Texas Government Insider
Volume 8, Issue 24 - Friday, June 18, 2010
Cap Metro picks Linda Watson as new chief executive officer
 
Current Florda transit head has Texas experience in Fort Worth, Corpus Christi 
 
Linda WatsonCalling her "the right person to lead Capital Metro moving forward at this critical time," Capital Metro Board Chair and Mayor Pro Tem Mike Martinez Thursday announced that the board had unanimously chosen Linda S. Watson (pictured) as the transportation authority's choice for president and chief executive officer.
 
Watson currently serves as chief executive officer of LYNX, the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority located in Orlando. She brings more than 25 years of transportation-related experience to the position, including Texas ties after having served as general manager of the Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority and assistant general manager of the Fort Worth Transportation Authority before moving to Florida.
 
Watson is a former Transportation Research Board chair, and has held membership in the American Public Transportation Association Executive Committee, the National Associate of the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences, the Texas Transportation Institute Advisory Council and a variety of Florida transportation-related organizations.
 
Watson holds bachelor's and master's degree from The University of Texas at Arlington. A native of Oklahoma, she will replace Fred Gilliam, who retired late last year. 
 
Three fnalists named for top spot at Austin Energy
 
All three from California; will meet with community members on June 30
 
Ronald DavisDavid WrightLarry WeisThree veteran utility industry executives, all from California, have been named finalists for the general manager position at Austin Energy. In making the announcement of the finalists, Austin City Manager Marc Ott said the three will be in Austin June 30 to meet with a variety of panels, followed by a community meeting.
 
The finalists are (from left): Ronald Davis, general manager of Burbank Water and Power; Larry Weis, general manager and chief executive officer, Turlock Irrigation District; and David Wright, general manager, City of Riverside Public Utilities.
 
Davis boasts three decades of experience in the electric industry and has been the head of the Burbank utility for a dozen years. The entity operated with a $410 million budget last year. The utility where Weis works provides both water and electricity in the Central Valley area of California. It is one of the 30 largest public power utilities in the nation, serving more than 600,000 residents. Weis has nearly 30 years in the industry, including 20 as general manager.  Wright has 22 years of experience in public utilities. The Riverside utility, where he has been general manager since 2005, serves more than 300,000 residents. He began with the city as controller and became the public utility's chief financial officer in 1993. Prior to that association, he was finance director for San Diego County Water Authority. Wright is a Certified Public Accountant. 
 
 
Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' Lone Stars
 
Dr. Steven H. TallantDr. Steven H. Tallant, president, Texas A&M University-Kingsville
 
Career highlights and education: I retired from the U.S. Air Force as a lieutenant colonel after 20 years of service. Before retiring, I served as chief of Air Force Family Research at the Pentagon where I worked with congressional staffers and members of Congress in the development of budgetary issues relating to military families. I then spent 14 years at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, most recently as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. In fall 2008, I became president of Texas A&M-Kingsville. I grew up in Paris, Texas, and began my education by earning an associate's degree from Paris Junior College. I also hold a bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of Florida, a master's degree in social work from the University of Utah and a doctoral degree in social welfare from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
 
What I like best about my job is: I get to be visionary and look to the future. The university has an immediate impact on students, and my job also allows me to help shape the future of the university and be part of a long-lasting impact for the region, the state and beyond.

The best advice I've received for my current job is: Someone once told me that it takes the help of many good people to be a successful president, but you can screw things up all by yourself. It sounds funny, but it's true, and it's something to remember.

Advice you would give a new hire in your office: I would say that there's no such thing as a simple decision. Universities are complex organizations with many interdependent pieces. There are always unintended consequences to decisions, so it's important to gather data from all sides and try to map out potential consequences before making a decision.

If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: at home watching the Chicago Cubs play an afternoon game.

People would be surprised to know that I: I am an excellent dog groomer! I am a former board member of the Clumber Spaniel Club of America, and my wife and I were heavily involved with dog shows prior to moving to Texas.

One thing I wish more people knew about my agency: Texas A&M University-Kingsville is 14th in the state for research expenditures, and our faculty is conducting top-quality, cutting edge research in many areas. In fact, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board statistics for 2008 show our research expenditure dollars per full-time faculty (FTE) is $32,000. Equally impressive, we are able to produce these results with faculty teaching four courses per semester.
 
 
TxDOT's Iselt honored for 51 years of service to Texas

Five DecadesLeonard Iselt probably didn't know in 1959 when he went to work for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) that he would remain on the job for more than five decades. Iselt (center in the accompanying photo) was recently honored for his 51 years of service to the state by Texas Secretary of State Hope Andrade (left) and TxDOT Executive Director Amadeo Saenz (right).
 
Iselt is a material/process inspector in the Construction Division at TxDOT. His career began on March 16, 1959, in the Materials and Test Division. Most of his TxDOT career has been with the Chemical Laboratory of TxDOT's Statewide Materials Laboratory. Iselt retired briefly in 1993 but was rehired a little over a year later.
 
Construction Division Director Russel Lenz said Iselt "was in on the ground floor in several areas" and participated in the initial research in materials development and testing. He later moved into routine quality control and currently is responsible for training other technicians. "Leonard is the gold standard to which we compare our technicians," he said.
 
Texas Division of Emergency Management names interim chief
San Antonio District Fire Chief W. Nim Kidd has been named interim chief of the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM). He replaces the late Jack Colley.
 
Since 2004, Kidd has served as director of San Antonio's Homeland Security department, where he manages the Homeland Security Grant Program and chairs the Urban Area Security Initiative Working Group. Since 1993, he has served in a number of ranks with the San Antonio Fire Department, including charges as firefighter, fire apparatus operator, lieutenant, captain and district fire chief.
 
Colley, who died last month after a heart attack, served as "a national icon in emergency management, a man whose invaluable service saved countless lives in Texas and established a legacy of competence that will be felt for years to come," according to department Director Steven C. McCraw.
 
TRS trying meeting webcasts; hires search firm to find director
R. David KellyA pilot program by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) continues today, Friday, with the second day of webcasting of its board meetings. The board's two-day meeting, yesterday and today, is being webcast on the TRS Web site.
 
"We are constantly looking for ways to communicate more effectively with all stakeholders, but we think it's especially important to enable those we serve - our members and retirees - to watch and hear the discussions leading to decisions we make here in Austin on their behalf," said TRS Board Chairman R. David Kelly (pictured). "Webcasting technology provides that front row seat, no matter where our members live in Texas or for that matter, the world."
 
TRS officials will weigh the costs of the service against its benefits before deciding if webcasting will be a permanent service offered. Interested parties should go to the TRS Web site and click on the TRS board meeting Web site link. The link will become active shortly before the meeting begins. The meeting will be shown live as well as recorded for future on-demand viewing.
 
