Among the casualties in Texas was the Abilene Regional Airport, which was in the middle of a nearly $18 million construction and upgrades project that included a new $15.7 million control tower. More than $2.2 million in other navigation and telecommunications projects were halted.

[more]

Donna Nelson named chair of Public Utility Commission of Texas

Donna Nelson (pictured) of Austin was recently appointed chair of the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC), which is charged with regulating public utilities in Texas.

Nelson has served on the PUC since 2008 and will chair the commission for a term to expire at the pleasure of the governor.

Nelson, who holds a bachelor's degree from Black Hills State College and a law degree from Texas Tech University, previously served as an advisor on energy and telecommunications in the Governor's Office. She is also a former assistant attorney general who specialized in antitrust lawsuits.

ERCOT chooses new vice president of business integration

Officials with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) recently named Betty Day, director of commercial operations since 2005, the new vice president of business integration.

Before beginning at ERCOT in 2000 as manager of load profiling, Day worked at Central Maine Power as manager of the research department and at East Kentucky Power Cooperative as load forecasting supervisor.

Day holds a bachelor's degree from Berea College in Kentucky.

Two Texas state agencies move to Capitol complex offices

Two state agencies - the Texas Real Estate Commission and Texas Appraisers Licensing and Certification Board - recently moved from offices in north Austin to the Stephen F. Austin State Office Building in the Capitol complex.

The staff of 99 completed the move over a long weekend, during which time services were shut down to the agencies' 150,000 license holders.

Officials say the new location at 1700 North Congress Ave. offers the agencies more efficient use of space, which reduces utility costs.

Construction to begin soon on $68M Texas A&M residence hall

Plans are under way at Texas A&M University to build a 250,000-square-foot residence hall, the first to be constructed on campus in more than 20 years.

Northside Residence Hall (pictured) will replace three other dormitories built between 1942 and 1964: the Moore, Crocker and McInnis residence halls. Construction is set to start next month and be completed in June 2013.

The A&M System Board of Regents has approved $68 million for the five-story building, which will boast "a contemporary, high-quality, long-term living environment for undergraduate students," according to a board document. The unit will house 640 beds in 272 rooms and include a media center, community learning area, adviser offices, laundry room, recreation room, convenience store and coffee shop.  

Regents have also approved the A&M System's capital plan for 2012-2016 totaling nearly $2.09 billion in previously approved projects and proposed initiatives.

Dean chosen director of HSU's Center for Literacy and Learning

Officials at Hardin-Simmons University recently named Emily Dean director of the Center for Literacy and Learning in the School of Education. She replaces Carol Layton, who retired in May.

The Center serves as the primary dyslexia resource for much of west central Texas.

Dean is a dyslexia specialist who has served as a reviewer for presentations and publications, such as the Journal of Literacy Research and Instruction.

El Paso Community College picks Roberts as interim president

El Paso Community College trustees recently named Ernst Roberts (pictured) interim president to replace President Richard Rhodes, who will step down Aug. 31 to take over at Austin Community College.

Roberts, who currently serves as Rhodes' executive assistant, has worked at EPCC for more than 30 years. He takes on his new role Sept. 1.

Despite some debate, Roberts will have the opportunity to apply for the full-time job. The trustees anticipate the search for a president to take up to nine months.

Sul Ross selects Stephanie Nelson for internal auditor post

Officials at Sul Ross State University recently named seasoned accountant Stephanie Nelson internal auditor.

Nelson, who has more than 25 years experience in accounting, most recently served as manager of budget and financial analysis for Mary Washington Healthcare, Inc. in Fredericksburg.

Nelson holds a bachelor's degree from The University of Texas at Austin.

LBJ Foundation selects Mary Herman as new director

Officials at the Lyndon B. Johnson Foundation recently hired Austin community leader Mary Herman (pictured) as deputy development director, effective July 18.

In her new role, Herman will lead fundraising activities for the foundation, which oversees donations that benefit the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.

Most recently, Herman served as executive director of the Texas Book Festival. She has also held leadership positions with The University of Texas and Austin Community Foundation, among others.

Texas A&M Regents approve capital building plan for WTAMU

The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents has approved a slate of agenda items for the System's West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) campus, including a capital building plan for 2012.

As part of the capital plan, regents appropriated $10.9 million for the expansion of the 43-year-old Jack B. Kelley Student Center (JBK). The expansion is set to include a single-story addition with a partial basement and will feature a common area, new office space, Veteran's Center, visitor information center, kitchen, lounge, conference rooms and a multi-purpose area.

