Rising construction costs hamstring Texas schoolsMoney from recent bonds often not enough to complete projectsSome Texas school districts are running out of bond money before completion of construction projects due to the rising costs of building materials, said Gwen Santiago (left), executive director for the Texas Association of School Business Officials. Santiago said some schools are seeking additional bonds elections to authorize continued construction or are scaling back on their construction projects as the funds dwindle. "It's a serious problem," she said. Texas' school construction prices are being affected by the global demand for building materials such as steel, copper, diesel and asphalt, said Phil Thoden (right), building division president for the Austin chapter of Associated General Contractors of America (AGCA). "Construction costs across the board are going up," he said, adding that even international influences such as China's massive building spree for the Olympics are affecting construction prices in the United States. [more]TxDOT releases list of 'structurally deficient' bridges"All bridges open to traffic on Texas public roads in the State of Texas are safe," reads a document released Thursday by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) in which the agency lists the state's more than 2,000 structurally deficient bridges. TxDOT officials are quick to point out that "structurally deficient" does not mean the bridge is unsafe. The term is used by the Federal Highway Administration to classify and prioritize bridges for federal funding. Those bridges deemed structurally deficient generally go on a high priority list to receive available federal funding for rehabilitation or replacement. In response to a recent letter from Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst requesting an update on the condition of all bridges in the state, Texas Transportation Commission Chair Ric Williamson (pictured) described Texas bridges as "safe," but added that upkeep on both Texas roads and bridges is "increasingly expensive." He noted that lawmakers in recent sessions of the Texas Legislature have asked TxDOT to "do more with less." [more]Jenkins picked to head up TDCJ parole divisionStuart Jenkins (pictured), who has worked through the ranks of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice's Parole Division as a supervisor, a hearings analyst, a regional director and head of the parole division's warrants section, this week was named director of the Parole Division. The Parole Division supervises offenders who are released from prison and are continuing to serve out their time in Texas communities. Jenkins will replace Bryan Collier, who last month was named deputy executive director of TDCJ. Jenkins began his career with TDCJ in the adult parole system as a parole officer in Houston more than two decades ago. He most recently served as deputy director of support services in the Parole Division, where he supervised the Parole Division's Review & Release Processing, Specialized Programs, Warrants and Staff Services functions. Jenkins holds a bachelor's degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' Lone StarsThis week's salute is to Brian Rawson, the state's Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and executive director of Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR)Career highlights and education: Over 23 years of experience in the field of information technology, 19 of which have been with the Great State of Texas. Prior to being appointed as the state's Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Executive Director of the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR), I spent two years as the Director of DIR's Service Delivery Division. I've held executive-level positions with the Texas Department of Transportation and the Texas Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund Board, as well as service with the Texas Education Agency as its Chief Information Officer. I hold a BBA from The University of Texas at Austin, and an MBA from St. Edwards University. What I like best about my job is: As the state's CTO, my favorite part of the job is having the ability to serve Texans and Texas public agencies in such a substantive way. Many may view technology as simply boxes and wires, but I know it is so much more than that. Technology touches everything we do and is fundamental to providing better service to the citizens in every corner of the state. The best advice I've received for my current job: That it is a privilege to serve the public interest. We all have a finite time to really make a difference, so approach every opportunity with a healthy sense of urgency and get the job done. Advice I would give a new hire in my office: As you leave the office every day, ask yourself if you are leaving DIR and your customers better off than you found them. If you answer "yes," job well done! If you answer "no," you have the opportunity to redeem yourself tomorrow! If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: Watching my three sons play soccer, basketball and music, or cheering on my beloved Texas Longhorns. Hook 'em Horns! People would be surprised to know that I: Have a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. I haven't quite figured out how to leverage that particular skill set in an office environment, but I'm working on it. One thing I wish more people knew about my agency: DIR has the most capable, dedicated and service-oriented staff I have ever had the pleasure of serving with. The men and women of this agency never cease to amaze me with their ability to pursue challenges, overcome obstacles and execute on their commitments. Each week, the Texas Government Insider profiles a key government executive or decision-maker. If