UT System chancellor:

Cigarroa sole finalist to lead one of nation's largest public systems

Francisco Cigarroa, M.D. (pictured), president of the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, has been named sole finalist for the position of chancellor of The University of Texas System. The governing board of the UT System made the announcement Thursday.

Cigarroa, who has served as UTHSC-San Antonio president since 2000, only recently announced that he would be stepping down from that post. Cigarroa joined the health science center in 1995 as a faculty member and served as director of pediatric surgery and director of abdominal transplant surgery before being named president.

"The UT System is a national leader in higher education and health care, therefore the selection of a chancellor is one of the most important decisions this governing board will ever make," said Regents' Chairman H. Scott Caven, Jr. "Dr. Cigarroa is an accomplished administrator, scientist and faculty member with the experience and proven track record that would be invaluable in advancing the interests of the System and our nine academic and six health institutions." Caven said that Cigarroa was chosen from an "extraordinary" group of candidates that included more than 50 nominations and applications.

Although named finalist, state law requires a 21-day waiting period before Cigarroa can be officially appointed to the position. He will replace former UT System Chancellor Mark Yudof, who left UT last June to become president of the University of California System.

As chancellor, Cigarroa will be the chief administrative officer of one of the largest public systems of higher education in the nation. The system includes nine universities and six health institutions with an annual operating budget of $11.5 billion for Fiscal Year 2009 and a student enrollment of more than 194,000. The system is also one of the state's largest employers, with 81,000 employees.

Measuring success: Texas Principal Excellence Program

Better schools through developing leadership, management skills

Karen Kasper, principal of Mitchell Elementary in the Bryan Independent School District, was initially unenthused about having to take part in last year's Texas Principal Excellence Program (TxPEP). The program, created by the Texas Legislature in 2006 as the School Leadership Pilot Program, is geared to improving school performance through the development of principal leadership and management skills. Principals whose campuses are rated Academically Unacceptable by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) are required to attend.

"Naturally, in the beginning, I was not thrilled at the prospect," Kasper said. "But I went in with an open mind and challenged myself."

Her effort paid off. In a year's time, Kasper transformed Mitchell Elementary's Academically Unacceptable status to Academically Acceptable.

Kasper's initial reticence isn't an uncommon response, according to TxPEP Project Director Greg Higgins (standing in photo at left during a TxPEP session). But, he said, resistance generally wanes.

"I think many of their perspectives changed throughout the year," Higgins said. "By and large, I think people see this as a real opportunity to learn and bring about change on their campuses."

Texas transportation costs: $313 billion

That's what committee report says state will need through 2030

Traffic delays have increased more than 500 percent in urban areas of Texas in the last two decades, according to an executive summary of the draft of the Texas Transportation Needs Report submitted this week by the 2030 Committee. The committee, appointed by Texas Transportation Commission Chair Deirdre Delisi, said in its draft issued this week that the state will need some $313 billion to meet the state's transportation needs through 2030. And with an anticipated increase of 7 to 17 million in population in the state by 2030, the report notes that "transportation modes, costs and congestion are considered a possible roadblock to Texas' projected growth and prosperity."

"We clearly face a tough challenge in providing the transportation system Texans deserve and expect over the coming decades," said Delisi after reviewing the draft report.

The committee urged state leaders to consider the impact both to the state's economy and Texans' quality of life that state money spent on transportation can provide.

San Antonio 'wish list' price tag at $1.1 billion

Officials hoping for spillover from federal economic stimulus bill

Just in time for Christmas, the city of San Antonio has drawn up a sleigh full of projects on its "wish list" for funding from an expected economic stimulus plan when the Barack Obama Administration takes office. Total price tag - $1.1 billion. Not only would the projects stimulate the local economy, say city officials, but they would also create more than 9,300 jobs. The stimulus package is expected to address infrastructure, school technology and energy efficiency needs nationwide. Estimates of the cost of the stimulus bill range from $600-$850 billion.

The San Antonio draft list will be refined by city council members, prioritized and finalized mid to late January 2009. Earlier this month, the United States Conference of Mayors released the second installment of its MainStreet Economic Recovery "Ready to Go" report, outlining the wish lists of 11,391 projects from more than 425 cities nationwide that carried a combined price tag of $73 billion and that officials said would create more than 847,000 jobs. San Antonio was not included in that survey. Another report with a survey of additional cities is expected in January 2009. The report included transit, highway infrastructure, green jobs, school modernization, public safety and public housing projects.

Some of the major projects in the San Antonio draft report include a $50 million Phase II San Antonio River Improvements Project, $42 million in Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) road improvements, a $14.5 million energy project for traffic signal system modernization, $7.5 million for police patrol vehicles and motorcycles and $8 million for a parking revenue control system at the airport. To view the complete San Antonio, draft report, click here.

TRCC, TxDOT: In the Sunset Commission crosshairs

Agencies dodge bullet but still have to face legislature in 2009

Two state agencies that have been in the crosshairs of the Sunset Advisory Commission dodged a bullet this week – at least temporarily.

The Texas Residential Construction Commission (TRCC), an ailing agency the public claims has little authority to act on behalf of homeowners in dispute with builders and that uses infrequently what little authority it has, had been recommended by Sunset staff to be abolished.

And regarding the Sunset review of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), a majority of the members of the Sunset Commission voted to recommend that the five-member Texas Transportation Commission that oversees TxDOT be abolished.

Regarding the TRCC, a vote by the Sunset Commission would not have abolished the agency, but would instead have sent a recommendation to the full Texas Legislature when it meets in January 2009 that after being vetted by the 12-member commission, the agency should be abolished. In the Sunset staff report recommending doing away with the agency, it was noted that the agency suffers from "a greater lack of trust" than other regulatory agencies. It noted that "anything short of a true regulatory program does more harm than good, and should be abolished" and also took to task the agency's inspection process. Although the staff admitted there had been some improvements to the inspection process, it still called it "ineffective" and said it "likewise needs to be abolished."