Expansion of the facility was approved via student referendum in 2009.

VIA adopts master plan including new transit projects

Officials with San Antonio's VIA Metropolitan Transit recently adopted a master plan that calls for transitioning the bus-only agency into a multimodal transit system by 2035.

The plan, developed over two years, calls for 39 miles of light rail, 57 miles of bus rapid transit and three miles of streetcar service.

The agency plans to finance the costly projects through federal grants and by partnering with local governments, said VIA President and CEO Keith Parker (pictured).

DeSoto makes no decision on fate of new superintendent Augustine

At a recent DeSoto school board meeting, trustees took no action on the fate of superintendent Kathy Augustine, who has been on paid leave since her first day on the job in July.

Augustine was placed on indefinite leave after she was implicated in an Atlanta cheating scandal. Augustine, who denies the allegations, served as second-in-command of Atlanta schools at a time investigators have found evidence of widespread cheating on standardized tests.

The DeSoto trustees, who have replaced Augustine with interim superintendent Levatta Levels, will take up the issue at the Aug. 8 meeting.

Suhm announces Dallas city administrators taking on new roles

Dallas City Manager Mary Suhm has initiated an administrative shakeup among city personnel.

Among the chief developments, Ryan Evans and A.C. Gonzalez will swap roles. Evans will serve as economic development officer and Gonzalez will take on the role of first assistant city manager.

Joey Zapata, who has more than 16 years experience with the city, will shift from his role in code enforcement to become interim assistant city manager, where he'll oversee code, parks, cultural affairs and special projects.

Greanias suspended; city to contribute to Metro East End light-rail

MPO OK's $51 million funding for I-35 improvements

The San Antonio Bexar County Metropolitan Planning Organization recently OK'd $51 million in state funds for improvements to Interstate 35 and a new bridge across Loop 1604.

The highway project, expected to cost about $46 million, will begin in 12-18 months. Construction on the $6 million Vance Jackson bridge could begin in nine months.

The projects will be paid for as a result of passage of Proposition 12, which in 2007 authorized the sale of $5 billion in bonds to use on state roads.

Committee to supervise El Paso Co. Purchasing Department board

A committee appointed by the El Paso County Purchasing Department board will review Department policies and field complaints. District Judge Gonzalo Garcia, County Judge Veronica Escobar (pictured), Purchasing Agent Piti Vasquez and Assistant Purchasing Agent Jose Lopez comprise the board.

The move to form an oversight committee arrives on the heels of complaints from Escobar, who said the Purchasing Department board - consisting of three district judges and two members of the county Commissioners Court - meets too infrequently and doesn't exercise adequate supervision.

As officials pound out a budget, Escobar will be on the lookout to mend any issues that might form should the committee find the Purchasing Board to be inadequately staffed or underfunded.

Bexar Met Water District Employees face layoffs amid credit crunch

Employees of the Bexar Metropolitan Water District (BMWD) may face layoffs in the coming weeks. Interim General Manager Tom Gallier said the layoffs would be the result of a frozen line of credit. BMWD's creditors are freezing a $50 million line of credit at $10 million and asking for the amount to be paid back by December.

Gallier said the move has created a "short-term crisis" that he thinks has been inadvertently created by language in a bill, SB341. Because of the bill's language, which calls for a dissolution vote by rate payers, Gallier said investors are reluctant to make any loans or extend credit.

In response, Gallier has called for all work on capital improvement projects to cease immediately, including renovations to pipelines and pump stations. He has also informed BMWD's 311 employees that layoffs would be necessary to reduce labor costs.

Proposed Houston ordinance favors local businesses for contracts

Houston Mayor Annise Parker (pictured) is working on a city ordinance called "Hire Houston First," which would give a leg up to local businesses when awarding certain contracts. It is expected that local bidders would be given additional points when bids are compared, and how many points would depend on if the contract is for goods or services.

To qualify, businesses providing goods would have to be headquartered within the city limits of Houston. Those providing services would have to be headquartered within the eight counties that make up the Houston metropolitan area and have at least 20 percent of its employees within that same boundary.

