Texas Government Insider
Volume 9, Issue 23 - June 10, 2011

House tentatively approves $4 billion cut in aid to public schools

 

Plan allows use of more Rainy Day Fund money if balance exceeds projections

Donna HowardTexas school districts and their classroom teachers may have one last hope for the return of at least part of the $4 billion in public education cuts currently being considered by the Texas Legislature.


The Texas House gave tentative approval early this morning to SB 1, which slashes aid to Texas public schools by $4 billion. However, SB 2 includes an amendment by Rep. Donna Howard of Austin (pictured) that allows the state to use up to $2.2 billion from the state's

Classroom
Cassrooms like this one could fill up fast if the 22-1 student/teacher ratio cap is lifted.

Rainy Day Fund - if, and only if, the fund should grow larger than its projected $6.5 billion balance. Howard called the amendment a "compromise" that addresses some members' desire to preserve some of the Rainy Day Fund for the next legislative session and others' desire to further fund public education. And, because it is based on new revenue that might come in, Howard says allocating from those funds is "fiscally responsible."


"Hopefully, that will turn out to be worthwhile," said Clay Robison, spokesperson for the Texas State Teachers Association. "It's certainly better than nothing."


Robison said there were "no surprises" in the bill tentatively passed by the House."The damage had already been done" in the budget bill, he said. "This was just the way of distributing the pain."


The question now becomes "how much (of the House bill) will stay in during conference committee," said Robison. Once the bill makes it out of the House, it will head to a joint hearing of appointed members of both chambers, where differences will be hammered out. And the House bill also puts an expiration date on the public school funding system in two years, forcing development of a new funding system.

 

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Sales tax revenues in Texas climb for 14th consecutive month

 

Tax MoneyCities, counties, special districts to share $468.7 million allocations

Sales tax revenues in Texas increased for the 14th consecutive month in May, with revenue of $1.95 billion reported, up 9.9 percent over the May 2010 figure. "The check's in the mail" today to cities, counties, transit systems and special purpose taxing districts that will share $468.7 million in local sales tax allocations, up 7.2 percent compared to last June.


The State Comptroller's Office notes spending in sectors such as the oil and gas industry and manufacturing helped the tax figures to rise, as did retail spending. Texas cities will share $311.8 million, counties will share $30.3 million and the 179 special purpose taxing districts around the state will share $105.3 million. June's sales tax allocations represent sales that occurred in April. 

 

To view the tax allocations by city, click here. To view them by county, click here. The Comptroller's July sales tax allocation will be made on Monday, July 11.

 

Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' Lone Stars

 

Kenneth WilliamsKenneth Williams, city manager, City of Buda 

 

Career highlights and education: Williams holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration from Stephen F. Austin State University and an Associate of Science degree in business from Angelina College. He previously held positions with the City of Diboll as City Manager (2006-2008) and the City of Lufkin as Director of Public Works (1997-2004), before becoming their Assistant City Manager of Administrative Services (2004-2006) and also serving as the City's Emergency Management Coordinator. During his tenure as the Emergency Management Coordinator, he was responsible for coordinating the city's response to the Space Shuttle Columbia Tragedy and Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Some of the major projects that have come to fruition during his tenure as Buda City Manager include the relocation of the U.S. Foodservice new 290,000-square-foot, $50 million food distribution facility that current includes a workforce of about 250 that will grow to more than 400 over the next decade and the Comprehensive Plan which evaluates where Buda is today and looks at components of the city such as downtown, parks, city infrastructure and quality of life. The plan will help develop a citizen-created vision for how the city grows over the next 10 to 20 years. Also, inception of the Buda Police Department in 2010. The high growth rate of Buda, increasing contract costs and the ability to manage its own law enforcement agency were factors in the city deciding to develop its own department. And finally, the reconstruction of the Main Street overpass and intersection on IH-35. The overpass will be raised approximately eight feet in height, the low area under the overpass will be raised to ground level and the entrance and exit ramps will be reconstructed. There will also be new traffic lights installed on Main Street at Old San Antonio Road and both sides of IH-35..

What I like best about my job is: Having a sense of accomplishment. Seeing projects developed and completed in the community and me saying that I had a hand in getting that done. Other than that, just being able to help the people when they need assistance.

The best advice I've received for my current job is: Meet the needs of the citizens of Buda.

Advice you would give a new hire in your office: Listen to citizens, carry out the policy of the City Council, and do what's best for the city.

If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: at the golf course.

People would be surprised to know that I: am an avid NASCAR fan and also refereed College Basketball for 17 years.

Book, magazine or newspaper article I've read recently that really influenced my thinking: How to Play the Game at the Top: The 9 Rules for Consummate Corporate Effectiveness.
 

 

LCRA's General Manager Tom Mason will step down in July

Tom MasonLower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) General Manager Tom Mason (pictured) recently announced that he will step down after nearly four years in the position.


Mason is an environmental attorney who started with LCRA in 1987 and was promoted to general counsel in 1999. After rising to general manager in 2007, Mason worked for greater organizational transparency and stronger relationships with customers.
 

Mason's last day is July 1. The board will discuss his replacement at the June 15 LCRA Board meeting.

 

DPS employee fired following criminal investigation

Leaders with the Texas Department of Public Safety recently fired the former administrator in charge of homeland security grant money.

 

Janice Bruno, who had been under investigation for five months, was suspended as leader of the State Administrative Agency (SAA) on Dec. 9.
 

The investigation, which was conducted by the Texas Rangers and State Auditor's Office, reportedly found evidence of criminal misconduct regarding a contract between the SAA and the North Central Texas Council of Governments.