Texas Border Coalition urges port upgrades

Seeks $4 billion in economic stimulus funds for security needs

The Texas Border Coalition (TBC) is urging President-elect Barack Obama to include $4 billion in his administration's economic stimulus plan for infrastructure projects at border ports of entry. The ports are in a "severe state," according to Eagle Pass Mayor Chad Foster (pictured), who chairs the TBC. Foster said it has been decades since any sector of the land border underwent comprehensive infrastructure or personnel reform.

America's borders need 4,000 new officers and $4 billion in infrastructure and technology improvements to secure its ports, according to a report issued by the Government Accountability Office. Flowers said border ports are more pervious to contraband than either seaports or airports, which have received extensive improvements and upgrades since the Sept. 11 attacks.

In a similar move, a United States representative from Laredo has pressed House officials for $5 billion in border ports of entry infrastructure upgrades. That sum is based on estimates from the General Services Administration whose officials indicate that amount is needed to overhaul land port infrastructure deficiencies.

DHS offers Emergency Operations Center grants

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has opened the application period for its Emergency Operations Centers (EOC) Grant Program. Throughout Fiscal Year 2009, the department will allocate approximately $34 million intended to improve state, local and tribal emergency management and preparedness. Each EOC may request up to $1 million for construction projects and $250,000 for renovation initiatives.

Funding for the upcoming fiscal year's program was administered under the Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance and Continuing Appropriations Act of 2009. Each state's governor has designated a State Administrative Agency (SAA) to apply for and allocate funds. The SAA will review and prioritize all applications, and a national review panel comprised of DHS staff and experts will determine who receives the competitive awards.

Zeitler selected president of Texas Medical Board

Dr. Irvin Zeitler (pictured) of San Angelo has been named president of the Texas Medical Board, following the resignation of former board president Dr. Roberta Kalafut, who resigned last week. Kalafut had served on the board since 2002, and as president since 2005.

Zeitler is a family practice physician at Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo, where he is Vice President of Medical Affairs. He earned his bachelor's degree in pharmacy from The University of Texas at Austin and his medical degree from the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. He completed his family practice residency at Texas Tech University. He previously served on one of the board's District Review Committees from 1988 until his appointment to the board.

Texas Works:

State not meeting employers' demands for skilled workers

Supply and demand – there has to be a happy medium. But in the Texas workforce today, the gap between the two is widening. In a report issued this week by the State Comptroller's Office, the demand for skilled workers in Texas is exceeding the state's ability to provide them.

"For Texas to remain an economic powerhouse, our education system needs added focus on career and technical training to fill available jobs," said State Comptroller Susan Combs in explaining that employers say jobs are going unfilled in the state because employers cannot find enough qualified workers.

In her Texas Works report, the comptroller examines the need for increasing numbers of workers with technical skills for a changing Texas job market and recommends funding for startup costs for training programs. The emphasis in job training in Texas must be on career and technical training, she said.

The report outlines a number of recommendations relative to ensuring that Texas workers are ready to enter the job marketplace with the skills and training necessary for the current generation of jobs.

Texas A&M System Board of Regents picks new deans

The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents has approved the appointment of two deans following recommendations from Texas A&M President Elsa Murano and A&M System Chancellor Michael D. McKinney. Mark Hussey (left) has been named vice chancellor and dean of agriculture and life sciences at Texas A&M, effective immediately, and Eleanor M. Green (right) has been named dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, effective March 1.

Hussey, who holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois and a master's degree and doctorate from Texas A&M, has served as interim vice chancellor and dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences since January. He has previously served as director of Texas AgriLife Research and as head of A&M's Department of Soil and Crop Sciences.

Green's distinction marks the first time a woman has served as dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. She currently serves as professor and chair of the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences in the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida-Gainesville, where she earned her bachelor's degree. She holds a doctor of veterinary medicine degree from Auburn University in Alabama.

Danner named to UTSA's Office of Legal Affairs

Attorney John Danner (pictured) has joined The University of Texas at San Antonio's Office of Legal Affairs where he will assume duties as UTSA public information officer beginning Dec. 20.

His duties will include managing and coordinating record requests with officers and departments, and developing methods to improve processes related to those requests.

Danner, an expert on the Public Information Act (PIA) with a decade's worth of experience in civil and criminal litigation, is one of only two San Antonio attorneys who has handled more than 1,500 PIA requests annually for the city. He holds a bachelor's degree from The University of Texas and a law degree from St. Mary's University School of Law.

SFA's online certification program garners award

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board has bestowed its prestigious Star Award to Stephen F. Austin State University for its acclaimed online teacher certification program.

The university's James I. Perkins College of Education began offering the online program - for early childhood education certifications - in partnership with 22 Texas community colleges in 2005. So far, more than 100 candidates have graduated from the program with more than 160 students completing their online bachelor's degree and teacher certification requirements.

The Star Award, established in 2001, recognizes both public and private higher education institutions that seek to "close the gap" in four key areas: student participation, student success, academic excellence and research.

UTHSC-San Antonio names presidential search group

Members of a presidential search advisory committee for The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio have been appointed, according to UT System Board of Regents Chairman H. Scott Caven Jr. The committee will make recommendations on potential successors to President Francisco Cigarroa, M.D., who plans to step down next October.

Ricardo Romo (left), president of UT San Antonio, and Larry R. Kaiser, M.D. (right), president of UT Health Science Center-Houston, are among those chosen to serve on the committee. Caven said the panel members "bring experience, a broad perspective and sound judgment" to the selection process.

UT System Interim Chancellor and Executive Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs Kenneth I. Shine, M.D., will chair the search committee. Others on the search committee include: Regents James R. Huffines, Printice Gary and Colleen McHugh; Eileen T. Breslin, dean of the School of Nursing; UT Health Science Center at San Antonio staff member Patrick Lazenby; student representative Patrick Jackson; alumni James "Larry" Holly, M.D.; UTHSC-San Antonio faculty members George B. Kudolo, Margaret Brackley, and Keith A. Krolick; and external community representatives Alonzo Cantu, William "Bill" Greehey, George B. Hernandez Jr., Kenneth Kalkwarf, D.D.S., Cyndi Taylor Krier, Teresa "Terry" Lozano Long and Kenneth L. Wilson.

