Voters statewide approve $8.2 billion in bonds

Schools, government referendums mean contracting opportunities

Texas voters approved more than $8.2 billion in school and local government bond issues throughout the state last weekend, with the Dallas ISD's narrow passage of a $1.35 billion bond package the largest bond issue in the state to win approval. As a result of the bond passage, DISD will now add 15 new schools in the district as well as renovate others.

The bond issues that passed will open up contracting opportunities for building new buildings, renovating and upgrading others, improving infrastructure such as plumbing and HVAC, adding security measures, building parking lots, upgrading technology and more.

Humble ISD schoolchildren will benefit from passage of a $245 million bond referendum. The money will be used to build two new elementary schools and one new middle school, replace carpeting and paint, air conditioning and roofs. Some $23.6 million of the total will be for new technology and infrastructure upgrades.

In Austin, four propositions with a total value of more than $343 million were put before voters and all four were approved. Among the expenditures from sale of the bonds will be technology upgrades, software upgrades, land acquisitions for future campuses, new buildings and renovations to existing buildings.

Two new $100-million high schools will be built following passage of a $647 million bond package in the Klein ISD.

Texas trade mission heading to Cuba in late May

Ag Commissioner leads group on first official state visit in 45 years

The events of the Cold War put business between the island nation of Cuba and Texas on ice for almost 50 years. But with at least a partial thaw in recent years, doors are beginning to reopen, and a trade delegation led by the Texas Department of Agriculture plans to take advantage with a visit to Cuba later this month.

Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples (left) will lead the delegation on the first official state visit to Cuba in more than 45 years, traveling to Havana on May 27-31. With him will be a delegation of 24 Texans, representing mostly farmers, ranchers, commodity suppliers and ports.

"This is a great opportunity to build long-lasting trade relationships with Cuba," Commissioner Staples said. "We want Texas producers to have access to this growing market and for Cubans to have the chance to enjoy the best agricultural products the world offers: Texas food and fiber."

Groups on the trade mission will include the Texas Farm Bureau, Independent Cattlemen's Association of Texas, U.S. Rice Producers Association, Texas Sorghum Producers, and the ports of Corpus Christi, Beaumont and Freeport. Specialty retailers are also part of the mission, including companies such as Wimberley Lavender Farms and Moose Milk.

The delegation plans to meet with Cuban government officials who procure agricultural products. The group will also visit three Cuban farms to identify food needs not met by domestic production.

Also going on the trip will be Parr Rosson (right), an economist with Texas A&M University, who said expanding trade between Havana and Austin could benefit both parties.

Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' Lone Stars

This week's salute is to Osler McCarthy, staff attorney for public information, Supreme Court of Texas

Career highlights and education: I spent 15 years in journalism, at the Sherman Democrat, Temple Daily Telegram, The Spokesman-Review in Spokane and The Kansas City Star, before I went back to law school. I clerked for the late Chief Justice Fred Dore on the Washington State Supreme Court, then practiced appellate criminal defense in Spokane for almost four years. I returned to journalism as assistant managing editor of the San Bernardino County Sun and went from there to state editor then legal affairs writer for the Austin American-Statesman. My current job was newly created when I joined the Texas Supreme Court in September 1999. I am a graduate of Austin College (political science), worked on my master's in print and broadcast news at the Missouri School of Journalism (all but thesis) and earned my law degree from Gonzaga Law School.

What I like best about my job is: I am a de facto liaison with Texas lawyers and judges, communicating the Court's decisions in opinions and other matters and trying to offer personal service in fielding questions or hearing complaints. To a lesser extent I deal with the press and work, as I can, to educate about the law. And, strange as it may seem, I particularly enjoy one-on-one contact with those sometimes adamant and angry and sometimes loony people who call with all kinds of questions about the law and the courts or complaints about a judicial role they do not understand. In answering them, I try to make the law seem less mysterious to lay people.

The best advice I've received for my current job is: My job is not to spin. The Court's opinions speak for themselves. When I have weighed in on what I perceived as attacks on the Court, I have done so not for the politics of the matter, but to address what I have considered blatantly faulty methodology and assumptions or intellectually dishonest analysis. This reflects more the onetime Kansas City Star investigations editor at work in me than anything else except perhaps my belief that judicial independence and integrity is a foremost democratic value.

Advice I would give a new hire in my office: What the Court does is the public's business. Be open and honest. You don't wear a robe, but the people who do are human.

If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: At my 15-year-old's football or baseball games.

People would be surprised to know that: I'm not partisan - I don't even vote in primaries, a throwback to when, as a journalist, I didn't vote at all - but my political philosophy is decidedly moderate to liberal. My conservative friends would laugh at the moderate part. But I see myself as a centrist, always fascinated and trying to understand the sometimes destructive fringes.

One thing I wish more people knew about my agency: At its best, the Court's decisions are grounded in judicial philosophy - not political philosophy and not based on campaign contributions - and that among this all-Republican court is a wide range of judicial philosophies. Recently reading a biography of Earl Warren (Justice for All: Earl Warren and the Nation He Made), I was impressed at how judicial philosophy worked in that Court's decision-making not altogether differently from how I see it at work in this Court. Felix Frankfurter, a stalwart liberal in his social and political philosophy, was nonetheless quite conservative in his judicial philosophy and often served as a brake on the Warren Court's activism. This is the stuff of law school bull sessions, but it doesn't fit the simple convenience of those who want to see the Court's decisions - my court or the U.S. Supremes - as fitting the black-and-white politics-driven decision-making they see in representative democracy.

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.

Wilson takes contingency to NY to 'sell' Texas

Texas Secretary of State Phil Wilson (in center of accompanying photo reprinted with the permission of The NASDAQ Stock Market, Inc.) presided over the closing bell of the NASDAQ market in Times Square in New York City Wednesday. Wilson headed up a contingency of Texans visiting the Big Apple to discuss benefits of doing business in Texas.

Attending the closing bell ceremony with Wilson were numerous representatives of Texas chambers of commerce, economic development corporations and businesses. While in New York, they met with site selectors and business leaders to tell them about the advantages of doing business in Texas and having their businesses in Texas.

During the ceremony, Wilson noted that Texas is the number one exporter in the United States, with exports of $168 billion in 2007 and growing every day. He also noted that Texas is home to more Fortune 500 companies than any other state. He described the state as the leader among states where businesses want to locate.

"Over the past several years, Texas has received numerous accolades as the top state in the nation to do business," said Wilson. "As the rest of the U.S. experiences an economic slowdown, Texas' economy continues to outpace the rest of the nation." Wilson said Texas has proven "that we are serious about economic development and bringing new companies to our state, and trade missions such as this provide us with additional opportunities to develop relationships and honest lines of communication, which will lead to new companies, new jobs and new opportunities for Texans in the years to come."

Camp Mabry Civil Support Team gets new commander

In a recent ceremony at Camp Mabry in Austin before military members, family and friends, command of the 6th Civil Support Team was transferred from Lt. Col. Michael M. Cain, who has led the unit since 2005, to Lt. Col. Jet Hays.

