Nursing shortage in Texas reaches crisis stage

Creative partnerships, collaborations spring up to address problem

The nursing shortage that has plagued Texas for a decade has reached the crisis point, according to the state's top nurse advocate.

"This shortage is a serious challenge in our state," said Elizabeth Sjoberg (pictured below), a registered nurse and associate general counsel for the Texas Hospital Association. "Hospitals, universities, lawmakers, communities, everyone is working to solve this problem. It is a top priority because we are talking about the health and safety of all Texas residents."

At the same time the U.S. Department of Labor is projecting more new jobs for registered nurses than for any other profession, the Texas shortfall is nearing 27,000 registered nurses.

Even though interest in nursing is growing, access to professional nursing education has become more difficult because there are fewer nurse educators. In 2006, more than 11,000 qualified applicants were turned away from Texas nursing schools because they couldn't afford to recruit and retain sufficient faculty.

While there is no immediate solution in sight, Sjoberg said, community partnerships to enhance nursing educational opportunities will prove to be the big fix Texas is grasping for.

HHSC announces several new staff assignments

Rolando Garza (top left) has been named Deputy Commissioner for System Support Services at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Garza's new assignment was one of a number announced recently by HHSC Executive Commissioner Albert Hawkins. Garza has served the agency previously as associate commissioner for Business and Regional Services. In that position, he oversaw consolidation of regional support services, streamlined warehouse and print shop functions and worked to improve procurement practices. Prior to his association with HHSC, Garza was director of the Center for Public Health Preparedness at the Texas Department of Health, was an executive with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and worked at the Texas Commission for the Blind. He also worked in the Texas Legislature and for the Austin-Travis County MHMR Center. Garza holds both a bachelor's and master's degree from The University of Texas at Austin.

Assuming Garza's old position as Associate Commissioner for Business and Regional Services is Les Butler (top right), who has served as HHSC's chief operating officer since 2006. He also was Deputy Director for Regional Administrative Services at the agency and held various positions with the Texas Department of Human Services, including regional administrator for multiple regions. Butler earned his bachelor's degree from Wayland Baptist University and his master's from the College for Financial Planning.

Hawkins also announced the creation of a new associate commissioner position in the System Support Services Division and named Dr. Susan M. Johnson (bottom left) to that post. Johnson is the former director of the Office of the Ombudsman. Her new title is Associate Commissioner for Consumer Support and Workforce Services. The newly created department will include the Office of the Ombudsman, Human Resources, Civil Rights and the Office of Community Collaboration. Johnson has previously served the state in the Texas Department of Human Services, the Texas Department of Transportation, the Office of the Governor and the Texas Department of Community Affairs. She holds a bachelor's degree from Fisk University, a master's from The University of Texas at Austin and a Ph.D. from Jackson State University.

Windy Hill (bottom right) will assume leadership of HHSC's Office of Community Collaboration, which will meld staff in the Medicaid/Children's Health Insurance Program Division and the Communications Office. Hill currently addresses outreach efforts in the agency's Communications Office. A former executive director of Cen-Tex Family Services, Hill has also worked with the federal Head Start program.

Strategic Partnerships salutes Texas' Lone Stars

This week's salute is to Adan Munoz, executive director of the Texas Commission on Jail Standards

Career highlights and education: Over 32 years in law enforcement. Police officer, deputy sheriff, district attorney investigator, elected sheriff of Kleberg County (1989 - 1994), Governor's Office, Office of the Texas Attorney General, Texas Commission on Jail standards since September of 2006. Appointed to Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Education Commission in 1991. Attended Texas A&M Kingsville.

What I like best about my job is: Problem solving with county governments on issues of non-compliance.

The best advice I've received for my current job: Be firm and aggressive, but never forget to be fair across-the-board.

Advice I would give a new hire in my office: Do not be afraid to ask questions. Asking questions, and receiving answers and advice will keep you from doing something wrong.

If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be found: visiting my granddaughters or working on my yard.

People would be surprised to know that I: served in the U.S. Navy without ever having to learn how to swim.

One thing I wish more people knew about my agency: That they show more interest in what we do and how we do it - the fact that we serve as a regulatory agency to assist in reducing liability risks to counties.

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.

Wanser now deputy commissioner at DARS

Debra Wanser has assumed her new role as Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS). She brings 28 years of direct care and administrative experience in nursing, mental health, public health and social services to her new position.

Wanser comes to DARS from the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), where she served as Assistant Commissioner for Adult Protective Services. She also previously was Associate Commissioner for Health at the former Texas Department of Health.

Wanser holds degrees from St. Edward's University and the Oklahoma State University School of Nursing. She also holds a master's degree from The University of Texas LBJ School of Public Affairs.

Texas Facilities Commission cites staff changes

Stephen Thomas has been named Deputy Executive Director for Administration at the Texas Facilities Commission, according to TFC Executive Director Edward Johnson. Thomas previously served the agency as Director of Human Resources and Staff Services, and will now be responsible for TFC programs including Human Resources and Staff Development, Safety and Risk Management, Records Management, Information Technology and Publications and Media Services.

Johnson also announced that Luis Arellano, chief financial officer, will assume responsibility for Federal and State Surplus Programs in addition to Budget and Finance and Internal Procurement.

Gregg Werkenthin, former Director of State Leasing, has been named Deputy Executive Director for Space Management and State Leasing Services. His responsibilities cover TFC programs including State Leasing, Office of Space Management and Real Estate Services and Commercial Parking Operations.

Molina new HHSC associate commissioner

Joanne Molina was recently named the new associate commissioner for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission's Office of Family Services. That department has oversight of programs including Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), food stamps, Medicaid, 2-1-1 Texas and Healthy Marriage Development.