Part of the agenda for the two-day meeting was discussion of the search for a new executive director to replace the retiring Ronnie Jung. TRS officials are torn between hiring a state government veteran or an expert from the private sector. The board Thursday hired an executive search team to help find the appropriate candidates. TRS officials hope to hire a new executive director by December.
 
This is quicker...
 
Texas Woman's University continues search for new provost
Officials of Texas Woman's University recently noted that their search for a new provost to oversee academic programs may continue through the fall instead of August as originally planned. The new provost will replace Kay Clayton, who left that position on March 1.
 
The 12-member search committee comprised of administrators, students and faculty, is reviewing about 60 applicants for the position, but is unsure whether a qualified candidate can be found by August, said Don Edwards, an associate dean who chairs the provost search committee.  Keith McFarland, who is serving as interim provost, has agreed to extend his six-month contract to give the search committee more time to find the most qualified person for the job, Edwards said.
 
Gibson sole finalist for Sam Houston State University president
Dana GibsonSam Houston State University has chosen one of its own to be the university's next president. Dr. Dana Gibson, Sam Houston's vice president for finance and operations since 2009, was Thursday named sole finalist for the position.
 
Before joining SHSU, Gibson was president of National University, a private, not-for-profit university in California. She also previously served as vice president for business and finance at Southern Methodist University and was vice chancellor for administration and finance at the University of Colorado at Denver. She has also held executive-level positions at Texas Woman's University and with the YMCA in Metropolitan Denver.
 
Gibson holds a bachelor's degree and an MBA from Texas Woman's University, where she later taught accounting and management information systems as a professor and lecturer. She earned her Ph.D. from The University of Texas at Arlington. She will take over for current SHSU President James Gaertner, who is retiring at the end of August.
 
 "Dr. Gibson has an impressive record as an educator and administrator, and I'm delighted that Sam Houston State University will continue to benefit from her leadership, passion and energy," said Texas State University System Chancellor Brian McCall.
 
TEES announces Ellison as corporate relations director
Mark EllisonMark M. Ellison (pictured) has been named director of corporate relations for the Texas Engineering Experiment Station (TEES).
 
Ellison, a member of the Texas Economic Development Council and the International Economic Development Council, is the former associate vice chancellor for economic development for The Texas A&M University System. He has served as director of the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (TETF) and the Office of Employer Initiatives for the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).
 
Ellison holds a bachelor's degree from TAMU.
 
Arnold to head Stephen F. Austin State University business school
Danny ArnoldDr. Danny R. Arnold (pictured) has been announced as dean of the Nelson Rusche College of Business at Stephen F. Austin State University. He begins his new charge Aug. 1 pending approval from the university's board of regents.
 
Arnold taught at SFASU as an assistant professor of marketing in 1976. He has served as dean and professor of marketing at both Frostburg State University and New Mexico State University. In his current role, he serves as a professor of marketing and dean of the College of Business Administration at Missouri State University in Springfield, Mo.
 
Arnold holds bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees from Louisiana Tech University.  
 
TAMU System tabs Britton assistant vice chancellor 
Tiffini BrittonTiffiny Britton (pictured) has been selected to serve as assistant vice chancellor for external affairs of the Engineering Program at the Texas A&M University System.
 
In her new role, Britton will be charged with overseeing external affairs for three agencies: the Texas Engineering Experiment Station (TEES), the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) and the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI).
Britton, a graduate of TAMU, has spent the last 15 years working in Texas government, including eight years at the State Capitol working as a senator's chief of staff and as director of the Committee on Infrastructure Development and Security. She spent the last four years representing various organizations before the Texas Legislature.
 
University of Dallas selects Cassidy as dean of Student Life
Joseph CassidyJoseph Cassidy (pictured) has been named dean of Student Life at the University of Dallas. He most recently served as dean of Student Life at Dartmouth College for 10 years. He served as director of the LaFortune Student Center and Student Activities at the University of Notre Dame from 1987-2000. Prior to that charge, he held various student life posts at Lehigh University, Eastern Illinois University and Spalding University.
 
Cassidy received his bachelor's degree from Bellarmine University and holds master's degrees from Eastern Illinois University and the University of Notre Dame.
 
Nye chosen as newest member of TTI advisory council
Earl NyeThe Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) has named Earl Nye (pictured), chairman emeritus of a Dallas-based corporation, to its advisory council.
 
Nye, a former chairman of the National Infrastructure Advisory Council, was appointed to the Board of the University of Texas Investment Management Company (UTIMCO) and elected chair of the entity in February 2009. He has served two terms on the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents.
 
Nye is a registered professional engineer and a member of local, state and American bar associations. He holds a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University and a Juris Doctor degree from Southern Methodist University.
 
UT-Arlington goes green with Events Center, adjacent park
Center Street GreenThe University of Texas at Arlington's Special Events Center will boast certifiably energy-friendly landscaping and an adjacent park known as the Center Street Green (pictured), designed with sustainability in mind.
 
The $78 million, 6,500-seat Center will rank among 150 sites worldwide rated by the Sustainable Sites Initiative for green landscape design, construction and maintenance.
 
The Center is expected to open late next year, while the Center Street Green will be complete this fall.
 
Lamar athletic director steps into new role as advisor
Billy TubbsBilly Tubbs (pictured) has announced he will step down as athletic director of Lamar University and will become special assistant/consultant for athletics to the Lamar president. He has served in the role of athletic director since 2002 and has more than 31 years of coaching experience.
In his new role, Tubbs will help with fundraising efforts and other ventures. In all he has spent 18 years as a player, assistant coach, head coach and faculty member at the university. 
Meanwhile Coach Larry Tidwell, who came to Lamar in 2007 after eight years as a recruiter and assistant coach at Texas Christian University, will serve as interim athletic director.
 
Rainey picked as U of Dallas vice president for advancement
Amanda RaineyAmanda Rainey (pictured), executive director of development for Saint Louis University, has been appointed vice president for advancement at the University of Dallas, effective June 21. Rainey is a nine-year veteran of higher education and while at Saint Louis University, managed a portfolio of major gift prospects, oversaw donor cultivation and stewardship activities and assisted in the strategic development for gift prospects.
 
Rainey holds a bachelor's degree from Southeast Missouri State University and a master's degree from Indiana University.
 
Officials unveil ambitious plan for Houston Astrodome renovation 
Reliant Park officials have unveiled plans to convert the Houston Astrodome to a multipurpose convention and science center - known as the Astrodome Renaissance - as part of a $1.35 billion redevelopment initiative.
 