Texas' 6th CST (WMD) is a relatively young unit, consisting of both Army and Air National Guardsmen. Organized Jan. 1, 1999, it received its Department of Defense certification of mission Aug. 14, 2001. It is one of 56 teams located across the nation.

"The world is changed in the past six years, but I have already learned that this team receives a lot of respect around the country," said Col. Hays. "I really appreciate the noncommissioned officers in this unit and the leadership who has given me the opportunity to lead this outstanding unit."

In the accompanying Texas Military Forces photo, Col. Daniel Steiner (left), Director of Joint Operations, prepares to pass the guidon of the 6th Civil Support Team to Col. Jet Hays, the team's new commander.

DSHS awards $25 million for community mental health

The Texas Department of State Health Services has announced it is awarding $25 million in new funding to 17 local mental health centers for community-based crisis mental health services. The money comes from an $82 million two-year appropriation from the Texas Legislature to improve public mental health crisis services statewide.

Dr. David Lakey (pictured), DSHS commissioner, said the additional money will help people get the best possible care in the best possible setting. A total of $21.4 million is being awarded to 14 local mental health centers for two-year projects that will establish or enhance psychiatric emergency service centers or for other facilities that provide alternatives to sending mentally ill patients to hospitals or jails if they can be treated efficiently in more appropriate settings. Recipients are:

• Austin Travis County MHMR Center (two projects) - $4,618,509;
• Betty Hardwick Center - $1,510,940;
• Bluebonnet Trails Community Mental Health and Mental Retardation Center - $601,274;
• Burke Center (two projects) - $1,666,429;
• Central Plains Center - $88,718;
• El Paso Mental Health and Mental Retardation - $1,779,322;
• Heart of Texas Region Mental Health Mental Retardation Center - $1,715,528;
• Hill Country Community MHMR Center - $463,831;
• Mental Health and Mental Retardation Center of Nueces County - $564,957;
• MHMR of Tarrant County (three projects) - $3,565,474;
• Spindletop MHMR Services - $638,400;
• Tri-County MHMR Services - $2,357,998;
• Tropical Texas Behavioral Health - $1,382,000; and
• West Texas Centers for MHMR - $432,869.

A total of $3.5 million was recently awarded to five mental health entities for two-year projects to provide outpatient treatment to people who have been found incompetent to stand trial. Recipients are:

• Austin Travis County MHMR Center - $845,618;
• The Center for Health Care Services - $983,798;
• North Texas Behavioral Health Authority / ValueOptions - $878,275;
• Mental Health and Mental Retardation Authority of Harris County - $292,309; and
• Mental Health Mental Retardation of Tarrant County - $556,628.

Officials say $500,000 of the $82 million will be spent on statewide hotline training and certification, and another $800,000 will be used for evaluation and agency support.

TCEQ grants available to replace diesel-burning buses

Texas Railroad Commission Chair Michael Williams recently completed at seven-city tour to meet with school executives at Education Service Centers in Richardson, Fort Worth, Austin, Houston, Beaumont, San Antonio and Kilgore to encourage them to replace older buses with new propane-fueled vehicles. "The cost-savings schools will observe with propane school buses make them a common-sense choice and allow money to be directed back to the classroom," said Williams. "Propane is less expensive than diesel, and additional federal, state and local incentives for the purchase of propane and propane-powered buses help make the financial benefits even stronger." Cash incentives are available in 34 Texas counties for replacing older diesel-burning buses in a grant program sponsored by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Comptroller launches Web site for economic resources

The Texas Comptroller's office has unveiled "Texas Ahead," a one-stop Web portal to economic resources for Texas. Comptroller Susan Combs said the site contains a wealth of data and resources all in one place that can help support the economic growth of communities throughout the state. The new Web site at www.texasahead.org provides targeted resources for businesses, local governments and economic development professionals, giving them information they need when making decisions about doing business in Texas or planning for economic growth.

Texas Ahead offers a wide array of economic data and analysis including an in-depth look at the forces driving the Texas economy, snapshots of key Texas industries and economic sectors, rankings showing where Texas stands among the states on key factors and economic development success stories that provide valuable guidance and models worth imitating.

It also includes detailed explanations of tools available to assist local governments in their economic development and governing efforts, overviews of the local economies in Texas' various regions and useful links to a wide variety of publications and data of interest to local officials who want to stay ahead of trends shaping the Texas economy.

Regional Lone Star Land Steward Awards announced

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Sand County Foundation recently announced winners of the 13th annual Lone Star Land Steward Awards to recognize landowners in 10 regions who have shown exemplary efforts to manage their property as ambassadors of conservation. Those receiving recognition for their efforts in land conservation are:

• Bob and Mickey Burleson of Bell County, representing Blackland Prairie-Burleson Prairie, for restoring native tall grasses;
• Jake "Bud" Dearing, owner and operator of Dearing Ranch, representing the Cross Timbers and Prairies region for expanding plant diversity to help wildlife;
• J. David and Margaret Bamberger, owners and operators of Selah, Bamberger Ranch Preserve, representing the Edwards Plateau for rangeland improvements, spring restoration, wildlife habitat enhancement and species management;
• Laurance H. Armour, III, and Armour Trust, operator and owners of Pierce Ranch, representing Gulf prairies and marshes for wetland development and native prairie restoration;
• L.H. and Nama Webb, owners and operators of Seven Cross Ranch, representing the High Plains region, for grazing stocker cattle using a rapid rotation grazing system and providing habitat for wildlife such as lesser prairie chickens, white-tailed and mule deer, bobwhite and quail;
• Jane Baxter and G. Gibson Family Limited Partnership, operators of Mustang Prairie Tree Farm, for timber and wildlife management;
• Ronnie Baker, owner and operator of Baker Ranch, representing the Post Oak Savannah region, for timber and wildlife management promoting conservation of wildlife, water and wood;
• Jon and Dick Stasney and families and Johnnie Hudman, owners and operator of Stasney's Cook Ranch, representing the Rolling Plains region, for good grazing management, selective brush control, prescribed burning, quality hunting and nature-based tourism;
• Charles and Nancy Hundley, owners and operators of High Lonesome Ranch, representing the South Texas Plains region, for improving grazing management;
• Marshall B. Miller, Jr., and Mary Elsie Newton, owners and operators of W.R. Stumberg Ranch, representing the Trans-Pecos Region, for increasing water availability through grazing management and brush control;
• Bob Moore, John Webb and Jim Willis, executive committee of Wildlife Management Association-Wildlife Habitat Federation, representing organizations that promote land conservation, for their assistance to landowners in restoring and conserving wildlife in South Central Texas;
• Dave Delaney, operator of King Ranch, representing the public and corporations, for its historical wildlife habitat management practices, including installing of windmills, providing shelter for quail and building living fences of prickly pear cactus; and
• Mark Claburn, site manager for Tierra Verde Golf Club, special recognition for maximizing natural areas of the golf course.

