High construction costs nationwide may continue

Texas' economy gives state healthier outlook than most others

Oil prices may be falling, but costs for construction are rising to new highs and, depending on the impending economic climate, may stay that way.

Dr. Mark Dotzour (pictured), chief economist for the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, said global demand for construction materials in countries such as China, Russia and India is driving the current prices.

At the 2007 Rural Land Conference, Dotzour suggested commodity prices might fall in relation to China's "overbuilt" and overheated economy in the wake of the Beijing Olympics. Accordingly, oil prices have dropped, but construction materials have yet to mark the same shift.

If, in the coming months, prices for building commodities remain high, Dotzour says the United States economy may be in for a paradigm shift. Eventually more mines and plants would open, allowing supply to catch up to rising worldwide demands, but that process could take years.

"If demand at global levels remains high, prices will remain high for three to four years," Dotzour said.

Delgado named interim commissioner at DFPS

Ben Delgado (pictured) has been named interim commissioner of the Department of Family and Protective Services until a new leader for the agency is found. A nationwide search is currently under way. Delgado is coming out of retirement to fill the position he also filled on an interim basis in 2004.

Delgado brings more than three decades of state service to the interim post, having served as chief operating officer at DFPS and as associate commissioner with the Department of State Health Services.

Texas Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Albert Hawkins said he is confident Delgado will ensure that the agency's efforts toward lowering caseloads, increasing adoptions and improving training will continue to go forward.

Delgado assumed his interim position on Sept. 1, replacing former DFPS Commissioner Carey Cockerell, who retired on Aug. 31. Delgado will manage the day-to-day operations of the agency until a new commissioner is named.

Craddick announces reorganization of Press Office

Alexis DeLee, who has been with House Speaker Tom Craddick's office since 2005, has been promoted to communications director in the Speaker's Press Office. She has more than seven years of communications experience in the public and private sectors and is a former communications director for the Republican Party of Texas. She holds a bachelor's degree from Trinity University and a master's degree from the University of Colorado. In her new role, she will oversee operations of the Press Office and continue to serve as the Speaker's primary spokesperson.

In addition to DeLee's promotion, Craddick also announced the addition of James Bernsen as press secretary and Chris Cutrone as media relations liaison for the House. Bernsen is a former reporter and correspondent for the Lone Star Report, a newsletter of Texas Capitol events and stories. He was deputy press secretary for then-U.S. Sen. Phil Gramm and was campaign press secretary for U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison. Bernsen also was a legislative aide for former State Rep. Dianne Delisi and for Sen. Craig Estes. In his new position, Bernsen will write, manage the Speaker's Web site and serve as spokesperson when needed.

Cutrone has been with the Speaker's Press Office since 2005 after working in the communications division of the Texas Office of the Attorney General and on U.S. Sen. John Cornyn's first senatorial campaign. He holds a bachelor's degree from Quinnipiac University. Cutrone will provide support for the Press Office and coordinate efforts on media-related issues between the Speaker's Office and members of the House.

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department gears up for Expo

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department officials are gearing up for the organization's 16th annual Expo to be held OCt 4 and 5 at the TPWD headquarters in Austin. The free event is the single largest of its kind in the nation - or, put another way, "the world's fair for the great outdoors," according to expo Director Ernie Gammage. Last year, the Expo attracted more than 42,000 people who tried their hand at a number of expert-assisted outdoor activities designed to promote a message of stewardship and "the idea that we all have a role to play in the conservation of the natural world," Gammage said. In the accompanying TPWD photo, a youngster learns to cast at a recent Expo event.

An activity called "Be a Diver," sponsored by the Diving Equipment and Marketing Association, premiers at this year's Expo. The event will allow adults and children an opportunity to don actual diving gear and dive in a 4-foot, 18,000 gallon pool.

Also slated this year is "Fishing FUN-damentals" - a question-and-answer forum headed by a husband and wife fishing team - and a trick-shooting event featuring "Xtreme" shooting star and world-record holder Patrick Flanigan. "Wildlife: CSI (Critter Scene Investigation)," an activity allowing children to piece together clues using animal tracks and skins, will also debut this year.

For more information about this year's Expo, click here.

TDHCA announces pilot program to rebuild after Rita

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs recently selected Sabine Pass to be the pilot program for the Homeowners' Assistance Program to distribute more than $210 million in grants to rebuild homes destroyed or damaged by Hurricane Rita in 2005.

Sabine Pass will be the first to receive Round II reconstruction funds, with other cities and counties, such as Jasper and Newton, to follow, said Michael Gerber, executive director of TDHCA. He blamed the delay in releasing funding on several factors, the most critical being the challenge of obtaining clear titles. He also explained that environmental plans had to be filed and the public allowed 30 days to comment on the plans for part of the delay. To speed up the process, TDHCA contracted with a Dallas firm with database management experience, he said.

Currently, 19 families have received approval and are selecting their plans, but it could be another 30 to 60 days before construction can begin and 90 days after that before people can move into their new homes. Unlike the mobile and module homes being installed in Jasper, the homes in Sabine Pass will be site-built, and most will be raised on pilings to address elevation requirements. To encourage residents to again fill out applications for funding, a database management firm prepared and mailed almost 4,000 application packets in East Texas and has a team of experts to help applicants complete the 53-page application.

TDA announces grant funding of $10 million

Grant funds totaling $10 million are available from the Texans Feeding Texans: Home-Delivered Meal Grant Program administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture. Ag Commissioner Todd Staples (pictured) reminds nonprofits and entities that provide home-delivered meals that the postmark deadline for grant applications is Nov. 1. The money will be distributed by Feb. 1, 2009.

In Texas, home-delivered meal agencies provide daily meals for more than 100,000 homebound seniors and special needs individuals. Some $9.5 million was awarded from the grant program in January.

"In Texas alone, seniors age 60 and older are expected to number about 8.1 million by 2040, which is a 193 percent increase from 2000," Commissioner Staples said. "As this population grows, we can expect to see an ever-increasing need for services from home-delivered meal providers."

To be eligible for funding, organizations must be nonprofits or governmental agencies that provided home-delivered meals in the past year. They must also receive a grant of 25 cents or less per senior resident from the county in which they deliver meals. For more information about the grant program, click here.

Nicholson leaving Pension Review Board

Paul Nicholson, executive director of the Texas Pension Review Board, recently resigned from that position to take a job in Chicago. Nicholson, who previously worked for the International Monetary Fund, holds two bachelor's degrees from the University of Missouri and a law degree from George Washington University School of Law. Prior to being named executive director, he worked as a general counsel and investment analyst with the Texas Pension Review Board.

Construction begins on East Texas Fish Hatchery

Construction on a new East Texas Fish Hatchery is now under way in Jasper. The project, which will replace the 70-year-old Jasper Fish Hatchery, is slated to be completed in 2010 and will be located on 200 acres just below Sam Rayburn Reservoir. In the accompanying Texas Parks & Wildlife Department photo, officials (from left) TPWD Chairman Peter Holt, Jasper County Judge Mark Allen, LNVA President Kathleen Jackson, Martin Dies, former Jasper County Judge Joe Folk and Commissioner John Parker break ground at the Jasper facility.

