Texas Government Insider
Volume 9, Issue 27 - Friday, July 8, 2011

Combs hires chief privacy, chief information security officers

  

Beefing up cyber security in response to recent data breach affecting 3.5 million

E. Rogers
Elizabeth Rogers

Almost four months ago, a data breach at the State Comptroller's Office resulted in Social Security numbers and other personal information of some 3.5 million individuals being left on a publicly accessible state server for more than a year. Thursday, State Comptroller Susan Combs announced her latest steps to ensure that such a breach doesn't happen again.


Combs announced that she is beefing up the agency's cyber security effort by hiring the agency's first Chief Privacy Officer, Elizabeth Rogers, and a Chief Information Security Officer, Jesse Rivera. Rogers has a legal background

Jesse Rivera
Jesse Rivera

and Rivera counts among his experience nearly five years with the federal government's Central Intelligence Agency.

 
"With technological advances, privacy and information protection is becoming a larger part of the realm of all levels of government as well as the private sector," said Combs in announcing the two new hires. "I am committed to enhancing information privacy at my agency and in Texas."


Rogers comes to the Comptroller's Office from Resources Global Professionals, a private sector business consulting firm, where she served as director of Legal and Regulatory Client Services.  


Prior to her association with Resources Global Professionals, Rogers was general counsel for the State Bar of Texas, worked more than seven years in the Texas Office of the Attorney General and was also in a private law practice. 

 

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More TIGER grant funding made available for transportation projects

 

Texas entities captured $77M last year; more competition expected for this round 

TIGER grantsState and local governments, transit agencies, port authorities, metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) and other political subdivisions will soon be applying for the latest round of Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants that have been announced by the U.S. Department of Transportation.


This third round of TIGER grants includes $527 million in available funds, of which $140 million must go for funding rural projects


The TIGER program was created as part of the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, to provide funds for road, bridge, rail and public transportation projects, streetcars and bike and pedestrian paths. There were two rounds of funding made available last year, totaling $2.1 billion. The current funding was approved by Congress in its recently passed budget.


"These are innovative, 21st century projects that will change the U.S. transportation landscape by strengthening the economy and creating jobs, reducing gridlock and providing safe, affordable and environmentally sustainable transportation choices," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.


Texas entities collectively garnered a total of $77 million in TIGER grant funds during the October and February grant allocations last year. Two entities were funded for a total of $44 million in February and one project gained $34 million in funding in October.

 

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Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' Lone Stars

 

John CookJohn Cook, mayor, City of El Paso
  
Career highlights and education: Mayor Cook was born on Feb. 27, 1946, in Brooklyn, New York, and graduated from Immaculata High School in 1964. He married his wife, Tram, in 1970. He attended The University of Texas at El Paso and earned a degree in business in 1977. Mayor Cook has lived in Northeast El Paso for most of his life, where his family has owned and operated several Northeast businesses. He served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1970, seeing service as a Special Agent Military Intelligence. He served as the distinguished City Council Representative of the 4th District of El Paso from 1999 to June 2005 prior to being elected as City Mayor in 2005.  He has been deeply involved in El Paso's community affairs as a businessman, a teacher, coach, founder and member of the board of many civic and veterans' organizations. 

What I like best about my job is: It may sound corny, but I like to make a difference.  As I look back over the past 12 years, we have made tremendous progress as a city.  I am proud to have played a part in that success.
 
The best advice I've received for my current job is:  Don't worry about who gets credit for our accomplishments as long as we have accomplishments to our credit. 

Advice you would give a new hire in your office:  Be true to yourself and answer to the "guy in the glass" (i.e., mirror).

If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: playing with my grandchildren.

People would be surprised to know that I: entered the priesthood right after high school, but discovered early that was not my calling.

One thing I wish more people knew about my city:
El Paso is a great place to live, work, play and raise a family.
  

 

State sales tax revenue continues to show healthy increase  

Money

Fifteen and counting... That's the number of consecutive months that the state's sales tax revenue has increased. The Texas Comptroller's Office this week announced she will soon distribute $1.72 billion in sales tax revenue to cities, counties, transit systems and special purpose taxing districts. That amount is an increase of 7.2 percent over June of last year.

 

The sales tax revenue includes $474.5 million headed to Texas cities, $29.7 million to counties and $20.8 million to 177 special purpose taxing districts. Figures for all three are up from 6.2 percent to 12.4 percent from July 2010.

 

City allocations were up 6.3 over the same period last year, while figures for counties were up 10 percent compared to last year. Counties showed the biggest growth, up 12.4 percent over the same period last year. 

 

July sales tax allocations represent sales that occurred in May. The next sales tax allocations will be made on Friday, Aug. 12. 

 

To view the allocations by city, click here. To view the allocations by county, click here

 

TEA announces new state-sponsored Student Information System

Brian Rawson The Texas Education Agency recently announced two contract awards for the new state-sponsored Student Information System, an application that allows school districts to manage student data including attendance, grades, test scores and discipline.
 
Many districts are expected to implement the state-sponsored system, due to TEA's negotiations for favorable pricing. The system will reduce the cost to school districts and provide more robust data.
 
"By improving information technology and reducing administrative costs, we can free our schools up to do what they do best - teach the next generation of Texans," said Brian Rawson (pictured), director of Statewide Data Initiatives at TEA.