Texas Tech regents approve tuition freeze for 2008-09

The Texas Tech System Board of Regents has voted to freeze tuition and fee rates for the next academic year at Tech, despite ever-rising costs at other higher education institutions. Regents and administrators hope the freeze will signal to lawmakers that they are worried about dwindling state revenues and will let parents and students know they are trying to ease their burden, said the system's chancellor, Kent Hance (pictured). The freeze will halt more than a decade of rising costs at Tech and universities across the country.

Last year, regents raised tuition and fees 4.79 percent. Across Texas, the cost of higher education has soared more than 40 percent since 2003, when legislators voted to let colleges set their own tuitions.

The move did raise concerns for some regents, who worried the freeze could hinder goals to become a flagship university in the state with top-notch researchers and students. Regent Rick Francis said just chasing students may not be enough. The freeze comes as Tech tries to increase its student population to 40,000 by 2020.

Comptroller sends $554M sales tax revenues to entities

Texas Comptroller Susan Combs recently announced that local governments are receiving $554.4 million in May sales tax allocations, up 2.2 percent compared to May 2007. As expected, Combs said, the slower expansion of the Texas economy in 2008 is translating into sales tax growth below the double-digit pace of the past two years. The state collected $1,7 billion in sales tax revenue in April, down 1.8 percent compared to April 2007, Combs said.

May sales tax allocations of $377.7 million went to Texas cities, up 1.4 percent compared to May 2007. Calendar year-to-date, city sales tax allocations are up 4.9 percent compared to the same period last year. Texas counties received sales tax payments of $32.4 million, up 0.8 percent compared to one year ago. Calendar year-to-date, county sales tax allocations are 5.2 percent higher than last year.

May's sales tax allocations to local governments represent March sales that were reported to the Comptroller in April by monthly tax filers and January, February and March sales reported to the Comptroller in April by quarterly tax filers. The next sales tax allocation is scheduled for Friday, June 13.

To view sales tax allocations by city, click here. To view sales tax allocations by county, click here.

Austin's CapMetro seeking fee increases

It had to happen sooner or later. Skyrocketing gas prices that have pushed many Austin area residents to mass transit may also lead to increases in Capital Metro (CapMetro) fares. Throughout the country, mass transit authorities are reporting standing-room-only crowds on buses as commuters seek to save a little cash on their transportation costs to and from work.

CapMetro this week proposed doubling its fares over a three-year period, and ending free service for senior citizens and some persons with disabilities. The goal is an increase to 75 cents in 2009 over the current 50-cent fare and another increase of 25 cents - to $1 - in 2011.

CFO Randy Hume (pictured) said the increase is necessary to continue the growth of the city's transit system. Officials also are studying charging a 25-cent fee for riding the city's 'Dillos, previously offered as a free service. Commuter rail tickets and express bus fares would increase to $1.50 per ride.

Ridership on the nation's transit systems from Denver to Houston, San Francisco to Dallas-Fort Worth, are reporting near double-digit increases of riders in the first three months of this year compared to the first three months last year, with most attributing the increase in ridership to the increase in gas prices at the pump.

Houston attorney gives $15 million to UT-Austin

Joe D. Jamail (left), a Houston attorney, recently donated $15 million to The University of Texas at Austin to create endowments in the schools of Law and Nursing and to the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Studies. Jamail and his late wife, Lee Hage Jamail, have a long history of making significant gifts to UT's colleges of Communications, Education, Fine Arts, Liberal Arts, the Harry Ransom Center and Athletics.

The Law School will use $10 million to create a Faculty Excellence Fund to enhance recruitment and retention. The School of Nursing plans to use $2.5 million to support faculty recruitment and retention and to create fellowships to support students seeking a doctorate degree in nursing. An Undergraduate Studies program to advise prospective and first-year students on making smart academic choices received $2.5 million of the gift.

To recognize the Jamail's three decades of giving to the university, UT President William Powers Jr. (right) announced that the Main 212, which has been used by the UT Board of Regents and the site of numerous public announcements, has been designated the Lee Hage Jamail Academic Room. Joe Jamail is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin and Lee Jamail earned a bachelor's degree from Incarnate Word College and studied speech pathology at UT-Austin.

Dallas Community College breaks ground for center

Officials of the Dallas County Community College District (DCCCD) recently broke ground (accompanying photo) for a new satellite facility that will serve as a community education campus for West Dallas.

Plans feature a 33,800-square-foot facility costing approximately $7.9 million. The satellite campus will offer adult basic education, developmental studies, limited credit classes, continuing and workforce education and community development; a variety of support programs will complement those areas. The new satellite facility is one of five DCCCD community education campuses being built in Dallas County that is funded from a bond program approved in 2004. The five community education campuses are designed to provide educational opportunities for underserved or fast-growing populations in the county.

Other sites include Pleasant Grove, Garland, south Irving and Coppell. Each new campus is designed to offer basic academic or core curriculum courses, continuing education classes that offer workforce development skills and community-based networking to help residents gain access to services they need.

M.D. Anderson recipient of $35 million gift from Duncan

The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center has accepted a $35 million gift from energy industry mogul Dan Duncan. It represents the second largest donation in the history of the center. Duncan's $100 million gift to the Baylor College of Medicine in 2006 resulted in the Baylor cancer center being renamed the Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center.

This most recent donation will lead to the establishment of the Duncan Family Institute for Cancer Prevention and Risk Assessment. Dr. Ernest Hawk (pictured), who heads up M.D. Anderson's cancer prevention efforts, said that although cancer prevention is difficult because of the large numbers of types of cancer, he is optimistic researchers will be successful in their efforts.

Angelo State hoping for nursing, allied health school

The Texas Tech University System Board of Regents has approved starting the College of Nursing and Allied Health at Angelo State University. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board now will review the proposal before it becomes official.

ASU officials do not yet know the annual operating costs of the nursing college. However, the San Angelo Health Foundation also announced it has awarded $350,000 to help start the college. The grant, which goes to the Texas Tech Foundation, will be administered by ASU and provide startup money until state funding for the nursing college can be approved by the Texas Legislature.

ASU President Joseph C. Rallo (pictured) said the funding will allow ASU to recruit faculty, which comes from a national pool in a very competitive environment. The new college, which will be home to ASU's nursing and physical therapy departments, will provide greater opportunities for ASU to expand its healthcare offerings and to benefit as a member of the Texas Tech System through possible joint programs with the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.

Gift bolsters A&M Galveston's fisheries research

Texas A&M University at Galveston will be able to expand its marine fisheries research thanks to a $2 million gift from a local foundation. George Mitchell, who graduated from Texas A&M University in 1940, has donated two endowments of $1 million each to establish university chairs in sustainable coasts and in sustainable fisheries.

With the endowment, the chair of sustainable coasts will work closely with the Center for Texas Beaches and Shores at the university to expand studies of the upper Texas Coast. The center was established by the Texas Legislature in 1993 to address beach erosion and wetlands loss in Texas.

Through the years, Mitchell has donated $53 million to Texas A&M University at Galveston, beginning in 1968 when he donated 140 acres of land on Pelican Island, now home to the main campus.

Laredo authorizes $80 million in bond sales

The City of Laredo has authorized the sale of $80 million in bonds, including $48.5 million in combination tax and waterworks and sewer system revenue bonds to pay construction and engineering fees for water and sewer system upgrades.