Waxahachie approves $1.5 million for train depot

The Waxahachie City Council recently approved $1.5 million in bond funding from the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone Board to pay for restoration of the MKT train depot, while tabling a request for a new skate park.

Mark Singleton, chairman of the TIRZ board, said the funding will pay for the total restoration of the building, including the exterior landscape to make the area accessible for the disabled. Any extra funds will be used to make other downtown areas accessible to the disabled. The project will be included in a March bond issuance, which also will include the city parking garage project, he said.

In a discussion of a proposed skate park, John Smith, the city's parks and recreation director, said Park Board members disbanded the skate park committee because of the current economy. Supporters of the skate park are expected to continue to work on the project until the board is ready to reopen the discussion, Smith said. Mayor Ron Wilkinson (pictured) said he believed the public has a misconception of the cost of building a park, which he said could range from six figures to more than $1 million.

Workforce Solutions in Valley wins $2M federal grant

Workforce Solutions of the Rio Grande Valley recently received a $2 million grant to benefit science, technology, engineering and math preparation awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor. The grant is one of five grants awarded nationally, but is the only one assisting entities on the United States-Mexican border.

The grant is part of the WIRED project that the University of Texas-Pan American, South Texas College, the McAllen Economic Development Corporation and the Greater McAllen Alliance have supported, said Bonnie Gonzalez of Workforce Solutions.

Missouri City approves funding for walking, bike path

Members of the Missouri City council recently approved a resolution funding a hike and bike trail linking Missouri City and Sugar Land.

The resolution authorizes the city to enter into an Advance Funding Agreement between the city and the Texas Department of Transportation for the trail project. If approved, Missouri City will be required to match 20 percent of the $2.3 million total project cost, with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) contributing $1.84 million.

The Oyster Creek Trail Phase II will be built from an existing trail in Missouri City and connect to Sugar Land's trail at Dulles Avenue. In addition to the hiking and biking path, the trail also will feature lighting and pedestrian bridges.

Corpus Christi approves $163.3M in capital projects

The Corpus Christi City Council recently approved a $163,391,300 budget for capital improvements. The budget includes adjustments to move up funding to the Packery Channel that had been planned for next year, said Assistant City Manager Oscar Martinez. The approved budget now includes funding for design, engineering and construction of improvements to the north and south end of Packery Channel, including a road and parking.

University of Houston-Downtown seeks name change

Leaders at the University of Houston-Downtown will ask the legislature for a name change next year to avoid confusion with the institution's flagship campus less than five miles away. State lawmakers will convene in January and take up the issue then. The legislature must approve any name changes to the university.

The UH Board of Regents considered Houston Metropolitan University as a possible choice for the new moniker, but the suggestion is currently off the table, at least temporarily, as some faculty members and regents have objected. That name drew fewer objections than others, however, according to UH President Max Castillo (pictured). The term "metropolitan" is most often associated with vocational or technical schools in the world of academia, according to Akif Uzman, chairman of the department of natural sciences at UH-Downtown.

Regents will meet next month to again discuss a possible name change.

Freeport to buy automated ticket-writers for police

The Freeport City Council recently approved the purchase of eight automated ticket-writers for the police department.

The automated devices, which cost about $45,000 including software and updates, electronically link up the city, municipal court and the police department so that the citations will not have to be re-recorded each step of the way, said Acting City Manager Jeff Pynes. Recording a citation only one time and instantly sharing the information is more efficient and should avoid errors sometimes made when a ticket is passed to another office to be recorded again, he noted.

Panel gives tepid support for Colleyville rail station

In a 10-6 vote, the Colleyville Commuter Rail Committee recently showed tepid support for building a proposed commuter rail station. If state and local funding is approved, commuter trains will link southwest Fort Worth to the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport and pass through Colleyville even if the city decides against building a commuter rail station.

Committee members advised city officials to conduct studies on the rail station's impact, including whether it will increase pollution and traffic as commuters from other areas drive into the area to use the station. John Gooding, chairman of the 16-member committee, said many members also are concerned with how the facility would impact property values along the rail route and around the proposed rail station.

More than 1,000 residents signed an online petition against the station that warns a rail station will provide inner city gangs and criminals easy access into Colleyville.

Irving approves agreement on entertainment center

Members of the Irving City Council recently approved a development agreement for construction and operation of a $200 million entertainment center to be located next to the city's proposed convention center.

City officials plan to use hotel occupancy tax revenue bonds approved by voters to be the city's estimated $120 million share of the project, said Mayor Herbert Gears (pictured). The developer is to pay $80 million of the cost and any additional construction costs, he said.

Plans call for the city to own the land and building, which will be leased to the developer for at least 25 years. Plans for the entertainment center include a 3,400-seat concern space with capacity for an additional 2,000 persons in flexible space. The center also is slated to contain 10 restaurants, 12 live music stages and 50 suites overlooking the main concern venue. The developer is to pay $1.5 million in rent each year until the city's bonds are fully paid and then the annual rent will be $1 million per year. The city also gets 10 percent of any deals for naming rights and 10 percent from any festivals. The entertainment center is a critical part of the city's plans for a convention center complex, Gears said.

Killeen ISD to hire firm to find new superintendent

Trustees for the Killeen Independent School District recently agreed to hire a search firm to help find a new superintendent. The cost of using the firm is an estimated $5,000, said Joe Maines, board president.

Under the agreement, the search firm will find candidates using local and nationwide searches, provide advice on what to ask candidates during interviews, help develop a contract and facilitate public information activities when the new superintendent is selected, he said.

Only one candidate, Dr Robert Muller, who is serving as the district's interim superintendent, has expressed interest in the position, Maines said.

Rosenberg purchases land for drainage retention facility

The Rosenberg City Council recently approved the purchase of a $1.85 million tract of land to build a regional detention facility to serve Dry Creek. Voters in November 2006 approved a bond package to pay for that project, said City Manager Jack Hamlett (pictured).