The state-of-the-art hatchery is projected to deliver some 4.5 million fish annually to stock Texas public waters - more than doubling the current hatchery's output, according to Phil Durocher, TPWD inland fisheries director. "We applaud the generous support of Texas anglers who stepped up to the plate to help fund this critical project," he said.

The hatchery complex will feature a 34,000-square-foot production building and an 8,200-square-foot administrative building housing 24 TPWD employees.

TEA names finalists for Texas Teacher of Year program

Six of the state's top educators have been named by the Texas Education Agency as finalists in the Texas Teacher of the Year program. According to Commissioner of Education Robert Scott (pictured), the finalists were selected from 40 regional Teachers of the Year and will now be considered for Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year and Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year. "I congratulate these six outstanding teachers who have made a difference in the lives of thousands of students. They are representative of the many dedicated teachers who staff Texas classrooms," said Scott.

The secondary education finalists include:

• Christine Gleason, English teacher, Fabens High School, Fabens Independent School District;
• Iris Hines, English teacher, Roosevelt Alternative School, Mission Consolidated ISD; and
• Debbie Perry, was a math teacher at Travis Junior High in Paris ISD but now teaches geometry at Midway High School, Midway ISD.

The elementary school finalists are:

• Beth Dennis, fifth-grade, Thomas Justiss Elementary in Paris ISD;
• Janet Napoli, literacy teacher, kindergarten through fifth-grade, Skaggs Elementary, Plano ISD; and
• Dora Alicia Newell, third-grade, Thigpen-Zavala Elementary, McAllen ISD.

The top teachers will be honored at a Nov. 22 luncheon in Austin. The top two teachers will receive a $5,000 cash prize, a technology package valued at more than $15,000 and a trophy. One of the top winners will also be selected to go forward to be considered for National Teacher of the Year honors.

Lakey: Texas sets record on immunizations

Texas has achieved its highest ranking ever for immunization rates for the state's children, according to Dr. David Lakey (pictured) commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services. The rates increased 19 percent over the last five years, up from 65 percent in 2002 to 77.4 percent for 2007.

Figures from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that the 2007 rate for Texas is a 3.5 percent increase over 2006 numbers and ranks Texas as 22nd in the country, its highest-ever ranking. "The progress that Texas has made is the result of aggressive and sustained efforts of state and local partners along with families," said Lakey.

D/FW to upgrade with $4.9M in security costs

The Dallas/Fort Worth Airport may soon install additional closed-circuit surveillance cameras around its terminals, runways and airfield. D/FW officials this week voted to spend $4.98 million on upgrades to the airport security system that would allow for an additional 1,975 surveillance cameras. The upgrades do not include the costs of the cameras, only the ability to add to capacity. The airport currently has 1,590 cameras.

TPWD Infrastructure Division director Whiston retiring

After a career spanning 30 years with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Steve Whiston (pictured) is retiring. During his tenure, Whiston has most recently led TPWD's Infrastructure Division, where he managed more than 650 projects worth more than $157 million. He has also helped develop more than 24 state parks and natural areas throughout the course of his career.

Scott Boruff, TPWD deputy executive director for operations, cited Whiston's "tangible contributions (to TPWD facilities) ... that will serve Texans for many years to come."

Whiston joined TPWD in 1978 as an architect for the Historic Sites and Restoration Branch, where, for 14 years, he supervised restoration and development of 23 historic state sites. In 1996, he was appointed to deputy director of the Infrastructure Division before being recruited to director in 2003.

UT-Permian Basin receives $50,000 grant for research

An assistant professor of chemistry at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin recently received a two-year, $50,000 grant. Awarded to Dr. Christine Hahn by the American Chemical Society's Petrol Research Fund, the grant will fund research using gold compounds as catalysts in refining processes of petroleum products.

Hahn has a Ph.D. from the Institute of Inorganic Chemistry of the Martin-Luther University of Halle-Witenburg in East Germany. Along with four undergraduate students who are assisting her, Hahn synthesizes and characterizes new gold and platinum complexes as potential catalysts. She expects the research will produce industrial application in production of basic chemicals and in rational synthesis of drugs and fine chemicals.

Allen school board members slate $219M bond package

Allen school district board members are putting a $219 million bond proposal before voters this November. The proposition, nearly twice the amount of any prior school bond proposal, includes construction funds for two new elementary schools and a career-and-technology wing at Allen High School. Most of the money, however, would fund the expansion and renovation of older schools and replace outmoded technology at those facilities.

If the bonds are passed, the property tax rate would rise 7 cents per $100 of home value - about $11.75 per month or $141 a year.

School board President Victoria Sublette (pictured) said the proposals are being split for voters to decide upon because construction on the new elementary schools and other projects is imperative, and the board cannot wait for research concerning more expensive ventures to come in.

Regents hire Tallant as TAMU-Kingsville president

Dr. Steven Tallant (pictured), who was recently named sole finalist for the presidency of Texas A&M University-Kingsville, this week was selected by the TAMU System Board of Regents as the university's 19th president. He will begin his duties on Oct. 1.

"Dr. Tallant's strong background in administrative and leadership positions make him the clear choice for this important role in a university where change, growth and tradition mix to create enormous opportunities," said Bill Jones, chair of the Board of Regents. "I'm happy to welcome him to the Texas A&M System and look forward to seeing his energy and intellect at work."

Tallant served as provost and vice chancellor at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire since 2007, and was with the university for 14 years, serving in a variety of positions, including professor of social work, associate vice chancellor and director of graduate programs, interim provost and vice chancellor and associate vice chancellor for academic affairs. He had previously served 20 years in the United States military and was chief of Air Force Family Research at the Pentagon from 1991-1994.

Dr. Robert H. Strawser, a Texas A&M System Regents Professor at Texas A&M University's Mays Business School, has been serving as interim president since July 1.

City-county cooperation results in awards

Bexar County and the City of San Antonio and Parker County and the City of Weatherford were recently named recipients of the 2008 City-County Cooperation Awards presented by the Texas Association of Counties (TAC) and the Texas Municipal League (TML). The annual awards recognize cooperative projects that provide important services to the public, save taxpayer dollars and can be replicated by other cities and counties. The awards are co-sponsored by the Texas Association of Regional Councils.

"These winning programs show innovative problem-solving and successful merging of resources to better protect property taxpayers while delivering excellent services," said J.D. Johnson (right), Tarrant County commissioner and TAC president.

Bexar County and the City of San Antonio were cited for their transition to a consolidated preventive public health care service system. By amending an existing interlocal agreement, the two entities now have joint prenatal care in community-based clinics, obtaining joint grants for breast and cervical cancer screenings and implementing shared electronic patient appointment systems. Other services being added are family planning, well-child screening and senior health screenings. This was all the result of a consolidation of the San Antonio Metro Health District and the Bexar County Hospital District. Patients get faster service and taxpayer money is saved because of a decrease in demand for costly emergency and acute care services.