Parker's proposal resulted from new legislation that allows cities the size of Houston to give bidding advantages to local businesses. Previously, that option was open only to smaller cities. Contracts of less than $100,000 could be awarded to local firms if the firm's price is within 5 percent of the lowest bid from a company not within the specified boundaries of "local." On contracts of more than $100,000, local companies' bids would have to be within 3 percent of the lowest bidder. Parker is expected to bring up her proposed ordinance at a council meeting next month.

TWDB approves $1.9M loan for City of Burnet wastewater upgrades

The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) has approved a $1.9 million loan to help fund wastewater improvements for the City of Burnet beginning Oct. 1, the start of the new fiscal year.

City Manager David Vaughn (pictured) said the loan has already been figured in the city's budget.

The money will help pave the way for improvements to three sections of the city's wastewater system and installation of about 3,400 feet of water mains. Additionally, the funds will help cover the cost of repairs and removal or replacement of about 10,000 feet of wastewater line, according to TWDB officials.

Guadalupe County needs $5.3M to replace HVAC systems

Guadalupe County commissioners recently discussed spending $7.7 million for a package of energy improvements, which include $5.3 million for a new air conditioning and heating system at the county's Law Enforcement Center.

Under the proposed project, the center that is now cooled by 30 air conditioning units would receive three new boilers, a 450-ton chiller and six new compressors. The change is projected to save $3.39 million in energy costs over 15 years.

Commissioners discussed funding options that ranged from issuing tax anticipation notes that must be repaid in seven years, issuing certificates of obligation that have public notice requirements or dipping into the fund balance that stands at $12.7 million. No funding decision was made.

Kerr County to hold November elections for sales tax, venue tax

To help fund $13.8 million in improvements to the Hill Country Youth Exhibit Center, Kerr County commissioners support holding elections in November to raise the sales tax in unincorporated areas and creating a venue tax on hotel rates. If voters approve, hotel-rate taxes will increase by 2 percent and sales taxes will rise by a half-cent. Combined, the measures would generate about $550,000 for Center improvements.

Commissioners said they preferred these alternatives to increasing property tax rates because they reach a broader base of taxpayers. Property tax rates are frozen for seniors and persons with disabilities.

Commissioner Jonathan Letz (pictured), who said he's "extremely adverse to raising property taxes," said the city's budget would remain "very tight."

Texas Health receives $7.3 million in Medicaid incentive payments

Arlington-based Texas Health Resources recently collected more than $7.3 million in Medicaid incentive payments for transitioning to electronic health records.

The system, which began implementing electronic records in 2006, has also received more than $19.5 million in Medicare incentives for making its 4.7 million patient records available online.

Texas Health has invested more than $200 million in the transition to electronic records, which are used by about 90 percent of physicians.

Greenwood Library renovations could begin in September

As part of a 2008 bond project, the Greenwood Library in Corpus Christi will be undergoing a series of interior upgrades, including the addition of a children's room.

Construction could begin as early as September if the Corpus Christi City Council approves renovation plans Aug. 23.

The renovation has temporarily forced the Corpus Christi Literacy Council to shift headquarters to Del Mar College's William F. White Jr. Library.

Leaders from Gregg, area counties study regional mental health care

Committee members will be named in the coming days and, among the first tasks, will hire a facilitator to guide the group.

The committee will immediately work toward streamlining how people with mental illnesses are served and, in the long-term, want to establish a psychiatric facility in the area, said Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt (pictured). 

Officials in 14 Northeast Texas counties have plans to form a steering committee tasked with seeking solutions to mental health care problems caused by state funding cuts.

Dallas streetcar project gets environmental clearance from FTA

A 1.6-mile streetcar project in Dallas recently received environmental clearance from the Federal Transit Administration, which allows the project to move ahead as scheduled.

The $35 million project will now move into the final design phase and the officials with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) will soon seek a building contractor and begin purchasing streetcars.

The streetcar will run between downtown Dallas and Oak Cliff, providing increased access to entertainment, employment and education centers. 

Debt ceiling dispute could cause stall for San Benito

Millions of dollars to be funneled into capital improvement projects in San Benito could be stalled if the federal government fails to end its debt-ceiling impasse by the Aug. 2 deadline. A failure to end gridlocked negotiations between Republicans and Democrats could force a default and raise interest rates to a level that would delay sale of $11.5 million in certificates of obligation.

City Commissioner Bill Elliott (pictured) said that if an agreement isn't reached, "I'm sure we'll probably have to put the project on hold until such time as we can get a favorable interest rate."