Molina, who has worked in eligibility services for 30 years, was most recently a senior policy adviser for the Office of Social Services, where she provided guidance and oversight of policy development process and represented HHSC to advocates and other external stakeholders, providers and legislative offices.

Bill in Congress holds millions for Texas installations

A bill that was passed in the U.S. Senate this week includes $1.5 billion in funding for military construction in Texas. The bill, however, must make its way out of a conference committee and be signed by the president. Fort Bliss in El Paso, which is expected to expand by 20,000 between 2005 and 2011, would benefit from $635 million to build offices, barracks, motor pools and other facilities. The bill would also provide $71 million for construction projects at the White Sands Missile Range, which is expected to be home to a combat engineering battalion by the end of next year. In San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston would get $536 million as is prepares Brooke Army Medical Center to become a major military medical center. Lackland AFB would get $51.9 million, Randolph AFB would get $11.5 million, and Camp Bullis $9 million. Another $14.3 million in the bill would provide for an aviation training center at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi.

Balido named to Homeland Security Advisory Committee

Nelson H. Balido (pictured) of San Antonio has been named by U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff as one of two members of the Homeland Security Advisory Council's Private Sector Senior Advisory Committee.

The Homeland Security Advisory Council is the Secretary's primary advisory body and is comprised of experts from state and local governments, terrorism prevention and response communities, academia and the private sector. The council provides advice to Secretary Chertoff and the department's leadership on homeland security issues.

Balido, founder of a public strategies, multicultural marketing and real estate firm, also founded and led the multicultural team at a major communications company. He was appointed by Gov. Rick Perry as a commissioner of the Texas Commission on the Arts. He is also a graduate of the FBI Citizens' Academy and a member of Infragard. Balido is involved in the entertainment industry, and was inducted into the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences in 1999. He attended The Citadel and then transferred to Texas Tech University, where he earned two bachelor's degrees. He holds a Certificate in Community Minority Business Advancement from The University of Texas at Austin, is a graduate of the U.S. Department of Justice's FBI Citizens Academy and is pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Advanced International Affairs at the Bush School of Government at Texas A&M University.

Morrow to chair Emerging Technology Committee

Gov. Rick Perry has appointed 17 individuals to the Texas Emerging Technology Advisory Committee, naming William Morrow of Spring Branch as presiding officer. The committee recommends projects eligible for emerging technology funding to the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the Texas House of Representatives.

Other committee appointees include Grant Billingsley of Midland; Gerald Cagle of Fort Worth; Kirk Calhoun of Tyler; Jack Gill of Houston; Judy Hawley of Portland; Bill Holmes of El Paso; Cesar Maldonado of Harlingen; Elsa Murano of Bryan; Bob Pearson of Austin; Madison Pedigo of Lucas; Jose D. Riojas of El Paso; John Schrock Sr. of McAllen; David Spencer of San Antonio; William C. Sproull of Richardson; Enrique (Henry) R. Venta of Beaumont; and Aruna Viswanathan of Houston.

Workers' comp positions moved to OIEC

Twenty-five Dispute Resolution Officer positions with the Division of Workers' Compensation at the Texas Department of Insurance have been transferred to the Office of Injured Employee Counsel (OIEC), effective Sept. 1. OIEC is the state agency that provides assistance to injured employees not represented by an attorney in the worker's compensation system. The move follows direction from the 80th Texas Legislature and allows OIEC to become involved in the dispute resolution process early in the dispute.

"We believe transferring these employees will increase the level of assistance provided to unrepresented injured workers in the initial stages of the informal dispute resolution process," Commissioner of Workers' Compensation Albert Betts (pictured) said.

OIEC will now be the primary state agency to assist these injured employees by offering ombudsman assistance free during mediation and contested case hearings.

TABC launches underage drinking facts campaign

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) and community leaders in Hidalgo and Cameron counties last week launched the "Facts About Underage Drinking" campaign to encourage parents to talk to their teenagers regarding the dangers of underage drinking. "We are hoping this campaign will start to educate parents about not only the legal issues related to underage drinking, but the developmental and physical consequences as well," said TABC Administrator Alan Steen (left).

The Facts about Underage Drinking Campaign is an 18-month pilot program that will run in Hidalgo and Cameron Counties, and TABC officials hope community leaders will become involved. "As a member of the Rio Grande Valley education community, we recognize the need to arm parents with information to educate their children and that reinforcement in the home environment is key to lasting, positive behaviors," said Dr. Shirley A. Reed (right), president of South Texas College, which provided the location for the kickoff of the program.

Los Fresnos High School was acknowledged for its efforts to deter underaged drinking and driving. "TABC's plan is for parents, students and communities to start conversations, address issues, and to begin to identify solutions for the challenges of addressing underage drinking in Hidalgo and Cameron Counties and ultimately the State of Texas," said Steen.

TCEQ plans public meetings throughout state

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will hold public meetings on Tuesday, Sept. 11, seeking comments on revisions to rules pertaining to the AirCheck Texas Vehicle Repair and Replacement Assistance program and the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan. The hearings will be held in Austin, Houston and Arlington. Most of these changes will make the programs consistent with revisions in Senate Bill 12, passed during the 80th Legislature.

The AirCheck Texas Vehicle Repair and Replacement Assistance program provides assistance to eligible applicants to repair or replace a vehicle that does not pass emissions testing in 16 participating counties. Proposed rules allow for vouchers of up to $3,500 for vehicle replacement and will make more people eligible.

The Texas Emissions Reduction Plan reduces air pollution by awarding grants to retrofit or replace large diesel engines or equipment. New rules will increase the amount spent to $15,000 per ton of nitrogen oxides reduced; designate roadways on which grant-funded vehicles can travel; and require that replaced equipment be scrapped. For more information on the hearings and the proposed rule, click here.