Another $32 million will go toward street, sidewalk and drainage infrastructure. Tax and revenue certificates of obligation will also purchase equipment for the city's Health, Parks and Leisure Services, police and fire departments.

A part of the $32 million will pay for construction and building improvements for park facilities, hike and bike trails and new Health Department and library facilities. A bond issuance was also approved to add tollbooths at the World Trade Bridge. City Manager Carlos Villarreal (pictured) said negotiations with the federal government are ongoing for the tollbooth project.

Dr. Patricia Holden-Huchton new TWU nursing dean

Dr. Patricia Holden-Huchton (pictured) is the new dean of the Texas Woman's University College of Nursing. She began her new duties April 1, after having served the College previously as interim and associate dean.

Prior to joining TWU in 2005, Holden-Huchton held academic leadership positions in Kentucky and Nevada as well as a number of community leadership positions. She has been a Registered Nurse for more than 30 years.

Holden-Hutchton earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, her master's from TWU and her doctorate from the University of Alabama-Birmingham. TWU has the largest college of nursing in Texas and produces more new nurses than any other program in the state.

UTPA purchases electric scooters for campus police

The University of Texas-Pan American police are using a new weapon in keeping the peace on campus. The university purchased two scooters in February to help officers patrol the campus. Each scooter costs $9,000 and runs on 110-volt batteries. When fully charged, the scooters can run almost 40 miles.

UTPA Assistant Police Chief James Loya said besides saving the university energy and money, the scooters would allow officers to cut through campus and ride inside some buildings to answer calls. Officers also can weave through crowds at university events on the scooters.

WTAMU's Chapman heads to North Carolina Wilmington

West Texas A&M University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Brian R. Chapman (pictured), is leaving WTAMU to become provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, effective July 1. A national search will be conducted for his replacement.

Prior to joining WTAMU, Chapman served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Sam Houston State University. He spent 17 years teaching at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi and while there served as acting chair of the Division of Science and chair of the College of Science and Technology's Division of Graduate Studies. He also taught previously at the University of Oklahoma and the University of Georgia.

Chapman holds a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M-Kingsville and a master's and Ph.D. from Texas Tech University.

Miller to head up Tech commercialization office

David L. Miller has been named Vice Chancellor of Commercialization of the Office of Technology Commercialization at Texas Tech University. The newly named office is the former Office of Technology Transfer and Intellectual Property, which Miller served as managing director. The Texas Tech System recently announced the name change for the office and the title change for Miller.

The newly named office's mission is to help researchers get their new discoveries to the marketplace. Tech System Chancellor Kent Hance called the change "the first step in our plan to create a world-class technology commercialization function for the researchers at Texas Tech."

Miller noted that not only will researchers have the opportunity to take their work to the public marketplace, but Texas Tech will also benefit from a revenue stream resulting from marketable products created from its research. The money, he said, can be used for continued research as well as for scholarships.

Professional development for teachers being offered

Texas A&M's Center for Distance Learning Research has been named by the Texas Education Agency as one of five professional development providers that will offer required professional development for teachers planning to use the Texas Virtual School Network for electronic courses. The center is part of TAMU's College of Education and Human Development.

The Virtual Instructor Certification Program will be offered by the center beginning in August to Texas teachers seeking to become credentialed to teach over the Texas Virtual School Network. The network came out of the last session of the Texas Legislature, which authorized TEA to establish and oversee a virtual school network to provide educational opportunities electronically.

Mayors along border to sue over DHS fencing

The Texas Border Coalition is planning to file a federal lawsuit today in Washington, D.C., against U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, claiming the federal government did not properly negotiate with landowners regarding use of some of their property for a fence to help secure the country's borders.

El Paso Mayor John Cook (pictured) said his city does not have standing in the case because much of the land on which the fence would be built in El Paso is on land owned by the International Boundary and Water Commission. Thus, El Paso will not join the suit. The federal government plans to start building part of the 670-mile fence in Texas this summer.

Southside Place approves bond funding for projects

The Southside Place City Council has approved $5.8 million in bond funding for projects approved as part of a November 2007 referendum. Included are the city's new municipal complex, which will house the town hall and fire and police departments. It could also include commercial lease space. The bond amount for the project was originally $4.5 million, but the latest estimate is $3.7 million.

Voters also previously approved a $1.3 million bond issue to buy the clubhouse at Fire Truck Park from the Southside Place Park Association. Instead the city took out a loan at a better rate and will now lease the clubhouse at a cheaper rate than it was paying previously for the use of the park. The leases have one-year renewals.

San Antonio facing $13 million budget shortfall

San Antonio officials are facing two choices when it comes to making up a projected budget shortfall of $13 million - cut services or raise taxes. And Mayor Phil Hardberger (pictured) said the city will now face some tough choices as it begins budget debate. Like many other cities in the state and nation, the economic downturn nationwide is taking its toll on San Antonio.

The city will continue to rely heavily on CPS Energy payments to the city make up the largest part of the city's general fund. City officials are preparing for months of budget hearings and planning to see where the $13 million shortfall, which is expected to climb to $59 million by Fiscal Year 2010, can be made up.

Erath County considers adding new voting system

Erath County Commissioners have approved a request to put out bids for new election software. The county is hoping to participate in a pilot program that was established by the Texas Secretary of State that would establish a system of countywide polling places and will be implemented for the upcoming presidential election in November.

County Clerk Gwinda Jones said the major benefit of the updated voting system would be the reduction in the number of polling places needed to conduct an election, reducing the number of polling places to just 11 in the county.

She said it would also allow for open polling, where registered voters will be able to go to any of those 11 locations to vote no matter where they live or their precinct. Jones also noted that the system would mark each voter as already voted as soon as his or her vote has been cast to guarantee that no one is able vote more than once. County Judge Tab Thompson said that there are funds available in the budget to purchase the software. A hearing is set for May 26 at the courthouse to allow citizens a chance to voice their opinions.

Texas Tech may create dental school in El Paso

Texas Tech University is considering founding a dental school on the medical center campus in El Paso. University officials in recent weeks have discussed expanding the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine with new health programs.

Dr. Jose Manuel de la Rosa (pictured), dean of the medical school, said pharmacy, nursing and dental programs are some of the options being discussed. He said officials from Texas Tech, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso Community College and community leaders agree that a dental school could complement existing local health programs.

Texas has only three dental schools, including University of Texas System schools in San Antonio and Houston, and Texas A&M University's program in Dallas. More than half of all the Texas border counties are federally designated as dental health shortage areas, according to a 2001 report by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The Board of Regents would have to approve the program. Then school officials would begin the long political process of obtaining approval and money from the Texas Legislature and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Klein ISD quick to move after successful bond vote

Officials in the Klein ISD are wasting no time in moving forward with a $168 million bond sale after a successful bond election last week. The school board approved sale of the bonds on Tuesday, and the $168 million will fund six new construction projects, numerous renovations and provide for updated computer technology.