The plan also calls for a new hotel with as many as 1,500 rooms to replace Reliant Arena. First, however, voters must approve as much as $900 million in taxpayer financing.
 
The new center, if approved, would feature convention space, an alternative-energy center, movie studio, planetarium and various interactive exhibits.
 
Austin city manager unveils plans to alleviate traffic congestion
Marc OttAustin City Manager Marc Ott (pictured) has unveiled an $85 million comprehensive draft bond package outlining both short- and long-term traffic congestion relief initiatives as part of the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP).
 
A total of $14 million - or 16 percent - of the package will be used for design and preliminary engineering measures, while $70.8 million - 83 percent of the package - will fund immediate construction projects.
 
All of the projects were vetted by transportation engineers and planners and ranked and prioritized to help develop the proposed bond package. To view the complete ASMP prioritization model, click here.
 
FEMA awards $738K grant to E. Montgomery Co. fire departments 
The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration, has awarded East Montgomery County fire departments a $738,180 grant to help purchase radio equipment.
 
The radios will help unify fire responses and policies, said Porter Fire Department Assistant Chief Carter Johnson, allowing the department "the ability to talk to all our public safety partners, the Montgomery County Emergency management, even Harris County authorities, on a regional rather than just local level."
 
The funds will benefit fire departments in Porter, New Caney, Splendora and Grangerland.
 
Round Rock City Manager Jim Nuse retiring after nearly 30 years
Jim  NuseRound Rock City Manager Jim Nuse (pictured) has announced plans to retire after nearly three decades with the city.
 
Nuse began his tenure with Round Rock in 1983 as an engineer. He was later promoted to Public Works director, a post he held for 17 years. Following that charge, he became chief of operations/assistant city manager and in 2003 was named city manager.
 
The Round Rock City Council is slated to discuss the search process for hiring a new city manager at a meeting later this month.

Kilgore leaders seek prospective engineering vendors 
Jeff HowellThe City of Kilgore is looking to field proposals from prospective engineering vendors. City Manager Jeff Howell (pictured) has been charged with seeking a formal agreement to become the city's go-to engineering firm.
 
The firm's duties will include "limited design work for us...and they'll be reviewing subdivision plans for developers who are looking to build subdivisions in Kilgore," Howell said.
 
Meanwhile two projects await engineering direction: Rabbit Creek Trunk Main sewer line and Main Street Phase 2 upgrades.
 
TxDOT kicks off El Paso meetings regarding international bridges
Mark TomlinsonOfficials of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) recently kicked off a series of six community meetings in El Paso to gather public input on ways to improve efficiency and ease congestion at international bridges. Following opposition in Ysleta to the city's proposal to build a new bridge in the Lower Valley, El Paso City Council members commissioned the study on bridge efficiency to help decide whether more staffing, larger facilities or even a new entry port is needed in El Paso.
 
Mark Tomlinson (pictured), the TxDOT official in charge of the study, said TxDOT staff want to hear the good and bad experiences they have crossing over the border. The study will include all ports of entry in El Paso County and the Santa Teresa crossing in New Mexico. TxDOT officials plan to provide preliminary results of the study along with input from business and civic leaders this fall and release a final report to city council members in December 2010 or January 2011, Tomlinson said.
 
Spring Hill ISD to spend $73,000 for new security cameras
School board members at Spring Hill Independent School District recently authorized spending $73,000 to buy and install security cameras at all district campuses. The installation of the new cameras will begin this summer and may continue through the fall, district officials said.
 
Malakoff ISD approves $4.9 million for renovations, new facilities
Trustees for the Malakoff Independent School District recently approved $4.9 million to pay for improvements and new construction to upgrade district facilities. The upgrades will be paid for with the proceeds of a $4.9 million bond proposal approved by voters last month.
 
Plans call for the district to add new steel bleachers, a new press box and new restrooms to the football stadium, build a new 6,000-square-foot agricultural building and tennis courts at the high school, and create six new classrooms from a locker area at the high school, said Superintendent John Spies. The district also will renovate an elementary school to provide eight regular classrooms, a science lab and a computer lab and add new security entrances to two elementary schools.
 
Work on renovation of the historic Malakoff Elementary should begin in September, Spies said. That renovation will maintain the exterior of the historic rock structure, but will modernize the interior of the old building to meet current requirements for security and technology.
 
Terrell to apply for $6.1 million in federal grant funds
Mike SimsTerrell City Council members recently agreed to allow city staff to apply for up to $6.1 million in federal grant funds to pay for three major transportation projects.
 
City officials previously applied for a federal stimulus grant in 2009 and were not selected to receive a grant, Sims said. Selections for the second round of $600 million in TIGER grants should be announced in October, Sims said.
 
Mike Sims (pictured), an assistant city manager, said if the city is selected for a Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant, it will be used:
  • To expand FM 148 to four lanes from Spur 557 to CR 305;
  • To relocate the access ramp and build a new frontage road along IH 20 along the Terrell Market Center and proposed hospital properties; and
  • Create pedestrian connections from CR 305, across FM 148 and IH 20.
     
Brownsville approves $9.4 million to pay for capital upgrades
Brownsville City Commissioners recently approved the issue of $9.4 million in certificates of obligation to fund upgrades to several city facilities. Officials previously had considered issuing $21 million in certificates of obligation, but postponed action on issuing $2.2 million to pay for a new gym at Cabler Park and $5 million to pay for street and drainage repairs.
 
The projects to be funded by the $9.4 million include $3.1 million to expand the Brownsville Sports Park to meet standards that will permit soccer tournaments to be held at the facility. City officials plan to spend the remaining $6.3 million on improvements to the landfill, roof repairs at the library, relocation of rail lines and for new patrol vehicles and traffic control equipment.
 
The plan also calls for the Brownsville Community Improvement Corp., which owns the sports park, to reimburse the city $3.1 million of the new debt. Commissioners also were able to issue less debt after the Greater Brownsville Incentive Corp. agreed to contribute about $2.4 million in road improvements. These would be adjacent to the park to spur economic development and to provide its own financing instead of participating through the city's issue of certificates of obligation.  
 
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Dominguez takes on new role with City of San Antonio
 
Rene Dominguez has been named director of San Antonio's International and Economic Development Department (IEDD).
 
Dominguez has worked for the city since August 2009. He previously served as president of the Community Development Loan Fund, beginning in 2006. He has also held a variety of posts at St. Mary's University, most recently as executive director of development.
 
In his new role, Dominguez will report to Deputy City Manager A.J. Rodriguez.
 
Seadrift may face bond election for street, drainage projects 
Elmer DeForestSeadrift voters will face a possible bond election to fund street and drainage improvements this fall.
 