 

Water/Wastewater Opportunities

TWDB approves $70 million in financial assistance for projects

The Texas Water Development Board recently OK'd nearly $70 million for water-related projects across the state.


Those projects include:

  • $310,000 to the North San Saba Water Supply Corporation to finance the planning, acquisition and design of water system improvements;
  • $2 million to the Moffat Water Supply Corporation in Bell County to finance water system improvements; and
  • $67.47 million to the San Jacinto River Authority in Montgomery County to develop an alternative water supply.
Change of Command

Maj. Gen. Mary Legere presents the colors to Col. Pierre Gervais, incoming brigade commander. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Natalie Sampson) 

 

470th Military Intelligence Brigade...

Change of command ceremony held 

In a recent change of command ceremony at Fort Sam Houston, Col. Pierre Gervais assumed command of the 470th Military Intelligence Brigade, replacing Col. Jim Lee.

 

The main focus of the brigade - which includes nine subordinate battalions, a military intelligence company and the headquarters and headquarters detachment - is to provide intelligence support to the Army with a focus on Central and South America and the Caribbean, according to the brigade's Web site. 
 

Lee, who will become assistant chief of staff for intelligence for U.S. Army Europe, noted that the brigade includes more than 2,300 soldiers and civilians who are currently deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, Colombia and Paraguay.   

 

"The challenges are - and will continue to be - significant," Lee said. "But it is our solemn duty and our sacred trust to continue to improve our units, as the nation is counting on us all."
 

Gervais, who joined the Army in 1989, most recently served as executive officer for the director of the Defense Intelligence Agency.

 

TxDOT Bridge Division Director Hohmann to retire after 29 years

David Hohmann David Hohmann (pictured), Bridge Division director of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), has announced plans to retire. 

 

Hohmann began working for TxDOT in 1982 as an engineering assistant.

 

In 1991, he became a design-branch manager and 10 years later was named Bridge Design Section director, followed by a charge as division director in 2009.

 

LBJ School's project on educator effectiveness, quality has Web site

Cynthia OsborneA new education research and policy Web site, operated by a division of the LBJ School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin, is now available.
 
The site contains news, research and information about educator effectiveness.
 
The Project on Educator Effectiveness and Quality, best known for developing a measure of a teacher's effect on student achievement, created and maintains the site.

 

"We are excited to provide a new resource to those who are interested in education research and policy, especially our current projects' stakeholders," said PEEQ Director, Dr. Cynthia Osborne (pictured).

 

Witherspoon named UT-El Paso dean of College of Liberal Arts

Patricia WitherspoonOfficials at The University of Texas at El Paso recently named Patricia D. Witherspoon (pictured) dean of the College of Liberal Arts, effective June 15.


Witherspoon, who had served as interim dean since September 2010, began at UTEP in 2000 as chair of the Department of Communication and in 2008 became dean of the Graduate School.
 

Previously, Witherspoon worked as an administrator in UT-Austin's College of Communication.

 

UNT hires outside firms to boost school's branding initiative

To bolster the school's public image, officials at the University of North Texas (UNT) have hired four private firms to orchestrate two of four projects that make up part of a new branding initiative. The measure arrives on the heels a perception review conducted last fall that displeased UNT President Lane Rawlins.
 

The hired firms will work to promote the new football stadium, set to open the Mean Green's home opening game on Sept. 10, and help the university refine its image. So far, the university has doled out $75,000 on the initiative.
 

UNT officials plan to hire more firms to work on two remaining projects as part of the rebranding project. These initiatives will focus on social media and refining the university's news service.

 

Outgoing M.D. Anderson president to join Baker Institute

John Mendelsohn The outgoing president of the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, John Mendelsohn (pictured), plans to join the Houston-based Baker Institute in March.

 

Mendelsohn, who will step down as president of M.D. Anderson in August and then go on sabbatical to Cambridge, will help shape the institute's health policy research programs as a senior fellow.
 
He will also work at M.D. Anderson as the co-director of the Institute for Personalized Cancer Therapy, a new venture whose aim is to treat cancers based on each patient's genetic profile.

 

SPI Training Services

Angelo State selects Penry for VP for Development

Jason PenryDr. Jason C. Penry (pictured) has been promoted to vice president for development. He has been serving as executive director of development and was in charge of the university's record-breaking capital campaign.
 

Penry now becomes the university's chief fundraising officer. Before joining ASU, Penry spent more than two years as executive director of the Oklahoma State University POSSE, the fundraising arm for athletics, raising $26 million in annual fund revenues. Before joining OSU, Penry worked three years with the 12th Man Foundation at Texas A&M University. While there, he was also a sports management program associate.
 

Penry holds a bachelor's degree from Louisiana State University-Shreveport, his master's from LSU in Baton Rouge and his Ph.D. from Texas A&M University.

 

DCCD's Jones to become chancellor of California district

Andrew JonesDallas County Community College District Executive Vice Chancellor for Education Affairs, Dr. Andrew Jones (pictured), will be leaving the Texas district for another district on the West Coast. A senior college administrator for more than 30 years, Jones is headed to the Coast Community College District in Orange County, California, where he has accepted the position of chancellor.