you would like to suggest a "Lone Star," please email us at editor@spartnerships.com. Erin responsible for at least seven Texas deathsAt least seven weather-related deaths have been confirmed as a result of Tropical Depression Erin, which dropped up to 10 inches of rain along the Gulf Coast and in Central Texas. "Because storms have saturated much of our state this summer, many communities in this storm's projected path are at high risk of dangerous flash flooding," said Gov. Rick Perry. State resources were pre-positioned by Perry ahead of the storm including 30 high profile vehicles and 60 Texas Military Forces soldiers staged in Weslaco and San Antonio; three Texas Military Forces helicopters readied to assist with potential search and rescue operations; and voluntary organizations prepared to provide mass care support for residents if needed. As of Thursday night, heavy rains in Harris County had collapsed the roofs of buildings in Clear Lake where one fatality was reported. In Bexar County, numerous homes suffered flood water damage, and 44 water rescues were reported. Today's forecast calls for continued rain in Central and South Texas, and predictions for up to seven inches of rain in West Texas. While Erin hit Texas, Hurricane Dean is driving toward the Caribbean with 100 mph winds and the potential to strengthen into an extremely dangerous storm by next week. Flood resigns; Bevers interim HHSC inspector generalBart Bevers of Round Rock has been named by Gov. Rick Perry as interim inspector general of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Bevers will serve until the governor decides on a permanent replacement to succeed Brian Flood (pictured), who resigned as inspector general on Wednesday when it became apparent that he would not be reappointed by Perry. Flood's last day in his position will be Aug. 26. Bevers previously served as deputy inspector general for enforcement at HHSC, supervising criminal investigations and enforcement activities within the Medicaid Provider Integrity, General Investigations and State Investigations Unit sections. He is also a former assistant district attorney in the Dallas and Smith County District Attorney's Offices. Bevers is a member of the Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Oversight Task Force, and the Department of Homeland Security Document and Benefit Task Force-Dallas. He is an advisory board member of Young Life-Europe and member of the National White Collar Crime Center. The new interim inspector general is a member of the State Bar of Texas, Association of Certified Fraud Specialists, and Association of Inspectors General. He holds a bachelor's degree from Southern Methodist University and law degree from the University of Tulsa, College of Law. [more]Lawmakers want money restored to community collegesLawmakers heard from community college officials from across the state this week regarding the impact of Gov. Rick Perry's veto of the second year of funding for health insurance costs for their employees. Perry's veto order eliminated $154 million in state funds that would have gone to community colleges for insurance costs in the second year of the 2008-09 biennium. At a hearing of the Senate Subcommittee on Higher Education, community college officials said the governor's veto likely would cause them to either have to increase taxes or increase tuition rates. Those same officials have been angered by the language in Perry's explanation of the veto, where he said they "falsified their appropriations requests." In addition to community college officials' testimony, the committee also heard from business and industry representatives who noted how community colleges provide the skilled workforce they need and thus help them reduce in-house training costs. Sen. Judith Zaffirini (pictured) of Laredo, who chairs the subcommittee, said she is "optimistic" that the funds will be restored and that the colleges will be able to avoid tax hikes, tuition increases or reductions in services. "We will find a solution that is fair, equitable and responsive," said Zaffirini after the hearing. The Laredo lawmaker said not only were community college officials heard, but staff of the Governor's Office also were heard and made recommendations to put an additional $200 million back in the community colleges' budgets - although only a little more than $92 million of that would be for health insurance. The community colleges would still have a total of $64 million to make up. "Though details regarding how to restore the funding still need to be negotiated, strong consensus emerged from the testimony we heard regarding the importance of providing a short-term solution to the problem caused by the veto while striving toward resolving long-term funding issues," said Zaffirini. TASSCC names Excellence Award winnersWith a theme of "007 - License to Lead," this year's Texas Association of State Systems for Computing and Communication (TASSCC) annual conference in San Antonio was highlighted by a number of speakers with industry knowledge who addresses issues from leadership to security to emerging technology. In addition to speakers and networking opportunities, the conference's annual excellence awards winners were also named. Each year, TASSCC names both a state agency and an institution of higher education as Excellence Award winners. The awards recognize those who have implemented a technical application that improved internal operations, customer service or communications. Pierce Cantrell (top right) accepts the Excellence Award for higher education from TASSCC President John Cox and Jim Williams. Winner of the agency Excellence Award for the innovative use of technology was the Texas Legislative Council for its Texas Legislature Online project. The program is Internet-based and