Superintendent Jim Cain said about one-fourth of the $646.9 million bond approval will be sold each year for the next four years. This year's bond sales are expected to fund construction of two elementary schools, one middle school, one high school, a multi-purpose ag/staff development center and a south transportation center.

Also included will be $6.7 million for computers and additional funding for other technology, renovation projects and athletic additions.

Lufkin ISD hoping for grant for health care center

The Lufkin school district is hopeful it will be the winner of a $125,000 grant that would allow the district to establish a student health care center on its middle school campus. The district was informed recently that it is a finalist for the grant being offered by the Department of State Health Services.

Superintendent Roy Knight (pictured) said if funded, the center could provide early medical intervention for students with minor to moderate illnesses and be staffed by physicians' assistants and nurse practitioners. It would provide physical examinations, create health plans for students and maintain student health records.

The grant would provide funding for three years, with a goal of self-sufficiency after that period of time. The initial year's grant would be $125,000, then cut by 25 percent in the second year and by half for the third year.

Round Rock studies $350 million bond vote in November

A 52-member citizen's committee has recommended that the Round Rock Independent School District put a $350 million bond proposal on the Nov. 4 ballot to build new schools and renovate existing campuses.

The panel - comprised of parents and community leaders - presented the school board with a series of proposed projects, including $42.2 million for renovations at Westwood High School and $40.5 million for remodeling at Round Rock High School.

Round Rock ISD district voters passed a $268 million bond in 2006, but district officials say the new bond funds are needed to manage the district's rapid growth.

Smith County could purchase historic building

Smith County Commissioners recently took a closer look at ways to best use the old Crescent Laundry building they are considering buying and renovating to use as a county facility.

Commissioner Bill McGinnis (pictured) said commissioners are aware that the Moorish-Revival-style buildings built in 1927 and 1928 need to be saved and are exploring options that are best for the county. Commissioners set aside $450,000, with $25,000 budgeted for the feasibility study and $425,000 for purchase of the land.

County officials are conducting a 60-day feasibility study that could lead to the purchase of a parcel of land next to the courthouse annex on which the old Crescent Laundry buildings are located. Commissioners on Monday also discussed the logistics of clearing county employees out of the Smith County Office Building (the old Carlton Hotel). These renovations could be completed by the end of 2008, allowing portions of the Sheriff's Office to move out of the decaying Office Building.

Eanes ISD to require teachers to get master's degrees

The Eanes Independent School District will require new teachers to acquire a master's degree in teaching within eight years of being hired. The new policy applies to teachers who are hired in the 2008-2009 school year, but not current teachers.

To help teachers obtain their master's degrees, the Eanes Education Foundation launched the Partnership for Teacher Excellence Program, which will provide assistance to get master's degrees in teacher leadership. Currently 10 teachers are in the partnership program with Texas State University-San Marcos. The program pays for about half the participant's tuition and books and the university provides classes on Eanes' campuses exclusively for teachers from that district.

About 68 percent of Eanes teachers hold bachelor's degrees and 32 percent have master's degrees or higher. About 50 teachers are hired each year, district officials said. The district offers a $2,000 bonus for teachers with master's degrees. In addition to the partnership program, district administrators are working on a plan to help those seeking master's degrees access that stipend while they are in school.

Cleburne approves $10.5 million civic center upgrade

The Cleburne City Council recently approved paying for architectural plans for the combination Cleburne Civic Center and performing arts center project. If council approves, construction on the project is expected to begin in September.

The project began as two individual projects through the Cleburne 4B Economic Development Corp., with plans calling for renovation and expansion of the civic center and building a performing arts center elsewhere. But after the city purchased a building that leaders later learned could not meet the needs of a theatre, plans were revised to combine the two projects into one. When two council members objected to the estimated cost, the assistant city manager said economic development officials are working to lower the project's estimated cost.

City Manager Chester Nolan (pictured) said the increase in the size of the project, adding about 10,000 square feet, led to the cost increase in architect service fees. Of the estimated project cost, $7.6 million is to come from 4B funds with the remaining $2,937,000 coming from city funds. Council must still vote for final approval before construction on the project begins.

Austin drivers facing red-light cameras this month

Austin drivers take note - you may be caught on camera during the Memorial Day weekend. That's when the city plans to have online the first of numerous red-light cameras designed to photograph license plates of motor vehicles caught running red lights and turn the photos into fines. Austin is the latest in a number of cities installing the red-light cameras, designed to increase safety at problem red lights. Some nine of the cameras will be installed soon on busy red-light intersections throughout the city.

Fines for each violation are $75, with a $25 late fee if not paid within 30 days. Unlike some other cities that post warning signs in advance of actually taking photos that produce the fines, the Austin red-light cameras will begin enforcing the traffic violation as soon as they come online.

Allen ISD bond panel produces $350 million wish list

A bond committee for the Allen Independent School District has produced a $359 million list of projects considered critical to district operations. Board members asked for the list to help decide whether to call for a November bond election.

The list of critical needs include a proposed $65 million stadium, two new schools, building additions and renovations. When the board president expressed sticker shock at the cost of the new, 20,000-seat stadium, a member of the athletics subcommittee noted that recommended athletic facilities, including the addition of a new gym at Curtis Middle School and renovation of an existing one at the campus, make up slightly less than 20 percent of the most crucial needs identified by the bond committee.

Victoria Sublette (pictured), board president, said she would only authorize a ballot that would have separate projects so voters could have more choice. The deadline for the board to call a November bond election is August 26.

Alpine moving ahead with new public library plans

Officials of Brewster County recently announced that the county will expand its commitment to construction of a new $1.5 million public library in Alpine. County crews already have spent more than 190 hours to complete the demolition and clearing of the old structures that were on the site for the new library, said Brewster County Judge Val Beard.

Commissioners also agreed to provide construction management services to the library board by acting as the general contractor for the project. The county will bid subcontracts and supervise construction as well as provide site preparation, including construction of the pad. These two contributions by the county will significantly reduce the cost of the building, Beard said.

The Alpine Public Library, a nonprofit corporation, and Brewster County operate the library as a partnership, noted Mary Jane Morgan, board member and capital campaign chairman. By contract, the Alpine library serves as the county's public library. Additionally, a branch library is operated in Marathon. In exchange, the county has provided the library with use of county-owned property and partial funding for the library's operations. Beard predicted the facility could be completed within two years and possibly sooner due to low construction interest rates, and the local and regional slowdown in building translates into more contractors being available.

Brazos Valley area receives grant for communications

The Brazos Valley-Wide Area Communications System, which includes Washington County and the city of Brenham, recently was selected to receive $2.8 million of a $33.6 million statewide grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to modernize emergency communications.

Ricky Boeker (pictured), Brenham fire chief and emergency management coordinator, told a joint meeting of the city council and county commissioners that four other partners, including the cities of Bryan and College Station, Texas A&M University and Brazos County, will share in the grant. A meeting is scheduled on May 19 to determine which entity will be the managing partner, but he expects the Brazos County government to be designated.