A former president of the Community College of Baltimore County in Catonsville, Maryland, Jones has held a number of academic and administrative positions in his three decades in higher education, including director of special services, associate professor of adult and continuing education, assistant to the president, Title I director, dean, vice president for academic and student affairs and provost/professor of education.
 

Jones holds an undergraduate degree and his master's degree from the University of Maryland and his doctorate from Temple University.

 

UNT selects Clark as vice provost for academic resources

Allen ClarkDr. Allen Clark (pictured) has been named vice provost for academic resources at the University of North Texas. Clark was previously serving the university as assistant vice president for Institutional Research and Effectiveness. He replaces Donna Asher, who has been named associate vice chancellor for business services at the UNT System.


Clark has been a member of the UNT staff since 2000, when he was hired as a senior research analyst in the Office of Institutional Research. He was promoted to associate director in 2003 and in 2005 was named director of Institutional Research. 


The new vice provost earned his bachelor's degree from New Mexico State University, his master's from Texas Woman's University and his doctorate from UNT.

 

Hays County officials apply for $74M in FHA funds for road projects

Hays County officials have applied for $74 million in Federal Highway Administration (FHA) funds to pay for 15 road projects. The Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) will facilitate funding if approved.
 

Officials committed $40,000 from the Hays County transportation budget for one of the projects, which calls for ramps and a turnaround to be added to Interstate 35 between Kyle and Buda.
 

Other slated projects include a new hike-and-bike trail on Ranch Road 12 and shoulder additions to Dacy Lane. 

 

MSU health dean Susan Sportsman announces retirement

Susan SportsmanMidwestern State University Dean Susan Sportsman (pictured) of the College of Health Sciences and Human Services recently announced that she will retire in August. 

 

Sportsman will begin a consulting career for a leading science and health publishing house.

 

Sportsman, who has led MSU's health science department for 14 years, was hired because she is a nurse specialist.

 

Angelo State picks May as new interim provost, academic VP

Brian MayAngelo State University has named Dr. Brian J. May (pictured) interim provost and vice president for academic affairs. May has been serving as dean of graduate studies. May succeeds Dr. Tony Blose, who resigned to return to teaching.


May is a veteran staff member of ASU since 1994. He was named interim dean of graduate studies in 2009, and made permanent dean the following year. Before joining ASU, May was executive director of the Mohair Council of America.
 

An alumnus of ASU, May earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from ASU and his Ph.D. from Texas A&M University.

 

UH-Downtown picks Montgomery for vice president slot

Lisa MontgomeryLisa M. Montgomery (pictured) has been chosen to become Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Management at the University of Houston-Downtown, effective Aug. 12.


Montgomery is a former vice president, enrollment services/student success for an urban, private liberal arts university in Charlotte, North Carolina. She brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education student affairs and student services to her new charge. She is a former vice president of student development and enrollment management at Hostos Community College-City University of New York; former dean of students at Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, Connecticut; former executive assistant to the vice president for student affairs at State University of New York; and former dean of students at Kendall College in Evanston, Illinois.
 

Montgomery earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Central Arkansas, her master's from Florida State University and her doctorate from the University of Virginia.

 

El Paso's Sun Metro transit line named year's best in North America

Sun MetroEl Paso's Sun Metro has been honored by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) as the Outstanding Public Transit System of the Year in North America.
 

To celebrate the distinction, the city's mass transit department offered free rides on the day of the awards ceremony held at the Downtown Sun Metro Transfer Center.
 

Mayor John Cook said the award represents "a wonderful example of just how far we've come over the last five years," adding he challenges all of El Paso residents to ride the transit system "and see for yourselves why we've been named the best in North America." Just last year Cook received the Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT) Road Hand Award for his work on El Paso transportation projects.

 

White Settlement's Farmers Branch Creek upgrades to begin soon

Construction could start soon on a bond package measure to improve the flood-ravaged area around Farmers Branch Creek in White Settlement - six years after voters approved the measure.
 

The project will cost more than originally projected, however, prompting the City Council to issue up to $6 million in certificates of obligation paid for with property tax revenue. The City of White Settlement has also contributed to the total of the cost along with $7 million in federal funds.  

 
Construction bids should be awarded by the end of August. Projects include widening the main portion of the creek and the Las Vegas Trail tributary and replacing bridges at Meadow Park, Las Vegas Trail and George Street.

 

Reduced-rate Consulting

Travis Co. committee slashes $638M wish list for November election

The Travis County Citizens Bond Advisory Committee is almost finished paring down a $638 million wish list of road and park projects to a trim $150 million before the options are presented to voters in a November bond election. Planning and budget officials projected $150 million was all the county could afford.
 

The remaining projects so far include: $30 million in infrastructure improvements to roads, bridges, sidewalks and bike lanes; $20 million in new infrastructure for a development abutting the southeast city limits of Austin; almost $14 million for widening Cameron Road; $18.3 million for projects near Austin's Colony subdivision in eastern Travis County; $12 million for Onion Creek greenway upgrades; $15 million for the purchase of park land in  eastern Travis County; and $20 million for a park land purchase near the Pedernales River, Milton Reimers Ranch Park and Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve. 

 

Fort Worth library system to host meetings on new $52.7M plan

Gleniece RobinsonIn a move to potentially adopt new technologies, remodel branches and possibly lease new structures, the Fort Worth library system will hold public meetings in the coming months as part of its comprehensive 20/20 Vision plan.
 