Parker County and the City of Weatherford were honored for joint operation of the Weatherford/Parker County Animal Shelter. The joint shelter led to the addition of 48 additional kennels and a new office. The shelter has offered a spay and neuter program, a microchip program and local business/citizen partnerships that have helped raise more than $360,000 toward a building improvement fund. Animal control and shelter functions have been expanded and costs have been reduced.

"These cooperative programs prove that when cities and counties join for higher goals, our taxpayers reap the benefits," said Rockport Mayor and TML President Todd Pearson (left).

Texans receive $1.4 million in USDA grants

Nearly $1.4 million in U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development assistance under the Value-Added Producer Grant program has been awarded to agriculture-related businesses and producers in Texas. The funds are part of more than $19 million awarded to 144 recipients in 37 states and Puerto Rico.

Value-Added Producer Grants may be used for feasibility studies or business plans, working capital for marketing value-added agricultural products and for farm-based renewable energy projects. Eligible applicants include independent producers, farmer and rancher cooperatives and agricultural producer groups.

The Texas recipients were among a number selected to receive grants to assess the feasibility of marketing ethanol and bio-diesel, cooking oil, wind and other types of renewable energy.

The following grants in Texas were awarded: BCCA, LLC $300,000; Steve Ehrig, $75,000; Mea Interest, Inc. $300,000; Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers, Inc. $300,000; Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard, LLC $98,000; and Texas Aquaculture Cooperative $300,000.

Dallas recommending cuts in road repair funds

Dallas city officials recently recommended that $4.2 million dedicated to partial street reconstruction included in two previous budget cycles be cut from the proposed 2008-2009 city budget. This action could threaten the city's goal to ensure that 87 percent of its public roads are in satisfactory condition by 2010.

Councilman Tennell Atkins (pictured), however, said he still wants to look even closer at the budget before making a final decision, as Dallas residents have made known their desire for better roads and streets.

The current proposed 2008-2009 budget calls for a 50 percent reduction in partial road construction from 52 lane miles to 26 lane miles and full-depth asphalt repairs to be reduced by 67 percent.

TSTC Harlingen names presidential finalists

Four finalists have been named to replace former Texas State Technical College Harlingen President Dr. J. Gilbert Leal (left), who retired at the end of August after 30 years in the presidency.

One of the finalists is Pat Hobbs (right) of Rancho Viejo. Hobbs, currently vice president of student learning at TSTC Harlingen, is serving as interim president until a permanent replacement for Leal is hired. Cesar Maldonado of Harlingen also is a candidate for president. He is currently vice president of systems development at Maverick Engineering, Inc. Thomas Boyd of Laguna Vista is the third presidential finalist. He currently serves as president of Business and Management Consultants of America, Inc. Hector Castillo of Brownsville rounds out the selections made by the presidential search committee. He currently serves as assistant vice president for academic affairs at The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College.

The TSTC System Board of Regents paid tribute to Leal upon his retirement by naming him president emeritus and also naming the college's Learning Resource Center after him.

UH selects interim dean of College of Pharmacy

University of Houston pharmacology professor Mustafa F. Lokhandwala (pictured) has been named interim dean of the university's College of Pharmacy, effective Sept. 13. Lokhandwala has been serving as executive vice dean for research and director of the Heart and Kidney Institute, one of four of the college's institutes and centers.

Lokhandwala will take over as interim dean to replace former Dean Sunny Ohia, who announced his resignation Sept. 12 to accept the position of vice president of academic affairs and provost at Texas Southern University.

Lokhandwala holds a bachelor's degree from the L.M. College of Pharmacy in India, a master's from Columbia University and his Ph.D. from the University of Houston. He began as an assistant professor of pharmacology at UH and was then promoted to assistant professor, associate professor and then full professor. He served as chair of the department of pharmacology from 1980-1991 and was dean of the College of Pharmacy from 1991-2002. He has been executive vice dean for research since 2003.

Cedar Park approves $55 million events center

The Cedar Park City Council recently agreed to partner with Hicks Cedar Park LLC to build a new $55 million Cedar Park Event Center. The city will provide $43 million toward the new facility while HCP will contribute $12 million, about 22 percent of the cost.

Plans call for the event center to feature 5,800 fixed seats for hockey, as many as 8,700 for concerts and will be equipped to host civic events, family events, graduations and other sporting events, said Mayor Bob Lemon. HCP will pay $2.5 million over the course of 20 years, but will not be required to make payments during the first five years. The city will receive half of all ticket fees and sales tax from the ticket, food and beverages sold inside, merchandise sold at the center and parking charges.

About $2 million of the $12 million HCP contribution will be used to purchase nearly 17 acres near the event center that HCP expects to develop with vertical mixed-use development. Another $2 million from HCP will be used to construct the center. HCP plans to relocate its team from Des Moines, Iowa, to Cedar Park to begin playing in the American Hockey League in October 2009 as the Texas Stars.

UT-Pan Am dean stepping down to return to teaching

Dr. Bruce J. Reed (pictured), dean of The University of Texas-Pan American College of Health Sciences and Human Services, is leaving his post to return to his first passion, teaching. Reed announced his decision in a memo to faculty, staff and fellow deans.

"My plan ... has always been to someday return to the faculty in rehabilitation as it is the teaching and the mentoring of students that is the most rewarding for me," Reed said in the memo.

Reed joined UTPA in 1993. He served as chair of the Department of Rehabilitative Services from 1996-2004 and as interim assistant dean in 1999. Through grant proposals he authored or helped author, Reed brought in more than $6.9 million in funded projects to the College of Health Sciences and Human Services.

Tarrant County Hospital District begins CEO search

A panel of hospital board members, community leaders and a consultant recently began a search for a new chief executive to head the Tarrant County Hospital District, which does business as the JPS Health Network. The new CEO will replace David Cecero who resigned in May.

The new chief executive officer is responsible for the county's public hospital system, which includes the John Peter Smith Hospital, several community-based clinics and one of the two major trauma centers in Tarrant County. The CEO also manages a $600 million annual budget, collaborates with local universities and negotiates physician contracts.

The process calls for the search firm to post the job in trade journals and use its database to identify five or six candidates. The firm also will weigh input from community leaders, the medical community and political leaders. Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley said he wants a chief executive who can earn the respect of hospital staff and who will focus on improving access for patients - especially the homeless - through community clinics or specialists. The goal is to fill the position by March 2009.

UT-Arlington adds nursing education master's program

To answer an escalating nursing shortage in Texas and across the nation, The University of Texas at Arlington School of Nursing is adding a Master of Science in Nursing Education program to its roster.

Dr. Wendy J. Barr (pictured) will head the new program, which will prepare nurses to practice as educators with an emphasis on building skills in curricula development, teaching and evaluation strategies. Barr holds a master's degree from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and a doctorate from Texas Woman's University.

UT-Arlington's School of Nursing is one of the largest in the nation with more than 1,200 students and 100 faculty members.