allows the general public to view status of bills during a legislative session and has search capabilities for accessing legislative information. The system also provides innovative features such as bill tracking and e-mail notifications and provides links to other government Web sites. Accepting the award in the accompanying photo (bottom left) from Cox were Joanna Peavy, Thomas Graser, Greg Tingle and LaDawn Wyatt. [more]State sales tax revenue sees jump from last yearTexas collected $1.6 billion in sales tax revenue in July, which is up 5.3 percent from July 2006, said Texas Comptroller Susan Combs. "Growth in sales tax collections eased in July, but moved ahead at a steady pace," Combs said. "In particular, receipts from the mining, construction, manufacturing, and service sectors reflect a Texas economy resisting the cooling seen in the national economy." In August, $534.2 million in sales tax allocations were sent to local governments, up 5.1 percent compared to August 2006. Sales tax payments of $364 million were sent to Texas cities, up 4.1 percent compared to last August. In addition, $17.6 million in sales tax revenue went to 121 special purpose taxing districts, 20.3 percent more than in August 2006. Ten local transit systems received $121.5 million, up 5.9 percent compared to a year ago. Gary Foster named to TDLR committeeGary Foster of Sterling City has been appointed to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation's (TDLR) Weather Modification Advisory Committee by TDLR Commission Chair Frank Denton. He will serve in the seat designated for an agricultural producer and his term will extend to Jan. 13, 2011. The committee provides technical expertise and advice to TDLR on applicants seeking weather modification licenses and permits. The committee includes an atmospheric scientist, engineer, businessman, attorney at law and agricultural producer. It meets quarterly, usually in Austin, to review applications for licenses and permits. Colasurdo tapped as UT Medical School-Houston deanGiuseppe N. Colasurdo, M.D. (pictured) has been named dean of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, effective Sept. 1. Colasurdo chaired the school's Department of Pediatrics, was assistant professor of pediatrics and division head of Pulmonary Medicine, directed the fellowship training program in pediatric pulmonary medicine and is the physician-in-chief at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital. His medical degree was completed at G. D'Annunzio School of Medicine in Chieti, Italy, and he completed his residency training at The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Colasurdo completed his fellowship training in pulmonary medicine at the University of Colorado Health Science Center and the National Jewish Research and Medical Center in Denver. He will remain the chairman in the Department of Pediatrics for approximately one year while a search committee is formed to identify and recruit a new chair. Bonds being considered for Chisum and Detroit ISDsChisum and Detroit Independent School Districts could conduct November bond elections if proposed tax rates are approved in both districts after August public hearings. Detroit ISD is considering constructing a new elementary school and Chisum ISD wants to add science labs and additional classrooms at its high school. The proposed $7,463,615 budget may be funded by a maintenance and operations tax rate greater than a $1.04 per $100 rollback election rate mandated by state lawmakers. Districts gain $13 million for teacher mentor programsThe Texas Education Agency has awarded $13 million in grants to 50 school districts and open enrollment charter schools to establish or enhance beginning teacher induction and mentoring programs. Under the 2007-2008 Beginning Teacher Induction and Mentoring (BTIM) Program, eligible campuses will assign a qualified mentor teacher to each teacher with less than two years experience. "Research has shown that a strong teacher induction and mentoring program improves instruction in the classroom and reduces teacher turnover," said Raymond Glynn, associate commissioner for Educator Quality and Standards. The mentor-training curriculum that districts will use must have been externally evaluated and have demonstrated success in improving new teacher quality. Districts have the option of using their own mentor training curriculum if it meets the grant requirements, or they can select from one of 24 commissioner-approved providers. Schools may use their grant funds for mentor teacher stipends or to schedule time for mentor teachers to provide mentoring to assigned classroom teachers. The grant period covers funding for two years, beginning Aug.1, 2007, and ending May 31, 2009. Texas in top 10 of best state e-Government sitesTexas ranked number eight in Web services to citizens, according to Brown University's eighth annual study of e-government resources. The study examines more than 1,500 Web sites for state governments across the nation. This is Texas' second year in this study's top 10. Among the Texas sites evaluated is TexasOnline.com, the official state Web portal offering more than 800 services including vital records, driver's license renewal, licensing of a wide variety of professions and an automated motor vehicle inspection system that is shortening wait times for inspections. "Leadership of this state has set a priority of providing citizens with greater access to government services while reducing service delivery costs and the Web is an excellent tool to accomplish this," said Brian S. Rawson, chief technology officer of the state. Texas had strong showings in categories like availability of publications, foreign language translation, the ability to access services and complete transactions electronically, strong