The report expands on Library Director Gleniece Robinson's (pictured) plan laid out to City Council three years ago at a budget workshop. Proposals to close branch libraries Wedgwood and Meadowbrook sparked public outcry, prompting officials to put those measures on hold, according to Robinson. The new report outlines suggestions to remodel several branches, lease larger facilities to replace closed branches Ridglea and Seminary and possibly lease new spaces providing specialized services to the tune of $52.7 million.  
 

The full plan and consultants' reports can be accessed here.

 

McKinney reviews three visions for Gateway project

Jason GrayMcKinney city officials recently reviewed development plans presented by three companies for proceeding with the stalled Gateway project, a proposed public-private partnership featuring a mixed-use development. It is planned near the Sam Rayburn Tollway and Central Expressway.
 

The Gateway project includes a 12-acre hotel-conference center site, 58-acre office-retail area and 11 additional acres south of Gateway Boulevard to mark the entrance to the city, said City Manager Jason Gray (pictured). Gray said he asked three development companies to present plans because he hoped to get the best ideas by casting a wide net and finding a developer with a vision for the project that is similar to the vision of city leaders.
 

Council members also approved a resolution placing the three developers on a short list and allowing the city manager to begin negotiating the terms of a potential contract for developing, designing and constructing the Gateway project. Gray plans to present a staff recommendation for a developer to council members in late July if staff decides the plans meet the city's criteria for project costs.

 

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Rosebud City Council opts for private firm to run water, wastewater

The Rosebud City Council has signed a contract with a private environmental service to operate and maintain the city's water and wastewater operations following an administrative shakeup. The services had previously been maintained by city employees.


The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) had cited multiple violations at the wastewater treatment facility, including a "failure to properly operate and maintain all systems of collection, treatment and disposal." The entity had amassed several thousands of dollars in TCEQ fines.


The private firm officially takes over operations July 11 with a three-year term contract with automatic renewals set to renew every two years.

 

Kerr Co. looks to stoke public-private deal for $13.8M overhaul

Guy OverbyKerr County officials are seeking support for what they tout as an economic-development initiative: a public-private partnership that will upgrade the Hill Country Exhibit Center and agricultural facility, to the tune of $13.8 million. To pay for the venture, county leaders are looking to foot one-third of the bill with the remainder split equally among private donations and sales tax revenues controlled by the city of Kerrville.
 

County Commissioner Guy Overby (pictured), who is spearheading the project, said its "well past time" for the project to happen and said people are "hopeful we can get it moving forward." The proposal arrives eight years after voters narrowly rejected a $3.5 million spending measure that would have improved the facility.
 

Plans call for the addition of a 45,000-square-foot show barn and a 35,000-square-foot exhibit center as well as new concessions, lights, bleachers, restroom and arena roof. Other parts of the facility would be demolished or renovated. 

 

Galveston park to honor native heavyweight-boxing legend Johnson

To honor the Galveston native who became the first African-American to win the world heavyweight boxing title, the Jack Johnson Coordination Committee has approved the final design of Jack Johnson Park.
 

The committee now looks to the Galveston City Council to approve a construction contractor.
 

The park is set to include a life-size statue of Johnson, which should be ready for delivery in September with a dedication ceremony set to follow in October or November.

 

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Sanger ISD prepares summer technology initiative

Kent CrutsingerThe Sanger Independent School District (SISD) is preparing to launch a technology initiative campaign this summer. The technology upgrades will be implemented in three phases over the next several years thanks to money saved from the district's Energy Conservation Campaign last year.
 

Starting this year, officials have agreed to invest $214,506 in teacher laptops, following by a $202,689 investment in student laptops in 2012, according to Chris Miller, the district's director of instructional technology. Those measures will be followed by less expensive expenditures that involve "extensive professional development" and will expand the district's wireless infrastructure, Miller said. About $120,000 will be spent improving Internet access.
 

Superintendent Kent Crutsinger (pictured) said officials are hoping to "equip our kids for the next step in their lives after they leave us." He added, "We believe this is a step that has to be taken in order for the kids to succeed."

 

Alice authorizes RFQ for multipurpose facility needs assessment

Alice Mayor John Lemon last week broke a split decision to authorize a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to bring in a consultant to facilitate a needs assessment and feasibility study for a new multipurpose facility.
 

The consultant will help assess whether the city's needs will necessitate one of the three following options: a facility with a convention center without a swimming pool, a facility with a pool but no convention center or a facility that houses both options.

 

Bastrop to apply for grant for sheriff's office for digital analysis

Terry PickeringThe Bastrop County Commissioners Court has authorized the sheriff's department to apply for a grant that would allow law officers to perform their own computer and digital forensic analysis. The grant is issued by the Texas Attorney General's Office Internet Crimes Against Children Program. 


The funds would help supply nearly $30,000 in software costs and an annual $3,000 fee for maintenance, giving law enforcement officials the ability to extract data from cell phones, smart phones, PDAs and certain GPS devices.


Sheriff Terry Pickering (pictured) said the software will speed the laborious 12-month to 18-month turnaround time normally required to extract such data and help crack down on crimes ranging from child pornography to harassment to homicide.