Awards are given in four categories: Planning Process, Policy Tools, and On-the-Ground Projects I (over $500,000) and Projects II ($499,999 and under). Plans, policies, and projects that exhibit "efficiency, effectiveness, and creativity can serve as models to be replicated throughout the region and the state." Deadline for submissions is Monday, Oct. 15. Small project submittals are encouraged. Honor Award information and applications are available here.

Rodriguez picked for Edinburg city manager post

The Edinburg City Council last week picked Interim City Manager J.J. Rodriguez (pictured) to fill the city's top administrative job on a permanent basis. Rodriguez was appointed to the post on an interim basis in July 2006 after Wendy Smith Sturgis resigned as city manager to accept a deputy city manager position in McAllen.

The council received approximately 20 applications for the city manager post. After reviewing the applicants, the council decided to tap Rodriguez for the position, citing his excellent performance as interim city manager. The council is working out the details of Rodriguez' employment contract, which is expected to be finalized at the Sept. 18 council meeting.

Boyd voters to decide on $24 million bond package

Boyd ISD trustees will ask voters on Nov. 6 to approve a $24 million bond issue to fund the construction of a new high school, four more classrooms for the elementary school and a new middle school cafetorium.

Growth in the Boyd community in recent years has caused overcrowding in school classrooms. The proposed new high school would include 30 classrooms and accommodate more than 600 students. The existing high school, built in 1980, has the capacity for 225 students but currently accommodates 343 students.

Currently, the middle school and high school are located in the same building. If the bond issue passes, the old high school would house the middle school and intermediate classes. Boyd voters rejected similar bond proposals in 2006 and 2000.

Malone named interim superintendent for Italy ISD

Italy school trustees have named Jimmie Malone (pictured) as interim superintendent for the Italy ISD. Malone, a 28-year veteran of the Texas educational system, replaces Dr. Gail Graham Haterius, who accepted the superintendent position in the Clyde ISD.

Malone was superintendent for the Decatur ISD from 1993 to 1999, the Kopperl ISD from 1984 to1989 and for the S&S Consolidated ISD from 1989 to1993. He began his career in education as a composite science teacher and head coach for the Aquilla ISD in 1970. He also worked for the Whitney ISD from 1971 to 1984 as science teacher, head coach, elementary principal and high school principal.

Malone received an associate degree from Hill Junior College, a bachelor's degree from Dallas Baptist University and a master's degree from Tarleton State University.

Howard County residents asked to support new jail

An $11.57 million, 96-bed jail will be built in Howard County if voters approve a bond issue called by county commissioners for November. It will be the county's second attempt at passing a bond election. The first, for a new $10 million jail, failed in May.

County officials are trying to avoid non-compliance with Texas Commission on Jail Standards regulations, which could cause the commission to shut the jail down. The jail was closed from November, 2006, to June of this year. The current jail holds only 39 inmates, forcing the county to send overflow inmates to other counties, which has cost an estimated $1 million.

Brunson chosen as SFA's interim assistant provost

Dr. Mary Nelle Brunson (pictured), assistant chair of the Department of Elementary Education at Stephen F. Austin State University, has been named interim assistant provost at the Nacogdoches university. She will assist with oversight of the university's academic programs.

Brunson joined the SFA faculty in 1998 as campus academic leader for the SFA-Nacogdoches ISD Charter School and previously taught in the public schools in Nacogdoches, Etoile and Brazosport. She was named assistant chair of the Department of Elementary Education in 2000 and coordinates SFA's accreditation with the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.

Brunson holds bachelor's and master's degrees from SFA and her Ph.D. from the University of North Texas. She also holds professional mid-management administrator certification and professional development appraisal certification.

Midland schools getting Web-based security systems

The Midland ISD is using a "Secure Our Schools" grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to make district schools safer for students, faculty, staff and visitors. The district recently unveiled an identification system designed to assist school and law enforcement officials in tracking everyone on each of the district's 30 campuses. The Web-based security system will be installed at Midland schools over the next three to six months.

The tracking system includes a scanner, printer and software. The software scans any state identification, driver's license, concealed handgun license, military identification card, green card or Mexican driver's license. It then compares an individual's data with 450,000 records and conducts an Internet search to determine if the person is a sex offender, is bound by a restraining order or has child custody issues. The system also can track early releases, student tardiness and faculty time.

The software was developed to secure a large corporate office in New York City following the tragedies of Sept. 11, 2001. The $1 million federal grant has enabled more than 3,000 schools throughout the United States to install the security system.

Corpus Christi making foray into education

City officials in Corpus Christi are taking matters into their own hands, and this one is a matter that few cities are involved in - education. The city has set aside $100,000 to hire an education director.

As the need for skilled workers in the community increases, city officials are looking ahead - and wondering who will replace today's skilled workers when they begin to retire. In a program initiated by Council Member Larry Elizondo (pictured), the education director would work with local school officials to ensure that tomorrow's workforce has the skills necessary to meet the needs of local business and industry. The goal is to bring area school districts together to address workforce needs of the future and economic development of the area.

Waller Creek tunnel project moving forward

The Austin City Council last week approved a $28.3 million design contract for the much anticipated downtown Waller Creek tunnel project. This phase of the project should be completed in 2010. The $100 million construction phase of the tunnel is expected to be under way by early fall of 2010 and completed in 2014.

The primary purpose of the project is to control flooding along the eastern edge of downtown between Waterloo Park and Lady Bird Lake. But it also is expected to foster economic growth by transforming the blighted Waller Creek corridor into an amenity similar to San Antonio's Riverwalk.

The City of Austin and Travis County recently agreed to create a tax increment finance district along the downtown corridor to pay off the debt used to build and operate the tunnel.

SFA's McDonald to serve on advisory committee

Dr. Randy McDonald (pictured), director of the Office of Instructional Technology at Stephen F. Austin State University since 2000, has been appointed to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board's Distance Education Advisory Committee.