Of the $2.8 million two-county package, $1,004,968 is expected to fund Washington County projects, primarily to implement a state-of-the-art, six-channel system on three county towers. It was necessary to scale down plans for $26 million in improvement previously considered as Texas received only $34 million of the $1 billion awarded by DHS nationwide to improve emergency communications, Boeker said. The new plan will tie in with Harris County's plans and the combination of Brazos/Washington County serving to "fill in an existing (radio) gap" between Houston and Austin, he added.

San Angelo airport receives $3 million FAA grant

San Angelo Regional Airport has received a $3 million federal grant for the next stage in its apron renovation project. The project, begun in 2005 and expected to be completed in 2012, is part of the city's Capital Improvements Plan.

Funding for the $23.2 million project is expected to be provided mostly through the Federal Aviation Administration's annual grants.

Do you know about
these Texas teams?

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

When disaster or a crisis is imminent, some of the first calls go to groups that are not well known to most Texans.

Hats Off to the men and women of Texas Task Force 1 (TX-TF1), a highly specialized group of emergency, medical and search and rescue personnel who make up the state's three 70-member urban disaster response teams. The teams represent 48 different organizations, including fire and emergency medical services departments from major metropolitan areas such as Austin, Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and Fort Worth and smaller metropolitan emergency services departments. The teams also include civilian members such as doctors, engineers and handlers for the canine members of the team.

One major component of TX-TF1 is its Water Rescue Strike Team, a group that is deployed during flood incidents which have become common in Texas. During last year's 19.6-inch rainfall during a 24-hour period in Marble Falls, the water rescue teams were extremely busy. Their capabilities include rescue swimmers who sometimes team up with Texas Military Forces squads.

TxDOT grant funding to help Baytown synchronize lights

Baytown officials will use a grant from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to pay for synchronizing lights on North Main and Alexander Drive. The synchronization is estimated to cost $1.6 million, up more than $500,000 from initial estimates, said City Manager Gary Brumback (pictured).

The project will replace the current copper-wired systems with fiber optic cables and replace 26 incandescent light heads with LED lights and replace sensors buried within concrete at crossroads along the route. These sensors will set the light timers to coincide with traffic flow, he said. A grant from the TxDOT Congestion-Mitigation and Air Quality program will pay 80 percent of the project cost, Brumbeck said. The project is currently under design and is set to start in spring 2009. The project is estimated to be completed in August or September 2009.

Where are they now?

Where do folks go when they leave state government? Some go to work in the private sector or for non-profits. Some transition to executive-level positions in higher education while others may seek elected local government positions. And some just retire and spend a lot of time with their grandkids at the fishin' hole. This week we begin a new column focusing on where former state government officials and employees are now.

Lee Jackson began his more than 30-year government career in the Dallas City Manager's Office. He later served 10 years as a member of the Texas House of Representatives. He also was elected Dallas County Judge four times. Today, Jackson is chancellor of the University of North Texas System, a position he has held since 2002. He is the current president of the Association of Texas Colleges and Universities.

Talmadge Heflin was a member of the Texas House from 1983 to 2005. He was the only House member to serve on both the Ways and Means and Appropriations committees. He also previously was a design engineer and consultant in the petrochemical construction and engineering industries. Heflin joined the Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF) as a Visiting Research Fellow in 2005. In March of this year he became a full-time employee there, being named director of TPPF's Center for Fiscal Policy. TPPF is a non-profit, free-market research institute in Austin.

If you are a former Texas government official or employee or know someone who was who has left state government for greener pastures, please let us know so we can feature them in an upcoming column. Send your information to editor@spartnerships.com.

Corpus Christi ISD gets $25,000 grant for iPods

Corpus Christi will use a $25,000 grant from a telecommunications firm to purchase 50 iPods to be used in the district's English as a Second Language classrooms for audio and visual language aids. The devices will be used to record speaking lessons and to download visual learning materials from the Internet, which district officials expect will appeal to different learning skills. Instructors will be able to check the devices to ensure students are not downloading materials other than instructions for English as a Second Language.

The $25,000 also will pay for accessories such as adapters and voice recording equipment, as well as staff development for any necessary equipment training of instructors.

San Antonio River project Phase One beginning soon

Less than a week after San Antonio voters approved spending $125 million in venue tax money for improvements along the San Antonio River, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Phase 1 of the project could begin in just a few weeks. Phase 1 does not include any of the venue tax funds but calls for $23.4 million worth of work to construct a deeper channel in the riverbed, add more than 30 acres of vegetation and add 1.2 miles of pedestrian trail.

The venue tax funds will come into play later for additional trails, pedestrian bridges, lighting, etc. During Phase 1, the river will have to be diverted so that if there is a storm during the construction phase, waters at flood level will have somewhere to flow.

Brady ISD names Brasher
as new superintendent

Brady Independent School District has selected Jeffrey Brasher (pictured) as its new superintendent. Currently Brasher serves as superintendent at Veribest Independent School District.

Veribest ISD is expected to name a finalist for a new superintendent at the end of this month.

Boerne makes land purchase for sewage plant

The city of Boerne has approved the purchase of 12.5 acres of land on which to begin design work for a new sewage treatment plant. The property, which was sold to the city for $1.5 million, will house the nearly $30 million plant that is expected to be completed by 2012.

The next step for the city is to hire a consultant to design the plant, which will allow for future expansion once the old plant is no longer used. The new plant is expected to treat 1.4 million gallons of sewage each day, with capacity for expansion to treat 5.2 million gallons.

San Antonio's first toll
road builder chosen

The Cibolo Creek Infrastructure Joint Venture group has been chosen to construct the 8-mile U.S. 281 tollway - San Antonio's first toll road. The construction group says it can finish the project some 10 months sooner than toll road owner - the Alamo Regional Mobility Authority - had thought.

Mobility authority Chair Bill Thornton (pictured) said the $330 million project needs to be constructed "in the shortest possible time." Several San Antonio subcontractors are likely to be involved in the project.

Dallas council approves hotel land purchase

The Dallas City Council this week voted to purchase a tract of land in the downtown area where a Dallas Convention Center hotel to be owned and paid for by taxpayers is planned. The price for the more than eight acres of land is $42 million. City Manager Mary Suhm (pictured) was directed to work with hotel developers and operators to move the project forward.

The city will now sell $42 million in publicly funded certificates of obligation to buy the land, which is adjacent to the Dallas Convention Center. City officials and officials of the Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau are hopeful the addition of a convention center hotel will bring more tourism and more conventions to the city and positively impact the city's economy.

Scoggin named finalist for Oakwood superintendent

Livingston High School Principal Richard Scoggin has been named the lone finalist for the superintendent position in the Oakwood ISD. Following a state-mandated 21-day waiting period, Scoggin can officially be offered the contract, with a likely start date of July 1. It will be a homecoming of sorts for Scoggin, who is a native of Palestine and a former Palestine ISD administrator.

Scoggin replaces Dr. Doug Moore, who is leaving the superintendent post to take an administrative position with a charter school. Scoggin began his public education career as a teacher and coach in the Palestine ISD. He then served as a teacher and coach in the Livingston ISD. He also previously was principal of the Broaddus Junior/Senior High School and was principal at Palestine High before taking the post in Livingston.