The city's financial consultant, Don Gonzalez, said a "domino effect" throughout the capital markets would be likely if the dispute isn't resolved, spiking interest rates that currently stand at 4.75 percent. The City could still move forward with a $6 million project that includes $2.49 million to replace old clay sewer lines and manholes on the verge of collapse. The project would be paid for with revenues generated by water and sewer rate increases implemented last year.

City of Allen looking for contract to provide bus service

The City of Allen plans to contract with an outside transportation company to run buses from the city's major retail and employment areas to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) station on Parker Road.

The service is part of a pilot program that allows non-member cities of DART to contract for service. Officials in McKinney and Mesquite also want to connect to DART stations.

Allen has received a three-year, $600,000 federal grant to run the bus service, but has not yet secured a contract. City officials have met with DART and Collin County Area Regional Transit (CCART) about a possible contract.

League City to upgrade water, wastewater system for $77M

Much-needed improvements to League City's water and wastewater system will cost a projected $77 million, according to Mike Loftin (pictured), assistant city manager of management services. Improvements, including plans to build three major booster stations and two new pipelines, will soon be under way.

The system, by city officials' estimates, is due for a major overhaul. The system's decades old booster stations (the operatives that push clean water to the community) are not in full compliance with Homeland Security requirements, according to Rich Oller, assistant city manager of public works. Some of the booster stations still feature hand-crank pumps as backup options should the main pump fail. Security measures, such as getting rid of windows in pump houses, are also called for.

In addition to outmoded equipment, the lingering summer drought and heavy water usage are also taxing League City's water and wastewater system.

Grant to allow Colorado City plant to treat nonpotable water

Colorado City recently received a $2.8 million state grant to build a plant that would use wind power to treat nonpotable groundwater.

Three 500-kilowatt wind turbines will provide 40 percent of power to the plant, which will be among the first of its kind in the nation. The plant will produce 750,000 gallons of clean water a day with the potential of providing up to 1.5 million gallons a day. The plant is scheduled to be complete in two to three years.

San Antonio planning improved streets, sidewalks at HemisFair Park

San Antonio officials recently began searching for engineers and designers to oversee a $17.6 million project that revamps the streets and sidewalks around HemisFair Park.

The project, which includes the redesign of Alamo Street and Durango Boulevard around the park perimeter, will be paid for with leftovers from a 2007 city bond that must go toward street and drainage work.

The Woodlands discussing $500,000-plus in park upgrades

Officials in The Woodlands recently discussed exceeding the $500,000 budget for upgrades to Sawmill Park, one the township's oldest parks.

The current plan calls for 20 additional parking spaces, pool features like a climbing wall, and improvements to the pavilion, playground, tennis court and restrooms. The township board discussed using additional funds to pay for significant changes to the pavilion, more parking and more tennis courts.

The board will finalize plans this week, review bids in October and begin construction in November.

Architecture firm advises Mexia ISD on building new high school

Following a request from Superintendent John Turpin (pictured), representatives from a Dallas- and Austin-based architecture firm presented details of a possible high school building program to board members at Mexia Independent School District (MISD).

Turpin previously asked board members if they would like to learn more about the process involved in designing and constructing a new school. After the board agreed, Turpin invited the architecture firm, which specializes in Texas-based school design, to present and advise school officials as to whether building a new school would be feasible or necessary.

The current high school infrastructure at MISD faces a host of issues, ranging from plumbing and electrical concerns to heating, ventilation and air conditioning issues, according to Turpin. 

Abilene P.D., Taylor County S.O. jointly apply for $60K grant

The Abilene Police Department (APD) has teamed with the Taylor County Sheriff's Office (TCSO) to apply for $60,000 from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grant Program through the U.S. Justice Department. The agencies would split the grant equally and would use the funds to outfit APD and deputies' cars with Digital Mobile Video Recorders, dashboard-mounted camera systems.

Abilene Police Chief Stan Standridge (pictured) said the APD applies for the grant every year and has, for the past two years, applied the money exclusively toward purchase of the cameras.

The camera systems record continuously and embed metadata (information about the time of day and a vehicle's speed and location) directly in the video, features analog systems are not capable of. 

Officials in Mitchell County move forward on desalination plans

Mitchell County recently received a $2.8 million state grant, which will help fund an innovative desalination plant that uses wind power to clean brackish water.

The entire project is estimated to cost $9.5 million, with the county putting in about $4.2 million to generate 750,000 gallons of water a day. Texas Tech University will donate the three wind turbines, valued at $2.2 million.

