalist for the superintendent post. The district must wait the state-mandated 21 days before officially hiring Cruse.

Cruse has served China Spring ISD as assistant superintendent and transportation director.


Higher Ed center considers site, seeks $22 million

The East Williamson County Higher Education Center, a joint effort among the cities of Taylor and Hutto and Temple College, is making major progress on a potential site. The locations include one between Hutto and Taylor and one inside the City of Taylor.

Rep. Mike Krusee of Round Rock has filed a bill seeking $22 million to build the campus' first phase, which includes a 108,000-square-foot building.

The multi-institutional teaching center, due to open later this year, may also draw in partnerships from Concordia University, Texas State Technical College and Texas A&M-Central, according to Chuck McCarter, project director for Temple College.

At the center, students will be able to pursue technical courses or earn an associate degree while completing high school credits.


Additional appointments by the Governor

Governor Rick Perry this week announced the following appointments:

  • R. David Kelly of Dallas, Teacher Retirement System of Texas Board of Trustees;
  • Cliff Mountain of Austin, Department of Information Resources, Designated Presiding Officer;
  • Tomas Cantu of McAllen, Texas Structural Pest Control Board, Designated Presiding Officer;
  • Ivan A. Andarza of Austin, Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation;
  • Dr. Connie Sitterly of Fort Worth, Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation;
  • Deborah "Borah" Van Dormolen of Salado, State Cemetery Committee


Two communities receive firefighting grant

The Department of Homeland Security's Office of Grants and Training has awarded grants for firefighting operations to Potter County ($243,343) and the Stinnett Volunteer Fire Department ($49,234).

Potter County Fire-Rescue Chief Richard Lake said that their funds will be used to improve the fire department's portable communications equipment. Stinnett Fire Chief Alan Wells said their grant would pay for new bunker gear for the department and a new large-diameter hose.


Eckerman named interim Gun Barrel City manager

Gun Barrel City's City Council recently appointed Christy Eckerman, the current city secretary, as the interim city manager, until a permanent city manager is found.

Eckerman has served as interim city manager in the past. March 2 was the last day of work for retiring City Manager Corrin McGrath.

Gun Barrel City is located 50 miles southeast of Dallas.


Superintendent to leave Gonzales ISD

Steven Ebell

After three years as superintendent of the Gonzales Independent School District, Steven Ebell recently announced that he will resign June 15 to accept a position with the Eanes Consolidated Independent School District near Austin.

Ebell will become the assistant superintendent for human resources for Eanes. A superintendent search process for Gonzales will begin this month.


Wellness Center opens at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi broke ground this week on a $21.5 million state-of-the-art Wellness Center. The new 50,000 square foot facility will have two regulation basketball courts, weight rooms and cardio areas, locker rooms and group exercise rooms. The building will also house a new emergency operations center for the university.


Longview names lone superintendent finalist

James Wilcox

Waxahachie Superintendent James E. Wilcox was recently named the lone finalist for superintendent of the Longview Independent School District.

Wilcox, an East Texas native, has been employed since March 2005 as superintendent for the Waxahachie ISD, which has approximately 2,400 fewer students than Longview ISD.

A starting date for Wilcox, 59, has not been announced, but there is a state-mandated 21-day waiting period after the candidate has been announced. Superintendent Dana Marable left the Longview ISD in November.


Kyle hires new city administrator

The City of Kyle has created a new director of planning position and has hired Don Q. Reynolds to fill it. Reynolds, who has 33 years of city planning experience, will oversee city zoning and land development ordinances, implement the city's comprehensive plan, and assist the city planning commission.

Reynolds has a bachelor's degree in urban planning and a master's degree in economics from Middle Tennessee State University. He has also done graduate work in regional development with Western Kentucky University and industrial development for the University of Tennessee.


President leaving Del Mar College

Carlos Garcia

Carlos A. Garcia, president of Del Mar College in Corpus Christi, will leave his position May 31. The school's Board of Regents has decided the best option is naming an interim president while searching for a permanent replacement.

Garcia, who announced his departure Feb. 21, said he is leaving when his contract expires because of "family opportunities."

Regents have not set a timeline to select a search committee or interim president candidates, and have not yet decided whether to hire a search firm to find qualified candidates.


Dallas among top cities using alternative fuel

Dallas is one of the top 10 cities in the nation to have successfully implemented alternative fuel programs for its vehicle fleets, according to a recent survey.

The nation's 50 largest cities were surveyed to determine the percentage of city fleets using alternative fuels. Dallas was ranked fifth, with 39 percent of its vehicles using alternative fuels; it was the only Texas city among the top 10.

Dallas maintains more than 1,200 natural gas and hybrid electric cars, light trucks and vans in its fleet, and plans to buy 33 additional CNG sedans.


Grants at a Glance

The Parks and Wildlife Department has announced Boating Access Grants. This program provides 75 percent matching grant funds for the construction of public boat ramp facilities throughout Texas. Local government sponsors must make an application, provide the land, provide access to the proposed boat ramp, supply 25 percent of the development costs, and accept operation and maintenance responsibilities for a minimum 25-year period. These funds are allocated annually through the federal Sport Fish Restoration Act.

The maximum amount which may be requested for assistance is $500,000, and the deadlines for this program are June 30 and October 31.

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



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Texas Government Insider Archives

Volume 1 - 5 Archives · 11/7/03 - 3/2/07



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. The Department of Information Resources is currently seeking input on topics to be addressed. 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. Early bird, 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.