 

Texas Youth Commission will close three of its facilities

Scott FisherLeaders at the Texas Youth Commission recently announced that a budget reduction of nearly $117 million and reduced youth population have led to the decision to close three of its 10 state institutions by Aug. 31.

 

Cherie TownsendThe closure of the Beaumont, Crockett and Brownwood facilities - plus the consolidation of operations at two McLennan County units into one - is expected to affect the placement of about 400 youth and 700 staff.
 

"We will work to ensure these transitions are as seamless as possible," said TYC Board Chairman Scott Fisher (right).

 

Youth transfers are expected to be complete by the end of July. No youth will be released to parole early because of facility closures, according to a memo from TYC Executive Director Cherie Townsend (left). Staff at the affected facilities will have the opportunity to transfer to facilities with job openings.

 

Results-oriented Procurements

Texas Highway Patrol-issued tickets now available online

Tickets"The dog ate my ticket" won't cut it as an excuse to ignore traffic citations anymore.
 

Information from tickets issued by the Texas Highway Patrol can now be accessed online (https://www.txdps.state.tx.us/HighwayPatrol/Citations/) at any time with records available up to 24 months prior to the current date.
 

To perform searches, drivers must present their driver's license or identification card number along with their date of birth and full name. Once the search is complete, drivers can access address and contact information about the court where the ticket was filed.

 

TxDMV launches registration-reminder Internet feature

C. JohnsonThe Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) has launched eReminder and Title Check, two new online strategies designed to help Texans remember to update their vehicle registration and protect against title fraud. Both services can be accessed at the TxDMV (TxDMV.gov) Web site. 


Drivers who sign up for eReminder will receive an email at three weeks and one week before their vehicle registration is due. Title Check will allow Internet users to research whether a used vehicle has a clean title.


TxDMV Board Vice Chair Cheryl Johnson (pictured) said eReminder is perfect for those who have moved and missed their hardcopy reminder notice. The eReminder email also includes a link allowing Internet users a chance to update their mailing address.

 

TxDOT to take bids soon for engineering on rail work

The Texas Department of Transportation plans to seek engineering bids soon for the possible construction of high-speed rail lines across the state.


The corridor from Oklahoma City to South Texas is expected to cost about $10 million for analysis and planning.  And a line from Dallas-Fort Worth to Houston, which captured a $15 million federal award, is expected to go out to bid before the end of the year.
 

The projects, which are still in the planning stages, do not yet have construction costs ironed out, but are known to have price tags in the billions.

 

Watkins retiring as city secretary in Dallas

Deborah WatkinsDeborah Watkins (pictured) recently announced she plans to retire as city secretary in Dallas, effective July 6. Watkins has worked for the city since 1974, began her duties as assistant city secretary in 1999 and as city secretary in 2006.

 

She currently manages 15 employees who maintain city records, oversee city elections and register lobbyists.

 

Watkins said she plans to pursue a Ph.D. at Texas A&M University-Commerce following her retirement.

 

SPI Training Services

Card may serve as acting dean of Bush School at Texas A&M  

Andrew CardAndrew Card (pictured), former chief of staff to President George W. Bush, is being considered for acting dean of the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University.


Texas A&M officials are expected to name an acting dean to replace Dean Ryan Crocker, who became dean of the Bush School in early 2010. Crocker is awaiting confirmation by the U.S. Senate to serve as the U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan. Because President George H.W. Bush has said he would like Crocker to return to A&M once his diplomatic service is over, A&M officials will appoint an acting dean, who will be a placeholder, rather than an interim dean, who would serve until a new dean is named. The Bush school has more than 220 students seeking master's degrees and 40 faculty members.


Card also was special assistant for intergovernmental affairs under President Ronald Reagan and secretary of transportation for the elder Bush.

 

Bexar County begins work on $5.2 million south side satellite office

Nelson WolffBexar County officials recently began partial demolition of a former retail store on Pleasanton Road in preparation for $3.3 million in renovations for a satellite office on the south side of the county. The total cost for the county's first satellite office also includes environmental testing, title fees, permits, inspections and design fees.


County officials, who paid $1.1 million for the property for the satellite center, plan to move offices for employees of the county tax assessor-collector, the precinct 1 commissioner, the constable and justice of peace who previously operated from scattered locations, said County Judge Nelson Wolff (pictured).
 

With plenty of free parking, the new satellite office will provide residents a place to do county business while avoiding a long drive downtown and parking fees of up to $15, Wolff said. The new satellite facility also will have a large room that can be used for public meetings or health fairs. The new facility should be completed in spring 2012.

 

DCCCD board approves presidents for Brookhaven, Eastfield

Thom ChesneyJean ConwayBrookhaven College in Farmer's Branch and Eastfield College in Mesquite will boast new leaders starting this summer. Thom Chesney (left) will serve as president of Brookhaven College, effective Aug. 15, and Jean Conway (right) began serving as interim president of Eastfield College earlier this week. The Dallas County Community College District (DCCCD) Board of Trustees approved the appointments this week as recommended by DCCCD Chancellor Dr. Wright Lassiter Jr. 
 

Chesney, the associate provost for student success and associate professor of arts and humanities at The University of Texas at Dallas, previously served as district vice president for academic affairs and provost and district dean of communications and humanities at Collin County Community College District (CCCCD).  He has also served as assistant dean of integrated studies for the Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, Pa., and as faculty at Texas Wesleyan University, where he was director of freshman advising/freshman seminar.
 