If passed, residents' tax rates could rise as much as 28 cents depending on the length of the bond. During a recent city council meeting, Mayor Elmer DeForest (pictured) discovered that rate would drop if land were annexed to the city during the bond repayment period.
 
The proposals call for a mechanical dredging of the city's harbors and channels.
 
Rockwall approves $2.4M in road-widening projects
Rockwall County commissioners have approved two road projects totaling $2.4 million to be drawn from road bond election funds. The projects include widening a 1.8 mile stretch of Texas 276 from two lanes to six lanes for almost $1.4 million and widening 1.6 miles of FM 740 from two to four lanes for just more than $1 million.
 
Commissioners last April also agreed to provide engineering services for widening 11.5 miles of Texas 66 and 5.3 miles of FM 552. The cost for those combined services runs more than $2.2 million. 
 
Pedernales Electric general manager ousted after refusing to resign
Juan GarzaPedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) General Manager Juan Garza (pictured) has been terminated from the post he had held for two years. The co-op's board voted on the termination after Garza opted not to resign.
 
The board will meet Saturday to discuss finding an interim replacement, who will likely come from within the co-op ranks. PEC President Larry Landaker said the co-op will engage a search firm to find a permanent replacement.
 
Meanwhile, the board will honor Garza's contract and will reportedly provide him with a $1 million severance package.
 
Hunt County wins $115,153 grant for new HVAC system
Hunt County commissioners recently agreed to accept a $115,153 federal stimulus grant awarded through the State Energy Conservation Office to install a new energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning system at the county courthouse in Greenville.
 
The new HVAC system will replace the boiler system now in use and will permit climate controls for hallways and other common areas to be installed at the courthouse, the county judge said. County officials expect the new system to be installed by late August, but the Texas Historical Commission must approve the plans for the new system before work on the project can begin.
  
Sealy ISD seeking $895,000 state school construction bond
Jim ObermeierTrustees for the Sealy Independent School District recently agreed to apply for an interest-free, $895,000 bond to make improvements to several district campuses.
 
The loan could be repaid over a 15-17 year period. District officials also must spend 10 percent of the funds within six months of receiving it, said Jim Obermeier (pictured), executive director of business operations for the district.
 
Included in the projects to be done if the loan is approved are:
  • $300,000 to enclose the front of the elementary school;
  • $100,000 to install electronic door locks on all campus facilities;
  • $100,000 to buy and install surveillance cameras throughout the district;
  • $75,000 each to replace the roof of the junior high school, remove and install carpet in elementary classrooms and tile in hallways; and
  • $50,000 to renovate the gymnasium at the junior high school.
Ingram ISD eyeing stimulus funds to increase energy efficiency
Trustees for the Ingram Independent School District recently reviewed a study that estimates the district will save from $40,000 to $70,000 yearly by using $500,000 in federal stimulus funding to make energy saving upgrades to campus facilities. District officials have applied for a Qualified School Construction Bond from the federal government and will learn this summer if Ingram ISD is selected for the federal help.
 
The energy audit report, conducted by a consultant, found that upgrades to ventilation systems, lighting and thermostat controls do qualify for federal stimulus funds and could produce substantial energy savings. District officials are looking at reducing more than $400,000 in spending from the general operating fund to balance the budget, said Superintendent J.T. Stroder.
 
District officials also are considering adding new heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems at the middle and high schools to replace units installed in 1989 and 1992, Stroder said. Even if the federal stimulus funds are not awarded, district officials plan to explore ways to increase energy efficiency and lower utility bills at each district facility, he said.
 
Lamar County supports $20 million grant request for park trails
Chuck SupervilleLamar County commissioners recently agreed to support an application for $20 million in federal grant funds administered by the Texas Department of Transportation for construction of a 130-mile hike, bike and equestrian trail from Farmersville through Lamar County to New Boston.
 
The proposed rails-to-trails, if built, would become the fourth largest trail in the United States, noted County Judge Chuck Superville (pictured). Supporters for the proposed trail countered concern that Lamar County could be stuck with paying to maintain the trail in the future by noting the proposed 130-mile trail could draw tourists who spend money in the county. The proposed trail is planned to follow an abandoned railroad path.
 
Wichita Falls seeking $85,000 to upgrade Lake Wichita
Wichita Falls City Council members recently agreed to apply to the 4B Sales Tax Corporation for $85,000 to pay for improvements to Lake Wichita.
 
The four upgrades include adding more access to fishing along the banks, building an observation platform for watching birds and other wildlife, adding more signs describing plant and animal life in the area and building a new floating pier near the spillway.
 
The new pier would be smaller than the previous large structure that sat near the spillway, said Mark Howell, a biologist with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. The new pier would be located near the hike-and-bike trail and could be replaced with a larger pier if more visitors use it and more funding becomes available, Howell said.
 
Bell County wins $397,150 grant to upgrade court technology
John BurrowsThe Texas Task Force on Indigent Defense recently awarded Bell County a $397,150 grant to create a Web-based system to assign and track court cases involving indigent defendants.
 
The new tracking and assignment system will help ensure that court appointments of attorneys are made on a random basis, allow court officials to more efficiently track qualifications of attorneys, reduce paperwork and monitor attorney compliance with the Fair Defense Act, said County Judge John Burrows (pictured).
 
As part of the award, Bell County officials agreed that once the new tracking and assignment system is developed, it will be made available to other counties. Coryell and Lampasas county officials have expressed interest in learning more about the system.
 
Southlake approves new park, DPS facility
Southlake City Council members recently approved the construction of Southlake North Park featuring three new multi-purpose athletic fields and a concession stand. Council members also approved construction of a CPS North facility to serve as a fire and police station.
 
The new DPS facility will feature a 58-foot training tower, a $2.6 million firing range located below ground level and a driving course for officers to improve their driving skills. While some neighboring residents complained that the training tower would produce flames and theatrical smoke, city staff argued the smoke will dissipate quickly and that the city would save about $36,000 annually in training costs and overtime.
 
Residents also complained that the firing range could pollute the air and cause noise problems, but city staff said the facility will have a triple filtration system and noise baffles to address those concerns. City officials expect the city will save $31,000 annually in training costs and could generate up to $82,000 annually by renting the shooting range to other law enforcement agencies in the area.
 
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Columbus approves pact with Harris County to access crime data

The Columbus City Council recently approved an agreement with Harris County that will allow city police to access information on the Harris County public safety radio system using new computers recently installed in patrol vehicles.
 
Funding from a criminal justice grant paid for installation of new laptop computers and a camera system in seven patrol vehicles that allows officers to run checks on driver's licenses, license plates and serial numbers of possibly stolen items while patrolling in the vehicle. The cost for operating the seven upgraded patrol units will be about $4,821 and department officials are looking into applying for more grant funds to help defray operating costs.
 