The next step is to secure the services of an engineer to do the preliminary design, Hamlett said. Excavation could be completed in 2009, but the project will take a few years to complete, he said.

UTSA presents case for establishing NCAA football team

The University of Texas at San Antonio officials have presented their case for establishing an NCAA football team to the UT System Board of Regents. The presenters ticked off a list of potential benefits to having a football team, which include attracting and retaining more students, and boosting alumni donations. The plan to add a team would also raise the athletics budget from $8.5 million to $19 million by 2016, an amount that would account for almost 5 percent of the university's current total budget.

Students last year voted to double athletics fees from $240 to $480 in hopes of establishing a football team.

The university's current strategy is to begin in the Football Championship Subdivision, with the Roadrunner team playing their first game in 2011, before moving into the Football Bowl Subdivision and joining the ranks of the UT Longhorns and Texas A&M Aggies.

Del Sol teams up with UTEP School of Nursing

A new simulation center - part of a joint venture between The University of Texas at El Paso School of Nursing and Del Sol Medical Center - will provide students with a practice space to hone their nursing skills before taking care of real patients.

The center is part of Del Sol's ongoing support of UTEP, which also has included a $100,00 grant and funding for two full-time nursing instructors.

Dr. Robert L. Anders (pictured), UTEP School of Nursing dean, said school officials are "delighted to have the opportunity to work with Del Sol as we prepare the nurses of tomorrow."

San Antonio ISD reviews Fox Tech High School

After listening to a presentation to transform Fox Tech High School into a selective, college-preparatory magnet school, trustees for the San Antonio Independent School District asked staff to provide more details before making a decision.

Fox Tech High School failed to meet federal education standards for five of the last six years and the district must submit an improvement plan if the school fails to meet standards this year. Superintendent Robert Duron proposed transforming the school into a magnet school specializing in law, which could be expanded in the future to include health careers, construction sciences or business. Current students who do not meet the criteria for a magnet school would be transferred to other high schools, he said, and the teaching staff would have to reapply for their jobs or apply for other jobs within the district.

Questions from board members centered on what the admission criteria would be, how would the magnet school status affect extracurricular opportunities and how many employees' jobs would be affected. Following a community meeting planned this week, Duron is slated to return to the board with a more detailed plan in January.

Cancer Institute grant to fund UTHSC program

A $100,000 grant from the National Cancer Institute will fund a new program at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio that seeks to bring more Hispanic children from the lower Rio Grande Valley into clinical trials for leukemia. The program will allow underserved patients to receive cutting-edge treatment and therapies.

A patient navigator at the Health Science Center's Regional Academic Health Center (RAHC) will assist patients' families and physicians in overcoming the bureaucratic barriers that often stand in the way of participating in clinical trials. Dr. Amelie G. Ramirez (pictured), the study's principal investigator and director of the Health Science Center's Institute for Health Promotion Research, expects the program to increase recruitment rates by some 20 percent.

"Participation in clinical trials by disadvantaged populations and groups with higher incidence is critical," Ramirez said. Hispanic children are at a slightly higher risk to develop leukemia than other children, and those in South Texas are at an even greater risk for the disease than their peers, according to Ramirez' research.

Valley still in competition for European automaker

Officials in the Rio Grande Valley are looking at additional local, state and federal sources to create a better incentive package to lure a proposed auto plant to be built by a European automaker.

An unidentified state recently increased its incentive package to the automaker in the hope of landing the new facility in that state, said Keith Patridge, president of the McAllen Economic Development Corp., who is involved in negotiations to establish the new auto plant to be located near the McAllen and Mission city limits.

McAllen officials lobbied the local congressional delegation to help Texas' proposal to secure funding from a $25 billion loan program passed in September to entice manufacturers to develop more fuel-efficient vehicles and for $9 million from a planned federal economic stimulus package to prepare the proposed site, They also are considering the use of a half-cent city sales tax to attract the proposed auto plant, Patridge said. Rio Grande Valley officials agreed in a contract not to identify the automaker considering the new plant, but recently traveled to Germany to discuss the project with the unidentified automaker. Patridge said a decision on the site for the new plant could be announced as early as mid-January.

Sultis to retire from Goose Creek CISD

Superintendent Barbara Sultis (pictured) of the Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District recently announced her retirement from the district after serving eight years in that position. Sultis previously served as a teacher at Goose Creek CISD and had held positions with Pearland ISD and Spring ISD.

Board members are meeting today (Friday) to discuss the appointment of an interim superintendent. Board members also will discuss the qualities board members are seeking in a superintendent and discuss whether to hire a search firm or conduct its own search for a new superintendent, said Carl Burg, president of the board. Burg said he hopes to find a new superintendent in four to six months.

Henderson ISD looks at four bond elections

Trustees for the Henderson Independent School District are reviewing a proposed master facilities plan that recommends a series of four bond elections over the next few years to pay for construction and renovation projects costing about $65.3 million.

The proposed plan, which was prepared by an architectural firm, recommended that the first bond election be held in November 2009 to pay for additions and renovations to Northside Elementary and Chamberlain Elementary. The plan also recommended converting Chamberlain to a combination administration building and bus maintenance facility at a cost of $4.2 million.

The master plan also proposed spending $3.8 million to renovate Northside Elementary, $26 million for a new campus for Henderson Middle School and $28 million for a second phase of improvements to Henderson High School and calls for bond elections to be held in 2011, 2013 and 2015 to raise funding for these improvements.

San Angelo ISD approves $6 million field house project

Trustees for the San Angelo Independent School District recently approved a contract for construction of a new field house that could cost as much as $6.5 million. Trustee Cookie Roberts (pictured) said the project should provide a boost to the entire community because the old field house with cramped space, inadequate showers and worn out plumbing was so inadequate and worn that some visiting teams refused to use the facility.

The board accepted a $5.9 million bid for a 32,000-square-foot structure, but also could spend an additional $425,000 in architect fees, testing and furniture and is considering another potential $100,000 for additional features. As planned, the new field house will have 40 toilets, 70 showers and a new heating and cooling system. It also will have larger training, weight and turn rooms, said Steve Van Hoozer, the purchasing director. Construction will begin immediately and be complete by August 2010. The current field house will be demolished in June.