Tarleton announces Floyd interim vice president

Dr. Koy Floyd (pictured) will serve as interim vice president for institutional advancement at Tarleton State University until a permanent replacement is found. Tarleton President Dr. F. Dominic Dottavio announced Floyd will return to the position he previously held for 15 years before teaching as a research professor at Tarleton's Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies doctoral program.

Floyd has also served as research professor, department chairman and director of public information at the University of Tulsa; as assistant vice president for university relations at the University of Oklahoma; as executive assistant to the president at Austin Peay State University in Tennessee and as department chairman at James Madison University in Virginia.

Floyd graduated from East Central University in Ada, Okla., before beginning his career in academic administration as superintendent of Morarty, N.M., public schools.

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor president steps down

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor President Dr. Jerry G. Bawcom (pictured) has announced he is stepping down from his post at the end of the academic school year. Bawcom will continue to serve as chancellor for the university.

Bawcom began his charge as UMHB's 18th president in 1991.

Under his leadership, both the university's academic and athletic reputations have grown. "The growth and reputation of this university under his leadership has provided a tremendous foundation for the future," UMHB Board of Trustees Chair Andy Davis said.

Houston approves $13 million fund for projects

The Houston City Council on Wednesday created a special $13 million fund to finance flooding and drainage projects. The $13 million fund was created with a one-time payment taken from property tax revenues and will provide the first debt payments on $211 million in planned drainage projects over the next five years. The fund can be used only for drainage infrastructure work to alleviate flooding, however, it contains no mechanism to guarantee that future administrations continue adding money, noted Councilwoman Anne Clutterbuck (pictured). She also encouraged future city leaders to continue contributing to the fund.

The city expects to spend the $211 million to pay for residential street drainage projects that will cost between $2 million to $3 million each, said a spokesman for the Department of Public Works and Engineering. The work will include digging up streets, replacing undersized, older or broken drainage pipes or improving culvert and ditch systems.

Texas Southmost College board elects new officers

The Texas Southmost College Board of Trustees have elected three new officers: David Oliveira (pictured) as chair, replacing Chester Gonzalez; Edward Campirano as vice chair and Dr. Roberto Robles as secretary.

Oliveira has served on the board since 1994. He said he would do "whatever would be needed to serve as chair and carry out all the duties of the position." Oliveira will carry on a tradition of familial ties with Texas Southmost College. His father, Arnulfo L. Oliveira, served as the college's president from 1971-1977.

Campirano will replace Rosemary Breedlove as vice president, while Robles will fill the secretary position vacated by Campirano.

Conroe approves $1M for public safety radio system

The City of Conroe has approved $1 million to fund its public radio safety system after the county switched to another service. Funding will provide for costs of moving equipment, construction of a new radio tower and new replacement radios used by fire, police and city departments. The new system is set to launch in October.

The move comes after Conroe and Montgomery County Hospital District officials rejected an offer of $4 million worth of free radios from another provider. The switch did not guarantee coverage, which, in turn, risked residents' safety, Mayor Webb Melder said.

Conroe Fire Chief Ken Kreger (pictured) said the new system would provide better coverage by allowing radios to work in large buildings.

Longtime Sam Houston spokesman retires

Frank Krystyniak (pictured), a longtime spokesman for Sam Houston State University, has announced he is retiring after 37 years.

SHSU faculty and staff have reacted with praise for Krystyniak's knowledge of the university's history and his role in the school's evolvement. Frank Holmes, vice president of university advancement, extolled Krystyniak as "a highly respected journalist who has provided his alma mater with dedicated service."

Krystyniak's storied history with SHSU began in the 1960s, when he served as student editor of the university newspaper, The Houstonian. He earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees at SHSU. In 1971 - after stints in the U.S. Army and U.S. Army Reserves, where he rose to the rank of captain - he became director of the university's first information services department.

During his tenure at SHSU, Krystyniak has served under four university presidents and directed many of the university's nationally recognized media relations campaigns.

Henderson ISD considering bond election

Henderson Independent School District board members are considering a bond election in May to offset the loss of funding when the school was designated as a property-rich district. Under Chapter 41 of the Texas Education Code, property-wealthy school districts are ordered to give money to the state for redistribution to property-poor districts. This year, costs for classroom additions to the Henderson ISD high school, totaling $2.6 million, are being financed by a $9 million fund balance.

Superintendent Bobby Brown (pictured) said he expects the district's recapture payments to increase substantially from this year's $60,000 sum. He said more than 50 percent of revenue may be redistributed to Austin, noting most Henderson residents and patrons would rather "see us spend money on facilities and students" opposed to sending the money to the state.

In response, school officials are developing a master plan costing between $15,000 and $50,000 to address the needs of its seven campuses. Brown said he hopes to have the plan, which includes four phases, completed by December in time for contract bidding to begin in January.

Beeville approves $2M certificates of obligation sale

Beeville City Council members have approved $2 million in certificates of obligation to be used for improvements to the city's utility system. Plans include the installation of a new bar screen at the wastewater treatment facility and water distribution system upgrades.

The improvements will allow Beeville to sell bulk water to the Blueberry Hills Subdivision west of the city.

The city had originally planned to spend $254,000 on a water line relocation, but City Manager Ford Patton (pictured) said the move was no longer necessary and that the money could be spent on alternative projects, including wastewater and water system improvements.

Shenandoah to hire architect for expanded swim center

The Shenandoah City Council recently agreed to pay $50,000 for a design to expand an existing sports stadium to include an outdoor 50-meter competition pool and an indoor 25-meter pool. The Woodlands Swim Team also contributed $10,000 to the $60,000 design costs.

Mayor Garry Watts (pictured) said that adding the additional facilities to the Woodforest National Bank Stadium can help attract $35,000 to $55,000 in spending on dining, shopping and hotel stays to those attending swim competitions in the facility. The sports stadium currently seats 10,000 and the natatorium seats 1,000.

While the final project has not been approved, Shenandoah city officials are working with the Conroe Independent School district on an agreement that will allow the Shenandoah Industrial Development Corp. to fund the expanded swim center project with the city's half-cent sales tax.

Montgomery County receives four state grants for parks

Montgomery County recently received nearly $2.6 million in grants from Texas Parks and Wildlife to improve parks and trails in four areas of that county. The grants, which require a 50 percent match from participants, are:

• $1.5 million to be shared by Harris and Montgomery counties for the Spring Creek Greenway to include land acquisition for Montgomery County and improvements to Harris County Park improvements;
• $415,000 for a community-wide park in Magnolia that will include walking trails, ponds, fishing pier, playground picnic tables and a pavilion;
• $500,00 to The Woodlands to build trails, basketball court, playground, open play areas, benches, picnic tables, a 3.75-acre natural area, overlooks, boardwalks and bridges at the May Valley Park; and
• $200,000 to the Woodlands Association for a 1.5-mile natural surface trail, four creek crossings and signs for the George Mitchell Preserve.