Chesney holds a doctorate from Florida State University, a master's degree from Mankato State University in Minnesota and a bachelor's degree from Washington University in St. Louis.
 

Conway previously served as an instructor at Brookhaven College in addition to charges as vice president of teaching and learning and executive dean of world languages, cultures and communications at Richland College. She has 17 years of experience in college administration.
 

Conway holds a doctorate from Texas A&M University-Commerce, and master's and bachelor's degrees from the University of North Texas.

 

Blinn College kicks off search for new president

Douglas BorchardtBlinn College officials recently kicked off the search for a new president to replace Daniel Holt, who resigned on March 10.


A search committee and a search firm developed a profile and list of traits desired for a new president using information submitted by more than 118 students, faculty and community members, said Douglas Borchardt (pictured), a member of the search committee and a trustee for the community college that operates on four campuses.


The deadline for applications is July 29 and trustees plan to have a new president on board by September, Borchardt said.

 

Texas Southmost College tags Lewis as interim financial chief

Chet LewisTexas Southmost College (TSC) officials recently selected Chet Lewis (pictured) as the interim vice president of administration and finance for the college.

 

TSC is in the process of becoming an autonomous junior college after ending a partnership with The University of Texas at Brownsville (UTB). Lewis currently serves as associate vice president for business affairs for financial services at UTB-TSC.


TSC officials also named Kim Sanchez, the district operations and services manager for TSC, as the new director of operations and assistant to the board of trustees.

 

Wishon new VP for research administration at UT Southwestern

Angela WishonAngela Wishon, J.D. (pictured), has been appointed vice president for research administration at UT Southwestern Medical Center. Wishon will be charged with overseeing functions that support investigators and research personnel, including regulatory compliance.


In her role, Ms. Wishon oversees functions that support investigators and research personnel, including regulatory compliance. She previously served as assistant vice chancellor for Regulatory Compliance at the University of Colorado Denver and directed the Regulatory Knowledge and Support Core for the Colorado Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute. She is also the former director of research facilitation and compliance and is also former director of the research compliance office at the UT Medical Branch at Galveston.

 

Wishon earned her undergraduate degree from Washington University in St. Louis and her law degree from Saint Louis School of Law.

 

Bexar County, San Antonio in talks for parking garage property

Officials of Bexar County, San Antonio and the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts recently began talks with a church located near Tobin Center to acquire property to build a parking garage to help boost attendance at the new $195 million performing arts center.

 

County officials have discussed with church officials for about two years the possibility of using the parking lot of the church to build a parking garage. The church would retain the right to use the parking garage on Sunday mornings, the county judge said. County officials also discussed building a mixed-use development or building apartments attached to the parking garage that supporters hope will help boost attendance for events at Tobin Center as well as raise revenue.

 

Need Federal Contracting?

Texas A&M extending San Antonio campus to Brooks

Texas A&M University-San Antonio recently agreed to a five-year lease for 77,648 square feet of space at Brooks City-Base.


The project is expected to cost more than $3.5 million, with the Brooks Development Authority spending $300,000 for improvements.
 

The Brooks campus, located in the city's historically under-served South Side, will include 22 classrooms, two auditoriums, 42 private offices, four laboratories and a gym.

 

Austin Community College authorizes purchase of mall land

Stephen KinslowThe board of trustees of the Austin Community College District recently moved forward in efforts to buy the remaining track of land at Highland Mall for about $15.9 million. Trustees Monday authorized the acquisition of the last parcel of land at the mall.
 

ACC officials have agreed to buy about 17.3 acres of land, a two-story building with more than 225,000 square feet of space and a small retail site in the purchase expected to be finalized in August, said Dr. Stephen B. Kinslow (pictured), president and chief executive officer of ACC. Once the deal is finalized, ACC will own 100 percent of the land at the retail mall and 642,000 square feet of space in three of the four anchor buildings located on the property.
 

Renovations are expected to begin in the next three years on interiors of the three major former retail buildings at the former mall site. It provides access to major highways, public transportation and plenty of parking for students, faculty and staff, Kinslow said. Plans call for consolidating administrative space for the college district, providing additional instructional space for students, creating a continuing education center, a convocation center, a conference center and a wellness and professional development center at the Highland Mall site of ACC, he added.

 

Lakeway to spend $12.4 million for facilities, parks, roads

Lakeway city officials recently began seeking public input on a proposed list of 18 projects to improve facilities, parks and roads carrying a price tag of about $12.4 million.

 

Among the projects on the capital improvement plan are a proposed new $6.78 million police building, a new $1.63 million parks and recreation building, a $512,160 animal holding shelter, expanding the parking lot and expand restrooms at Hamilton Greenbelt at a cost of $94,512, building a walking trail on Lakeway Blvd. for $543,000 and a $841,982 overlay of Lohmans Crossing Road.
 

Other proposed projects are $363,275 to expand municipal court facilities, $374,913 for culverts on Rolling Green, $88,435 for a bridge at Highland Trails and $92,330 for a new bathhouse at City Park.

 

di Paolo named CIO of University of North Texas System

Michael di PaoloOfficials with the University of North Texas System recently named information technology veteran Michael di Paolo (pictured) the associate vice chancellor and chief information officer.
 

In his new role, di Paolo will oversee information technology services for the entire University of North Texas System. Under his governance, the UNT System is expected to reduce costs through better efficiency and to grow without having to increase staff.
 

di Paolo, who holds bachelor's and master's degrees from Florida State University, will also serve as a member of the chancellor's cabinet, and provide direction to the chief information officers on each System campus.