The next phase of the plan to upgrade patrol vehicles may include purchasing software and more servers to allow officers to upload reports and information from their vehicles and save desk time at the station to spend more time on patrol, city officials said.
 
Cleburne to buy $1.7 million bank to serve as new police station
Chester NolenCleburne City Council members recently agreed to purchase a $1.7 million bank building to become a police station and a municipal court facility.
 
Plans call for moving the police department from its current location on West Henderson Street to the former bank building on North Main St., at some undetermined time after the bank moves from the building in about 18 months, said City Manager Chester Nolen (pictured). The municipal court, which is now located across the street from the police department, will move in the new facility after the police department, he said. The Cleburne Public Library, which now shares space with the police department, eventually will expand into that space, he said.
 
Once the purchase of the bank building is closed, planning will begin on space allocation and keeping moving costs to a minimum, Nolen said. Once space allocations are determined, city officials will decide on the renovations necessary to relocate municipal court personnel.
 
Group urges water desalination plant for Edwards Aquifer
In an effort to secure long-term water supplies, a group in northern Hays County recently began a preliminary study on whether to build a desalination plant to convert brackish water in parts of the Edwards Aquifer into fresh water.
 
The Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District is trying to secure funding to pay for feasibility studies to determine whether a water desalination plant would be economically feasible, said John Dupnik of the conservation district. A recent drought and high population growth in the area prompted the group to explore the desalinization process, he said.  Desalinization could provide potable water when demand for water outgrows the capacity of the aquifer to produce fresh water.
 
Dupnik also noted that technology for desalinization has improved and is less expensive than in the past. The conservation group applied for a $600,000 grant to help pay for some test wells, but did not receive that grant. District staff members are conducting a preliminary study of the use of desalinization, but will need to find a partner or another funding mechanism to adequately address the issue, Dupnik said.
 
Austin Community College certifies San Marcos annexation petition
Kim PorterfieldTrustees for Austin Community College (ACC) recently certified a petition signed by enough voters in the San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District to hold an election on Nov. 2 to determine whether to join the ACC taxing district.
 
If San Marcos CISD voters agree to join the ACC taxing district, residents of San Marcos CISD will immediately benefit from lower tuition and from a new ACC campus to be built in San Marcos by 2014, said Kim Porterfield (pictured), co-chair of San Marcos ACCess, the group that led the charge to establish a community college in San Marcos. Because ACC is a leader in workforce training, joining the college district should improve employment opportunities and provide more access to general education transfer courses to San Marcos residents, Porterfield said. San Marcos currently has no community college, although Texas State University operates there.
 
ACC officials are asking for proposals for planning the first phase of the new campus from architects this week.  
 
San Benito ISD to build $7.8 million eco-friendly school
Trustees for the San Benito Independent School District recently agreed to build a 70,000-square-foot new elementary school near La Paloma. The new school will feature solar panels and a high-efficiency lighting system.
 
The solar panels will provide power to heat the water heating system and for lighting, said a district spokesman. The building features insulated glass, a metal roof and a reflective exterior finish to help deflect heat and will have a rainwater collection system to irrigate the landscape of plants native to the area.
 
Estimates are that the high-efficiency lighting system will reduce energy costs by as much as 20 percent, but the district has not yet estimated the savings that will come from using a high efficiency air conditioning system or the rainwater collection system. The new campus also will have an outdoor science lab and butterfly garden to provide even more opportunities for students to learn science, district officials said.
 
Abilene adopts 25-year master plan for south side of downtown
Jon JamesAbilene City Council members recently approved the Southside Master Plan with a goal to rejuvenate the area over the next 25 years by focusing on three distinctive areas. The adopted plan divides the area into the Warehouse District, the South Downtown District and the Treadaway Corridor, said Jon James (pictured), director of planning and development services for the city.
 
Plans for the South Downtown District, the largest of the three areas outlined in the plan, calls for building a network of public spaces featuring trees, shade, small fountains and sitting areas to attract more people to the area. The plan also calls for reorganized streets, enhanced intersections and preservation of historic buildings.
 
The master plan maintains the Treadaway Corridor as a commercial corridor, but with improved traffic flow and an upgraded appearance. The plan calls for converting one-way streets into two-way streets. It also calls for upgrading the Warehouse District by replacing some warehouses and storage buildings with offices, retail shops and restaurants. Much of the funding for the improvements likely will be provided from revenue from the Tax Increment Finance District, James said. The city also most likely will seek grant funds to help pay for the upgrades, he said.
 
Freeport may combine job of police, fire chief
Freeport City Manager Jeff Pynes recently revealed his plan to appoint the current police chief as the public safety chief to oversee the fire department and emergency services personnel as well as police operations.
 
Merging the fire and police department under one leader would save the city about $80,000 and permit the hiring of two full-time firefighters without increasing current spending, Pynes said. The new public safety director would be responsible for implementing policies, handling budgets and representing all three departments in discussions with city officials, but would not supervise day-to-day operations of the departments. The plan calls for Deputy Fire Chief Chris Motley to oversee the fire department, EMS Coordinator Billywayne Shoemaker to continue supervising EMS personnel and Police Captain Gustavo Flores to supervise the police department.
 
More firefighters and emergency medical personnel are needed to provide an adequate response to a large fire or accident, Pynes said. Pynes plans to present the merger plan to council members this week.
  
Killeen ISD unveils redesign of new career center building
Robert MullerOfficials of the Killeen Independent School District recently unveiled the redesign of the district's new career and technology education programs and a new facility scheduled to open in fall 2012. The $25 million high school career academy will allow students to take classes that fit their interests and to graduate from high school with industry-level certifications, said Superintendent Robert Muller (pictured).
 
The new 142,000-square-foot facility will feature 59 classrooms and eventually accommodate about 1,400 students who wish to study welding, cosmetology, health sciences, video game design and other courses of study. The facility will resemble a workplace rather than a school, Muller said. The health and science classrooms, for example, will resemble a hospital clinic. School officials also are working with area businesses to create internships to allow students to receive hands-on training, Muller said.
 
Corpus Christi eyeing plan to repurpose or sell public parks
Confronted with shrinking revenue, Corpus Christi city officials recently drew up a plan listing 36 public parks that the city may repurpose or sell.
 
Stacie Talbert, assistant director of Parks and Recreation, declined to identify the parks under consideration, but most are "pocket parks," on small sites with few services on the site. The parks listed include those near schools and other public places that could benefit from gaining additional green space. The city has so many pocket parks because of a regulation that requires developers of any type build 50 square feet of park space for each 1,000 square feet of building space, Talbert said.
 