The Distance Education Advisory Committee provides feedback to Texas institutions regarding distance education policy development, quality assessment and costs.

McDonald holds a bachelor's degree from Abilene Christian University, master's degrees from SFA and the University of North Texas and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Prior to being named director of the Office of Instructional Technology at SFA, McDonald was a staff and faculty member for eight years at the university.

Cedar Park considering entertainment center proposal

Plans for the Cedar Park Entertainment Center appear to be moving forward. Following months of public deliberations, the city of Cedar Park's Economic Development Board recently rejected three development proposals for the center but is considering a bid from James Lites, president of the Dallas Stars and Hicks Sports Marketing Group.

Lites plans to bring an affiliate of the professional hockey team, also known as the Stars, to Cedar Park. If the board approves his proposal, the Dallas-based group's Center Operating Company would run the entertainment complex.

The $45 million complex will have a minimum of 6,000 seats and should be open in late 2008. Construction of the entertainment venue was approved by city voters in a 2006 bond election. Economic development funding, rather than property tax revenue, has been earmarked to pay for the project. The board will continue to accept private sector development proposals for the center.

McCoy selected as new registrar for UT-Tyler

LaTonya McCoy (pictured), who has been serving as associate registrar at the University of Texas at Tyler, took over as registrar full-time on Sept. 1. She will be charged with maintaining class schedules and grades and with processing registration requests.

McCoy had served as associate registrar since 2005, after joining the university in 1990 as assistant registrar, senior admissions counselor, information services specialist and admissions assistant.

McCoy holds a bachelor's degree from UT-Tyler and an associate degree from Kilgore College.

Madisonville looks for new city manager

Ruth Smith, who has served as interim city manager of the city of Madisonville since February, has decided to return to her position as director of finance for the city, leaving the city without a city manager. Smith took over for previous City Manager Tom Ginter when he resigned. A replacement has not yet been named.

I-10 speed-checking cameras put on hold

The Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT) plans to install speed-checking cameras on portions of Interstate 10 near El Paso and on State Highway 6 in the Bryan-College Station area have been put on hold.

The $2 million project would have allowed for installation of cameras that photograph speeding vehicles. Owners of the vehicles would then be sent a warning, but would not be ticketed. The thrust of the program, according to Texas Transportation Commission officials, was to reduce accidents caused by speeding. Chairman Ric Williamson said he will instead prepare a proposal for the next legislative session in 2009.

Mills to serve as associate dean at WTAMU

Dr. LaVelle H. Mills, a professor of management at West Texas A&M University (WTAMU), this week was named associate dean of the WTAMU College of Business. The position of associate dean is new for the College of Business. In her new capacity, Mills will assume more of the workload of Dr. Neil Terry, dean of the College of Business. Mills has been a member of the university faculty since 1998. She has served as assistant dean and director of academic graduate programs since 2006. Mills will continue her work with graduate business programs, retaining directorship through the fall 2007 semester.

Mills received her bachelor's degree from WTAMU in 1968. She later earned two master's degrees and a doctoral degree at the University of North Texas. She taught at Tarleton State University from 1979 to 1998.

Four named to Physician Assistants Board

Four persons have been appointed by Gov. Rick Perry to serve on the Texas Physician Assistants Board: Teralea Davis Jones of Beeville, Felix Koo of McAllen, Michael Mitchell of Henrietta and Abelino "Abel" Reyna of Waco.

Jones is rural health clinic coordinator of the Beeville Family Practice and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Koo is the clinical coordinator of the Physician Assistant Studies Program at the University of Texas-Pan American. He received a doctorate degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston and a doctorate of medicine from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

Mitchell is a physician and partner of the Clinics of North Texas and is being reappointed to the board. Mitchell is in full time family practice in Wichita Falls with emphasis on care and treatment of diabetes. He holds a bachelor's degree from Central State University, and doctoral degree from Oklahoma State University School of Osteopathic Medicine. Reyna is a partner of Reyna and Reed L.L.P. He holds both a bachelor's and law degree from Baylor University.

Barnes picked as new associate at UT-Arlington

Donelle Barnes (pictured), associate professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, has been named as the newest associate of the Center for Hispanic Studies in Nursing and Health at the university's School of Nursing. She will focus primarily on the center's research.

Barnes has taught in both Texas and California, and has worked with the Catholic University in Quito, Ecuador, as a nursing faculty member. She also has worked previously with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and has held a number of positions at hospitals in Quito.

The center provides educational programs and services to teach health care providers culturally sensitive care through educational programs, service activities and travel-study opportunities. The associates are volunteers who have knowledge and skill related to Hispanic health issues.

Barnes holds a master's degree in nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University and a Ph.D. in nursing from the University of California, San Francisco.

Grapevine about to make large laptop purchase

With prices for laptop computers declining, the Grapevine ISD has approved spending $1.31 million for 1,000 laptops for a pilot project over the next two years. The funds will come from the district's 2005 bond package that includes money for computers.

Every high school and middle school classroom will get one laptop - 500 this year and 500 next year. High school classrooms should be outfitted with laptops within the next month. They will be for student use at the school only. Each computer will be outfitted with a tracking system that can track the IP address and physical location from which the laptop is being used.

The bond issue includes funds for 5,000 computers over five years.

Thrall ISD announces November bond election

A $7.9 million bond election has been called for November in the Thrall ISD. The bond issue will pay for a new high school and renovations to existing elementary, middle and high school facilities. The new high school will include 12 classrooms, a computer science lab, two science labs, two computer labs, a library, restrooms and administrative and staff offices.

Cepica retiring from Texas Tech University

Marvin Cepica (pictured), dean of the Texas Tech University College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, is hanging it up on a career that has spanned 30 years. In addition to serving as dean, he has also held a number of other academic and administrative positions at Tech.