Construction on the much-anticipated project could begin in early winter and be complete in two to three years.

New Braunfels, Seguin may form metropolitan planning organization

The cities of New Braunfels and Seguin moved toward forming a metropolitan planning organization (MPO) during a public meeting held recently at the Seguin-Guadalupe County Coliseum. An Austin-based consulting firm joined with an urban-planning committee headquartered in North Carolina and a Houston engineering firm to present a draft of the Preliminary Regional Transportation Plan and invite comments from the public.

As part of the Plan, the committees will review existing data and make recommendations regarding road expansions and relocations, new roadway alignments and environmental concerns. Officials would then submit the proposed Regional Transportation Plan for approval of the city councils of New Braunfels and Seguin. If approved, the city councils, along with Comal and Guadalupe counties, will submit a request to the governor's office to officially establish a metropolitan-planning organization, which would likely happen next year.

Seguin City Councilman Bob Pees (pictured) said as "slow and awkward as it seems," joining forces with New Braunfels "has got to be better than being in the San Antonio MPO."

Hays County moves forward on development of transportation plan

The Hays County Commissioners Court has authorized a consulting company to develop a countywide transportation plan as a replacement for the current 10-year-old plan. The Court capped the cost of the study at $325,000.

Commissioners agree municipal government planners along with the public should have considerable input in light of Hays County's population spike in the past decade. (More than 60,000 people have moved to the county in the last 10 years.)

To that end, commissioners will appoint a citizens committee to work with county staff and consultants by mid-August.

Fort Bend County officials make plans to overhaul courthouse

Fort Bend County officials are seeking state funding for a courthouse overhaul, which is estimated to cost $5.5 million.

If approved by the state in March, the 102-year-old building will be restored to its original condition. The numerous repairs and upgrades, both inside and outside the building, include the demolition of a three-story addition built in 1934 and two wings that were added in 1957.

Despite a much-expanded county government, the building can return to its original design because all judicial operations were recently moved to the new Fort Bend County Justice Center two miles away.

Land in Rusk may become home to recreational complex

A patch of land owned by the City of Rusk near Jim Hall Park may become home to a sports complex. A District 1 councilman has proposed discussions begin.

Rusk Mayor Angela Raiborn (pictured) said officials are "throwing the ideas out," but added there hasn't been any definite decision to move forward with construction plans. The stretch of land may only be used for recreational purposes, Raiborn said.

As for funding, officials had discussed applying for grants from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), but due to budget cuts, TPWD has suspended grants for two years. City Manager Mike Murray said city leaders could also tap an account with just under $300,000 in proceeds from a timber farm, which is located where the land in question is now. 

UTMB plans to cut jobs in response to loss of state funds

Officials with The University of Texas Medical Branch recently announced plans to cut 250 jobs - 120 from the hospital and another 130 in its program that cares for state prisoners.

The cuts are directly related to a loss of state funding. The Legislature slashed $114 million previously headed to the medical branch in the next two years, and about $10 million for the prison contract.

Employees in the Correctional Managed Care program were given 60 days notice and had 48 hours to request to be reassigned to another position. It is not clear how many people will ask to be reassigned.

 

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

Classrooms are quickly becoming technology centers. That's because students like digital devices more than textbooks. It's a familiarity thing!

Many teachers believe their student's minds work better whenever their fingers are moving on a hand-held device. As a result, educators are making valiant efforts to present curriculum and deliver results through the use of technology.

A recent survey of boys and girls under the age of 12 provided interesting reading. When asked what they expected from the Internet and from computers of the future, the children had definite thoughts. One theme was repeated frequently - they want future computers to be more like iPhones and iPads - smaller, more personal and easier to keep with them at all times. And, they want verbal or auditory controls or touch-screen interfaces. Obviously, typing into a device is too slow.

Tech companies are listening - and producing new electronic gadgets that have become useful teaching tools. School officials are listening as well, and trying hard to provide the upgraded technology required to keep students involved and connected.

$1 million FEMA grant to build

new bridge in San Patricio

Residents in a San Patricio neighborhood will benefit from a $1 million federal grant that will pay for a new bridge.

The Peaceful Valley neighborhood floods when the nearby Nueces River gets too high. The water can completely cover roads, turning the neighborhood into an island where residents are stranded.