Corpus Christi delays plans for new sewer plant

The Corpus Christi City Council recently approved a $120 million plan to pump wastewater from the city's existing Oso plant rather than build a new sewer plant the city purchased near Yorktown Blvd. and Rodd Field Road. The plan includes adding seven miles of pipeline, pump and transfer stations and an expansion at the Greenwood Wastewater Treatment Plant to handle the increased flow.

Diverting the flow to Greenwood is expected to cost about $13 million more during 20 years of operations when compared to building a new plant on the Southside, according to city staff. However, city officials noted that a new plant cannot be built on the new site before flows exceed capacity at the Oso plant and that a new plant could take from five to seven years to receive state approval, thus increasing the possibility that the Oso plant will experience overflows before a new plant can be built.

Councilman Mike Hummell (pictured) opposed the diversion plan, arguing that it made more sense for the city to build a treatment plant on land it already owns than to lay almost seven miles of pipe.

Director named for TSU's Center for Children & Families

Nancy Feyl Chavkin (pictured) will head the Center for Children & Families (CCF) at Texas State University-San Marcos, effective Sept. 1.

The CCF seeks to foster research, grant-proposal writing and experimental student learning to improve the quality of life for children and families.

Chavkin, who founded the center with Karen Brown in 2002, served as co-director until 2004. She has received numerous teaching, service and research awards, including the Presidential Award for Excellence in Research. During her tenure at Texas State, she has also mentored many faculty members as they conduct research and generate proposals.

El Paso ISD to get $9.7 million for new 'BRAC' facilities

The El Paso Independent School district recently received notice from the Texas Education Agency that the district has received approval of $9.7 million in state support to help pay the cost caused by nearby military base realignments and closures.

Superintendent Dr. Lorenzo Garcia (pictured) praised legislators for adopting legislation to help school districts deal with the results of the U.S. Department of Defense's Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC). Of the $9.7 million in state funding, $3.5 million is from the Instructional Facilities Allotment to help pay for building new facilities.

The legislation also removed a limitation on state aid made possible by the Existing Debt Allotment (EDA) that limits funding for new district facilities related to BRAC, Garcia said. This helped the district receive an additional $861,788 during the 2007-08 school year and will result in additional funding for the new school year, he said.

Interim provost appointed at Texas Tech

Texas Tech University President Guy Bailey has appointed Jane L. Winer (pictured), dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, to serve as interim provost while a national search is conducted to find a permanent replacement. The post's previous occupant, William Marcy, retired Aug. 29. Winer's new charge begins Sept. 1.

Winer joined the Texas Tech University faculty in 1975, when she directed grant-supported training programs in the psychology department in addition to heading the Counseling Psychology Doctoral Training Program. She began serving as associate dean for research in the College of Arts and Sciences in 1987. In 1991, she was appointed dean.

Winer holds both a bachelor's and master's degree from the State University of New York at Albany in addition to a master's degree and doctorate from the Ohio State University.

Arlington faces obstacles on Cowboys stadium bonds

Arlington city officials hit a wall recently while attempting to refinance $164 million in Dallas Cowboys stadium bonds at a favorable, fixed-interest rate. And other refinancing options reviewed by staff could cost the city an addition $6 million to $9 million in fees and interest. Deputy City Manager Trey Yelverton (pictured) said after looking for two months, city staff would not find any investors willing to refinance the bonds at a 5.5 percent or lower interest rate. The city issued $297.79 million in bonds for construction of the stadium.

Currently the city bonds have a variable interest rate, which increased from 3 to 4 percent in 2005 to as high as 9 percent this summer. When monthly interest payments on the bonds jumped from $500,000 in January to more than $1 million this summer, council members directed city staff in July to explore options for refinancing the stadium bonds.

Atlanta ISD to put $26.4 million bond proposal to test

Atlanta ISD recently agreed to place a $26.4 million bond proposal on the November ballot. If approved, the bonds will pay to replace the 57-year-old middle school with a new school and repair the roof of the high school.

The proposed middle school would be about 98,000 square feet, compared with the current 67,000-square-foot school, said Superintendent Roger Hailey (pictured). The cost of the proposed middle school is about $20 million.

In addition to repairing the roof, the proposed renovations to the high school include plans to add a second practice gym, expand the band hall, the cafeteria and counseling offices and to add science labs at a cost of $5 million to $6 million, Hailey said.

Potter County to receive crime grant

Potter County officials recently received notice the county will receive $55,000 from the U.S. Department of Criminal Justice. The grant will be used to purchase new equipment and for crime prevention.

Crime-fighting technology becoming very popular

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

Facing ever-tightening budgets, public safety agencies are being forced to cut expenses at a time when citizens are clamoring for more services. What law enforcement agencies really want is more boots on the ground to deal with crime problems associated with population growth. But, additional funding has not materialized and there is little expectation that it will.

As a result, public safety groups are turning to technology in an effort to increase productivity without adding employees. This trend is being seen not only in Texas, but throughout the nation. Technology is helping fight crime in the nation's cities and states - whether through computer-aided dispatch or wireless surveillance networks.

Many local law enforcement agencies in Texas have installed digital video recorders in police vehicles for assistance with criminal suspects and also as a means of protection for the officers. Just this week, the city of Cleveland approved a lease agreement for $70,000 for digital video recorders for its police cars.

In Brownsville, surveillance cameras are being installed at local parks to deter vandalism and other criminal activity. More than 60 cameras will be installed at the Brownsville Sports Park this year at a cost of more than $215,000.

Tyler ISD begins planning projects for bond election

Trustees for the Tyler Independent School District recently agreed to allow school district staff to begin contract negotiations with two firms that could provide architectural and engineering services for projects in the $124.9 million November 2008 bond election.

If voters approve the bonds, the two firms will handle design of the new facilities proposed in the election. Trustee Brad Spradlin (pictured) said plans to open the facilities by the fall of 2010 make it important to move quickly on the projects. Trustees are proposing to build five new elementary schools and a new school for students with special needs. The cost of the firms' design work will be paid with about $2 million remaining from a 2004 bond election.

El Paso approves $8 million for repairs at center

The El Paso City Council recently approved spending $8 million in bond money to remove a leaky fountain and repair the cracked floor on the plaza of the Judson F. Williams Convention Center. The bonds will be repaid from revenue from the Hotel Occupancy Tax.

While some argued that the project may become too expensive and for a better method to finance the project, Rep. Steve Ortega (pictured), who represents Eastridge/Mid-Valley, said the repair is important because the convention center helps the city attract more visitors who contribute to the city's economy.

Colleyville City Council begins city manager search

The Colleyville City Council is considering hiring a firm to find a replacement for former City Manager Bill Lindley, who is relocating to Highland Park to serve as city manager there.

Assistant City Manager Kelly Cooper will serve as interim city manager until a permanent replacement is found. Cooper declined to say if she would apply for the position.

Hard-to-come-by research data

Need to know more about contracting vehicles or certain types of large contracts about to expire? Interested in competitor intelligence or obtaining contact information for all governmental entities within a region? How about a list of upcoming opportunities matching a specific criteria in other states?

SPI's research teams offer all this...and more. Call for details. Reagan Weil 512-531-3900 or rweil@spartnerships.com.