Ben Bolt-Palito Blanco ISD picks firm to design fine arts/PE center
Trustees for the Ben Bolt-Palito Blanco Independent School District recently hired a McAllen-based architectural firm to design a new physical education and fine arts center at Ben Bolt Middle School. The firm also will design a new library for the middle school. District officials expect the project to be funded with $2.5 million from the Instructional Facilities Allotment. 
 
 
CEVS 2010, 'Re-Imagining the Built Environment' in Austn
Austin Energy and the Clean Energy Incubator announce the fourth annual Clean Energy Venture Summit on September 29-30, 2010. Early stage clean-energy companies will audition their technologies for inclusion in Austin's $10.4M DOE smart-grid/smart-home demonstration project, a product of the Pecan Street Project, the nation's most ambitious city-wide clean-energy laboratory. "The feedback EcoFit Lighting received during the 2009 conference helped us refine our investor pitch, leading to the close of a $2M round of funding," said Cason Coplin, CEO of 2009 CEVS winner Ecofit Lighting, a Kansas-based firm. 
 
National Association of Social Workers, Texas plans annual conference 
The 2010 National Association of Social Workers, Texas Annual Conference is slated for Oct. 8-10 at the Westin Galleria in Houston. Houston Mayor Annise Parker will be the opening plenary speaker and will address "Inspiring Community Action for a Better Quality of Life." Some of the pre-conference sessions planned, for which continuing education hours can be earned, include topics such as suicide prevention and postvention, overview of psychotropic medication for treating mental illness and teaching the next generation of social workers. inspiring community action for a better quality of life. There will also be numerous break-out sessions during the three days that cover everything from motivational interviewing to challenges facing children with incarcerated parents. The closing plenary session will feature Vicki Hansen, LMSW-AP, ACSW addressing "Advancing the Profession: Inspiring Social Workers. The closing plenary will provide attendees with a "State of the Chapter" to bring you up to date with NASW/Texas challenges and accomplishments. For more information on the conference schedules, click here. For registration information, click here.
 
Government Fleet Expo, Conference set June 21-23
The Government Fleet Expo and Conference is scheduled for Monday through Wednesday, June 21-23, at the Austin Convention Center. In addition to networking opportunities, attendees will also hear about practical fleet solutions, how to handle budget and staff cuts and the emerging green technology and fuel efficiency. Among the keynote speakers will be Hillsborough County Fleet Director Sharon Subadan and leadership expert Barry Maher. There will be sessions on best ideas from the 100 best fleets, wireless vehicle management, grants and funding and improving safety. To view the program description, click here. To register, click here.
 
2010 NTEC MedVentures Conference slated for July 21 
The 2010 NTEC MedVentures Conference, hosted by the North Texas Enterprise Center (NTEC) is slated for July 21 at the Embassy Suites - Frisco Conference Center. The annual event is an early stage investment conference and company showcase that focuses on the medical technology sector. That includes medical instruments and devices, diagnostic equipment, medical therapeutic devices, medical monitoring equipment and other health-related products. The program will include an industry panel discussion, venture capital panel discussion and a showcase of eight emerging medical technology companies. Emerging medtech companies seeking capital will network with investors that focus on their industry sector. MedVentures also provides a "trade show" venue for vendors and service providers. For more information on the conference and registration, click here. To register, click here.
 
'Cowboy I.T. Up' theme for August TASSCC conference 
"Cowboy I.T. Up" is the theme for the Texas Association of State Systems for Communication and Computing (TASSCC) 2010 Annual Conference, set for Sunday through Wednesday, Aug. 1-4, at the Westin Park Central Hotel in Dallas. The event, open to public sector employees only, will feature keynote addresses, a variety of breakout sessions and a Tuesday awards luncheon. CPE credit is also offered. Early registration ends July 5.  Among the speakers will be research firm owner Gordon Graham, will address preventing mistakes through a risk management-based training program in his "The Five Concurrent Themes for Success" presentation. Addressing how companies can make decisions and execute on corporate strategies will be Jeff Tobaben, managing partner of a consulting firm. He will address "Where Does Employee Engagement Happen," stressing leveraging human capital through applied behavioral economics. Click here for more information, and click here to register.
 
TxPPA to host Annual Momentum Conference in June
The Texas Public Purchasing Association (TxPPA) is hosting its Annual Momentum Conference at the Isla Grand Beach Resort on South Padre Island on Wednesday through Friday, June 23 -25. The conference lineup includes sessions for first-time buyers and seasoned purchasing professionals. Click here for program information including hotel, group activities and transportation details. 
 
 
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Note to Media
 
IT execs on college campuses seek solutions...
Mary Scott Nabers
 
By Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.
 
Information technology (IT) professionals on college campuses, in spite of all kinds of other differences, are facing a common critical problem. There is simply not enough money available to meet the basic technology needs of institutions of higher education.
 
The most recent annual EDUCAUSE survey of higher education IT leaders nationwide showed that funding ranked number one among all other issues.  Here is how the top 10 problems were prioritized.
 
1. Funding IT
2. Administrative/ERP/Information Systems
3. Security
4. Teaching and Learning with Technology
5. Identity/Access Management
6. (tie) Disaster Recovery / Business Continuity
6. (tie) Governance, Organization, and Leadership
7. Agility, Adaptability, and Responsiveness
8. Learning Management Systems
9. Strategic Planning
10. Infrastructure/Cyberinfrastructure
 
[more] 
 

EMJCorp

 
Mexia ISD selects Turpin
as interim superintendent
John TurpinThe Mexia Independent School District Board of Trustees recently selected John Turpin (pictured) as interim superintendent. Turpin, who has worked for Mexia ISD since 1988, will replace former Superintendent Jason Ceyanes.
 
Baytown spending $1.5 million to update communications system
Baytown city officials recently began replacing radio equipment in city vehicles and replacing hand-held radios with radios with updated capabilities as part of a $2.5 million upgrade of emergency communications equipment. The city also is installing new radio equipment in the city's dispatch center, said Bill Vola, emergency management coordinator.
 
The improved communications system, which switches radios from analog to digital, will increase the ability of police, emergency services personnel and firefighters to communicate with neighboring law enforcement agencies such as the sheriff's offices and constables in neighboring Harris and Chambers counties, Vola said. Funding for the new communications equipment came from a bond issue approved by voters in 2005.
 

Halff

 
East Texas group awards $1 million in criminal justice grants
The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) recently awarded more than $1 million in criminal justice and victim services grants to four counties, five cities and an advocacy center in northeast Texas.
 
Longview will receive $148,000 to upgrade its regional command bus and $49,000 to pay for regional training. Upshur, Wood, Harrison and Gregg counties, the cities of Hawkins, East Mountain, Tatum and Kilgore and the Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center also received grants to be used for criminal justice and victim services, said Donetta Murphy, the homeland security coordinator for ETCOG.
 