 

Developers again talking about new apartment project near TCU

A student housing developer plans to build a $6.2 million multi-use building - with shops and restaurants on the street level and 56 apartments above - near Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

 

This is the second time the site, on University Drive south of Berry Street, has been eyed by developers. The 2009 project was never started by the Dallas-based company, which is now selling the land to another Dallas developer. The deal has not been closed.
 

The new project, called The Vue on University, calls for building a five-story, 117,000-square-foot building.

 

Two assistant superintendents to retire from Irving ISD

Among a long list of administrative employees and faculty who will retire from Irving Independent School District are Assistant Superintendent Neil Dugger and Assistant Superintendent Marie Morris.

 

Tony Thatford, director of public information for the school district, also will retire at the end of this school year, district officials said.

 

Central Health pays $8 million for Austin VA outpatient clinic

Patricia Young BrownCentral Health recently paid $8 million for the VA Austin Outpatient Clinic operated by the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System. The Veterans Administration is building a new facility at US193 and Metropolis that should be completed in April 2013 to replace the clinic.


The 67,577-square-foot facility on 6.83 acres of land surrounded by another 3.5 acres of land will allow Central Health to provide southeastern Travis County residents with needed primary health care and multi-specialties, said Patricia Young Brown (pictured), president and chief executive officer of Central Health.
 

Central Health officials plan to issue $10 million in certificates of obligation to pay for the $8 million purchase and $2 million in renovations needed at the facility. The Veterans Administration will continue to operate the outpatient clinic at the current location until the new clinic is ready to occupy. Central Health officials will begin renovations once VA clinic operations have moved out, Brown said.

 

Texas A&M transfers land to expand Brayton Fire Training Field

The president of Texas A&M University recently approved the transfer of 159 acres of property to expand from 120 acres to 279 acres the Brayton Fire Training Field operated by the Texas Engineering Extension Services Training Institute.

 

The land transfer will allow the training field to expand training opportunities and prevent the fire training facility from being landlocked, said Robert Moore, interim director of the training institute. Before drafting a 10-year plan on how to use the new property, training institute officials must install a fence expected to cost from $400,000 to $500,000 around the new property, Moore said. Among the ideas discussed for expanding course offerings at the institute are a wilderness rescue training facility and a swift water rescue training facility, he said.

 

UH selects McPherson as dean of College of Education

Bob McPhersonUniversity of Houston Provost John Antel recently appointed Dr. Robert McPherson (pictured) as the new dean of the College of Education. McPherson will replace Robert Wimpelberg, who is stepping down to lead a new "cradle-to-career" effort as a faculty member at UH.


McPherson previously served as the executive associate dean where he managed academic affairs, business operations and administrative support services. He also chaired the department of educational psychology.

 

Walker County seeking $1 million grant for emergency center

Walker County officials recently applied for a $1 million federal grant to help pay for a new emergency management center in Huntsville. The grant will require a 25 percent match in funding or in-kind services from the county, said Butch Davis, the emergency management coordinator.


Davis recommends the new center be built near the sheriff's office and be designed to withstand storms. He also recommended that the communications center and county dispatch operations move into the proposed emergency management center if it is built. Federal officials are expected to make a decision on the grant by Sept. 30, Davis said.

 

ACC finalizes contract with Rhodes as new president/CEO

Richard RhodesLeaders at Austin Community College recently named Richard M. Rhodes (pictured) the new president and CEO, effective Sept. 1. Rhodes succeeds Stephen B. Kinslow, who is retiring after 34 years at ACC.
 

Rhodes, who currently serves as president of El Paso Community College, signed a three-year contract to lead ACC.  Before taking over as president at EPCC in 2001, Rhodes also worked at Salt Lake Community College and New Mexico State University.
 

Rhodes holds a Ph.D. from The University of Texas at Austin and interned at ACC in the early 1990s.

 

Smith County approves revised Capital Improvement Plan

Joel BakerSmith County commissioners recently approved a revised Capital Improvement Plan that includes $125,000 to relocate three county offices and $100,000 for geological surveys needed to complete schematics for a $35 million jail expansion project planned to begin in late summer.


County officials removed $168,000 previously set aside to renovate space for the Precinct 1 offices in the original capital improvement plan, and instead agreed to spend $125,000 to make minor modifications to three spaces, said County Judge Joel Baker (pictured). The revised plan frees up funding to move the probation department, Baker added.
 

The revised capital improvement plan also includes technology upgrades slated for 2013 and renovating the sixth floor of the courthouse to increase office space in 2013. The plan includes $4 million to replace integrated justice system software and $50,000 for parking lot upgrades. County officials expect bids for the first phase of the jail project to be submitted by June 15. The first phase includes moving the laundry, kitchen and visitation areas to Low/Medium Risk from the central jail downtown. The jail project should be completed by April 2013, county officials said.

 

Temple may seek $500,000 grant to help low-income residents

Temple city officials recently began considering a recommendation to pursue an almost $500,000 federal grant to help improve areas that serve low-income residents.


The Community Block Development Grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development can be used to build and repair sidewalks, resurface a wooden floor at a gymnasium, demolish blighted buildings and provide financial assistance to human service agencies throughout the Temple area, noted Traci Barnard, director of finance for the city.


Council members are expected to vote in July on a plan outlining how the city plans to spend the grant funds that is required to meet the Aug. 15 deadline for submitting the grant application, Barnard said.