Cepica began his education career as a high school agricultural science teacher in Graham and Dimmitt. He joined Texas Tech in 1977 as a faculty member in the Department of Agricultural Education and Agricultural Engineering. He also served as a professor in the Department of Agricultural Education and Communications, was Executive Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs and also served as interim dean before taking on the position full-time in 2004.

The long-time Tech employee holds bachelor's and master's degrees from Texas Tech and his Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University.

Jacksonville facing $19 million school bond

School bond issues in the Jacksonville ISD have not been very successful in recent years, but school officials are going to try again, this time with a $19 million proposal for November that will build a new school for up to 1,000 students. School officials hope to finance the project over 25 years, thus not incurring any extra debt. Since 2005, three bond issues in the district have failed.

Occupational Therapy Examiners appointees cited

Stephanie Johnston of Houston, Pamela Nelon of Fort Worth, James Vasquez of Houston and Judith Ann Chambers of Austin have all been appointed by Gov. Rick Perry to serve on the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners.

Johnson is a professor and fieldwork coordinator in the Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Tomball College. She holds a bachelor's and master's degree from Texas Woman's University. Nelon is a realtor and owner of her own advertising, marketing and consulting agency. She holds a bachelor's degree from Dallas Baptist University. Vasquez is regional director of rehabilitation for Cantex Senior Communities. He holds a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University, a master's from Webster University and a law degree from the South Texas College of Law. Chambers is a retired counselor and teacher. She holds a bachelor's and master's degree from Colorado State University and a master's from Sam Houston State University.

Chadwell hired as new deputy superintendent

Jim Chadwell (pictured) has been named deputy superintendent of the Grapevine-Colleyville ISD, effective Sept. 11. Chadwell comes from the Northwest district, where he served as director for instruction and campus support.

Chadwell will replace John Allison, who resigned in June to become superintendent of a Pennsylvania school district. Prior to becoming a district administrator, Chadwell was principal of Northwest High School, served there as an assistant principal and has taught sociology, advanced placement psychology and German.

The new deputy superintendent holds bachelor's and master's degrees from Texas Christian University and is currently working on his doctorate in educational leadership.

$250 million bond election goes to vote in Irving ISD

A $250 million bond issue that would provide for construction of new schools, renovations at existing schools and continue the district's laptop program will go to Irving ISD voters in November. Included in the bond would be a new elementary and a new middle school. But most of the funds would go to upgrade existing campuses, including additions of a new auditorium at one campus, a new fine arts center at another and additional classrooms.

The laptop program provides a laptop to every high school student. The bond money would help replace existing units but not expand the program.

Sending kids to college? Better start saving now!

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

If you think college costs today are high, you're right.....but take a look at what the future holds. Education costs are escalating so fast that by 2020, the cost of a four-year college education may top $250,000.

While a four-year college education in Texas once was considered a bargain when compared to many other states, that is changing quickly. Rising tuition rates in Texas have moved the state to approximately the national average. Many families are being forced to rethink their financial plans for their children's college expenses.

Higher education costs are rising faster than inflation. According to The College Board, Texas ranked eighth among public, four-year colleges across the nation in tuition and fee increases (not including room and board) with an 8 percent jump from the 2005-06 school year to 2006-07. The national average is 6.3 percent.

Last chance to register for 'Selling to Government' workshop Sept. 12 in Austin

Time is running out!

If you haven't registered for Strategic Partnerships, Inc.'s one-time, one-day Strategic Sales Workshop in Austin, you've only got five days left! The Wednesday, Sept. 12, workshop is designed for sales executives interested in increasing their company's share of government contracts.

The workshop will feature SPI's team of veteran consultants who have years of state and local government experience at all levels. They will share their experiences, point out dos and don'ts, offer best practices and even share some "insider" secrets to help you as you navigate this very lucrative marketplace.

Sales executives from across the country have benefited from this interactive training program and now SPI is bringing it to Austin! Registrations already include a number of out-of-state sales executives who missed other sessions throughout the country. A limited number of attendees will be accepted, so register now.

The workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Renaissance Hotel in the Arboretum. The curriculum in this program was designed with the specific objective of helping sales executives to the next level of sales revenues.

Participants will receive a Guide to Upcoming State and Local Opportunities for 2008. This valuable information will describe dozens of upcoming state government opportunities, all funded and scheduled for the state's new fiscal year which begins in September. Participants will also receive listings of upcoming local government opportunities (all funded) with information attached regarding timelines, budgets, decision-makers and historical data.

For more information, and to register, click here, or contact Reagan Weil, SPI Business Development Manager, at 512-531-3917 or rweil@spartnerships.com.

Portion of new toll road in Central Texas opens

Nearly 12 more miles of Texas 130, one of the state's newest toll roads, opened this week in Central Texas. The new stretch of highway runs from U.S. 290 to Texas 71, which now has Texas 130 extending from its intersection with I-35 north of Georgetown to just east of the Austin-Bergstron International Airport. Another 8.7 miles of the highway is expected to be completed in the spring.

Tarleton to benefit from university's largest budget

The largest budget in school history for Tarleton State University was recently approved by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents, representing a 10.3 percent increase over the last fiscal year. The more than $112 million budget will be used by the university to meet the needs of a growing student population, from salary increases for faculty and staff, to operating cost adjustments for expansion at the campuses in Stephenville, Killeen, Fort Worth and Waco.

Tarleton President Dr. Dennis McCabe (pictured) said the Tarleton-Central Texas campus in Killeen "is moving toward a stand-alone campus" while providing for the educational needs of the area. The university hopes to be able to attract more faculty, provide support for the university's new recreational sports facility and provide funding for scholarships and research.