 

Denton ISD names Robbins director of transportation

Aaron Robbins has been selected by the school board to serve as director of transportation for the Denton Independent School District (DISD). He replaces Gene Holloway, who recently retired after 24 years with the district.


Robbins most recently served as supervisor of transportation dispatch and operations at DISD, where he has worked for five years as an assistant dispatcher, supervisor of district transportation for extracurricular activities and as a liaison between dispatch and other departments.
 

Robbins holds a bachelor's degree from the University of North Texas and is the recipient of DISD's Staff Member of the Year award for 2007, 2008 and 2009. 

 

Johnson County purchases communications upgrades

Roger HarmonJohnson County officials recently OK'd spending $3.65 million toward communications upgrades that will enable first responders from different agencies to share resources.

 

The new network, the first since the 1970s, will allow local, state and federal public safety workers to communicate directly.

 

County judge Roger Harmon (pictured), who cast the only dissenting vote, did not want to spend money for the system during a bad economy.

 

Upshur County still operating without county judge

The Upshur County Commissioners Court recently voted 3-1 to delay appointing an interim county judge until the July 15 meeting. James Crittenden cast the dissenting vote because he wanted to make an immediate hire so that the court could begin developing a new budget.

 

The county has been without a judge since November 2010, when Judge Dean Fowler was suspended related to a public comments section being removed from commissioners court meetings.


The commissioners will likely appoint an interim judge from among three candidates: Ronnie Mitchell, former head of the county Juvenile Probation Office; James Merle Bowling, retired businessman; and Frank Burka, a used-car dealer.

 

Did you miss S&L Pipeline?

Lakeway takes further action on bond package for new library

Steve JonesThe Lakeway City Council is doing its part to move along a bond package passed by voters last month that will fund a new building for the Lake Travis Community Library. The Council has approved a lease agreement with the library to issue as much as $1.25 million in general obligation bonds.

 
The city will hold ownership interest in the new building "until the bonds are paid back," said City Manager Steve Jones (pictured), who added the agreement will give the city a lease interest in the property "to compliment its interest in the building." The move is in accordance with the bond package, according to Jones.

 

Live Oak, Fulton centers to seek construction bids

Representatives from an architecture firm recently laid out planning and construction schedules for Rockport's Live Oak Learning Center (LOLC) and Fulton Learning Center (FLC). LOLC officials will select a site work contractor in November with construction slated to begin in March 2012, the same month final construction documents will be presented to the board of FLC. Primary project construction begins at FLC in May of next year.
 

Construction work at FLC will be more onerous and detailed, according to one of the principal architects, to ensure construction is planned around school activities. "We don't plan on doing anything at Fulton until school is out," he said.    
 

Construction is scheduled to be complete and facilities at both learning centers will be ready to be moved into by June 2013.

 

Pflugerville officials weigh City Hall renovations after study

Brandon WadePflugerville Managing Director of Operations Troy Fletcher recently presented the results of an independent study of renovation options for City Hall. The study follows a failed bond election for a new facility in 2008. Officials have not voted on the issue, but will consider recommendations when laying out the budget for Fiscal Year 2012.
 

City Manager Brandon Wade (pictured) said even though the existing City Hall has a "great deal of space constraints," it's highly unlikely the city will build a new City Hall in the next 10 years considering current economic conditions. Until then "an interim solution" is needed, he said.
 

Based on the independent review, city officials have proposed renovations to the City Hall totalling $275,000. Fletcher also recommended relocating several departments to the Travis County ESD complex to reduce overcrowding and improve efficiency, a move that would cost $123,000 per year in rent and another $270,000 in upgrades. 

 

$4.3 million Mission County Park upgrade previewed

San Antonio residents recently saw preliminary designs that show how a $4.3 million upgrade will transform Mission County Park. 
 

The restored rotunda, new pavilions and picnic areas, upgraded playscapes and landscaping are scheduled to start in February and finish within seven months. 
 

The 16-acre park will be made up of three main areas: one area for festivals, another for large gatherings and a third for smaller groups that can also be used for overflow parking.

 

Corpus Christi city officials allow more time for city auditor search 

The Corpus Christi City Council Administrative Committee (CCCCAC) has agreed to extend the application deadline for the city auditor position.

 

Staff will now be able to repost for the position and rank applicants before presenting candidates' information to members of the Corpus Christi City Council in July.

 



Disaster Preparedness Workshop planned for business owners

A Disaster Preparedness Workshop for Small to Mid-Sized Business Owners and Key Staff will be presented Wednesday, July 20, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Phillips Event Center, 8140 Exchange Drive in Austin. Speakers include: Linda Haynie and Candice Wade Cooper, City of Austin Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management; Diana McClure, Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety; Charles O. Walts, Senior Business Continuity Consultant; Ed Schaefer, director of Homeland Security, Capital Area Council of Governments; and Richard Torres, Business Continuity. The workshop is designed to educate business professionals on how to develop a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan for their business. Each attendee will receive the Open for Business planning toolkit, which includes forms, checklists and easy step-by-step guidance to take the guesswork out of planning. For more information, and to register, click here.