Irate taxpayers? Appraisal district wants security guard

At least one governmental entity is taking seriously angry and irate taxpayers who have seen property tax appraisals increase - which will likely result in tax increases.

The Gregg County Appraisal District is considering a part-time security guard for its office. Chief Appraiser Tom Hays suggested to his board that many taxpayers are angry when they come in to discuss their property appraisals and he thinks his staff would feel more secure with a security guard in the building, particularly from mid-May to mid-July when most who have concerns about their property appraisal come in with questions.

Recent Reports

• A Classification Compliance Review Report on the State's Procedures and Information Positions
• 20% Wind Energy by 2030, U.S. Department of Energy
• Building Texas: The 2008 Tax and Budget Primer, Center for Public Policy Priorites
• 'Eye on Government'
• SPI's May 2008 Municipal Bond Elections Report
• SPI's Defense Appropriations Bill Earmarks Report
• SPI's November 2007 Bond Election Results Report

Event Links

• First Annual itSMF Texas Expo
• Second Annual Global Border Security Conference and Expo
• 8th Annual DIR Information Security Forum
• Texas Citizen Corps Conference
• Texas State University Small Business Development Center training schedule
• TWC Texas Business Conferences
• LBJ School Professional Development Calendar
• Upcoming Executive Women in Texas Government events

Texas Government Insider Archives

Volume 1 - 6 Archives · 11/7/03 - 5/9/08

Umholtz named finalist for Overton superintendent

Whitney ISD Curriculum Director and Deputy Superintendent Alan Umholtz has been named the sole finalist for the superintendent's job in the Overton ISD. By law, the district must wait 21 days to hire him. Umholtz will replace former Superintendent Mark Stretcher who resigned. Overton Elementary School Principal Jennifer Driver, who also applied for the superintendent's job, has been named interim superintendent until Umholtz is officially hired and begins work.

Umholtz holds a bachelor's degree from Texas Christian University and his master's and superintendent's certification from Texas Woman's University.

Governor's appointments

Gov. Rick Perry has made the following appointments:

• Alfred Vidaurri Jr. of Aledo, presiding officer, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners
• Chuck Anastos of Corpus Christi, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners
• Brandon Pinson of Midland, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners
• Jerry Lowry of New Caney, Texas Commission on Jail Standards
• Larry May of Sweetwater, Texas Commission on Jail Standards
• Charles E. "Trey" Lewis III, University of Houston, student appointment to Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
• Haley Lain of Wichita Falls, student regent, Midwestern State University
• Lacey Claver of Joshua, student regent, Stephen F. Austin State University
• Anthony Cullins of Commerce, student regent, Texas A&M University System
• Kristopher Krishna of Houston, student regent, Texas Southern University
• Nicole Lozano of Austin, student regent, Texas State University System
• Kelli Stumbo of Lubbock, student regent, Texas Tech University System
• Scarlett Pope of Grapevine, student regent, Texas Woman's University
• Tamara Goodwin of Houston, student regent, the University of Houston
• Benjamin Dower of Austin, student regent, The University of Texas System
• Marty Garza of San Antonio, Industrialized Building Code Council
• Joe Campos of Dallas, Industrialized Building Code Council
• Fred Wilson Jr. of Lubbock, Industrialized Building Code Council
• Ravi Shah of The Colony, Industrialized Building Code Council
• Michael Mount of McKinney, Industrialized Building Code Council
• Mark Delaney of Tomball, Industrialized Building Code Council
• Rolando Rubiano of Harlingen, Industrialized Building Code Council
• Larry Wilkinson of Friendswood, Industrialized Building Code Council
• Robert L. Bowling IV of El Paso, Industrialized Building Code Council
• Darrell Brownlow of Floresville, Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District
• Stuart Babenco of El Paso, OneStar National Service Commission
• Nancy Bowlin of Midland, OneStar National Service Commission
• Taylor Ellison of Austin, OneStar National Service Commission
• Michael Kling of Leander, OneStar National Service Commission

Capital Metro considers 'zoned' prices for rail

Capital Metro officials are considering "zoned" fares for the commuter rail system that will go online this fall in Austin. A tiered fare schedule would mean that the fare is tied to the distance a passenger travels. Board Chairman Lee Walker (pictured) said "psychological equity" was a major reason to have zoned prices, even though other major light rail systems in Texas don't price services that way. Capital Metro's 32-mile commuter rail line from Leander to Austin will have open platforms and no conductors on its trains.

Some systems, such as many in the Northeast, have "closed" platforms, where a passenger runs a money card through an electronic reader at a turnstile at the beginning and the end of their journey. On Capital Metro's commuter line, customers will simply walk up to the platform, put money in a machine and get a ticket, then board the train. Capital Metro security officers will be on board some trains to check people for tickets. Those caught with no ticket, or potentially the wrong ticket in a zoned system, would be escorted off at the next station to buy a ticket.

Abilene using energy cost savings to finance upgrades

The City of Abilene has approved $9 million in lighting, air conditioning and other improvements to city buildings, enough to save $12.3 million in energy costs over the next 15 years. The improvements will be made over the next 18 months and paid off over 15 years using the resulting cost savings.

David Wright, the city's director of finance, said the city plans on borrowing $8.7 million to help fund the project. Work will be performed at numerous city buildings, including the Abilene Civic Center, the main library, senior citizen and recreation centers, the law enforcement center and fire stations, among other places. Streetlights and traffic signals will also be made more cost-efficient with changes in the way they are lit.

Odessa City Council OKs $1.25 million for projects

The Odessa City Council has approved moving $1.25 million from the city's general fund for several one-time projects, including $200,000 for a comprehensive plan study and $100,000 to look into a future civic center.

District 5 Councilman Michael Sanchez (pictured) objected to spending $400,000 to cover a citywide phone system upgrade. The proposed upgrade would switch the city's analog lines to a digital Voice Over IP System, where all incoming and outgoing calls can be recorded. He said it would not be fair for city employees to be able to record citizens without their knowledge.

Sanchez also opposed appropriating $200,000 for a citywide comprehensive plan study, a project that would look at population growth patterns, transport, possible annexations and a parks master plan. City Manager Richard Morton said Odessa's comprehensive plan has not gone through a complete update in 20 years.

Jobs at SPI

SPI seeking to employ
experienced researchers

SPI is seeking experienced researchers for short-term engagements involving research in Texas and other states. The candidate should have experience in state or federal government and have an understanding of procurement processes and concepts. Tasks will vary depending on clients' needs. Applicants may send a cover letter and resume to jobs@spartnerships.com.

College Station project list could lead to bond election

More than two dozen capital needs projects recommended by an advisory board could lead to a November bond election for the city of College Station. The advisory board, led by Brian Bochner (pictured), has been working on the priority list since late last year, ranking more than $100 million in capital projects into a five-year bond package with a value of $60 million. An alternative was a seven-year plan with a price tag of $84 million.

The committee was able to include 20 projects in its five-year plan and 27 in its seven-year plan. Bochner said the board's proposals are diverse and meet the needs of the entire community - including streets, parks, fire department and public buildings. The list was prioritized by the projects that were of the greatest value to the city. The project list will not be released until it is presented to the city council and the planning commission in early June. The council could vote on the issue as early as June 12.