Tyler council prioritizes improvement projects in city

Officials of the City of Tyler have prioritized their "want" list that could be paid for by proceeds from the city's half-cent sales tax. Included are updates to traffic signals, new sidewalks and possible upgrades at the Harvey Convention Center. Because the sales tax affects everyone, Council member Ralph Caraway (pictured) called it the "fairest system we can possibly put into place" regarding capital improvements.

The top five projects chosen can change from time to time, but the current list all relate to the city's comprehensive plan to deal with growth in the city. The other projects listed as priorities include security fencing for Tyler Pounds Regional Airport, airport runway improvements and Cumberland Road expansion.

Conroe to use $538K federal grant for roof, LED lights

Clock-watching Conroe officials recently suggested that the city use a $538,300 federal grant to replace the City Hall roof and convert hundreds of street lamp bulbs to energy-efficient LED lights - before the funding expires in October 2012.

The federal stimulus money, which Conroe qualified for in 2009, can be used to make energy-efficient changes or improvements.

The 451 lamps downtown are expected to use 50 percent less energy while the 30-year roof will be sealed with an energy-efficient reflective coating. 

Jones Creek marshal may add part-time city administrator duties

Jones Creek officials are looking to add to Marshal William Tidwell's responsibilities with a part-time position as a city administrator.

Alderman Jack Taylor said city leaders have asked the marshal "to do some things that were outside the scope of his duties," and added Tidwell said he would be willing to take on administrative duties part-time.

Greenville PD wants to split equipment with Hunt's County SO

Using funds from a federal Edward Jones Justice Assistance Grant, the Greenville Police Department is looking to share surveillance equipment purchased with the money with the Hunt County Sheriff's Office. Normally, the Department shares funds (as opposed to equipment) from the Edward Jones grants with the Sheriff's Office. The 2011 grant comes to $19,726.

The Greenville City Council will take a vote on whether to approve the plan following a public hearing on the matter. According to grant guidelines, the City of Greenville is charged with allocating funds to the Sheriff's Office. Another stipulation of the grant allows the public to comment on proposed grant projects prior to the award being administered.

Police Chief Daniel J. Busken (pictured) said the equipment purchased will "aid in the numerous investigations that the Greenville Police Department and the Hunt County Sheriff's Office engage in throughout the year."

Austin proposal would ban plastic bag usage in city

Austin Mayor Lee Leffingwell wants to decrease pollution and waste by banning plastic bags at grocery stores and retail establishments, a move that retailers avoided in 2008 by agreeing to voluntarily reduce bag use.

Leffingwell, who says that program does not go far enough, and City Council will vote Aug. 4 on a proposition that directs city staff to outline the scope of the ban and a timetable for enactment.

Staff will write a plan that fills in details such as: Are small retailers exempt? What are the penalties for not complying? When will the ban take effect? How will it be phased in?

Killeen-Fort Hood airport

nets $4.3M grant from DHS

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has awarded the Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport a grant for $4,370,331.

The funds will be allocated for the design and construction of a new Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) Checked Baggage Inspection System (CBIS) at the airport. Unexpired, previously appropriated funds from TSA Aviation Security comprise the grant money.

Henderson ISD picks construction method for bond election

Henderson Independent School District (HISD) trustees have selected a construction method - the construction manager at-risk model - for a possible November bond election. The method requires the construction manager to finish the project within a guaranteed maximum price.

Trustees also recently selected an architecture firm to represent the district on the bond.

Flower Mound's Hayden calls

for update on development

Flower Mound Councilman Tom Hayden (pictured) has asked the owners of the River Walk at Central Park to provide the City Council with a status update on a 158-acre multi-purpose development.

To help spur economic growth, Hayden has pushed for Flower Mound Town Hall to be relocated at the River Walk. He has also called for officials to move forward other components of the development, which include adding a hotel and other amenities.

Hayden has suggested an economic partnership to jump-start what would become a municipal complex, citing "all the ingredients to make a nice centralized business district."He has stressed the need for a study to determine an economic rationale for public-private partnerships bringing together municipal buildings, a hotel and park amenities.

City of Palestine looking to hire new operator for city airport

The Palestine City Manger has been authorized to seek proposals for a fixed base operator to run the daily operations of the Palestine Municipal Airport. The airport is currently managed by one city employee. The city will be looking for operators with experience in airport operations and Federal Aviation Administration and Texas Department of Transportation compliance issues. City officials hope a new fixed base operator could help increase traffic at the airport, creating additional revenue through grants and fuel sales.

