Texas Coast braces for onslaught of Hurricane Ike

Perry says 'We're ready' as monster storm heads toward Galveston

"We're ready," said Gov. Rick Perry as Texas braces for landfall of Hurricane Ike, which could become a Category 3 storm and is bearing down on the Texas Coast. However, the governor warned Texans in the path of the storm that Ike could bring with it a tsunami-like surge of close to 20 feet of water when it makes landfall.

"We're preparing for the worst, but we'll continue to pray for the best," said the governor.

Paying particular attention to the storm's path are Mayor Lyda Ann Thomas (left) of Galveston and Mayor Bill White (right) of Houston, mayors of the two major coastal cities expected to be hard-hit by the storm.

National Weather Service officials issued a warning Thursday night for those living in low-lying areas in the path of the storm. "Persons not heeding evacuation orders in single family one- or two-story homes will face certain death," read the Weather Service bulletin.

At 10 a.m. today, waves from a five- to six-foot storm surge already were crashing over the 16-foot seawall at Galveston and water was surging into some of the island's neighborhoods from what many are calling a "monster" storm that is 900 miles wide. At one point Thursday, weather officials said the storm filled 40 percent of the Gulf of Mexico. Coastal storm surge flooding of up to 20 feet above normal tide levels, along with large and dangerous battering waves, are expected near and to the east of where the center of Ike makes landfall. Weather officials this morning said that landfall is expected at approximately 2 a.m. Saturday.

Texas Enterprise Fund awards grant to wind power firm

The Texas Enterprise Fund recently announced a $945,000 award to Martifer Energy Systems LLC, which has committed to bring 225 new jobs and a projected $40 million new wind-turbine tower manufacturing plant to Texas.

The Portuguese-owned company also received $5.6 million in incentives and tax abatements from the City of San Angelo and $2 million in tax abatements from Tom Green County to locate a plant in San Angelo. Antonio Pontes, the chief operating officer of Martifer Energy Systems, said the grant from the Texas Enterprise Fund was a key determinant in the company's decision to locate a plant in Texas.

At present, TEF, which was created by the Legislature in 2003, has participated in projects that generated more than 51,800 new jobs and $13.7 billion in capital investment in the state.

TPWD adds Fortress Cliffs Ranch to state park

Nearly six miles of scenic cliffs along the Palo Duro Canyon State Park will be preserved for view from inside the park, following purchase of the nearly 3,000-acre Fortress Cliffs Ranch by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and The Trust for Public Land. The purchase was made more than a year after the property was put up for sale and concern was expressed that the highly visible bluff might be impacted by developments.

TPWD provided $1.86 million from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund toward the property that was appraised at $5.22 million. That amount was matched by an anonymous donor. The Texas Legislature appropriated another $1.5 million in a rider that specified the funds could only be used to add to Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

"The rare chance to protect six miles of cliffs overlooking the 'Grand Canyon of Texas,' to keep that bluff looking the way the first Texans saw it - this is unparalleled," said Carter Smith (pictured), TPWD executive director. "Palo Duro Canyon may not be near our state's biggest cities, but I know all Texans can appreciate the significance of this acquisition for our park system. It's for everyone alive today, and for generations to come." In the accompanying TPWD photo by Corky Khulman, TPW Commissioner Mark Bivins of Amarillo looks out from the Fortress Cliffs Ranch toward Palo Duro Canyon. The Fortress Cliffs property is located about 15 miles southeast of Amarillo in Randall and Armstrong Counties, sharing seven miles of boundary with the state park. When the acquisition is complete, the park will include 29,187 acres, with the new tract making up almost 10 percent of the total.

The property will eventually be accessible to the public for recreational use such as hiking. Park staff will develop a plan proposing management and use of the tract, integrating it into existing resource management and public use plans.

OAG reports 100th online predator arrest

Texas Attorney General Gregg Abbot's Cyber Crimes Unit has arrested its 100th online sex predator. Abbott launched the Cyber Crimes Unit in 2003, earning a national reputation for actively targeting online child predators.

"Since 2003, the dedicated men and women of the Cyber Crimes Unit have arrested more than 100 sexual predators who used the Internet to prey upon children," said Abbott. "Thanks to five years of cooperative efforts with local law enforcement, our peace officers have reached an important milestone."

The Cyber Crimes Unit and the Fugitive Unit, which locates sex offenders who have violated the terms of their parole and could be stalking children, have collectively arrested more than 700 sex offenders. The Cyber Crimes Unit also reaches out to Texas families, conducting cyber safety town hall meetings to educate parents and teens on Internet safety.

Gilbert reappointed to Texas Emerging Technology Fund

Brett Anitra Gilbert (pictured), an assistant professor of management at Mays Business School at Texas A&M University, was recently reappointed to serve a two-year term on the Texas Emerging Technology Fund advisory committee.

Gilbert, who has a Ph.D. from Indiana University, originally was selected to finish out the term on the committee of Texas A&M President Elsa Murano that ended on Aug. 31.

The advisory committee meets an average of four to five times a year to review applications from entrepreneurs seeking funding for development of their proposed technological product or service and sends the recommendations to the Office of the Governor, which makes the final decision on which candidates receive funding. The fund, which was begun to boost the state economy through job creation, has awarded $110 million since it began in 2006.

Young County to apply for grant for sirens

Young County commissioners recently authorized county staff to seek a grant to help pay for 14 emergency warning sirens throughout the county.