  

TASSCC  Annual Conference scheduled Aug. 7-10 in San Antonio

"Reboot Camp - Strengthening the Core" is the theme for the Texas Association of State Systems for Computing and Communications (TASSCC) 2011 Annual Conference. This year's event is slated for Aug. 7-10 at the Westin Riverwalk Hotel in San Antonio. This year's conference will feature numerous speakers who will provide information and insight on how to address today's pressing technology challenges. There will also be session tracks focusing on security, leadership, managing IT services and infrastructure costs effectively and enabling mobility, transparency and social media. The keynote lunch speaker on Monday, Aug. 8, will be Beverly Chiodo, who will address "Character-Driven Success." Invited to address the General Session is Joe Jarzombek - Director for Software Assurance, National Cyber Security Division, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. For more information, click here. To register, click here. To view the agenda, click here.

 

National Assn. of Social Workers/Texas Chapter plans conference

The National Association of Social Workers/Texas Chapter has announced its 35th Annual State Conference, slated for Oct. 8-10 at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel. Billed as the largest social work conference in the Southwest, this year's conference features features former college athlete Brent Rasmussen speaking on "Changing the Future: The Power of Attitude, Hope and Help," and NASW/TX Government Relations Director Sue Milam addressing "The Need for 'Boot Straps' in a Texas Tough Environment." Numerus breakout sessions are available, covering issues from building an ethical private practice to navigating the maze of long-term care. This year's conference features the folllowing tracts: behavioral and mental health; health/medical; child, family and schools; professional/career; community; social work education and aging/disabilities. More than 16 hours ofContinuing Education Credit are available. The organization is currently seeking exhibitors and sponsors. For more information, click here. To register, click here.

 

TSABAA planning 4nd Annual Summer Conference in July

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

 

TxDOT San Antonio Small Business Briefing conference

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

 

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Emergency personnel support nationwide broadband network in bill

 

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

 

The fate of a much-needed national public safety communication network rests in the hands of the U.S. Congress. A bill that recently cleared a Senate committee now heads for debate on the Senate floor. Law enforcement officials, fire departments, emergency medical services and other first responders have endorsed the proposed statute and are watching the bill's movement carefully.
  
The Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act is designed to strengthen public safety by freeing up valuable wireless spectrum for emergency use. Spectrum is wireless capacity.
  
It took the events of 9-11 for the nation to realize how vulnerable America was because of the country's interoperability problems. Emergency responders faced huge communications problems as they tried to react to the crisis. The problem still exists today and police, fire departments and EMS teams struggle because they cannot interface with each other by radios or phones because they are all on different communication networks.
  
  
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Northrop Grumman

Lake Travis ISD Superintendent Rocky Kirk resigns his position

Rocky KirkDonald Rockwell "Rocky" Kirk, superintendent of schools for the Lake Travis ISD since 2002, resigned his post Thursday for "personal reasons." Kirk, who was not at the special called meeting Thursday night, reached an agreement with the school board that allows him to pursue other interests while allowing the board to proceed with hiring a new superintendent.


The board had only praise for Kirk, noting that since 2002, the district has achieved unprecedented success in both its academic and extracurricular programs. The district earned an Exemplary rating from the Texas Education Agency in 2010 under Kirk's leadership. The school board will hold a called meeting on Monday, at which time members are expected to name an interim superintendent and select a search firm to assist with seeking out qualified superintendent candidates.

 

Arlington approves $55M

Hike, Bike Master Plan

The Arlington City Council has approved $55.3 million to add on-street bike lanes and other hiking and biking accommodations to the city as part of the Hike and Bike Master Plan. The plan calls for a 125-mile network of on-street and off-street bike facilities in addition to 149 miles of new sidewalks.

 
According to advocates, the move stands to improve air quality, encourage fitness, provide alternate routes for pedestrians and attract new businesses and families.
 

The projects will largely be paid for with bonds as it's implemented and built over the next 30 to 40 years.

 

New superintendent, board revamp at Stafford School District

Lawrence HindtLawrence Hindt (pictured) will serve as superintendent of Stafford Municipal School District (SMSD). In his new role, he will lead the effort to facilitate four recently passed bond propositions totaling $49.9 million to upgrade SMSD facilities and improve its image.

 
Hindt formerly headed Fort Bend ISD as superintendent and is pursuing his doctoral degree at the University of Houston.
 

The SMSD Board of Trustees has also received something of an overhaul with Ettienne Zak selected to serve as president, Ed Castillo as vice president and ShaMekka Pratt-Simmons as secretary.

 

Pecos narrows search

for new city manager

Pecos City Council members recently narrowed their search for a new city manager after interviewing four applicants for the post. Council members plan to conduct second interviews with two of the candidates, city officials said.
 

Council members appointed Clay McKinney, the police chief, as interim city manager following the death of Joseph G. Torres, the former city manager.

 

At&T

Missouri City officials name Mueller interim city manager

Alan Mueller has been named Missouri City's interim city manager thanks to a recent City Council vote. He replaces Frank Simpson, who resigned to take over as city manager of College Station.


Mueller previously served as a consultant in the private sector and has 16 years experience working in Texas city governments, including charges as city manager in Gainesville and deputy city manager of Pearland.

 

David Duncan returns

to SPI  as senior consultant

David DuncanDavid Duncan is returning to Strategic Partnerships, Inc. (SPI) as a senior consultant. Duncan served in that same capacity at SPI from 2003 to 2004 and brings to SPI a nearly 20-year record of public service. Duncan has worked at the local, state and federal levels of government.
 