Where are they now?

Where do folks go when they leave state government? Some go to work in the private sector or for nonprofits. Some transition to executive-level positions in higher education while others may seek elected local government positions. And some just retire and spend a lot of time with their grandkids at the fishin' hole. This column focuses on where former state government officials and employees are now.

Arlene Wohlgemuth was a commercial pilot and flight instructor when she was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1994. She was re-elected in 1996, 1998, 2000 and 2002, before giving up her House seat to run an unsuccessful campaign in 2004 against an incumbent for the U.S. House of Representatives. She currently owns her own consulting firm and is a visiting research fellow at the Texas Public Policy Foundation's Center for Health Care Policy.

Jim Hine is the former chief executive and administrative officer of the Texas Department of Human Services (DHS). Prior to his service with DHS, Hine was executive director of the Department of Protective and Regulatory Services from 1996 until his 2001 appointment at DHS. He also previously held management positions at the Texas Employment Commission. Hine was the 2001 winner of the Bob Bullock Award for Outstanding Public Stewardship. Since retiring from his post at DHS, he now performs public policy consulting in Austin.

Zephyr ISD to receive $1.7 million in TEA facilities funds

The Zephyr Independent School District recently received notification the district will receive about $1.7 million from the Instructional Facilities Assistance Grant program administered by the Texas Education Agency. This year, the grant will pay $79,999 toward the district's $100,000 annual note for construction of new facilities, said Superintendent David Whisenhunt. Voters in 2007 approved $4.35 million in bonds. Phase one of the bond issue will build a new football field and track, while phase two will pay for construction of a new wastewater treatment plant and water displacement plant on the site of the current football field once the new field is built.

Phase three will fund a new physical education complex with a gymnasium, staff offices, classrooms and technology labs and phase four will pay for a new cafetorium. Construction of the third and fourth phases is dependent on availability of funds after completion of the first two phases.

Tyler ISD approves wireless networks for all campuses

Trustees for the Tyler Independent School District recently agreed to spend $353,000 to install wireless networks at 16 campuses that currently do not have a wireless network.

The installations will take from six to nine months to complete, said John Orbaugh, director of technology. Having a wireless network gives teachers more flexibility, he said. Wireless networks also are critical if the state continues to push for more online testing.

SPI launches new 'Special Services' division

Strategic Partnerships, Inc., has launched a new Special Services Division, which will include some of the state's premier and most experienced providers of services. SPI, working in conjunction with affiliates throughout the United States, will now offer services that include strategic planning, meeting facilitation, grant writing, keynote speakers, event planning, executive searches, economic development services, strategy development, mediation, customized training, executive coaching and more. Some of the "luminaries" working with SPI will be featured in future issues of the Texas Government Insider... This week we feature Keith Elkins.

Keith Elkins is a veteran of more than two decades or working as a journalist, primarily as a television news reporter and anchor. He is now using that experience for media consulting, with a full range of multi-media and public/media relations services for clients. He has a wealth of experience to share and a unique communications perspective as someone who knows firsthand what it's like to be on both sides of potential news-making events and situations.

Keith is a veteran TV news journalist and has served as an anchor-reporter in Austin, San Antonio, Beaumont and Huntsville, Alabama, as well as providing communication freelance services to CNN, CBS, NBC and the FOX television networks. He also was communications director for the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts and Texas Lottery Commission, worked as public relations director for a national video syndication company and served as a legislative assistant in the United States Senate.

Keith is available for a full range of multi-media and public/media relations services.

For a complete portfolio of experts and the services they offer, to inquire about specific services or to inquire about becoming a part of SPI's new Special Services division, contact J. Lyn Carl at 512-531-3936 or jcarl@spartnerships.com. For information on other individuals in our Special Services division and their areas of expertise, click here.

Keller voters to consider stadium bond proposal

Trustees for the Keller Independent School District recently agreed to split a proposed $168 million bond package into two separate propositions.

Proposition one for $142.3 million would pay for an elementary school, a hybrid intermediate school, technology, security upgrades and improvements for athletics. The second proposition for $25.6 million would pay for a second varsity stadium.

Financial crisis continues
for Royse City officials

The financial crisis being face by Royse City has led to the layoff of 27 employees. The layoffs followed discovery of a million-dollar shortfall for city coffers. As a result, the city library was being manned by volunteers. The city also was considering eliminating or reducing pay to the mayor and city council.

Shenandoah approves $25.3M five-year plan

The Shenandoah City Council recently approved an $11.7 million 2009 city budget along with designating $25.3 million for a five-year capital improvement plan.

City Administrator Chip VanSteenberg (pictured) said the capital improvement plan includes $11 million in water, sewer and street improvements and $9.2 million for improvements for Shenandoah Valley, including water, storm sewer and paving restoration. Completion of the Shenandoah Valley project has been pushed back from four and one-half years to possibly five and one-half years because enough bonds could not be issued in time to fund all the restoration in the targeted areas without raising taxes, VanSteenberg said.

Abilene studies installation of red-light cameras

The Abilene Red Light Camera Citizen Advisory Committee recently asked city staff to proceed with a traffic engineering study to evaluate whether to install red-light cameras at selected intersections.

The study will take from 60 to 90 days to complete and a final decision by council members may not take place until early 2009, said Assistant City Manager David Vela (pictured). The study will be conducted at four to six intersections and should look into consideration how construction is affecting traffic flow, seasonal changes in traffic and the effect of major events such as a holiday. During an earlier trial run in July, video cameras set up at 14 sites for eight hours at each site caught 121 perceived violations, Vela said.

Shanaa leaves Harker Heights for Killeen

Ray Shanaa, former director of planning and development for the city of Harker Heights, has been wooed away by the city of Killeen to become its director of planning and developmental services.

Shanaa has spent the last eight years with Harker Heights and previously served as director of planning for eight years in Bryan. He holds a master's degree from the University of Oklahoma and a doctorate from Texas A&M University.

Longview wins DOJ grant for crime prevention

The Partners in Prevention program of Longview was recently selected by the U.S. Department of Justice to receive a $28,675 grant to help prevent crime. Holly Fuller, the program manager, said the funds will be used for child identification programs and other crime prevention initiatives. The funds are from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program.

Region 2 Education Service Center awarded grant

The U.S. Department of Education recently awarded the Region Two Education Service Center almost $5,000 to pay for more library books, guest speakers and upgraded technology at 10 area middle schools. The funds, which are from the Improving Literacy Through School Libraries program, will be divided between 10 Coastal Bend schools - Banquete Junior High, Ben Bolt Middle School, Benavides Secondary School, Driscoll Middle School, McCraw Junior High in Mathis, Orange Grove Junior High, Ricardo Middle School in Riviera, De La Paz Middle School in Riviera, Taft Junior High and Three Rivers Middle School.

Live Oak mayor to serve
as Castroville city manager

Joe Painter (pictured) has been named Castroville city manager in addition to his charge as mayor of Live Oak. Painter has served as interim city manager for Castroville since 2006 after the post's occupant died.