Belo Foundation commits $15 million to UT-Austin

The Belo Foundation of Dallas has pledged $15 million to establish the Belo Center for New Media at The University of Texas at Austin's College of Communication. The center will honor Col. Alfred Horatio Belo, the original owner of The Dallas Morning News. The gift is the largest in the foundation's history. The current College of Communication complex includes three buildings and serves more than 4,200 students. The new center will be approximately 125,000 square feet and will cost $45 million. While $12 million is pledged from The Belo Foundation, the remaining balance was pledged from Robert W. Decherd and Maureen H. Decherd, and the estate of James M. Moroney Jr. and the Jim and Lynn Moroney Family Foundation. Robert Decherd is Belo's chairman, president and chief executive officer. The late James Moroney Jr. was a former publisher and CEO of The Dallas Morning News.

Galveston ISD buses
to have GPS, cameras

More than $88 million will be spent by the Galveston ISD to install infrared cameras with microphones for audio recording and global positioning systems (GPS) on the district's buses. The system also will have a program that can notify parents via telephone if a student on a bus is 10 minutes from the location where they drop off and pick up their children.

Renovations top items in Hudson ISD bond issue

Additional classrooms and additions to exiting cafeterias top the list of items that are part of a $12 million bond election voters in the Hudson ISD will face in November. A community facilities committee made the recommendations to the school board, which also includes renovations at the middle school building and the seventh grade building. A separate cafeteria for the high school is also on tap.

Central ISD calls for bond election in November

With a new primary/elementary campus, additions and renovations to the junior and high school to accommodate growth and curriculum requirements, the Central ISD Board of Trustees has called for a school bond election. The total amount of the bond election will be $12.5 million, according to Superintendent Allen Garner (pictured).

Garner said the bond is necessary to address issues that include campus safety and security, technology needs and facility renovations and upgrades. A facility study committee surveyed the district's facilities and made recommendations regarding issues that need to be addressed first to keep up with the continued student population growth.

Increasing construction costs delaying GISD projects

Many of the projects approved by voters in the Galveston ISD in 2003 remain unfinished and now school officials have to prioritize those projects to decide which should be completed first. With only $2.43 million left of the 2003 bond money, unfinished projects would cost approximately $15 million to complete.

Word from the district's facilities director is that the top priority projects he has designated will cost approximately $5 million to finish. Those not listed as top priority are not likely to be finished.

Vidor ISD looking toward 2008 bond issue

Officials of the Vidor ISD are studying their options in advance of a possible bond election in 2008. School officials are contemplating bonds to help build a new administration building, expand numerous of its campuses, build new libraries at three elementary schools and the junior high and improve parking at some campuses. Renovations at the high school athletic complex and building of a new field house are also items of concern, as are expansion of the career and technology center and the high school agricultural complex.

College receives grant to build community center

San Antonio College has received a grant of nearly $600,000 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to build a community center for low- and moderate-income families that live near the campus. The funds are made available through HUD's Hispanic Serving Institutions Assisting Communities Program.

The Mi CASA (Career Advancement and Self-Sufficiency Assistance) Center will offer career advancement services and social services that promote college enrollment and self-sufficiency. Some of the services to be offered to neighboring families include tax assistance, housing assistance, homebuyer education classes, training in financial and computer literacy and social service referrals and eligibility screening. The center is expected to be completed in August 2009.

Miller to take over as Marble Falls city manager

Just days after Marble Falls City Manager George Russell announced he would retire at the end of January 2008, city officials announced that Assistant City Manager Judy Miller is their choice to succeed Russell.

The city has adopted a transition plan to turn the reins of the city over to Miller, who has been assistant city manager since 2001. She will become the new city manager on Feb. 1, 2008. The city already is looking for Miller's replacement. Miller previously served as city manager in Ballinger.

Midway ISD studies need
for facilities expansion

Midway ISD officials are looking at a possible bond election in May 2008, as the district faces an increasing area population and an increasing number of students to go with it. School officials say a new building will have to be ready to meet that growth by 2009.

A recent study indicated that the district could see growth of 1,200 new students over the next five years. The report showed that by 2009, the Midway Intermediate School will be at 107 percent capacity and the middle and high schools will be at 98 percent. The district is expected soon to hire an architect to draw up plans for necessary facilities, which will be used as the financial foundation from which to build a bond election.

A&M's "Code Maroon" alert system up and running

Thousands of students, faculty and staff at Texas A&M University have enrolled in "Code Maroon," the university's new emergency notification system, according to TAMU Interim President Eddie Davis (pictured).

Davis said the system allows the university to communicate health and safety-related emergency information quickly by e-mail, phone or text messaging. "It could literally be a life-saver," he said.

Brazos County OKs jail expansion bond election

A $55 million Brazos County Jail expansion project will go before voters in November. County commissioners expect construction costs for the expansion to be $45 million, with another $10 million for items such as furnishings, fixtures and technology needs.

If the bond passes, three "pods" with 684 new beds will be added to the existing facility. Just this year, the county had to apply for permission from the Texas Commission on Jail Standards to install 48 more beds to address overcrowding. The expansion would include 150,000 square feet of new space.

Katy ISD buys land for future growth in student numbers

Katy school trustees have begun buying property to accommodate the district's steady enrollment growth through 2013. The board recently approved the purchase of 141 acres for $5.038 million. The newly acquired property will be the site of a new high school, junior high and elementary schools scheduled to open by 2013. Current Katy ISD enrollment is 54,000 students, an increase of 4,000 from 2006-07.

Experiencing an annual growth rate of about 3,000 students, the district projects it will need to build 20 new schools over the next six years. District officials stressed that planning ahead for land purchases and school construction will save the district money over the years.

Friendswood bond package bigger than first thought

The Friendswood ISD bond election in November will be $14.5 million higher than initially thought. The bond issue has now ballooned to $99.5 million from its original $85 million. The original bond amount was proposed to build a new junior high, pay for remodeling at the high school and build a new gym and natatorium.