On the state level, he was legislative director for the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission - now the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality - from 1993 to 1998. For the next five years, Duncan again was a legislative director, but this time for the Texas Workforce Commission. He became communications director and legislative liaison for the Texas Department of Information Resources in 2004, serving there until his recent return to SPI.
 

Duncan holds a master's degree from The University of Texas at Austin's Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs.

 

 

Live Oak County Airport

gets state funding for projects

The Live Oak County Airport will receive $120,000 in state funding for improvements that include the demolition of barbed wire fencing, the construction of new game fencing and eight new gates.

 

The Texas Transportation Commission will fund 90 percent of the projects' cost while the county picks up the remaining 10 percent.

 

Lone Star Auctioneers

Texas City ISD board appoints

four assistant superintendents

Following Bob Brundrett's departure as superintendent of the Texas City Independent School District (TCISD), the school board has appointed the district's four assistant superintendents to fill his place in the interim.
 

The four assistant personnel will work together as co-superintendents and include: Diane Martin, assistant superintendent for secondary education; Susan Myers, assistant superintendent for elementary education; Liz Payne, assistant superintendent of business and operations; and Terri Watkins, assistant superintendent for support services.
 

The TCISD board has yet to discuss the process for finding and hiring a full-time replacement for Brundrett, who began serving as superintendent in 2008.

 

Marshall's director of finance resigns post after one year

Melinda McGinnisThe Marshall school district's executive director of finance, Melinda McGinnis (pictured), abruptly resigned her post, effective Aug. 3.

 

McGinnis, who has served in the position for one year, did not discuss why she is leaving or what she will do next.
 

McGinnis said she has been offered several job opportunities, but has not agreed to take any of them.

 

Health Information Designs

Kelly named sole finalist for superintendent post at Pearland

John KellyDr. John Kelly (pictured) has been named sole finalist for the position of superintendent at Pearland Independent School District (PISD).
 

Kelly has nearly three decades' worth of experience in education. He has served as superintendent at Boerne ISD and Pearsall ISD, principal for a high school near Kingsville and as a teacher in the Peace Corps in Southern Africa. 
 

Kelly, who spent four years in the United States Air Force before college, earned his bachelor's and master's degrees and doctorate from Texas A&M University.

 

VIA hires program manager

for transit initiative

VIA Metropolitan Transit has hired an engineering and architecture firm to work as its in-house consultant on urban rail. The firm will oversee the entire process. One thrusts of the firm's engagement will be to ensure that VIA has the funding to build a rail system. Local funding must be available before matching federal funds are allocated.


Local officials are hoping for an urban rail line within the next five to seven years, although officials with the Federal Transportation Authority say such a project can take up to 10 years to become fully operational. The VIA board will next vote on its long-range plan, which includes proposals for streetcar and light-rail routes.

 

LeFleur Transportation

Woodlands Township seeks 

bids for marketing campaigns

Woodlands Township officials are now accepting bids from public relations agencies for a one-year contract to market the area.

 

Officials, who will take bids until July 29, have a public relations budget of $36,000, according to the 2012 budget. The bids will be reviewed Aug. 1.

 

Clyde CISD tags Scharnhorst as lone finalist for superintendent

Keith ScharnhorstTrustees for the Clyde Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) recently named Keith Scharnhorst (pictured) as the lone finalist for superintendent. Now serving as superintendent of Grandview ISD, Scharnhorst will replace Dr. Gail Haterius, whose resignation was effective on June 30.


Scharnhorst holds a bachelor's degree from Texas State University, a master's degree from Texas Woman's University and superintendent's certification from Lamar University.

 

Webster seeks contractor

for lift station pumps

City of Webster officials are accepting bids until July 21 for disaster-standby pumps for lift stations as part of a hurricane recovery plan.

 

The contract is being funded through the Texas Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery.

 

 
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Clear Creek ISD seeks contractor for catering, event services

Officials at the Clear Creek school district are now taking bids for various one-year contracts that include restaurant, catering and event services. 


Officials expect to spend a total $300,000 on the contracts, which begin Sept. 1. 


The district is accepting bids until July 19 and the school board will select contractors in August. 

 

Interim superintendent Norton named to TISD permanent post

Paul NortonPaul Norton (pictured), interim superintendent of the Texarkana Independent School District (TISD), has been named to the permanent post by the district's board of trustees.

 

Norton began working at TISD in 2001 as associate principal of Texas High School (THS). Two years later he was named principal of the school. He has also taught as an adjunct professor at Texas A&M University-Texarkana (TAMU-T). 

 

Norton holds a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University and a master's degree from TAMU-T along with principal and superintendent certifications.

 

Wolff pushing for county manager for Bexar County

Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff is pushing for hiring a county manager and will bring his proposal before the county commissioner's court next week. Other large counties in Texas - including Harris, Dallas and Tarrant - have similar positions aimed at making county government more efficient and to get more for its dollars without raising taxes.
 

If a county manager is hired, the departments led by executive directors and not the Economic Development Department or departments under elected officials, would be affected. A majority of the court has already endorsed the proposal. Wolff has in mind the appointment of David L. Smith to the post. Smith, a county employee since 1997, has been director of the Planning and Resource Management Department since 2004.