 

Round Rock ISD considering move to close tax office 

Jesús ChávezRound Rock school leaders are considering closing the district's tax collection office and letting Williamson and Travis counties take over those duties. 


If the school district tax office shuts down, other entities that use the office - the City of Round Rock, the Behren's Ranch area and North Austin Municipal Utility District No. 1 - would have to use the counties to collect their taxes.


Debate about advantages and disadvantages continues: Some say the district would save money in annual operation costs, while others say the district would lose money because the county has a lower collection rate.
 
"We are very aggressive with our tax collections," said Superintendent Jesús Chávez (pictured). "A quarter point or half a percentage point is a big difference to our budget."

 

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League City eyeing $30 million bond election in November

Tim PaulissenLeague City officials recently proposed calling a $30 million bond election in November to be used for a new public safety center. Mayor Tim Paulissen (pictured) said he supports a tax referendum, but advised city officials to be prepared if voters reject the bond proposal.

 

Plans call for constructing a 70,000-square-foot building to house the police department, jail, municipal court and possibly an emergency operations center capable of withstanding a Category 5 hurricane. City officials previously discussed renovating the current police station to accommodate the building department, planning, engineering and employees of the fire marshal's office, which are now located in space the city leases for about $1.2 million a year. 
 

League City officials also have met with Galveston County officials to discuss a potential partnership on the public safety center, with the county managing jail operations.

 

Fort Worth approves new management structure for fire, police

Jeff HalsteadRudy JacksonFort Worth City Council members recently approved ordinances to reorganize the management structure by adding a new layer of managers in both the police department and fire department.


The police department plans to add the rank of major while eliminating two deputy chief positions, said Police Chief Jeff Halstead (right). This move should provide more strong supervisors in key positions to produce more accountability, Halstead said. Two deputy chiefs will be reassigned.


The fire department plans to create three new shift commander positions, Fire Chief Rudy Jackson (left) said. A shift commander with six battalion chiefs will lead each shift. This reorganization also will reduce demands on the deputy chief of operations who had been placed in a reactive position, Jackson said.

 

New toll rate increase announced by NTTA for July 1

Victor VandergriffThe North Texas Tollway Authority will increase toll rates by less than one cent per mile, effective July 1.

 

The rate increase of 0.8 cent per mile will help to relieve congestion and maintain quality roadways, said NTTA Chairman Victor Vandergriff (pictured).

 

The scheduled increase raises rates from 14.5 cents per mile to 15.3 cents per mile

 

Did you miss S&L Pipeline?

Tyler ISD studying four options for high schools

Randy ReidAn education consultant recently outlined four options for different high schools for Tyler Independent School District trustees. Each of the options included plans for a stand-alone career and technology campus along with the district's current two high schools that board members will study. In the fall, they will decide on two or three options for further study, said Superintendent Randy Reid (pictured).

 

The first option creates a career and technology campus that would serve as a "come-and-go" facility that offers certain classes to students who would receive their core curriculum courses and extracurricular activities at one of the two high schools. The second idea is to create a career and technology campus where students would attend all of their classes at that stand-alone campus.
 

The consultant also suggested board members consider creating two high school campuses with about 2,000 9th through 12th grade students and a third campus that would be a come-and-go career and technology campus with students attending specialty programs such as science, technology, engineering, math and other courses throughout the school day. The fourth option called for creating one campus to serve 9th and 10th grades, another campus to service 11th and 12th grades and a career and technology campus.

 

Thrall ISD eyeing alternatives after rejection of $12.8 bond proposal

After voters of Thrall Independent School District rejected a $12.8 million bond proposal in May to build a new high school, district officials recently began a study of alternative methods to deal with an overcrowded high school that fails state standards.

 

The Texas Association of School Administrators urged the district to build a new high school to ease overcrowding and replace undersized temporary classrooms following a facilities assessment with a 58.5 facilities score. Voters rejected the proposal to build a new 61,000-square-foot high school with 19 classrooms, a career and technology shop, library and media center, band hall, gymnasium and multi-use cafeteria to ease overcrowding.
 

Interim Superintendent Ernie Laurence told trustees he had provided an engineering firm with three different cost targets, $750,000, $1.5 million and $3 million, to determine projects district officials should pursue to ease overcrowding using each amount. Board members will make no decisions on the recommendations until Texas legislators approve a final plan to fund public schools. Trustees also plan to discuss the issue at the board meeting on June 15.

 



TSABAA planning 4nd Annual Summer Conference in July

The 42nd Annual Texas State Agency Business Administrators' Association (TSABAA) Summer Conference is slated for July 28 and 29 at the Jake Pickle Event Center in Austin. Among the topics of discussion for the two-day event will be social media, business etiquette, an ERS update and a legislative update. Speaker topics include "Top 10 Business Writing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them," "Life is Like a Google Map: Create Your Road Map to Success" and "Define Yourself! Building a Powerful Personal Brand." The State Auditor's Office will also address IT/Audit/Fraud/Risk/User Security. Attendees will qualify for 12.5 CPEs for attendance. For more information on the conference, registration, exhibit booth and sponsorship, click here. TSABAA will also host its 4th Annual Select Shot Scramble Foursome Golf Tournament on Sunday, July 17, at the Tera Vista Golf Club in Round Rock with an 8 a.m. shotgun start. For more information on the golf tourney, contact Lori Trank at lori.trank@hhsc.state.tx.us.