School officials now have decided to add $1.8 million in improvements to the football stadium and $2.8 million for an auditorium for the new junior high and additional renovations at the high school. The bond will be in three proposals - $91.1 million for instructional area improvements, $6.5 million for the natatorium and $1.8 million for stadium upgrades. Voters have the option of voting for or against each proposal.

Bay City's acting finance director resigns

Bay City's Acting Finance Director Sandra Mason has resigned the position she has held for the last 14 months. Mason was filling in for the city following the resignation of former Finance Director Scotty Jones. She will now return to her duties as payroll clerk for the city. The search for a new finance director is under way.

Voters in Highland Village face $5 million bond

A new service center to house offices, work areas and equipment for employees of the Public Works Department and Parks and Recreation Department, plus renovation of the current fire department into a temporary senior center will be decided when voters in Highland Village face a $5 million bond referendum in November. There will be two propositions on the ballot - a $4.5 million service center and site improvements, and $50,000 for the renovation of the fire station. A new fire station is currently being built.

Ingleside group seeking
to redevelop Naval station

The group seeking to redevelop Naval Station Ingleside has sent a letter of intent to the federal government outlining their desire to do so. The letter to the U.S. Department of Defense Office of Economic Adjustment outlines how the group intends to redevelop 155 surplus acres that will be vacant when the Navy leaves because of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) recommendations. The group is hoping for federal funding to help redevelop the site because of the economic impact losing the military site will have on the community.

Dickinson school bond issue to go before voters

Dickinson voters will decide a $107.5 million school bond issue for the expansion, refurbishment and construction of schools when they go to the polls in November. The school board for the rapidly growing community recently voted to place the bond issue on the Nov. 6 ballot.

If approved by voters, the bond issue will be used to build science labs and a new elementary school, in addition to restoring a high school and other older district buildings.

Wimberley ISD proposes $34 million bond sale

Wimberley ISD trustees this week approved holding a $34 million bond referendum on Nov. 6 to pay for the construction of a new elementary school, renovations and expansions of several school buildings and the purchase of school buses and classroom equipment. The November referendum is scheduled on the heels of two controversial bond proposals in the last three years, which Wimberley voters rejected.

The district's bond proposal includes:

• Proposition 1: $27.5 million for improvements at existing schools, purchasing land for a new elementary school and building an elementary school.
• Proposition 2: $6.5 million to build and renovate gyms and locker rooms at the junior high school and high school, build a new vocational education building and purchase new school buses and classroom technology equipment like digital projectors.

Hancock to serve as Temple interim superintendent

Following the departure of Superintendent Beto Gonzalez, the Temple ISD this week named Dr. John Hancock, assistant superintendent of administration and student services, as the district's interim superintendent. Gonzales resigned to take over as deputy superintendent for the Brownsville ISD.

Proponents try to sell $82.5 million Baytown bond issue

Baytown Bond PAC members are encouraging residents of the city to support an $82.5 million bond package in November that will offer residents six propositions on which to vote.

The propositions address funding for street improvements and sidewalk installations near schools and parks, pubic safety and emergency medical service upgrades, two new fire stations, improvements to parks and recreation facilities, construction of aquatics facilities, beautification projects and road and water projects.

DeSoto picks Treadwell as new superintendent

The DeSoto ISD has taken "interim" out of the title for Lloyd Treadwell (pictured) and named him superintendent of the school district. Treadwell has been serving as interim superintendent since June, when former Superintendent Alton Frailey left to take a job with the Katy ISD. Treadwell actually served as interim superintendent at DeSoto previous to the district hiring Frailey.

Treadwell has served as superintendent in Wimberley, Springtown, Huntington, Mansfield and Commerce ISDs and also worked for the Texas Association of School Administrators. He has served as an interim superintendent for a number of North Texas school districts as they searched for their own full-time superintendents.

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UTSW awarded $22 million to study obesity problem

The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center is on the verge of becoming one of the world's leading research facilities on the nation's top health concern - obesity.

UT Southwestern recently was awarded $22 million in federal funds for an obesity study. The medial center also has received an additional $18 million in state money for obesity-related research approved by the Texas Legislature earlier this year.

Dr. Jay Horton (pictured), the UT Southwestern gastroenterologist coordinating the research, said he plans to pull together a research team that represents the many medical specialties needed to develop strategies to prevent obesity and treat its numerous complications.

TSTC buys ambulance simulator for program

Students in the emergency medical technician program at Texas State Technical College are working with a realistic classroom tool this semester. It's an ambulance simulator, which looks exactly like the interior of a fully-equipped ambulance. The equipment, which includes the simulator and two cameras that allow teachers to view students as they train, was funded with a $54,000 grant from the University of Texas at San Antonio Health Science Center.

The center spent $30,000 on the simulator ambulance. The balance went to hire a program coordinator and for supplemental teaching materials.

The new equipment teaches EMT students the reality of their chosen profession. They learn where to find supplies and equipment in the ambulance, where to sit and just how confining the space can be when treating a patient.

Recent Reports

• HHSC HB 15 Frew Expenditure Plan
• A Classification Compliance Review Report on the Water Development Board
• Updated 2009 Sunset Review Schedule

Event Links

• Executive Women in Texas Government 21st Annual Professional Development Conference
• Texas State Agency Business Administrators' Assn. Bi-Monthly Meetings
• Texas Department of Agriculture Centennial Festival
• TWC Texas Business Conferences
• LBJ School Professional Development Calendar
• Texas Veterans Benefits Seminars
• Upcoming Executive Women in Texas Government events
• 2007 National Purchasing Institute's 39th Annual National Conference & Products Exposition

Texas Government Insider Archives

Volume 1 - 5 Archives · 11/7/03 - 08/31/07

Alvin ISD readies for superintendent search

Now that Alvin ISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith has been named to the same post at Clear Creek ISD, Alvin trustees are preparing to launch a search for a new superintendent. Smith, who replaces former Superintendent Sandra Mossman, said he could assume his new duties in Clear Creek after Thanksgiving. Mossman announced her retirement plans in July. Her last day is Jan. 2.