privacy policies and disability access. Texas was also noted for having novel features like free safety materials and videos to order. Among the 30 agency Web sites reviewed for this study were the Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas Health and Human Services Commission, the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Workforce Commission. Comptroller announces online research serviceA new online research service, Texas EDGE has been announced by State Comptroller Susan Combs (pictured). The service is aimed at providing local governments, developers and businesses a tool to analyze economic data and its role in trade and industry growth. Texas EDGE stands for "Economic Data for Growth and Expansion," and it allows for: in-depth analysis of economic indicators - trends, projects and impacts; an economic overview with employment, tax rate and other details; comparative analysis of areas with detailed demographics, workforce analysis and business clusters by area; infrastructure details that include maps showing roads, railroads, airports and streets; and detailed information on property tax rates, sales tax, trends and impacts. The information available will be helpful to community leaders as they make plans for the future, said Combs. "The wide variety of information gathered by our staff of researchers, analysts and economists will aid decision-makers in directly impacting the future state economy." Users of Texas EDGE can run customized reports or request tailored analysis by the Comptroller's Office. They can also access economic data for any county in the state. Christmas in August? Tax free holiday begins todaySome eager shoppers hoping to take advantage of a tax-free holiday weekend got started shopping early today and can save as much as $8 for every $100 they spend on tax-free items. This year, the tax-free holiday was changed to the third Friday, Saturday and Sunday in August because most Texas schools are opening later this year than in previous years. Many shoppers use the tax-free weekend to do their back-to-school shopping. For the three-day weekend, most children's and adult clothing and footwear priced under $100 are exempt from state and local sales taxes. This year, for the first time, school backpacks costing less than $100 may be purchased tax free, but all other school supplies will still be taxed. Some of the tax free items include: baby clothes, belts with buckles, boots, caps and hats, diapers, school uniforms, pajamas, slacks and jeans, jackets, shirts, robes, socks, shorts, underwear, dresses, coats, work clothes and uniforms, raincoats and shoes (sandals, slippers, tennis shoes, sneakers, walking shoes, etc.). For a more complete list of items that are tax-free and those that will still be taxable, click here. TxTag purchases exceed expectationsIn the year since Central Texas' toll roads opened, nearly a quarter million residents have purchased TxTags, causing as much as 168 percent more traffic than originally projected. TxTags are windshield stickers that allow drivers to pay toll fees electronically from a prepaid account, thus circumventing a stop at a toll booth. Most Texas toll roads offer discounted rates when using a tag. "Drivers are willing to pay for the choice and convenience of TxTags," said Gaby Garcia, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) spokeswoman, adding that the agency receives positive feedback from citizens who say they are "so glad to have this option now." Though the tags are still free to purchase, Garcia says she doesn't know how long that will continue - eventually there may be a $10 charge. Residents from Bastrop, Bell, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Gonzales, Hays, Lampasas, Llano, Milam, Travis and Williamson counties purchased TxTags with Travis and Williamson accounting for the highest number of residents holding tags. Among cities, Austin and Round Rock rank the highest. "The population increase has led to increased traffic and more growth all around in the Austin area," Garcia said. The toll road trends will likely increase as current segments of SH 130 under construction east of Austin are scheduled to open by the end of the year. Secretary of State's podcast cites tech opportunitiesTexas Secretary of State Phil Wilson's podcast series began Aug. 9 to provide regular updates to citizens on his office's activities. The inaugural podcast focused on the 2007 Statewide Conference on Nanotechnology and the impact that emerging technology has on Texas' economy. "It's easy to see the significant role that the tech sector plays in our state. It provides more than 300,000 Texans with jobs and accounted for nearly one-fourth of our state's total exporting dollars in 2006," Wilson said, adding that the Emerging Technology Fund plays a vital role in actively promoting the research, development and commercialization of new technologies throughout the state. "Since the creation of the Emerging Tech Fund, we have seen an encouraging trend in our technology industries," he said. "In the nanotech field alone, our universities and colleges have invested heavily in research centers dedicated to these activities and several companies have come alongside them to accelerate these technologies towards commercialization." DPS seeks AG opinion on border entry licensesThe Texas Department of Public Safety is asking the attorney general if a new law that calls for special driver's licenses to be used for entry along the Texas-Mexico border would violate federal passport mandates. He has up to six months to issue an opinion. Federal law stipulates that citizens and travelers from Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are currently required to present their passports when entering the United States. The mandate only