University Health System awarded $3.5M in incentives

San Antonio's University Health System, which operates University Hospital, recently received more than $3.5 million through a federal program that encourages a transition to electronic medical records.

UHS is in the top 3.2 percent of health systems - and the first system in San Antonio - to receive a payment from the Medicaid Electronic Health Record Incentive Program for adopting electronic records.

Clear Creek ISD to make up budget cuts by selling ad space

To take up slack from a loss of federal funds to Texas schools - totaling about $4 billion statewide - the Clear Creek Independent School District (CCISD) will sell advertising space on some of its public areas and Web site. To compensate, CCISD will have to make up $17.5 million for the approaching school year's budget and $25 million for 2012-13.

The district's board of trustees recently approved the launch of an advertising campaign designed to sell ad space on school buses, at the football stadium and on its Web site. Though unsure of exactly how much revenue these measures will generate, Eva deCardenas, coordinator of marketing and business partnerships for CCISD, said she was confident sales would produce as much as $400,000 per year.

Two of Pleasanton schools' top administrators resign their posts

Two top administrators in the Pleasanton school district - Superintendent Bernard Zarosky and Assistant Superintendent Bruce Yarbrough - recently announced they are stepping down, both effective Nov. 30.

The school board will hire an outside search firm to help find a superintendent.

Singletary chosen to become next Madisonville city manager

The Madisonville City Council has chosen Daniel Singletary as the new city manager. Already a Madisonville resident, Singletary most recently was deputy chief appraiser for the Brazos County Appraisal District. Singletary will replace Jody Butler, who left the city manager post after 17 months to take a job as director of public development services with the City of Cleburne.

Anson picks Bryan Grimes

as its new city manager

Bryan Grimes, former city manager in Petersburg, has been selected to serve as city manager of the City of Anson. Grimes was one of nearly 100 applicants for the job and will begin his new post in September. Grimes is a former project manager and grant writer for a private sector firm and was a governmental affairs field representative for the Texas Association of Realtors. Grimes holds a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University.

Walden will take over as interim superintendent in Millsap ISD

Larry Walden, a former Millsap ISD board member for more than 14 years and former faculty member, has been chosen as MISD's interim superintendent. He will take over for Superintendent Jerry Lee Hunkapiller, who is leaving to take the top job in Floresville. Walden, who was superintendent in Garner ISD for two years, is a local businessman, dealing in farm and ranch supplies.

Conroe looking for designer, builder for emergency center

The City of Conroe is looking for a contractor to help design and build the city's $150,000 Emergency Operations Center. Interested parties will be responsible for the draft and design of all construction documents, such as plans, specifications, cost estimates and construction services, from the schematic phase to the final design phase. They will also be responsible for construction management, compliance codes and all federal regulations, as well as working with the city on required environmental documentation and any required permits.

Parkland COO named 'best candidate' for Atlanta job

Officials with the Grady Health System in Atlanta recently named Parkland Memorial Hospital Chief Operating Officer John M. Haupert (pictured) their top choice for president.

If the Grady board of directors OKs the appointment next month, Haupert would start in early October.

Haupert, who has served as Parkland COO since 2006, began his career in health care management at Methodist Dallas Medical Center. 

Boerne ISD names Cockrill

as interim superintendent

Jack Cockrill will serve as interim superintendent of Boerne Independent School District (BISD) as the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) begins a search to find a permanent replacement for the position.

Cockrill previously served as superintendent at McKinney ISD, where he had worked as a consultant since 1999. He has also served as interim superintendent for two more school districts. Cockrill replaces Dr. John Kelly, who has accepted a similar position at Pearland ISD. 

Lumberton ISD names Valastro  sole finalist for superintendent

John Valastro stands as sole finalist for the position of superintendent at Lumberton Independent School District (LISD). He will replace Ron Sims, who resigned last month.

Valastro has worked for LISD since 2004 and was named assistant superintendent last year.

BISD budget includes

new laptops for freshmen

The Brownwood school board recently OK'd $232,000 to purchase new laptop computers for incoming freshmen. The money will be transferred from the fund balance to the technology fund to make the purchase.

Boerne ISD begins its search

for new superintendent

The Boerne school board has begun its search for a superintendent to replace John Kelly, who will become the chief executive of the Pearland district.

The board plans to interview and select both an interim superintendent and search firm in the next two weeks.