In addition to 30 years of management experience and knowledge of Castroville, "We all feel like Joe Painter has unmatched integrity," Councilman David Stuart said.

Brownsville wins $1.5 million federal grant for public transit

The Brownsville Urban System (BUS) recently garnered a $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to improve the city's public transit system.

The funding will pay for construction of a multimodal terminal in order to consolidate regional and international transportation services, improve traffic circulation in the central business district and facilitate travel and trade.

Pampa to pursue grant
to update water system

The Pampa City Commission recently approved a resolution to permit the city to apply for a $250,000 grant from the Office of Rural Community Affairs' Texas Community Development Program.

The grant, if approved, would be used to help pay for upgrading a portion of the water main in the city's water system, said City Manager Trevlyn Pitner (pictured). The city already has set aside $107,529 from its general fund to pay for the water system upgrades, Pitner said.

Recent Reports

• An Audit Report on Human Resources Management at Health and Human Services Agencies
• In Touch, HHSC newsletter
• TDInsight, Texas Department of Insurance newsletter
• A Report on On-site Audits of Residential Child Care Providers
• House Appropriations Committee, Presentation on DSH, UPL and GME as they relate to State Owned Teaching Hospitals
• 'Eye on Government'
• SPI's May 2008 Municipal Bond Elections Report
• SPI's Defense Appropriations Bill Earmarks Report
• SPI's November 2007 Bond Election Results Report

Event Links

• SPI "Selling to Government" training workshop
• Texas Conference on Regionalism
• 5th annual Tee IT Up Texas golf tournament
• CONSEC 2008
• Executive Women in Texas Government 22nd Annual Professional Development Conference
• Texas GIS Forum 2008
• 6th Biennial Legislative Communications Conference
• Texas State University Small Business Development Center training schedule
• TWC Texas Business Conferences
• LBJ School Professional Development Calendar
• Upcoming Executive Women in Texas Government events

Texas Government Insider Archives

Volume 1 - 6 Archives · 11/7/03 - 8/29/08

Ector County ISD plans to renovate three new schools

Officials of the Ector County Independent School District will soon begin construction and renovations on the last three schools approved in an $89.5 million bond proposal in 2001. Of the nine projects approved, six schools are in varying stages of construction and renovation now and the district plans to ask for bids for three more schools on September 11.

A major focus of the construction has been to build separate gymnasiums and cafeterias, but the new projects include the addition of air conditioning, installing windows to allow natural light into classrooms and adding more library space with windows. Research has shown that natural light has a strong positive effect on students, said David Finley, directors of facilities and maintenance. Work at the Alternative Education Center and the two elementary schools should be completed in one year.

Colleyville agrees to hire firm to find city manager

Colleyville council members recently agreed to spend up to $25,000 to hire an executive search firm to help find a new city manager. Council members, however, have not yet announced a time frame to replace former City Manager Bill Lindley.

Governor's apppointments

Governor Rick Perry has made the following appointments:

• David Kleimann of Willis, San Jacinto River Authority Board of Directors
• Lloyd Tisdale of Conroe, San Jacinto River Authority Board of Directors
• R. Gary Montgomery of The Woodlands, San Jacinto River Authority Board of Directors
• Fernando Camarillo of Boerne, Nueces River Authority
• Manuel Cano of Corpus Christi, Nueces River Authority
• Robert M. Dullnig of San Antonio, Nueces River Authority
• Gary Jones of Beevill, Nueces River Authority
• Roxana Tom of Campbellton, Nueces River Authority

Brenham mulling bond issue for new $5M water tower

Brenham city officials are considering issuing certificates of obligation to pay for a new water tower to improve pressure on the western edge of the city. City Manager Terry Roberts (pictured) recommended funding the water tower and related line work be paid through certificates of obligation, but said that council members consider scheduling a bond election in 2009 to pay for other projects. The city does not have the option to call a bond election to pay for the water tower, Roberts said, because the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has warned the city to address water pressure problems.

Projects that may be included in the 2009 bond election are street improvements and establishing "quiet zones" where train engines would be banned from sounding their horns as they pass through the city.

Selling to governmental marketplaces in Texas?

This will keep you connected

Mary Scott Nabers' columns run regularly in the Austin, Houston, San Antonio and Dallas Business Journals and each column features contracting opportunities in all segments of government - state, city, county, K-12 public schools, higher education and healthcare.

If you miss the articles in the journals, go to the SPI Web site, where they're posted each week.

Colleyville approves $11.5M capital projects program

The Colleyville City Council recently approved a nine-year, $11.5 million capital projects program for work on 31 street, drainage, utility and sidewalk projects.

The projects are expected to cost between $70,000 to more than $1 million and should be completed between 2009 and 2018. The most expensive project is a $1.1 million road improvement project at Jackson and Cheek-Sparger roads expected to begin in 2011. Others projects are $1 million in improvements to Gladeand Pool roads in 2009, $680,000 for street reconstruction in the Tara Plantation area, and $900,000 for improvements at John McCain and Pleasant Run roads in 2010.

TGI ad space available

If you're not advertising in TGI, you're missing out on an opportunity for some very targeted messaging. TGI reaches thousands of readers each week. Interested in details, call Patti Maugham at 512-531-3900 or click here.

TEA to award Skidmore-Tynan nearly $1.6 million

The Texas Education Agency recently notified officials of the Skidmore-Tynan Independent School District the district will receive nearly $1.6 million to pay 40 percent of the $3.9 million bond proposal approved by voters in May 2007.

The grant will reimburse the district $202,379 for the $436,000 debt payment this year, noted Superintendent Brett Belmarez. The grant opens the door for future master planning and helps the district in financing the new science classrooms and lab, new career and technology center, new roofs and ceilings, parking lots, restrooms and physical education pavilion the district included in the bond proposal, he said.

Texas City ISD hires Brundrett as superintendent

Trustees for the Texas City Independent School District recently signed Bob Brundrett as superintendent of schools. Brundrett currently serves as an assistant superintendent at Killeen ISD. He also served as band director for Santa Fe ISD and for Spring ISD.

Brundrett has a bachelor's degree from the University of Houston at University Park, a master's from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University.

Beeville to receive $5M
from TEA for facilities

The Beeville Independent School District recently received notice that the Texas Education Agency will pay about $5 million of the $12 million bond issue approved by voters in May 2008. The funding is from the TEA Instructional Facility Allotment Fund.

The funds must be spent only for instruction purposes and cannot be used for projects such as new school buses and resurfacing a track or football field, said Superintendent John Hardwick Jr.

Harker Heights to spend $21.2M on capital projects

The Harker Heights City Council recently authorized spending $21.2 million on capital improvement projects during the upcoming fiscal year. The projects include spending more than $1.3 million to expand water lines, extend a waterline and upgrade a storage tank. Other projects include continuation of the first phase of the Farm-to-Market 2410 Athletic Complex, the second phase of the athletic complex, the Indian Trail reconstruction work, build a new animal shelter and improvements to Knight's Way Underpass.