 

SPI on Twitter

Fort Bend ISD seeks contractor for beverage counters, buses

Fort Bend school district officials are seeking bids for 32 new school buses and three replacement stainless steel counters.

When selecting a contractor, Fort Bend officials will consider price, reputation and quality of product. 


The district will take the bus bids until July 13 and the counter bids until July 11.

 

Kilgore ISD picks Sanders to head transportation department

Jody SandersBoard members for Kilgore Independent School District recently named Jody Sanders (pictured) to head up the district's transportation department. 
 

Sanders, who previously served as a middle school principal for the district, will replace Joe Hooper, who retired. Sanders also will serve in the leadership of Elder Cooperative School and take over some of the responsibilities of a retiring principal in January, said Superintendent Jody Clements.

 

Woodlands seeking bids for marketing, advertising services

The Woodlands Convention and Visitor's Center recently began accepting sealed bids for a contract to conduct a marketing campaign to promote the area for weekend getaways and family vacations as well as a shopping, dining and entertainment destination.

 

The one-year contract will begin in January 2012 and will include an option to renew until the end of 2013. The estimated budget for advertising services in 2012 is $609,298 and includes funding for media placement, agency costs, production costs, public relations and visitor services.

 

Gatesville water plant

project flows to phase 2

The Gatesville City Council recently OK'd an $8 million revenue bond project to modernize the Gatesville Regional Water Plant. 
 

Phase one, which includes a new water line and expanded filter system, will be complete in about a month. The second phase of the project, which will expand the water storage capacity, will be put out to bid once the engineering design is complete. 
 

Phase two is expected to be complete in two to three years.

 

Recent Reports

 

Texas Government Insider Archives

 

Volume 1-8 Archives -1/8/04 - 7/1/11 
  
Governor's appointments
Governor Rick Perry has announced the following appointments:
  • Rebeca Huddle of Bellaire, justice of the 1st Court of Appeals;
  • Nizam Peerwani of Fort Worth, chair, Texas Forensic Science Commission;
  • Barbara Cargill of The Woodlands, chair, State Board of Education;
  • Steven Thomas of Kountze, judge, 356th Judicial District Court;
  • James LaFavers of Amarillo, Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles;
  • Michelle Skyrme of Longview,Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
  • James H. Lee of Houston,  Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board;
  • Michael Doguet of Nome, Texas Bioenergy Policy Council;
  • Bruce Bagelman of Dallas, Texas Bioenergy Policy Council;
  • Michael Kerby Jr. of Houston, Texas Bioenergy Policy Council;
  • Jeffrey Trucksess of Austin, Texas Bioenergy Policy Council;
  • Richard Wendt III of Bellaire, chair, Texas Board of Licensure for Professional Medical Physicists;
  • Daniel "Eric" Kalenak of Midland, justice, the 11th Court of Appeals   

Spring Branch ISD seeks

boiler inspection, repair bids

Spring Branch school district officials are now accepting sealed bids until July 12 for inspection and repair services of 52 boilers.

The one-year contract, which may be renewed an additional two years, begins Aug. 1. 

 

Arlington's Rivera elected

to Board of Latino Officials

Robert Rivera Arlington City Council member Robert Rivera (pictured) was recently named to the board of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials.
 

The association, made up of more than 6,000 Latinos, aims to represent the political, cultural and regional diversity of the Latino community.
 

"It is a privilege to work alongside leaders from across the country who are committed to strengthening our nation's communities," said Rivera, who has been a city council member since 2005.

 

Coleman hires Catoe

as new city manager

Coleman City Council members recently hired Paul Catoe as the new city manager to replace former City Manager Larry Weise. 


Catoe previously served as a city administrator in Eastland, Colorado City and Hamilton. He was selected from a field of 50 applicants, city officials said.

 

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Etoile ISD selects Hottman as lone finalist for superintendent

Sarah HottmanEtoile Independent School District board members recently selected Sarah Hottman (pictured) as the sole finalist for superintendent.  Hottman currently is an elementary school principal in Porter.

 

She will replace Andy Trekell, who resigned earlier to become superintendent at Hemphill ISD.

 

Developers plan offshore oil facility at former Ingleside site

Developers have rezoned the former Naval Station Ingleside to make way for an offshore oil service facility, thanks to a vote from the City Council. The redevelopment will convert the Port of Corpus Christi property from residential to industrial with a 50-foot buffering strip designed to divide the facility from the neighboring town, Ingleside on the Bay.
 

Residents of Ingleside on the Bay originally requested a 150-foot buffering strip, but city officials declined that request for fear of losing associated property tax revenue estimated at $98,000 a year.
 

Officials from a group of Houston-based businessmen developing the facility estimate the enterprise could potentially replace the 2,500 jobs lost when the naval base closed in 2010. The rezoning hinges on a final sale to the businessmen, who have predicted a boom in deepwater drilling in the western Gulf of Mexico.

 

Highland Village City Attorney Palumbo steps down

Highland Village City Attorney Dorothy "Dottie" Palumbo has resigned from her post, citing a family illness as reason for stepping down. She began serving as city attorney in 2005.
 

The Highland Village City Council unanimously accepted Palumbo's resignation and named a Dallas-based firm to take over her charge in the interim. 

 

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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