Alvin trustees discussed the process for replacing Smith during a closed session at their Aug. 30 meeting but made no decisions. Alvin board president Pete Vincent said the board has not set a timeline for replacing Smith. The search that resulted in Smith's hiring took six months. Vincent and trustee Bobby Verdine said they would prefer that the new superintendent is hired and on board by January.

Spring Branch trustees set school bond election

Spring Branch voters on Nov. 6 will consider a $597 million, 10-year bond program to revamp the school district's aging campuses. Spring Branch school district trustees recently approved a proposed bond package that includes rebuilding 12 elementary schools, upgrading air conditioning and heating, plumbing, electrical, security, transportation and other systems and improving athletic facilities.

Angleton ISD lays out district's 50-year facilities plan

The upcoming $139.9 million bond election in the Angleton ISD is part of the district's 50-year facilities plan. The bond issue will be three parts - including land purchase and construction of a new high school, upgrades to numerous existing campuses, maintenance facilities and the high school stadium.

The first proposition calls for $98.16 million, which includes a new $71 million high school. Land purchase is also a part of that proposition as are upgrades to numerous campuses.

Proposition two, at approximately $40.15 million, includes more classroom upgrades and construction of a new athletics facility and additional seating for the stadium. Proposition three is $1.59 million for upgrades to the district's transportation center and renovations to maintenance facilities.

Bond would pay for Health Careers building at Angelina

Approval by voters of a $16.5 million bond issue would pay for a new 30,000-square-foot Health Careers building on the Angelina College campus. Other elements of the bond issue include building a new softball/baseball complex, four new shops for occupational and vocational career education, renovations to existing Health Careers and administration building for Liberal Arts expansion, expansion of administrative services, additional parking space, a learning and language institute and a college store.

Stinnett combines city manager, police chief jobs

The City of Stinnett has passed an ordinance that allows Police Chief Mike Lamberson to also serve as the city manager. Lamberson has been serving as interim city manager for several months. The city hopes that by combining the two positions, it can save money.

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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.

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AGA monthly meeting speaker to address identity theft

"The Truth About ID Theft - You Really Can Prevent It" will be the topic of guest speaker Ryan Teubner of LifeLock at the monthly luncheon of the Association of Government Accountants. The luncheon will be Thursday, Sept. 13, at Carmelos Restaurant, 504 E. Fifth Street in Austin and will kick off the new chapter year. The cost to attend is $20 for AGA members and $25 for non-members. For reservations, contact Debi Weyer at 512-438-5341.

BioTexas Summit slated Sept. 24-25 in Austin

The fourth annual BioTexas Summit, co-sponsored by the University of Texas Medical Branch and the Texas Healthcare and Bioscience Institute, will be held Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 24 and 25, at the Sheraton Austin Hotel. This year's summit, Vaccines and Global Health Issues: All You Never Wanted to Know about Vaccines and How One Could Change Your Life, will be highlighted by keynote addresses by Billy Tauzin, president and CEO of Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), and Mauro Ferrari, professor at the Brown Institute of Molecular Medicine and chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. Registration for the summit ends on Thursday, Sept. 20. The focus of this year's summit is vaccine development and global health and it will also feature panel discussions. To view the agenda, click here. To register, click here.

Executive Women in Texas Government sets conference

Commissioner Hope Andrade of the Texas Transportation Commission and Claudia Stravato, executive director of Planned Parenthood of Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle, will be keynote speakers for the upcoming Executive Women in Texas Government 21st Annual Professional Development Conference. The conference will be from 7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 19, at the Renaissance Austin Hotel. During lunch, attendees will hear from businesswoman Linda Larsen on "The 7 Principles of Powerful Persuasion: Mastering the Art of Getting to 'Yes!'" Other activities during the conference will include a silent auction, more than two-dozen exhibits and numerous networking opportunities. Proceeds from the silent auction will benefit the EWTG scholarship program. There also will be some 30 workshops that will provide participants with opportunities for hands-on learning and development of leadership skills for multiple career levels. The 2007 Woman of the Year presentation and reception will begin at 3:30 p.m. The conference is open to all professionals and is designed for those who work in Texas government at all levels or those in affiliated organizations that support the purposes of EWTG. For more information, click here. To register, click here.

TDA to celebrate with Centennial Festival

In the spring of 1907, the 30th Texas Legislature created the Texas Department of Agriculture. TDA this year will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a two-day Centennial Festival celebration. The events, most of which will be held at the Fort Worth Stockyards, will kick off Friday, Sept. 14, with a reception and gala. Other events include a fun run and breakfast, cooking demonstrations and a centennial concert featuring country western star Clay Walker. For more information and to view the full agenda for the events, click here.

Those hoping to reach up to 300 Texas government officials involved in the management of electronic records and compliance can exhibit at the annual e-Records Conference on Oct. 30, 2007 at the Pickle Center in Austin. Hosted by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission and the Department of Information Resources, this one-day event provides an opportunity to meet staff from Texas agencies and universities who may be interested in content and records management products and services. The cost to exhibit is $350. The agenda focuses on implementing a program for effectively managing electronic records, including e-mail, instant messaging, wikis and blogs. The featured speaker is Jesse Wilkins, who has worked in the document industry for 12 years as a vendor, user and consultant. He has worked with public and private sector clients to develop strategies, design processes and implement systems to manage electronic records, e-mail and collaboration tools more effectively. For more information and to register, click here.