Following police-force furlough, Alto ISD may buy cameras

Following the dissolution of a police force in Alto, officials at Alto Independent School District (AISD) are looking toward the purchase of surveillance cameras. School board members have tabled the purchase until more information is available, however.

"We feel we need to do something," said Dr. Ray DeSpain regarding the lack of police enforcement in town with a population of 1,200.

To make up for a $185,000 budget deficit, Alto's city council voted to furlough the police department for at least six months.

Needed Jefferson County jail repairs would cost about $250K

As budget negotiations continue, Jefferson County may soon have about $250,000 in bid contracts up for grabs as officials pave the way to repair the county jail.

Sheriff Mitch Woods (pictured) said although budgets are tight this year, the upgrades are essential. Woods said he wasn't certain if damage to the facility, which includes a leaking roof and crumbling infrastructure, is related to storms.

Workforce Solutions

shutters Pharr center

Workforce Solutions, the state's human resources agency and job placement organization, will shutter its center in Pharr following a $13 million budget decrease this year.

The Pharr Workforce Center reported assisting 70,000 repeat customers in the last fiscal year in addition to nearly 14,000 new customers.  

Workforce Solutions Chief Executive Officer Yvonne Gonzalez said workers at the Pharr center will not be laid off but will instead be placed in other workforce centers throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

• Col. Kenneth Wisian of Weatherford, Assistant Adjutant General for Air;
• John Youngblood of Cameron, judge of the 20th Judicial District Court in Milam County;
• Raymond A. "Ray" Gill Jr. of Horseshoe Bay, Lower Colorado River Authority

State surplus program plans inventory reduction sale

The Texas Facilities Commmission's State Surplus program will hold a surplus inventory reduction sale at its Bolm Road warehouse from Aug. 1-11. Some of the discounts include 25 percent off appliances and 50 percent off all office furniture - desks, chairs, bookshelves and filing cabinets. Other discounts will be available on some of the program's most popular warehouse inventory items.

The warehouse is located at 6506 Bolm Road in Austin. The warehouse is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. but will be close to the public all day Friday, Aug. 12.

San Elizario superintendent Quatrini announces retirement

Mike Quatrini (pictured) has announced plans to retire from his position as superintendent of San Elizario school district in El Paso County.

Before taking on the charge of San Elizario superintendent in 1996, Quatrini served as principal at a high school, middle school and elementary in the Socorro school district.

AirCheckTexas vehicle replacement winding down

Today is last day to apply for vouchers toward newer, cleaner cars

The AirCheckTexas Drive a Clean Machine Program, which has helped Texans replace or repair their high-emitting vehicles for several years, is winding down for the year and will stop taking applications after July 29.

Applications that qualify for assistance will receive vouchers for up to $3,500 toward the purchase of cleaner vehicles.

The program will be refocused to provide repair assistance for vehicles that have failed the emissions test in the last 30 days. Qualifying motorists can receive vouchers for as much as $600.

Arlington to implement energy-saving windows in City Tower

The City of Arlington can expect to save $78,000 annually in electricity costs after replacing single-pane window panels inside the eight-story City Tower, home to the Municipal Court and Vital Records, among other city offices. The project also includes an air-system installation to help pressurize the building and keep out the elements.  

City officials will finance the majority of the $2.3 million project with a $3.4 million federal stimulus grant, said Alf Bumgardner, public works and transportation construction manager. A portion of costs ($232,435) will be covered by the general fund.

Contractors will begin the installation in September with an estimated timeline of nine to 12 days per floor.

Frankston ISD may call

$17 million bond vote

Officials in the Frankston ISD are heading toward calling a November bond election. The $17 million bond package could include a new wing to the elementary school to house kindergarten through third grades. The addition could include a cafeteria, office space and library. Also being considered are renovations to the agriculture building, upgrades to athletic facilities and construction of a multipurpose facility that could accommodate graduations and basketball games.

Galveston Workforce Solutions

facing possible closure

Workforce Solutions in Galveston may be one of four of the employment centers shuttered as state public-employment officials contend with a tight budget expected to be slashed by $37 million. The other offices in question are located in Spring Branch, downtown Houston and Winnie in Chambers County.

Workforce Solutions, a human resources agency and job placement organization, has 29 locations across the state. The Galveston office is staffed by few and operates mainly as a self-service agency since many of the organization's services are available to job applicants online.

Meanwhile, the Galveston City Council will consider approving a resolution to support keeping Workforce Solutions in operation on the island.