 

Brazos Valley COG hosts municipal law, procedure workshop

A Texas Municipal Law and Procedure Workshop is planned for Friday, June 17, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Bryan. Sponsored by the Brazos Valley Council of Governments (BVCOG), the event will be held at the BVCOG offices Board Room at 3991 E. 29th Street. The workshop will cover budgets, code enforcement, ethics, open meetings/open records, personnel, elections, economic development, purchasing, zoning and more and is aimed at giving elected city officials a better understanding of state and federal laws affecting day-to-day operations of cities. The course will also be of interest to attorneys and non-attorneys as they seek to navigate administrative rules, statutes, court cases, attorney general opinions and government agency rulings. Anyone interested in learning more about city government - city officials, city managers/administrators, city secretaries, city department employees, cit attorneys and others should attend. Elected officials will earn 6.9 CEU's through the Texas Municipal League for completing this workshop. The workshop will be conducted by Alan J. Bojorquez, of Bojorquez Law Firm, PLLC, author of the Texas Law and Procedures Manual. For more information, contact David Partlow, at opartlow@austin.rr.com.

 

SAePS - doing business with City of San Antonio just got easier

The City of San Antonio is offering training seminars for vendors interested in registering in the San Antonio electronic Procurement System (SAePS). All vendors and suppliers interested in doing business with the City of San Antonio must register in SAePS. This system electronically notifies business of contracting opportunities and allows vendors to submit bids electronically. Training sessions will also take place at the Alamodome (100 Montana St., San Antonio, TX) on June 21 at 9 a.m. and June 15 at 6 p.m. To learn more about SAePS, please click here, call (210) 207-0118, or email vendors@sanantonio.gov.

 

TxDOT San Antonio Small Business Briefing conference

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Business Outreach and Program (BOP) Services reaches across Texas to provide small and minority-owned business communities an opportunity to learn more about contracting opportunities with state entities. The final Small Business Briefing conference for FY2011 is set for July 20 in San Antonio. Information will be available to help small business owners better understand how to do business with the agency and the State of Texas. The sessions not only allow small businesses to be introduced to TxDOT and other state agencies, but also allow them to learn more about the economic development opportunities in their regions.  It also gives agencies a chance to show the myriad of prospects available for small and minority businesses in the state. For more information and to register, click here or call 1.866.480.2519, Option 2. Planning for the 2012 fiscal year events is under way.  Please visit www.txdot.gov for updated information.

 

County, district clerks group planning annual conference June 12-16

The 116th Annual County and District Clerk State Conference will be held June 12-16 at the Hilton Garden Inn Conference Center in Lewisville. A Sunday, June 12, welcome reception with live music and barbecue will be held at the Texas Motor Speedway. The district and county clerks of the year will be presented at the Wednesday, June 13, night Gala, and 2011-12 officers will be installed. On the agenda for the five-day event are technical, professional development, legislative, public relations, social media and other issues. Attorney Richard Hayes will discuss Robert's Rules and Denton County Auditor James Wells will address auditing issues. The keynote speaker for the Tuesday events will be Brent Strehlow, owner of TMI, Inc. Exhibitor space is available. For a registration form, hotel information, exhibitor information, agenda and contact information, click here.

 

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CIOs speak out about technology purchases

 

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

 

Technology is part of the critical infrastructure of government. And, while government cannot function without an abundance of it, technology issues generate significant stress for chief information officers (CIOs). Simply staying current with evolving trends, software updates, expanding networks, security precautions and user training causes a tremendous drain on resources.
  
Tight budgets are also causing CIOs angst because they can no longer purchase all the technology upgrades and services they sorely need. In spite of that, it is obvious that technology spending will not be cut significantly in the months to come.
  
In a recent  survey sanctioned by the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO), one survey question and its responses stood out. CIOs ranked state procurement processes with a grade of "C," saying technology purchasing models need updating and revamping.
  
CIOs suggested that procurement laws, rules, processes and practices be modernized, in line with IT industry standards. They also wanted to see more use of contract vehicles, including more state master contracts. And instead of the usual RFP procedure, many CIOs said it would be better to make public a statement of objectives and then use pilot projects to test vendor successes before signing purchasing contracts.
  
   
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Lone Star Auctioneers

Kilgore official pushes

to begin sewer line upgrade

Kilgore Interim City Manager Tony Williams recently urged city officials to begin work this summer on the proposed Rabbit Creek Sewer Line Improvement Project.

 

Williams cited the need to upgrade one of the major lines connecting to the sewer treatment plant along with current dry weather conditions and many building contractors looking for work with the current economy as the reasons the project should begin this summer. The current dry weather provides the opportunity to properly embed sewer lines that run through low-lying areas that often remain wet and less accessible through much of the year, he said.

 

Hinojosa to leave Dallas ISD

to head Georgia school district

Michael HinojosaThe board of the Cobb County school district recently named Michael Hinojosa (pictured), the current superintendent of Dallas Independent School District, as the new superintendent of the second largest school district in Georgia. Hinojosa was selected as a lone finalist for the new job in May.


Plans call for Hinojosa, who served as superintendent in Dallas for six years, to begin his new duties in Marietta, Georgia, on July 1. He has a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University, a master's degree from the University of North Texas and a Ph.D. from The University of Texas at Austin.

 

LeFleur Transportation

Cantrell appointed as Waller County emergency manager

Brian CantrellWaller County officials recently named Brian Cantrell (pictured) as the new emergency manager.


Cantrell started his career at the Waller County Sheriff's Office in 1999. He started as a reserve deputy while attending Sam Houston State University, where he earned his bachelor's degree.
 

He is currently working on procuring grant funding for local fire departments, constables and the sheriff's department.