Temple nearing decision
on new fire station site

Temple city officials recently narrowed their search for land for a new Central Fire Station to two parcels and are expected to finalize the purchase this week.

The city in 2007 and 2008 set aside $600,000 for a needs assessment, preliminary design and land acquisition for the new station. Council members are expected to approve a $696,000 contract with an architecture firm for design of the new station.

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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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SPI hosts 'Selling to Government' training workshop

Strategic Partnerships, Inc., announces its Austin "Selling to Government" workshop, which provides training for public sector sales executives. The event will be Sept. 16 at the Renaissance Hotel. The training is the same that SPI's corporate training team has delivered to Fortune 100 companies across the country, but features an expanded curriculum as well as an opportunity for one-on-one interaction with seasoned public sector decision-makers including former elected officials, CFOs, city managers, mayors and government executives. Facilitators will provide numerous best practices for increasing revenues in the government marketplace and will offer real-time assistance regarding current public sector sales obstacles participants may be facing. For more details, click here, or contact Patti Maugham at (512) 531-3900 or pmaugham@spartnerships.com. For a registration form, click here.

Texas Conference on Regionalism begins Oct. 1

The Texas Conference on Regionalism, the annual conference of Texas' regional planning councils, is slated for Oct. 1-3 in Corpus Christi at the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel-Bayfront, hosted this year by the Coastal Bend Council of Governments. Keynote speakers for the event include Sen. Kirk Watson of Austin and Dr. M. Ray Perryman, president of the Perryman Group. In addition to the keynote addresses, those attending may participate in concurrent sessions daily that include topics such as public safety, transportation, school emergency preparedness and response, recycling and waste minimization, critical infrastructure protection, statewide interoperability and more. Sponsorship and exhibitor space are available. To register, click here. For more information and to view the program, click here.

SGMP planning September meeting at Chez Zee

The Lone Star Chapter of the Society of Government Meeting Professionals will meet from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 11, at Chez Zee Restaurant at 5406 Balcones Drive in Austin. Joyce Sparks, CMP, Governor's Center for Management Development, will be the guest speaker and address the skills and knowledge one needs to be successful in their organization. The meeting will begin with a networking reception. Non-members may attend the first meeting free. On the second visit, government planner members and non-members pay $5, contract planners pay $5 and suppliers pay $20. The chapter offers educational programs, a newsletter, community service activities and leadership opportunities and it fosters communication and understanding between planners and suppliers. A government planner is a federal, state or local government employee who has the responsibility for planning or implementing any type of meeting, conference or convention as part of his or her official duties. Employees of private organizations, a majority of whose membership is comprised of government employees, may also qualify as government planners if they plan and implement meetings as part of their official duties. To RSVP click here.

6th Biennial Legislative Communications Conference set

The 6th Biennial Legislative Communications Conference is slated for Oct. 7 at The Commons of the the J.J. Pickle Research Center. The conference will feature several panels of government officials, legislators, policy wonks and others who will provide information relative to the upcoming 81st session of the Texas Legislature. The event is hosted by Strategic Partnerships, Inc. and The University of Texas at Austin Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs, and is a "must attend" event for anyone with an interest in the legislature and the workings of state government. To view the draft agenda for the event, click here. To register, click here.

TML's annual conference, exhibition slated Oct. 28-31

"Texas Cities - Innovation Meets Progress" is the mantra for the upcoming Texas Municipal League 96th Annual Conference and Exhibition. The event is set for Oct. 28-31 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio. The event kicks off with registration on Oct. 28 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday will feature the TML Board of Directors meeting, the Exhibit Hall grand opening and the opening General Session and presentation of awards. Tours of the San Antonio River Improvements Project and the San Antonio Emergency Operations Center highlight the Thursday agenda, along with a luncheon keynote speaker by "Freedom Writer" Manuel Scott. Friday features a Women in Government breakfast, a downtown San Antonio tour via Segway and a delegate luncheon with keynote speaker "attitude kicker" Sam Glenn. Concurrent sessions will be held throughout the conference addressing issues such as energy conservation, workforce development, leadership, media relations, several legislative topics and more. For more information and registration forms, click here. There is a discount for early registration and a discount for online registration.

Tee IT Up Texas government IT tourney set Oct. 24

The Fifth Annual Tee IT Up Texas! Texas government IT customer appreciation golf tournament is set for Friday, Oct. 24, at the Lions Municipal Golf Course in Austin. Check-in and lunch will begin at 11:30 a.m. A shotgun start will begin at 1 p.m. and the awards ceremony is slated for 6 p.m. The format is a four-person scramble with awards to the first and second place teams and individual contest winners for longest drive and closest pin. Door prizes also are available. IT vendors doing business with Texas public sector IT customers are encouraged to register a four-member team consisting of at least two government players. Registration is limited to the first 30 paid teams. Registration deadline is Oct. 10. For more information, click here. To register, click here.

Executive Women in Texas Government set conference

The Executive Women in Texas Government 22nd annual Professional Development Conference will be Monday, Nov. 24, at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort in Lost Pines, Texas. Hailed as a meeting of "ideas, solutions and connections," this year's event will feature keynote speakers Dr. Tina Dupree (AKA as the Chicken Lady) and Major General K.C. McClain, Commander Air Force Personnel Center, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, and workshops relating to development of executive level management skills, expanding leadership capabilities and networking and mentoring. The event will begin with a 7 a.m. registration. The first keynote speaker will be heard during the opening general session at 8:30 a.m. followed by two morning workshops and breaks for exhibits and networking. The EWTG Woman of the Year presentation will be made during lunch, with another afternoon workshop on tap and the closing general session and second keynote speech at 3:15 p.m. Sponsorships are available and exhibitors are also being accepted. For more information on the conference and registration, click here.

CONSEC 2008 event set in Austin Sept. 22-25

CONSEC 2008 is slated for Monday through Thursday, Sept. 22-25, at the J.J. Pickle Center in Austin. This year's event centers around "Risk Management and Business Continuance: Achieving Success." The first day of the event will feature a "fireside chat" with Professor Howard A. Schmidt, President and CEO of R&H Security Consulting LLC and former White House Cyber Security Advisor. Day two is a one-day forum for executives and senior management while day three features speakers on emergency crisis communication, planning for pandemic and life lessons in information security. The final day will feature a variety of workshops. To view the brochure with the event agenda, click here. To register, click here.

Texas GIS Forum 2008 slated for Oct. 27-31

The Texas Natural Resources Information System, a division of the Texas Water Development Board, is hosting the Texas GIS Forum 2008 on Oct. 27-31 at the J.J. Pickle Research Campus in Austin. The forum is billed as the "largest Geospatial Technology forum in Texas." Sponsorships are available and the forum will also feature exhibitors. To register, click here. For information for sponsors and exhibitors, click here. Registration for the forum is available to individuals from government agencies (federal, state, local), universities, industry representatives, sponsors and exhibitors. The group is expecting presentations on issues such as innovative uses for GIS, alternative GIS environments, budget GIS projects, Web-based GIS advancements, GIS or remote sensing for emergency response, etc.