Brenham City Council to sell $6M in certificates

After receiving a "mind-boggling" 11 bids, according to financial advisor Garry Kimball, Brenham City Council members have approved the sale of nearly $6 million in certificates of obligation for water system improvements. Included among the initiatives are the addition of a 500,000-gallon tower, upgrades for towers and rehabilitation of the city's water intake structure. Kimball said the staggering amount of bids was unusual.

"I've never had an offering draw 11 bids," Kimball said. A year ago, the same offer probably would have yielded six or seven bids, he said. The city's desirable AA- rating negated the need for bond insurance, which likely accounted for the strong interest among bidders.

The low bidder issued an interest rate of 4.64 percent with a 20-year payback period. That figure will save more than $500,000 in interest payments, Kimball said.

Banquete plans $1 million park renovation

Using a $500,000 grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and matching funds from the Nueces County commissioner's park fund, Banquete plans to renovate an existing play area with sports fields, picnic facilities, a nature preserve and a pond.

Nueces County Commissioner Betty Jean Longoria (pictured) said the park will serve the 250 residents of Banquete as well as the 850 students from surrounding subdivisions and farms. The park will be located on 17 acres near the intersection of State Highway 44 and FM 666.

Phase 1 will include lighting for an existing baseball field, fencing, a parking lot, playground, basketball court, renovations to an existing baseball field, renovations to restrooms and a walkway between the buildings. Phase two will add two baseball fields, more parking, a walking trail, a picnic area, benches along the walking trail, a multi-purpose playing field and additional playground equipment. Officials plan to begin work this spring and have three years to complete both phases.

Kissick appointed Longview city secretary

Shelly Kissick has been named Longview city secretary. She will succeed Lois McCaleb, who is retiring after 17 years of service. Kissick has worked for the city since 1998, serving as assistant city secretary since 2001.

Kissick graduated from the Texas Municipal Clerks Certification Program, a university-level professional education service for city administrators. She is a member of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks and the Texas Municipal Clerks Association.

Kissick said she hopes to continue the long-standing tradition of service her predecessors set. She will serve as Longview's third city secretary in the last 30 years.

Plano to build pay parking spaces at transit rail station

Plano city officials are making plans to build up to 400 pay parking spaces at the city's Parker Road rail station, one of the busiest stations on the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system.

Although the Parker Road station already has almost 1,600 free parking spaces available for commuters and DART soon plans to add many more free spaces in another project, some city officials believe the proposed $1.5 million parking project will do well as more area commuters now use the rail system because of crowded highways and fluctuating gas prices. Some rail systems in the northeast charge parking fees of as much as $10 a day because demand is so high. Council member Pat Miner (pictured) said the city may as well do something with the land it already owns since it does need the parking spaces.

No decision has been made on how much the city will charge for the spots. Some of the parking spaces will be covered and reserved, with the nearest pay spots linked directly to the platform. Planners also are considering allowing motorists to pay using toll tags. Any profits from the proposed parking lot would go to the City of Plano and the North Central Texas Council of Governments, which is working with the city on the project.

Winona VFD awarded $91,104 federal grant

The Winona Volunteer Fire Department was selected recently to receive a $91,104 grant that can be used to buy safety and rescue equipment, training and communications equipment.

The grant was awarded from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Office of Grants and Training.

Galveston City Council OKs rail line analysis costs

Galveston City Council has approved a spending measure totaling $850,000 to determine if a 79 mile-per-hour commuter rail line between Houston and Galveston would be feasible to construct next year.

Federal grant money plus a $29,000 city share will fund the analysis, which the Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) will use to decide whether engineering can begin. Congress will also weigh the analysis to determine if it will fund the project. If both Congress and the FTA approve the measure, engineering could begin as early as next summer with the rail line operational by 2012.

Total costs for the project will total between $380 million and $415 million. The rail line - which would revive the 140-year-old Galveston-Houston rail corridor that parallels Interstate 45 - could carry more than 11,000 passengers daily.

Regional Transportation Council increases rail support

Members of the Regional Transportation Council recently gave increased support to a revised plan to expand suburban rail lines throughout the North Texas area. Following a narrow 26-13 vote in favor of the plan last month, RTC staff made some small changes in the plan with a goal of winning more support from the RTC board.

Some members of the RTC had expressed doubt about submitting another plan to the legislature unless the earlier plan had been revised. Plans have twice been rejected when lawmakers were asked to allow voters in North Texas to raise their sales taxes to pay for expanded transit. The revised plan includes holding county-by-county elections to seek support for new taxes to pay for a 215-mile expansion of rail throughout the area.

Mark Enoch, a former board chairman for the Dallas Area Regional Transit, however, warned that even if legislators approve the plan, he harbors doubts that voters in the area will vote to increase their property taxes or pay a new $150 vehicle registration fee to pay for more rail service.

Conroe approves contract for red-light cameras

The Conroe City Council recently approved a contract to place five to 10 red-light cameras at several intersections. Council member Toby Powell (pictured) argued that the cameras were necessary to improve safety and save lives.

The program will take six months or more to implement, said Deputy Police Chief Philip Dupuis. To begin, police officials must investigate accidents to determine the appropriate intersections to install the cameras. The city also must post warning signs at each intersection that will have a red-light camera and provide motorists with a 30-day warning period to alert them of the new program, he said. Additionally, city council must adopt an ordinance to incorporate the program and appoint a citizen committee to review intersections to be included in the program.

Motorists who receive citations will be required to pay a $75 civil penalty, but will receive no criminal motor vehicle offenses. Revenue from the civil penalties should pay the cost of operating the cameras and any related expenses. Any remaining funding will be split evenly between the city and state. It's estimated each will about $442,000 annually from red-light camera citations.

West Rusk ISD approves $91,000 technology upgrade

Trustees for the West Rusk Independent School District recently approved $91,000 to purchase data projectors, visual presenters and interactive clipboards for district classrooms.