 

Burnet County jail to lose

state prisoners by Aug. 31

Officials with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice recently announced that they will not renew a contract for placing prisoners at the Burnet County Jail. The contract ends Aug. 31.


Burnet County and Southwest Corrections officials will begin marketing the three-year-old facility to other jurisdictions.
 

The contract was not renewed due to state budget cuts.

 

Brett Springston resigns as superintendent of Brownsville

Brett SpringstonSuperintendent Brett Springston (pictured) recently resigned from the Brownsville Independent School District, effective June 9. Springston was recently named one of three finalists for superintendent of schools in Huntsville, Alabama.

 

Trustees for Brownsville ISD also appointed Dr. Carl Montoya to serve as interim superintendent to replace Springston. Montoya previously was an area assistant superintendent for the Rivera cluster.

 

Northrop Grumman

Deer Park may scale back

on plans for library renovation

James StokesDeer Park City Council members recently began discussion on whether to revise and possibly postpone plans to expand and renovate the Deer Park Library.


Architects had estimated a maximum cost of $1.75 million for the renovations, but all 10 contractors submitted bids for the library contract at least $230,000 over the estimated cost, City Manager James Stokes (pictured) said. City staff would like to avoid reducing square footage of the planned expansion, Stokes said, but are interested in exploring less expensive methods to renovate the facility. This process may postpone the project for a few months, he said. Voters in 2000 approved bonds to pay for expanding and improving the library.

 

Governor adds more issues

to 'call' of special session

Gov. Rick Perry recently announced the addition of controversial immigration and homeland security issues to the agenda of the special session call.


Agenda items include:

  • Abolishing "sanctuary cities," a common term for areas that do not allow law enforcement officers to ask people they detain about immigration status;
  • Legislation relating to the federal Secure Communities program, an initiative that compares the fingerprints of arrested people to a federal database in an effort to discover if the person can be deported; and
  • Legislation relating to the issuance of driver's licenses and personal identification certificates.

Del Valle ISD appoints Crook

as interim superintendent

Kelly CrookThe Del Valle Independent School District Board of Trustees has approved Dr. Kelly K. Crook (pictured) as interim superintendent. She replaces Bernard J. Blanchard, who is set to retire after 40 years with the district.

 

In addition to her new role, Crook will continue to serve as assistant superintendent of Business and Finance for Del Valle ISD, which serves more than 10,500 students and 13 campuses.

 

The board has not yet set a timeline to launch a search for Crook's permanent replacement.

  

At&T

Dickinson ISD selects Mims as lone finalist for superintendent

Vicki MimsDickinson Independent School District trustees recently selected Assistant Superintendent Vicki Mims (pictured) as the lone finalist to replace Superintendent Leland Williams, who is retiring from that position. Trustees selected Mims, a 32-year employee of the school district, over three other candidates who interviewed for the position. Mims served 10 years as assistant superintendent for education services and previously was a teacher, counselor and principal for Dickinson ISD.

 

Pearland ISD seeking bids for maintenance supplies, services

Trustees for the Pearland Independent School District recently began accepting bids for vendors interested in supplying maintenance and custodial supplies and services throughout the school district.


The contracts, which most likely will be awarded to several companies, are for one year, with provisions for renewal for two years. The deadline for submitting bids is June 30, with the contracts scheduled to begin on Sept. 1.

 

HDI Solutions

Fort Worth trustees name Dansby interim superintendent  

Walter DansbyThe Fort Worth school district recently named deputy superintendent Walter Dansby (pictured) as interim superintendent to replace the outgoing Melody Johnson.


The district needs an interim leader because hiring a permanent replacement may extend beyond Johnson's last day, Sept. 19. 

 

Dansby, who began his career in Fort Worth 37 years ago as a coach and teacher, has not said if he wants the post.

 

 
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Clear Creek ISD looking for bids for workers' comp insurance 

Board members of the Clear Creek Independent School District recently began seeking bids from contractors wishing to provide the school district with supplemental workers' compensation insurance. Trustees will accept sealed bids until June 23 for the supplemental insurance to run through August 2014 with an option for a two-year renewal. District officials plan to award the contract for the supplemental workers' compensation insurance on July 23. 

 

Texarkana ISD names Norton as lone finalist for superintendent

Paul NortonTexarkana Independent School District trustees recently selected Paul Norton (pictured) as the lone finalist for superintendent. Board members also appointed Norton, principal for Texas High in the school district, as interim superintendent.

 

SPI on Twitter

Athens ISD appoints Vaughn

as interim superintendent

Vance VaughnAthens Independent School District board members recently appointed Dr. Vance Vaughn (pictured) as the interim superintendent. He will replace Dr. Fred Hayes, who resigned to be superintendent at Nacogdoches ISD.


Vaughn, who previously served as interim superintendent for Athens ISD in 2006, currently is a professor at The University of Texas-Tyler. He previously served as superintendent at Kerens ISD. Vaughn said he has no plans to seek the superintendent's post at Athens ISD.

 

Ben Bolt-Palito Blanco ISD selects Norris as superintendent

Scott NorrisTrustees for the Ben Bolt-Palito Blanco Independent School District recently selected Dr. Scott Norris (pictured) as the new superintendent.  Norris currently serves as the principal of Palacios High School.