applies to air travel right now, but will soon expand to sea and land travel. The DPS noted that the U.S. State and Homeland Security departments have allowed Washington State to create a pilot program for its own enhanced driver's license and ID cards to use as travel documents when crossing the Canadian border. The Washington program's documents will meet the technology and security criteria of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. Other states are being encouraged to submit their own proposals for similar pilot programs; however, no Texas agency has yet done so. Composite score on ACT test sets new state recordAn all-time high average composite score on the ACT test by Texas public schools' graduating class of 2007 is a new state record. Saying the average score of 20.5 "represents a strong and positive trend" in the state's public school graduates, Acting Commissioner of Education Robert Scott (pictured) said the test results have increased annually since 2005. He said the increase can be attributed to a growing number of students following a college-prep program in high school and "the hard work of Texas students who challenge themselves by taking rigorous, advanced courses." More than 76,500 students - or approximately 30 percent of the senior class - took the exam, another Texas record at nearly 3,000 more than the previous year. Although Texas test scores improved, the state still trailed the national average of 21.2. Among Texas students, the top five universities being sent scores by ACT test takers are The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, Texas State University and Baylor University. San Antonio prepares for DHS visitSan Antonio officials are preparing for a Tuesday, Sept. 11, visit from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as the city bids to become home to the new National Bio- and Agro-Defense Facility. The facility will be a federal center for research to battle diseases that cross between humans and animals and for research on biological weapons that could be used by terrorists against the United States. Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce representatives last week participated in a meeting at the Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research to discuss the upcoming visit. Chamber President and CEO Joe Krier said the facility's thrust will be "making our lives safer" and will "help ensure the safety and security" of the country. The public will be allowed to have input at the forum, to ask questions and learn more about the facility. The forum will be at 6 p.m. on Sept. 11 at the Marriott Riverwalk Hotel. Texas Tech budget largest in institution historyTexas Tech regents have approved the largest budget in the institution's history - more than $1 billion. The figure includes $582 million for Texas Tech and $586 million for the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center. Tech Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration Elmo Cavin (pictured) says the proposed 2008 budget is the largest dollar figure in the university's history. Cavin said lawmakers in the last legislative session were "very kind" to the Health Sciences Center, appropriating $53 million in new funds. That new money includes funding for a four-year medical school in El Paso and a cancer research center. The increase in funds in the Texas Tech budget will mean pay increases for staff and faculty, more investments in research and new equipment. Angelina College considers bond electionAngelina College has called for a $16.5 million November bond election. Bond projects would include a new 30,000-square-foot Health Careers building, a softball/baseball complex, four new shops for occupational and vocational career education, minor renovations to the existing Health Careers and administration buildings for Liberal Arts expansion and expansion of administrative services, a parking lot, a college store and a learning and language institute. Crime victims programs granted $26 millionMore than 200 programs throughout the state that help victims of crime are the recipients of $26 million awarded by Gov. Rick Perry under the federal Victims of Crime Act Fund (VOCA) and distributed by the Governor's Criminal Justice Division (CJD). "These funds will support programs that protect victims, administer justice, and provide a safer living environment for all residents of Texas, particularly our most vulnerable citizens and Texas youth," Perry said. The CJD promotes collaboration and coordination among local service systems that involve multiple disciplines and support seamless delivery of various services focusing on each individual's return to wellness. VOCA funding supports programs that address family violence, child abuse and sexual assault, and provide support services to help victims recover from the effects of crime through counseling, advocacy and intervention. Lake Jackson to join bond election vote in NovemberLake Jackson school trustees have voted to call a Nov. 6 bond election involving four ballot propositions totaling $122.5 million. If approved, the proposals would replace and renovate facilities district-wide. Specifics include $109.7 million to build a new high school, elementary and intermediate school, and relocate the middle school to the existing high school; $4.8 million to improve district technology; $4.3 million to install artificial turf and renovate the football stadium, replace the field house and construct a softball stadium; and $3.8 million to renovate a high school wing for administration and maintenance departments. Lack of librarians affecting border areaCommunities, public schools and universities along the Texas-Mexico border are having a tough time finding and keeping librarians. Public libraries offer an average salary of $37,000 for a job that requires a graduate degree so librarians often leave for higher paid work at corporations needing research specialists. Every library along the border has had at least one opening for a librarian in the past two years. Some had as many as six, according to the University of North Texas, which runs the Rio Grande Initiative grant program to train librarians in the region. Libraries that hire from outside the Valley find it hard to hold people, and no local universities offer the required post-graduate courses. Denton to deliver school amenities if bond passesDenton school district residents will vote Nov. 6 on a $282 million bond package to fund new schools, upgrade existing facilities, provide more land for growth and build a child care facility for children of district employees. The proposed bond package includes $124.3 million for additions and renovations at elementary and secondary schools, $88.3 million for new schools, $30 million for land acquisition, $18.4 million for technology and security infrastructure and $15 million for a support services facility. It would also provide $4 million for school buses and $2 million to build a child care facility, allowing the district to start a child care program for employees. Gonzalez named Brownsville's deputy superintendentAfter a little more than a year as superintendent of Temple Independent School District, Beto Gonzalez (pictured) has resigned to accept the post of deputy superintendent of the Brownsville school district. The board will name an interim superintendent at a later date. A native of Bakersfield, Calif., Gonzalez served as instructor at the Graduate School of Education of Fresno Pacific University, was deputy assistant secretary for the U.S. Office of Vocational and Adult Education and special assistant in the Office of Public Affairs at the U.S. Department of Labor. His bachelor's and master's degrees are from California State University at Bakersfield, and he did doctoral coursework in educational leadership at the University of California at Los Angeles. Speeders and red light runners bewareRed light camera pilot programs have been popping up all over Texas. The latest city to try out the traffic-safety devices is Austin, during whose 60-day trial no tickets will be issued. Instead, digital photos will be taken and evaluated for clarity and accuracy in determining the correct owner of vehicles in question. Baytown's experiment with the cameras caused the city to consider a contract with a red-light camera provider on Aug. 9. The contract wouldn't bind the city to installing the devices, but would give the city council increased flexibility in creating a camera system if a deal is brokered before Sept. 1. Hurst will also soon decide whether to award a contract to a private company to install cameras at intersections. Brazos County considering jail expansionBrazos County officials have been given a preliminary price tag for expansion of the county jail - $55 million for the addition of more than 680 beds. Such an expansion would require a bond issue, and commissioners must decide by Sept. 5 if they want to go that route and hold an election in November. The expansion would include an additional 150,000 square feet of space and include three pods - one for female inmates, one for males and one for special inmate populations. Some $45 million of the total cost would be related to building construction and the remaining $10 million would be for items such as furnishings, fixtures and technology. Port of Houston reduces funding request for bond issueThe Port of Houston Authority has reduced the amount of funding it was seeking from a bond issue from $550 million to $250 million. Most of the funding sought is related to construction of the Bayport container facility and cruise terminal and focuses on "immediate needs," according to Port Commission Chair Jim Edmonds (pictured), who added that port authorities are prioritizing their needs. Nearly two-thirds of containers that ship through the Gulf of Mexico come through Houston. The initial construction of the Bayport terminal was approved in a bond vote in 1999 and the first phase opened earlier this year. South Texas cities lobby for nuclear power plantA site in either Matagorda County or south of Victoria could become the home for a $4 billion nuclear power plant. Officials from the company seeking to build the plant say they have not made a decision on building it yet, but if it is built, it could be operating by 2017. The impact of the plant, according to area officials, can be measured in the hundreds of jobs it would bring to the area and the positive effect it would have on the area's economy. Estimates are that building the plant could create some 2,000 jobs, and 900 permanent jobs would be available when the plant is completed. Plans include the building of two reactors that together could generate enough electricity to power 3 million homes. Lubbock shelves $300 million bond proposalA public poll that showed little interest in passage of a $300 million city bond election has caused Lubbock city officials to take the issue off the table - for now. The city council met last week with four bond items on the agenda. But even the two bond proposal projects that did have public support - city streets and public safety - were not discussed. A bond advisory committee in July recommended nine bond projects valued at $300 million. City officials now say they will probably wait until 2008 to seek public approval for the issues. Among the proposals were $52 million for streets, $55 million for a performing arts center, $85 million for civic center renovations, $5 million for a new branch library, $28 million for parks, $1.5 million for a Mercado, $2.2 million for Northeast Lubbock streets and $60 million for