Sweetwater ISD's superintendent resigns

Superintendent Dr. Ronny Beard has resigned his position with the Sweetwater Independent School District, effective June 30. Beard is currently the lone finalist for the Cleburne ISD superintendent post.

Board members approved a motion to open the position up to members of the district first for a period of 10 days. The board will review internal candidates during its May 20 meeting.

TGI ad space available

If you're not advertising in TGI, you're missing out on an opportunity for some very targeted messaging. TGI reaches more than 31,000 readers each week. Interested in details, call Patti Maugham at 512-531-3900 or click here.

Coryell County officials reviewing options for jail

Officials in Coryell County are studying their options before committing to plan to build a new multi-million dollar jail in Gatesville. The county's Jail Options Review Committee is considering shorter sentences, lighter punishment for misdemeanors, electronic monitoring and bail bonds to fight jail crowding. Law enforcement officials, judges and district attorneys have curtailed sending misdemeanor offenders to jail and have tried to keep the most violent felons locked up. However, on an average day, Coryell County has to send 25 to 30 inmates to other facilities across the state.

The county is considering building a $16.3 million facility or renovating the current site at a cost of only 5 percent less and formed the Jail Options Review Committee to look at all the options.

Crandall selects Kaplan sole finalist for city manager

The Crandall City Council recently approved Heath Kaplan as the lone finalist for city manager. Kaplan currently is deputy city manager and financial officer in Wayland, Mich.

City officials are negotiating contract terms, but expect that Kaplan will begin his duties by June 2. The city manager's position has been vacant since January.

Austin Energy installing 'smart' electric meters

Austin Energy is getting smarter - installing "smart" meters that automatically tell the electric provider when there is a power failure. Officials note the new meters will increase response time of Austin Energy staff to power outages throughout the city. The city also will be able to monitor electricity usage.

The meters can allow Austin Energy to connect or disconnect service remotely, instead of having crews drive to users' homes. Some 290,000 of the meters will be installed, at a cost of $17 million. Users will not be charged for the update, as Austin Energy officials note they will save the electric company money in the long run through increased efficiency. Officials hope to have all of the meters installed by March 2009.

Trent ISD to provide laptop computers to all students

Officials of Trent Independent School District recently announced that beginning in fall 2008 all students will be provided laptop computers for study and homework. Students in kindergarten through grade 1 will leave the computers in the classroom while students in grades 3-12 will be able to take the laptops home to help with classroom activities. Superintendent Greg Priddy said studies indicate that test scores have improved in schools where students have access to computers, especially laptops.

The district is equipped with wireless connectivity between the computers and the Internet, allowing teachers to hand out assignment, homework, review sheets and tests easier and without making extra copies or new copies if changes are made. Parents must sign an agreement to properly use and maintain the 200 laptops the district is receiving.

Kerr County gets $500,000 grant for sewage system

Kerr County recently was awarded a $500,000 grant to be used for a public sewage system project in Center Point. The Office of Rural Community Affairs awarded the federal grant funds from the Texas Community Development Block Grant program. William "Bill" Williams (pictured), Precinct 2 Commissioner, said the $12.5 million project will provide first-time public sewage service to 40 households east of Kerrville and will benefit about 89 people, 90 percent of whom are low- to moderate-income. The $500,000 from the grant will be used in Phase 4 of the project.

The sewer system, which will be paid for through state and federal money, will replace old septic systems on all residential and commercial properties in Center Point. Many of the septic systems were out of compliance and contaminating nearby water sources, Williams said.

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First annual itSMF Texas Expo set May 20

The First Annual itSMF Texas Expo is slated for Tuesday, May 20, from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Austin Convention Center. Keynote speaker will be David Cannon, HP, president, itSMF USA, and co-author of the ITIL V3 book Service Operations. There will be five sessions during the day: Catalog Implementation; Sustainable ISO 20000 Certification, To ITIL or Not to ITIL: A Tale of Two Cases; Designing a Process - Pebble in the Pond Approach; and CIO's Case Study: Applying Service Economics to our IT Service Management Strategy. The expo offers the opportunity for regional practitioners and vendors of ITSM to create networking opportunities, hear industry speakers, discuss best practices and collaborate with industry colleagues. To register, or for more information, click here.

Global Border Security Conference, Expo slated

The Second Annual Global Border Security Conference and Expo, this year featuring technology awards, a job fair and "Street Survival Seminar," a free six-hour training course for law enforcement, will be held Wednesday and Thursday, May 21 and 22, at the Austin Convention Center. Among the conference agenda topics are how to get federal, state and local grants and procurement opportunities with the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security. Speakers will address topics that include border fence versus virtual fence, drug trafficking and violence on the border and cross-border medical threats. There will also be a number of workshops regarding security issues. An awards luncheon will be held on the 21st to honor excellence in border initiatives. For more information, click here. To register, click here, and to view the agenda, click here.

TSABAA planning annual summer conference

The State Agency Business Administrators' Association (TSABAA) will hold its 39th Annual Summer Conference June 30-July 2 at the Sheraton Arlington Hotel. TSABAA provides an arena for issues affecting the business operations of Texas state government. This year's event features a State Board of Public Accountancy-approved ethics class from 8-11:30 a.m. on opening day. Certifications will be issued. The group also will host the 1st Annual TSABAA Golf Tournament on Sunday, June 29, at the Tierra Verde Golf Course in Arlington. The tourney will be a four-person scramble and shotgun start. Among the topics of discussion for the event are: The Expectation of Accountability for Business Administrators, Legislative Perspective featuring Ross Ramsey and Harvey Kronberg, Finance Transformation, Open Government, Performance Benchmarking, Appropriation Control, What's New with the Texas ERP Project, How to Reengineer (Improve) Processes and a legislative review. Twelve hours of continuing education credit can be earned at this event. For more information, to view the tentative agenda and to register, click here.

8th Annual DIR Information Security Forum June 2

The 8th Annual DIR Information Security Forum will be Tuesday, June 3, from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The Commons Center, Big Tex/Large Auditorium, 10100 Burnet Road in Austin. The 2008 focus will be on Protecting Data in a Mobile Environment. Among the topics are "Encryption for Business," "Security in a Virtualized Mobile Environment," "DIR Security Update," "Managing a Security Breach" and more. The event is free, but pre-registration is required. For more information, click here. To register, click here.

Texas Citizen Corps Conference slated June 3-4

The fourth annual Texas Citizen Corps Conference, sponsored by the Texas Association of Regional Councils, will be June 3-4 in San Antonio at the Sheraton Gunter Hotel. The conference is open to anyone interested in the Citizen Corps program, including regional councils of governments, local, state, and federal agencies, volunteers, emergency management professionals, first responder and other interested parties. Local elected officials and management level decision-makers will also be in attendance. Sessions will include training, strategic policy discussions, briefings from leaders in the Citizen Corps programs from across the nation, networking and best practices events and an exhibit hall. To register, or for more information, click here.