 

Texas Government Insider Archives

 

Volume 1-8 Archives -1/8/04 - 6/3/11
 
Governor's appointments
Governor Rick Perry has announced the following appointments:
  • Rick Bruhn of Huntsville, Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists;
  • George Francis IV of Georgetown, Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists;
  • Sean Stokes of Denton,Texas  State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists;
  • Troy Williamson II of Portland, Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission;
  • Lee Chayes of El Paso, chair, Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Council;
  • Tom Fordyce of Huntsville, Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Council;
  • Jon Arnold-Garcia of San Antonio, Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Council;
  • Thomas W. Grahm of Tyler, Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Council;
  • Jean Andrews of Beaumont, Texas School for the Deaf Governing Board;
  • Shalia Cowan of Dripping Springs,Texas School for the Deaf Governing Board;
  • Connie Sefcik-Kennedy of Austin, Texas School for the Deaf Governing Board;
  • David Margrave of San Antonio, chair, Product Development and Small Business Incubator Board;
  • Molly Jane Dahm of Beaumont, Product Development and Small Business Incubator Board;
  • Ricardo "Ricky" Leal of Harlingen, Product Development and Small Business Incubator Board;
  • David Miller of Lubbock. Product Development and Small Business Incubator Board;
  • Ejike Okpa of Dallas, Product Development and Small Business Incubator Board;
  • Karen Bonner of Corpus Christi, Nueces River Authority Board of Directors;
  • Laura Clader of Pleasanton , Nueces River Authority Board of Directors;
  • Judy Creveling of Corpus Christi, Nueces River Authority Board of Directors;
  • John Galloway of Beeville, Nueces River Authority Board of Directors;
  • Gary Jones of Beeville, Nueces River Authority Board of Directors;
  • James "Jim" Marmion III of Asherton, Nueces River Authority Board of Directors;
  • Fidel Rul Jr. of Alice, Nueces River Authority Board of Directors;
  • Roxana Tom of Campbellton, Nueces River Authority Board of Directors;
  • Edward Janek of Galveston, Board of Pilot Commissioners for Galveston County Ports;
  • Linda Rounds of Galveston, Board of Pilot Commissioners for Galveston County Ports;
  • James Earl Toups Sr. of League City, Board of Pilot Commissioners for Galveston County Ports.
Job Board

Marble Falls ISD avoids teacher layoffs through reassignments

Marble Falls Independent School District officials recently avoided laying off some unassigned teachers by creating a permanent pool of substitute teachers comprised of those full-time teachers.

 

Creating the substitute pool could preserve from six to nine teaching slots, the interim superintendent said. Even though the district had instituted a plan last summer to reduce staff through attrition from retirements or reassignments, some teachers were still unassigned to a classroom and can be used as substitutes to avoid laying off teachers.

 

Gainesville may offer incentives to state school staff to relocate

Kent SharpThe Gainesville Economic Development Corporation (GEDC) recently announced plans to offer a $2,000 incentive to Texas Youth Commission (TYC) employees who transfer to the Gainesville State School from other facilities being shut down by the state, said Kent Sharp (pictured), executive director of GEDC. The discussion arose after TYC officials announced plans to close three state school facilities while keeping the Gainesville State School open, Sharp said.

 

An estimated 20 employees may be transferred to Gainesville from the TWC facilities in Crockett, Brownwood and Beaumont that are scheduled to be closed by late August, he said. The cash incentive to help pay moving costs provides a signal about value Gainesville residents place on state school employees and their contributions to the community, Sharp said. GEDC board members plan to vote on the incentive proposal this month and then seek the approval of city council required to offer the incentive.

 

Kilgore ISD OKs privatization

of its custodial services

Trustees for the Kilgore Independent School District recently authorized the superintendent to negotiate and approve a contract with a private corporation to provide custodial services to all district campuses.
 

District officials expect to save more than $110,000 a year in expenses by privatizing the custodial service, for which the district now pays about $899,000 a year with district employees performing custodial duties, the business manager for the district said. Executives of the private company agreed to offer jobs to all current custodial employees for the district, he added.

 

DISD CFO Alan King named Dallas interim superintendent

Alan KingThe Dallas school board recently named chief financial officer Alan King (pictured) as interim superintendent.


King replaces Michael Hinojosa, who is leaving to take over for a Georgia school district. Hinojosa's last day is June 30.
King, who has been CFO since January, will lead the Dallas district until the school board names a new permanent superintendent. 

 

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Missouri City picks Maria

Gonzalez as acting city secretary

Missouri City officials recently selected Maria Gonzalez as the acting city secretary. Gonzalez replaces former City Secretary Patrice Fogarty, who resigned to be the city secretary in La Porte.
 

City officials are still reviewing the more than 275 applications received from candidates seeking the position of city secretary, a spokesperson for Missouri City said.

 

Bob Brundrett resigns post as superintendent of Texas City ISD

Bob BrundrettSuperintendent Bob Brundrett (pictured) of the Texas City Independent School District recently resigned from the position he has held since August 2008. His resignation is effective at the end of June.


Brundrett previously served as an assistant superintendent for Killeen ISD and as a teacher at Santa Fe ISD.

 

Spring Branch ISD looking for athletic field services supplier

Spring Branch Independent School District trustees recently began seeking bids for maintenance of Grob Stadium, high school athletic fields and middle school sports fields. District officials will accept bids for the one-year contracts with options for a two-year renewal until June 14.

 

That contract calls for the supplier to provide mowing, fertilization, irrigation, aeration, soil testing, field repair, disease insect and week control at the stadium and high school athletic fields beginning on Sept. 1. District officials also will award a one-year contract beginning on July 1 to provide those same services to sports fields at middle schools. The terms on both contracts require that contractors hire only fully insured and trained personnel and do not permit any temporary, contract or day labor workers on the job.

 

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