 
Harleton ISD approves $1.3 million baseball/softball complex
Craig ColemanHarleton Independent School District trustees recently approved a preliminary budget of $1.3 million to build a new baseball and softball complex. The new complex will feature lighting for the baseball field and seating next to the softball field and behind the visitor's side of the football field, said Superintendent Craig Coleman (pictured) Plans also call for adding new lighting, seating, fencing, dugouts, concession area and restrooms to the softball field.
 
Trustees applied for a federal Qualified School Construction Bond to be repaid in 10 to 15 years with a low interest rate to pay for the new baseball and softball complex. The new facility should be completed in about six months, Coleman said. District officials expect to seek bids for each aspect of the project, he said.
 
Castle Hills moves back deadline for search for new city manager 
Castle Hills City Council members recently agreed to extend by 60 days the deadline for the city manager search committee to find a new city manager. Council members also approved a contract with a former city manager in Alamo Heights to evaluate the city's administrative functions.
 
Comprised of two council members and the mayor, the three-member city manager search committee plans to contact 12 to 13 candidates to interview for the city manager position, said Marcella Huff, a council member who serves on the search committee. The city manager position became vacant in July 2009 with the resignation of Michael Reitz. Rita Hoyl, who has served as interim city manager since 2009, said she welcomes the proposed study of how city offices are being operated.
 

ADP

 
Canyon ISD to build new $4 million district support center
Randy McDowellTo consolidate administrative staff, trustees for the Canyon Independent School District recently agreed to build a new 33,000-square-foot, $4 million district support center. The new support center will consolidate administrative personnel who are currently housed in two facilities, the current administration building and the professional development center at the junior high school, said Randy McDowell (pictured), assistant superintendent of business and operations.
 
The building will have an open floor plan with each office containing storage space, an interview room and a conference room where the board of trustees can meet in executive session, McDowell said. The school district also is paying for a new access road to the building that should be completed by July 1, he added.
 

Maximus

 
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD selects Ryan as new superintendent
Trustees for the Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District recently selected Ron Ryan as the new superintendent. Ryan, who previously served as the chief academic officer and an area superintendent for Dallas ISD, will succeed former Superintendent Kay Waggoner who resigned to serve as superintendent of Richardson ISD.
 

Strategic Edge

 
Tuloso-Midway ISD asks Nelson to remain in interim post
Trustees for the Tuloso-Midway Independent School District recently asked Interim Superintendent Sue Nelson to stay on the job four more months to address the results of a recent audit. The outside audit found incomplete accounting records and a lack of internal control of expenditures. As a result, board members said they believe Nelson, who retired after serving as superintendent for the Tuloso-Midway district, should lead efforts to implement a $118,000 plan to implement an improved accounting system for the district.
 
Board members previously agreed they would not begin a search for a new superintendent to replace Cornelio Gonzalez until a later date. Gonzalez resigned from Tuloso-Midway ISD in February to become superintendent of Mission ISD.
 
West Hardin County CISD
picks superintendent
Chad JonesMichael "Chad" Jones (pictured), high school principal at Rockdale Independent School District, has been named superintendent/CEO of West Hardin County CISD.
 
Jones began his career in education in 1991. He has taught and coached in Norman, Tecumseh and Bristow, Okla. In 2004, he moved to Texas to accept a position as assistant principal at A&M Consolidated High School, where he also served as elementary principal.
 

Sierra Systems

 
Where are they now?
 
Where do folks go when they leave government? Some go to work in the private sector or for nonprofits. Some transition to executive-level positions in higher education while others may seek elected local government positions. And some just retire and spend a lot of time with their grandkids at the fishin' hole. This column focuses on where former state government officials and private sector employees are now.
 
Beto GonzalezBeto Gonzalez began his education career as a high school teacher in California and later was assistant principal at middle and high school levels. From 1991 to 1995, he taught English literature, ESL (English Second Language) and Spanish at Wasco High School in Wasco, CA, and at Centennial High School in Bakersfield, CA. He taught at the Graduate School of Education at Fresno Pacific University and later served as Dean of Student Services at Bakersfield College. In addition, he previously served President George W. Bush at the Departments of Labor and Education. In recent years, Gonzalez has served as superintendent of the Temple ISD, deputy superintendent of the Brownsville ISD and most recently as superintendent of the Mercedes ISD. He was recently named to head the education/kinesiology division at Texas A&M University-San Antonio.
 

LeFleur

 
Abilene ISD selects Leong as director of student services
Trustees for the Abilene Independent School District recently selected Kari Leong as the new director of student services at the OneAISD Center. Leong served as an elementary principal for Abilene ISD for 11 years and as an assistant principal and teacher. She replaces Stephen Post, who resigned as director of student services to become superintendent at Tulia ISD.
 

HDI Solutions

 
N. Austin complex to be converted into housing
A New York-based housing company plans to convert a complex in North Austin into affordable housing.
 
The $33.4 million investment by the New York multifamily housing company includes $15.4 million in tax credits from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) and $3 million from the City of Austin Affordable Housing GO Bonds. The venture marks the largest deal of its kind funded by Texas stimulus dollars.
 
Construction for the redevelopment project located on north Lamar Boulevard is set to begin within the next month with an 18-month construction schedule. The project will generate about 150 construction-related jobs and retain 10 permanent jobs. 
 
Redwater ISD chooses Wheeley as lone superintendent finalist
Robert WheeleyRobert Wheeley (pictured) has been named lone finalist for the position of superintendent/CEO at Redwater Independent School District.
 
Wheeley currently serves as assistant superintendent at Kilgore ISD, where he has also worked as the district's high school assistant principal and principal. He has also served as high school principal at Karnack ISD.
 

Save the date

 
Randall County authorizes $1.1 million for new computers
Joel RichardsonRandall County commissioners recently authorized spending $1.1 million to buy 120 mountable mobile computer terminals for the Randall County Sheriff's Office, the Potter County Sheriff's Office and 47 other law enforcement agencies in 26 Panhandle counties. An  $800,000 U.S. Department of Justice grant using 2009 federal stimulus funding is paying for the new mobile computer terminals.
 
The Randall County Sheriff's Office will receive 13 of the mobile computers and the sheriff in Potter County will receive about a dozen of the computers, said Randall County Sheriff Joel Richardson (pictured). The new computers will allow officers in squad cars to message each other and to pull up license plate information and misdemeanor warrants, thus reducing the time an officer spends accessing needed information. The new computers should be in use before September 30.
 