a multi-purpose arena. San Antonio seeks improved traffic light coordinationA $33 million proposal in San Antonio's 2007-08 city budget aims to modernize the synchronization of the city's traffic signals to keep traffic moving seamlessly. The four-year project would upgrade nearly all of the city's 1,200 intersection signals. A new computer would be installed at each light to improve communication among signals with a control center at TransGuide. From their seats at the control center, engineers would be able to adjust light timings on the fly to deal with traffic snags caused by accidents or unexpected congestion. The program would also add backup power at up to 900 key intersections that would kick on during power outages. Funding will help with Tarleton Central Texas campusWith a goal of "providing quality public higher education to the citizens of Central Texas and to reaching its independent university status," Tarleton State University President Dr. Dennis McCabe (pictured) has announced plans to expand the Tarleton University System Center to Central Texas. The expansion will provide a campus that provides higher education opportunities for students in Killeen and Central Texas. "This fast-growing community has demonstrated great support for our academic program offerings through Tarleton-Central Texas. Central Texas College (CTC) has been very accommodating and a great host institution by providing a building for our use," said McCabe. He said Fort Hood, Killeen ISD, Temple College and other area school districts have also provided support. The $8.2 million provided by the state legislature in special item funding will help defray the costs of the expansion. Officials hope the Central Texas campus will eventually lead to a stand-alone university. Potential bond election for Brazosport CollegeBrazosport College's voters will be asked to approve $70 million in general obligation bonds in November. The proposal calls for a $28.5 million science technology corridor to be the first phase, consisting of a 55,000-square-foot complex and a 10,000-square-foot process technology center; the second phase of the bond program would be a $24.5 million, 35,000-square-foot academic center and an office expansion; and the final phase of the bond program would be a $17 million, 9,000-square-foot library and student center. City of San Marcos in running for awardThe city of San Marcos is a finalist for the 2007 Award for Municipal Excellence awarded by the National League of Cities for the city's turning a collapsing dam into a whitewater park. The city council took lemons and made lemonade - and within 47 days turned the dam into a series of whitewater rapids, which were opened to the public. City Manager Dan O'Leary (pictured) said the project exceeded all expectations. The NLC award is given to a city that has improved the quality of life for its residents through innovative programs. San Marcos was one of 168 cities nominated and one of 35 finalists. The winner will be announced at the NCL exposition in New Orleans in November. The project has already been honored - winning the Innovative Planning Award from the Central Texas chapter of the American Planning Association and becoming a finalist in the Envision Central Texas redevelopment award program. HHSC contracts with TAMU professorDr. Charles Phillips, professor at the Texas A&M Health Science Center School for Rural Public Health, has been awarded a $967,000 contract from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to develop a comprehensive assessment tool and a resource allocation model for all Texas children receiving Medicaid personal care services. HHSC is responsible for such services provided for Texans under age 21. Phillips will assist with providing tools to assess the needs of Medicaid children ages 0-3 and other recipients ages 4-20. The tools will help the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) determine what clients need in-depth assessments by other health professionals and how many hours of services the client receives. HSC-SRPH staff will assist HHSC through the contract awarded to the school's Program on Aging and Long-Term Care, under the direction of Regents Professor Catherine Hawes, Ph.D. The award will support staff at the HSC-SRPH and Texas A&M University Public Policy Research Institute, along with faculty and graduate students in the Texas A&M Department of Educational Psychology and Department of Statistics. Ingleside redevelopment authority taking shapeSupport for a local redevelopment authority to oversee Naval Station Ingleside surplus property is gaining momentum. Many of the representatives at a meeting last week that including realtors, bankers, school officials and other Coastal Bend entities showed their support. "We need to move forward," said Ingleside Mayor Pro Tem Stella Herrmann (pictured). The board would include nine members - two each from the Nueces and San Patricio commissioner's courts, the Corpus Christi and Ingleside city councils and one appointee from the Port of Corpus Christi Commission. Both the city of Ingleside and Nueces County have already agreed to join the board and have appointed their members. The group will seek funding from the U.S. Department of Defense's Office of Economic Adjustment to assist with the project. The more than 900 acres of the base will go back to port ownership when the base closes in 2010, since the port gave the land to the U.S. Navy. The advisory redevelopment group was established to oversee the main base property. Austin area tollway fund estimates too lowThe difference between the $2.5 billion price of five potential Austin tollways and the money available could be more than three times the earlier estimate due to increases in the cost of roads, Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) officials