The new equipment, which will be installed during the Christmas break, allows classrooms to become more interactive and teachers to teach to different learning styles, said Superintendent Mike King.

Argyle ISD selects Wright as new superintendent

Trustees for the Argyle ISD recently selected Dr. Telena Wright as the lone finalist for superintendent. Wright has been serving as the district's interim superintendent since the resignation of former Superintendent Jason Ceyanes in May. She has worked for the district eight years, beginning as a high school principal and becoming an assistant superintendent in 2003. Wright previously worked as a counselor and teacher at San Angelo ISD.

Texans look to rail for transportation relief...

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

Texas drivers have all experienced utter frustration at some time or another as a result of being caught helplessly in traffic congestion...and many Texas drivers experience the frustration every single day. Maneuvering rush hour traffic in any of the state's larger cities is enough to make a sane person hostile on any given day. When that situation occurs, one has to hope that somewhere, someone is working on ways to move people and freight more efficiently.

With no relief in sight and the state's population continuing to increase, traffic congestion and infrastructure needs have become of paramount importance for local and state officials.

As 2009 approaches, one trend in transportation that is noticeably obvious is a universal interest in rail. Some of the state's larger cities already have local rail systems; others are contemplating the investment.

The Houston MetroRail system, an established and successful local rail system, carries 400 passengers per trip to the uptown, downtown, midtown areas, the central business district, Greenway Plaza and other areas of Houston. In Dallas, the city's Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) officials report that riders who turned to DART when gas prices were high have stayed with the system, resulting in a 14 percent increase in average weekday demand for light rail service.

Belton ISD mulling plan for building four new schools

Trustees for the Belton Independent School District are reviewing a recommendation calling for four new schools in the next 10 years to handle increasing enrollment. Superintendent Vivian Baker (pictured) recently presented the proposed $170 million plan developed by the 102 members of the Long Range Facilities Planning Committee to board members.

The recommendation includes a proposed $36 million middle school to be funded by bonds sold in 2009 and open by 2012; a $20 million elementary school to be funded in 2011 and open in 2014; and a $39 million secondary school to be funded in 2011 and open in 2013. The $41 million middle school would be funded in 2015 and open in 2018 under the proposed plan and then the secondary campus would receive a $35 million renovation and be expanded to become a second high school.

Belton ISD, along with the Killeen and Salado schools, is among the fastest growing districts in North Central Texas, Baker said. Board members must make a decision by March 9 to schedule the May bond election proposed for the $36 million middle school.

Longview approves $550K
to repair swimming pool

The Longview City Council recently agreed to spend $550,000 to repair the swimming pool at the Paul Martin Jones Recreation Center. The pool has been closed since mid-September when inspectors found its water flow turnover rate did not meet environmental health requirements.

While a council member questioned repairing a 50-year-old pool, supporters argued that the facility is the only indoor pool operated by the city and is badly needed by senior adults residents with handicaps. Repairs to the pool most likely will take about six months to complete, said Community Services Director Laura Hill.

TGI will not publish next week

There will be no issue of the Texas Government Insider published next Friday, Dec. 26. The SPI offices will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 24 and 25, so that our staff can enjoy the holidays with their friends and families. The next issue of TGI will be an abbreviated issue on Wednesday, Dec. 31, and there will be no issue on Friday, Jan. 2, 2009. We will resume our regular Friday schedule on Friday, Jan. 9, 2009. Have a safe and happy holiday.

Mission Valley VFD
receives federal grant

The Mission Valley Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $193,000 grant to purchase an emergency response vehicle. The grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Office of Grants and Training also may be used for training and support operations, DHS officials said.

Littlefield jail may have
to close next year

The Bill Clayton Detention Center in Littlefield - home to more than 300 Idaho inmates - may be forced to close next year if a new management group is not brought in or if the facility is not sold. City Manager Danny Davis said the city is searching for a new management group or buyer for the facility. A closure would leave nearly 75 workers unemployed.

The management group that brings in inmates for the facility has pulled out, but a representative said the group will offer Littlefield employees the option to transfer to another location.

SPI announces consulting opportunities in San Antonio

SPI is adding more individuals with well-established credentials who are interested in assisting its consulting teams in the San Antonio area. SPI is seeking more part-time consultants with expertise and strong connections and relationships in the K-12 education arena, in healthcare, higher education, community college and local government in San Antonio.

To apply for these part-time consulting positions at SPI, please send a brief cover letter and a copy of your resume to J. Lyn Carl at jcarl@spartnerships.com and put "Application for San Antonio consultant" in the subject line, or for more information, send an e-mail to the same address.

San Marcos appoints three new key city directors

San Marcos City Manager Rick Menchaca recently announced three new key directors for the city. Steve Parker will serve as finance director while Chuck Swallow will serve as director of development services. Richard Stankiewicz will be the chief technology officer for the city.

Parker, who previously served as assistant director of finance, has a bachelor's degree from Texas State University-San Marcos. He will manage the city's financial, budgeting, accounting, purchasing and utility billing divisions. Swallow, who previously served as director of development services for the city of Midland, has a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University. Stankiewicz has a bachelor's degree from Michigan State University and previously served as an IT project manager for the city of Austin.

Pampa selects Morris
as interim city manager

Pampa city officials recently selected Richard Morris (pictured) to serve as interim city manager to replace City Manager Trevlyn Pitner, who resigned to accept employment in the private sector. Morris currently serves as the city's public works director.

Whitehouse ISD picks
DuPree as superintendent

Whitehouse Independent School District board members have named Daniel DuPree as superintendent. DuPree will replace Dennis Miller on Jan. 1, 2009. No other candidates were interviewed for the position.

DuPree has served as Whitehouse High School principal for two years and as assistant principal for two years.

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.

Steve Robinson served as executive director of the Texas Youth Commission for 10 years, from 1993 to 2003. Prior to that time, he served the agency in positions including internal auditor, hearings examiner, halfway house administrator and institution superintendent. He is also a former chief of the Travis County Juvenile Probation Department, where he served seven years. Robinson currently serves as a senior associate with a national management research and consulting firm that specializes in criminal justice, higher education, schools and state and local government.