SPI on Twitter

 
Texas Government Insider Archives
 
Volume 1-8 Archives -1/8/04 - 6/11/10
 
College of the Mainland considering $109M bond issue
A $109 million bond issue is being considered by the board of trustees of College of the Mainland in Texas City. The bond issue would pay for new facilities, renovations to existing facilities and program expansions. Officials are considering a two-proposal bond issue, with $60.8 million in high priority projects in one proposal and $48 million for second-tier projects.
 
Among the priority issues recommended are a new $8.75 million health sciences center for the nursing program. Also included is a $12.9 million renovation of the vocational technology building and approximately $10 million for a workforce training center and to renovate the current center to house the welding and auto mechanic courses. The largest project in the second tier proposal is a new $6.87 million performing arts center. It also includes $3.3 million in renovations of the student center and $7 million in renovations and expansion of the physical education and wellness center.
 
Marble Falls to decide on search firm to help find new school chief
After reviewing the qualifications of two search firms, trustees for the Marble Falls Independent School District recently said they plan to name a search firm to help find a new superintendent. Representatives from both search firms said their efforts could result in selecting a new superintendent as early as August, but advised that naming a new superintendent in October is more realistic.
 
The new superintendent will replace Superintendent Ryder Warren, who has accepted the position of superintendent at Midland ISD. Trustees selected Jim Boyle of Burnet to serve as interim superintendent until a new superintendent assumes the position.
 
SPI seeking additional outside consultants 
SPI is seeking additional consultants who have experience in county government in Texas.
 
Currently, there is a need for procurement consultants who are retired or former county elected officials in the DFW, Houston, San Antonio and El Paso areas.
 
If you are interested in this opportunity, contact Ashley Nauert at anauert@spartnerships.com
 
 
USDOT awards San Antonio transit system $2.9M
The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded $2.9 million to the VIA Metropolitan Transit to fund several local transit projects.
VIA plans to buy 10 paratransit vans and fund its Bus Rapid Transit project, connecting the South Texas Medical Center to downtown San Antonio, with the funds.
 
 
Dallas ISD selects Durant
as chief academic officer
Ivonne DurantTrustees for the Dallas Independent School District recently selected Ivonne Durant (pictured) as the chief academic officer. Currently director of the Northwest Learning Community of DISD, Durant will replace Robin Ryan, who resigned to be superintendent of Grapevine-Colleyville ISD. Durant has spent 15 of her 40 years as an educator at Dallas ISD. 
 

HID

 
Governor's appointments
Governor Rick Perry has announced the following appointments:
  • Edward Marx of Colleyville, chair, Texas Health Services Authority Corporation
  • David Fleeger of Austin, Texas Health Services Authority Corporation
  • Kathleen Mechler of Fredericksburg, Texas Health Services Authority Corporation
  • Dee Porter of Austin, Texas Health Services Authority Corporation
  • Judy Powell of The Woodlands, Texas Health Services Authority Corporation
  • J. Darren Rodgers of Dallas, Texas Health Services Authority Corporation
  • Adolfo Valdez of Austin, Texas Health Services Authority Corporation
  • Stephen Yurco of Austin, Texas Health Services Authority Corporation
  • Cathleen Parsley of Austin, chief administrative law judge, Office of Administrative Hearings
Alief Superintendent Stoerner announces retirement
Louis StoernerAlief Independent School District Superintendent Louis Stoerner (pictured) has announced that he will retire sometime during the next school year. Stoerner said he is retiring so that he can spend more time with his family and pursue other professional interests. Stoerner has been a fixture at AISD for the last 22 years. The school board will meet next week to discuss a search for Stoerner's replacement.
 

Job Board

 
Jasper promotes Boykin to permanent city manager

Jasper City Council members recently appointed Interim City Manager Tommy Boykin as the new city manager. Boykin began serving in the interim position when former City Manager Alan Grindstaff resigned. Boykin also was city secretary in Jasper before retiring from that post in 2007.
 
 
Davis named as assistant superintendent for Angleton ISD
Steve DavisTrustees for the Angleton Independent School District recently named Steve Davis (pictured) as the new assistant superintendent of operations. Davis, who previously served as transportation director for the district, will replace Scott McLean, who resigned to be associate superintendent of operations for Abilene ISD. Davis will oversee the district's business operations in his new position.
 
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La Marque moving ahead with $2.1 million in road upgrades
Keith BellLa Marque City Council members recently began setting priorities for spending about $2.1 million for road improvements. City staff and council members are reviewing a list of 56 roads considered in bad condition to determine their priority, said Keith Bell (pictured), mayor pro tem.
 
The group will target all streets designated on the list as poor, with major thoroughfares taking priority, Bell said. The upgrades will include about 14 miles of city roadways and consist of repaving, repairing potholes, patch repairs and some road reconstruction. The reconstruction work will be completed using asphalt rather than concrete, he added. 
 
 
Elgin receives 102 applications for city manager's job
Elgin city officials recently reported that they received 102 applications for city manager. Search committee members have begun narrowing the list to a more workable number of candidates to review more closely.
 
The eight-member search committee recently appointed by city council members set a goal to select a new city manager by August 14, said Chris Bratton, the acting city manager who chairs the search committee. The committee will use criteria adopted by council members to evaluate the 102 applications, Bratton said. 
 
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or reproduce
This newsletter may be reproduced, and all articles within may be reproduced and/or reprinted without permission when credit is given to the Texas Government Insider, a publication of Strategic Partnerships, Inc., and the company Web site www.spartnerships.com is listed.
 
 
ACC seeks architectural, engineering services
Voters in Bastrop Independent School District, Elgin ISD, North Hays CISD and San Marcos CISD will vote this November whether to join the Austin Community College taxing district as ACC officials seek architectural and engineering services for four potential campuses in those districts.
 
The college hosted a Request for Qualifications information session this week at its Eastview campus. Information from that meeting will be posted here.
Qualifications must be submitted on or before July 8 at 2 p.m.
 
HISD's Espinoza promoted to school improvement officer
Jose EspinozaHouston ISD's Burbank Middle School Principal Jose Espinoza (pictured) has been promoted to HISD School Improvement Officer. He will be one of four such officers to serve the district on the middle school level.
 
Espinoza joined the HISD in 2002 as an assistant principal at Burbank. He had previously worked as a school counselor and elementary teacher in the Spring Branch ISD. Espinoza holds bachelor's and master's degrees from The University of Texas-Pan American and earned his principal's certification from Prairie View A&M University.  Espinoza's new position is effective immediately. Burbank Assistant Principal David Knittle will serve as principal until a permanent replacement is named. Espinoza will provide mentoring and leadership to principals, align resources and support for teachers, and ensure that the district is providing equitable and quality educational opportunities for its students. He will serve 10 middle schools.
 
 
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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