said. Money is needed for approximately 70 percent of project costs rather than a quarter because of government spending cuts and cost increases. That could change projections as the CAMPO board heads to an Oct. 8 conclusion on which of the proposed highway projects will be tollways. The state can't guarantee that any of the estimated $825 million for right-of-way, moving utility lines and design of the projects would be available, and Congress withdrew $666 million of federal money previously allocated to Texas. More cuts are expected in the coming months and years. Midlothian plans three-proposition bond issueA $103.7 million, three-point bond election is under consideration by the Midlothian ISD. The proposed bond issue, if put before the voters, will include building a second high school in phases, a new ag center and the purchase of land for future school sites. School officials called the proposal "conservative." The bond committee is suggesting $98.7 million for the first phase of a two-phase high school with an 1,800 student capacity, $2.4 million for the ag science center that will be shared by both high schools and $1.5 million for land purchases. Phase one of the new high school would build a high school with classrooms and facilities designed for 2,500. As the district grows, the second phase will be to expand and add onto the building. It would include a $58 million school building, a $10 million metal building for athletics and $2.9 million for off-site utilities and contingencies. The bond election, by law, must be called by Aug. 21 to be on a November ballot. Bryan ISD likely to face bond issue in 2008The need for a new elementary school and additional funds for projects yet to be completed mean a bond election in the Bryan ISD is likely in May 2008, according to BISD Superintendent Mike Cargill (pictured). Cargill said the good news is that voters could approve up to a $40 million bond issue without raising taxes. Maintenance and operations officials in the district indicate that nearly 50 construction projects valued at more than $500 million will need to be completed over the next 16 years. Among those projects are four that school officials feel should be in a bond issue next year - a new elementary campus, rebuilding an elementary school and an early childhood center, upgrades at some campuses and replacement of HVAC systems in some schools. Some of the projects were approved in previous bond elections, but recent hurricanes inflated construction costs, causing overruns on some of the projects. U.S. 281 toll clears first hurdle with FHWAA proposal to add toll lanes to U.S. 281 in San Antonio has cleared one hurdle, after the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) approved an environmental study for the project. The proposal would add six to eight toll lanes as replacement for the current highway. Access roads and merge and turn lanes also would be added to the nearly eight-mile section. The Alamo Regional Mobility Authority has assumed responsibility for the project, with costs estimated at upwards of $600 million for the 7.5-mile stretch of highway. Get your free copy of the Texas Government InsiderThe Texas Government Insider is a free weekly newsletter. If you are not a subscriber, or if you would like to sign up your friends or co-workers to receive a free copy, click here. |
New laws in effect next month may strike nerve
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Biodiesel Coalition of Texas hosts conference, expoMore than 70 exhibitors will be on hand for the annual Texas Biodiesel Conference and Expo, hosted by the Biodiesel Coalition of Texas (BCOT), scheduled for the Renaissance Hotel in Austin on Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 5-6. Leaders in the biodiesel industry will discuss commodity trading, biodiesel marketing, regulatory, economic development strategies and tax incentives. Dr. Perry McNeil, mayor of Denton, will deliver the keynote address. The conference provides networking opportunities for industry leaders, regulators and interested end-users. To view the conference schedule, click here. For more information and to register, click here. TARC Conference on Regionalism set in SeptemberThe 2007 Texas Association of Regional Councils' Conference on Regionalism is set for Sept. 5-7 at the Omni Southpark Hotel in Austin. Among the confirmed speakers for the annual event are: Texas State Sen. Kirk Watson; Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples; Dr. Ray Perryman, president of the Perryman Group; Texas State Rep. Mike Krusee; Austin Mayor Will Winn; and Billy Ray Hall, founding president of the Rural Economic Development Center. Some of the discussion sessions will center on topics that include school emergency preparedness and response, critical infrastructure protection, recycling and waste minimization and statewide interoperability. To view the agenda for the conference, click here. Exhibitor registration ends Aug. 3. To register online to attend the conference, click here. Attorney General's Office hosts fatherhood conferenceThe Texas Attorney General's Office is hosting a national conference on "The First Nine Months of Fatherhood: Paternal Contributions to Maternal and Infant Outcomes" August 20-21 in Houston. The conference is designed to present a sampling of the emerging research findings on the impact of paternal involvement and promising field practices. Legislative and policy staff, Health & Human Services/Administration for Children & Families administrators, health, social science, and public policy researchers, public agency administrators and others are welcome. For more information, visit http://www.oag.state.tx.us/conferences/fatherhood/. |
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