Henry Cisneros was elected to the San Antonio City Council in 1975, serving six years before being elected mayor in 1981. In 1984, he was a finalist for the vice presidential nomination for Democratic presidential nominee Walter Mondale. In 1993, he turned down an appointment to become Texas' United States Senator to replace Lloyd Bentsen, who was nominated to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Treasury. Nominated by President Bill Clinton as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Cisneros was sworn in to that position in 1993 and served until 1997. He currently is in private business in San Antonio.

Marshall's fire, police design plans being pushed back

Completed design plans for Marshall's new fire and police stations have been delayed until January 15, 2009, according to architect John Flowers. He cited design changes and cost-cutting measures for the delays. Bidding for both projects - along with construction of restrooms and concession stands for the city park system - is designed to bring in lower estimates from bidders since there will only be one mobilization cost. Flowers has estimated the construction will last about 10 months beginning next March.

The projects are funded by a tax proposition passed in 2006. The bond issued $3.5 million for the new police station and $2 million for the fire station facility. Additional monies from the city's general fund have also been allocated for the projects.

Leeper resigns post as Huntsville city attorney

Huntsville City Attorney Thomas Leeper recently resigned to take a position of assistant city attorney for the City of Bryan. The resignation is effective on Jan. 23, 2009. Leeper, who served five years in Huntsville as city attorney, has a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University and a law degree from the University of Houston Law Center.

Mayor J. Turner said he expects to hire an interim city attorney within a month to serve until a new city attorney can be hired. A committee comprised of the mayor and two council members is expected to begin interviewing candidates in late January and make a recommendation in early February.

Henrietta to ask for state help for local upgrades

Citing declining revenue, Henrietta City Council members recently voted to ask the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) for help in maintaining and repairing its water supply and sewer systems. City Administrator Jeff Jenkins said the repairs include motors for several lift stations, $30,000 in repairs to the south sewer plant, repairs to a leaking clear well at the water plant and the estimated $100,000 it may cost to shut the sewer plant down while repairs are being made. These costs are in addition to the recent $30,000 repair to the paddle wheel and come at a time when the city does not have the cash flow to pay for all of the repairs and upgrades, Jenkins said. He also advised the city to seek a line of credit with a bank in case a major repair is needed.

Council members authorized the city to begin the process of seeking a low or no interest rate loan with TWDB with the assistance of a financial advisor. Council members also received a presentation on allowing a private company to manage the city's water department, but tabled the proposal until further notice.

Corpus Christi, Nueces dispute delays road project

A dispute between Corpus Christi and Nueces County has delayed a construction project designed to relieve traffic congestion in Calallen, despite moves to push it forward. Officials still look to widen County Road 52, a busy, two-lane road motorists use as an alternative to Highway 624. The Metropolitan Planning Organization was set to issue federal funds for the project in 2005 with the federal Highway Administration paying for 80 percent of costs and local government expected to pay the remainder. Issues arose when Nueces County and Corpus Christi officials could not agree on who would share project costs.

Although the dispute has since been resolved, the project is lower on the federal funding priority list than it was three years ago, according to Tom Niskala, transportation planning director for the Corpus Christi Metropolitan Planning Organization. Although the project is not off the table, Niskala said, "It's not the highest priority."

WTAMU alumni director
Frank Kiker resigns

J. Frank Kiker, director of alumni services and executive director of the West Texas A&M University Alumni Association, has announced he is resigning from the positions he took helm of last February. Senior Development Officer Jennifer Ashley will serve as interim director beginning Jan. 1. Kiker, who said he was resigning to fulfill both professional and personal opportunities, graduated from WTAMU in 1989.

Ashley holds both a bachelor's and a master's degree from WTAMU. A committee will soon begin a nationwide search for a permanent replacement.

Red Oak approves radio equipment upgrades

The Red Oak City Council recently agreed to join other area cities to request a $342,800 grant to upgrade digital radio equipment and to authorize the purchase of software to improve the utility billing process and emergency management system. Red Oak will join with emergency responders in Palmer, Ferris, Ovilla, Glenn Heights and Midlothian so EMS, fire, police and other officials can communicate during emergency situations, said Police Chief Craig Rudolph, who proposed the grant application.

The new software application will also improve the city's personnel and payroll systems as well as public information capabilities, said Mayor Alan Hugley.

Harlandale ISD uses new technology to communicate

The Harlandale Independent School District recently introduced a new $20,000 software program to increase campus safety.

The new technology allows students to alert school officials to campus problems via an anonymous e-mail or a text message from their cell phones, said a spokesman for the district. The district is training students to use an anonymous Internet messaging system that allows students to e-mail or text a teacher or administrator to report problems ranging from drugs on campus to cheating and being bullied, he said.

Edcouch Elsa ISD to lay
off 200 employees

Trustees for the Edcouch-Elsa Independent School District recently agreed to reduce district staff by 20 percent to address an anticipated $10.1 million budget deficit currently confronting the district. The layoffs, which will include about 200 support staff such as aides, maintenance workers, security guards and receptionists, are expected to save the district about $5 million. The employees will receive notification of the layoffs today (Friday), said Superintendent Michael Sandroussi.

The Texas Education Agency said the district had hired too many employees, failed to keep an accurate inventory of district property and had a critical lack of cash reserves. Three more rounds of layoffs are planned in the coming months, including some teachers, Sandroussi said. The district is the largest employees in the Delta region of the Rio Grande Valley.

Houston agrees to use dedicated funds for project

Houston city officials recently agreed to use $1.5 million in dedicated funds from a sale of assets to a community improvement project, building sidewalks and drainage ditches on Morningside Drive. Anne Clutterbuck (pictured), a council member from District C, had insisted that the proceeds from the sale of property on Bolsover Street be used for improvements in the same area. Her request was written into the sales contract with the developer who purchased the property for condominium and retail development.

The storm drains and ditches along Morningside are necessary to alleviate flooding on the street between Rice and Sunset boulevards, and many area residents have requested sidewalks for years, she said. Clutterbuck expects the construction on the improvements to begin in about 18 months even though the developer's condominium project has been placed on hold.

East Texas counties receive development grant funds

The U.S. Department of Commerce recently awarded a $150,000 grant to assist eight East Texas counties to create an economic development district to develop and implement a regional strategy that supports private capital investment and creates new jobs.

Participating in the grant are Anderson, Cherokee, Henderson, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Van Zandt and Wood counties.

Recent Reports

• Presentation, House Select Committee on Hurricane Ike Storm Devastation to the Texas Gulf Coast, DADS
• SPI's May 2008 Municipal Bond Elections Report
• SPI's November 2007 Bond Election Results Report

Event Links

• Putting America Back to Work Conference
• Texas Transportation Forum
• DIR e-Learning Forum
• Executive Women in Texas Government 22nd Annual Professional Development 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 - 12/12/2008

Group submits plan for redeveloping Ingleside

The Ingleside Local Redevelopment Authority recently submitted a redevelopment plan and homeless submission for the Electromagnetic Facility of Naval Station Ingleside. The plan for the 155 surplus acres of the facility were submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Office of Economic Adjustment, which oversees communities impacted by base closure and realignment.

The authority also approved hiring a consultant to help submit an economic development conveyance application requesting that the 155 acres be transferred to the group at a price below market value and authorize the redevelopment authority to implement its plan. The contract for the consultant will be less than $100,000, said Rosie Collins, the project manager for the authority.

Governor's appointments

Governor Rick Perry has announced the following appointments:

• Tam Terry of White Deer, Texas Commission on Jail Standards
• Roel Rodriguez of McAllen, municipal class position,Rio Grande Regional Water Authority Board of Directors
• Christopher A. Antcliff of El Paso, judge, 168th Judicial District Court of El Paso County
• Donald D. Roy of Mount Pleasant, Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Council

Waco approves another $500,000 for museum

The Waco City Council recently approved an additional $500,000 to complete work on the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. Work on the museum has been on hold while the city has relocated 200 graves found on the property.

The city had no choice but to spend the money to finish the project, said Rick Allen (pictured), a council member. Abandoning the project was not an option, he noted. The final project is now expected to cost more than $1.8 million.

Harlandale ISD selects Jaklich as superintendent

The Harlandale Independent School District recently selected Robert Jaklich as its new superintendent. Jaklich, an 11-year employee of the district, recently served as interim superintendent and also had been employed as principal of Harlandale High School from 1998 to 2002.

SPI seeks E-Rate grant experts

SPI is seeking individuals with expertise and success in understanding, applying for and administering E-Rate program grants. Must be familiar with filing windows, changes that might be made to the program, rules and the competitive grant process. To apply for part-time positions, send cover letter and resume showing prior experience and success in E-Rate grant programs to: jcarl@spartnerships.com.

Ysleta ISD selects Zolkoski as new superintendent

Trustees for the Ysleta Independent School District recently chose Michael Zolkoski as the new superintendent. Zolkoski previously served as superintendent for Tulsa Public Schools.

Sweeney retires as Boles
ISD superintendent

Dr. Graham Sweeney recently retired as superintendent of the Boles Independent School District after 22 years of employment with the district. Trustees have not yet announced any plans to hire a new superintendent.

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Palestine ISD approves technology upgrade

Trustees for the Palestine Independent School District recently approved the installation of a Wide Area Network that will increase the district's ability to handle more data, allow quicker access to the Internet and accommodate a larger phone system.

Superintendent Thomas Wallis (pictured) said the new network also benefits the district in preparing for online services such as TAKS testing that soon will be required. One server will connect all the district campuses, he said. The WAN will cost the district about $2,000 a month, about $900 a month more than the district's current charges for Internet access, Wallis said. The board also approved the purchase of a $30,000 network switch, which will be funded by a grant from the Region VII Education Service Center. The new network should be installed by September.

Pleasanton VFD wins federal grant for digital radios

The Pleasanton Volunteer Fire Department recently received a $124,688 grant to buy digital mobile radios for all fire and EMS units. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration, gave the grant under its Assistant To Firefighters Grant Program. Since 2004, the AFG program has awarded almost $2.75 billion to first responder organizations to buy equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles and other resources.

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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DIR plans e-Learning forum for agencies, universities

A free one-day e-Learning Forum for Texas state agencies and universities only will be held Thursday, Feb. 12, 2009, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Commons Center of the J.J. Pickle Research Campus in Austin. Sponsored by the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR), the conference's goal is to share information on what is happening in the industry and specifically in Texas government. Potential topics include tools and trends in e-learning, case studies of successful government e-learning projects with speakers profiling different implementation styles such as simplistic modules requiring little specialized expertise, successfully deploying a subscription-based learning course library, extensive custom development, Web 2.0 and e-learning, collaboration of the IT and training departments and lessons learned and best practices. To register, click here.

Texas Transportation Forum planned in January

The Fourth Annual Texas Transportation Forum, featuring high-profile speakers - former U.S. House Majority Leader Dick Gephardt and former Federal Aviation Administration Administrator and Federal Highway Administration Deputy Administrator Jane Garvey - and a keynote address by Gov. Rick Perry, is slated for Monday through Wednesday, Jan. 5-7, 2009. The forum will be at the Hilton Hotel in Austin. The forum brings together both past and future transportation leaders and will feature sessions on Texas' future transportation needs, an overview of state and federal transportation policy and information on state initiatives, regional partnerships and federal initiatives. Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst will speak about transportation issues for the upcoming legislative session. To view the program, click here, and to register, click here.

'Putting America Back to Work' conference planned

The Texas Workforce Commission will host its "Putting America Back to Work" conference on Jan. 15 and 16, 2009, at the Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark. The two-day conference topics include: The Texas Economic Model, Lessening our Dependency on Foreign Energy, Rebuilding Our Manufacturing Base and Challenges of our Business Tax Structure. Among the confirmed speakers are former Texas Secretary of State Phil Wilson and Barry Smitherman, chair of the Public Utility Commission of Texas. For a registration form and agenda, click here.