Because Texas was declared a disaster area as a result of damage caused by Hurricane Dolly, all counties have the opportunity for a few weeks to apply for grants to purchase early warning systems for emergencies, said Matt Pruitt, the emergency management coordinator. To qualify for the grant, county officials must agree to pay 25 percent of the cost, he said. While the original proposal was to add seven sirens, commissioners voted to add seven more sirens to more rural areas of the county.

The estimated cost of the emergency warning system is between $175,000 and $200,000, Pruitt said. The sheriff's office will control the sirens that also are able to deliver verbal warnings in addition to a traditional siren used to warn of tornadoes. If the grant is approved in January 2009 as expected, Pruitt said he expects it will take another six months after that before the sirens can be installed.

Maisel chosen as executive director of MEDCO

Donna Maisel (pictured), vice president of the Nacogdoches Economic Development Corp., has been named executive director of the Marshall Economic Development Corporation, effective Sept. 22. She will replace Cliff Todd, who resigned last month to accept a position with a local industry.

Maisel began with NEDCO nine years ago as an administrative assistant, quickly working her way up to assistant director and then vice president. Prior to her association with NEDCO, she was administrative assistant to the Nacogdoches city manager for seven years. She also is a former court administrator for the Nacogdoches County Court-at-Law, a position she held for five years. Prior to that she was office manager and sales supervisor for a Nacogdoches manufacturing company.

Maisel holds a bachelor's degree from Sam Houston State University and is a graduate of the Economic Development Institute at the University of Oklahoma and has been recognized as a Certified Economic Developer by the International Economic Development Council in Washington, D.C.

San Benito ISD authorizes roof repair, projects

Trustees for the San Benito Independent School District recently approved $873,000 to put a new roof on a building damaged by Hurricane Dolly and begin bond projects to retrofit air conditioning systems at several schools.

Board members also approved repairing the entire roof rather than patch it, said Superintendent Antonio Limon, as the district gets a five-year warranty if it replaces the roof and no warranty if the roof is patched. Funds from windstorm insurance and the Federal Emergency Management Agency will pay about 75 percent of the cost and the district will pay the remaining cost to put a new roof on the building.

Work on the air conditioning at Sullivan Elementary School is scheduled to begin in January and work on the high school air conditioning system will be done during the summer, Limon said. The high school air conditioning retrofit will cost about $3.7 million, including engineering design and related costs. Board members also authorized a continuation of the design process for retrofitting air conditioning at three more elementary schools.

UNT to invest $25M in collaborative research

Research and technology development aimed at helping strengthen the state's economy will get a shot in the arm through a $25 million investment from the University of North Texas. School officials announced this week that the investment begins this year through the development of six collaborative research clusters and the recruiting of world-renowned faculty.

"UNT is well-known for its excellence in the arts. Through this investment, we will expand our research excellence and raise our reputation as a public research university that competes at the top-level in everything we do," said President Gretchen M. Bataille (pictured).

The six clusters will address:

• Bio/Nano Photonics - exploring how light can be used in extremely small dimensions to develop new nano-devices with applications in medicine, communications, energy and a number of other fields.
• Materials Modeling - producing predictive tools for creating next generation materials to help scientists reduce greenhouse gas in the environment, develop better jet engines and discover new therapies for serious battlefield injuries.
• Developmental Physiology and Genetics - exploring developmental biology at the molecular, cellular and physiological levels, which will contribute to scientific advances for human condition, such as tissue trauma, clotting disorders and heart disease.
• Signaling Mechanisms in Plants - studying molecular signals of plants that control growth, crop yield, defense against pathogens and responses to stress.
• Autism Spectrum Disorders - expanding field-based research and training programs in education, behavior analysis and learning technologies for autism.
• Advanced Research in Technology and the Arts - investigating ways advances in sensor technologies and other engineering innovations can change and enhance the production and delivery of art.

Seed funding will also be made available for research relating to human health and sustainable environment and multi-scale damage lifetime prediction and design of materials. UNT will also create a new multi-institutional research center focused on immigrant studies.

Fort Worth ISD to install 5,000 interactive 'whiteboards'

Melody Johnson (pictured), superintendent of the Fort Worth Independent School District, recently unveiled the district's new interactive "whiteboards" to business leaders to highlight the district's move toward using technology to educate students.

The $23 million computerized learning system allows teachers to access material from the Internet, display it on the large "whiteboards" for the class to view and easily manipulate information. The interactive screens are being installed in 5,000 classrooms over the next two years, Johnson said. Funding for the system was approved in a 2007 bond election.

The district also plans to replace 13,000 outdated computers in classrooms and add cable modems to all portable buildings so that classes in those buildings can access the Internet.

Tri-County Black Chamber planning trade mission

Seeking to impact trade ties with Belize, a delegation of business firms and representatives of the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, Angola's Consulate General Simao Manuel Pedro, the Abilene Black Chamber of Commerce leadership, Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce International Committee and Dallas city officials will be part of Houston's Tri-County Black Chamber of Commerce (TCBCC) Trade Mission to Belize Oct. 22-26.

The mission will be led by Houston City Council member M. J. Khan (pictured) and will seek to impact trade ties with Belize in recognition of the Partners in Trade Agreement signed July 1 by Houston Mayor Bill White (below right) and Belize Prime Minister H.E. Dean Oliver Barrow (below left). The TCBCC International Initiatives Council promotes the participation of United States firms and investors in the Caribbean, Central and South Americas' growing economies to build international trade and commerce relationships for persons of African descent.

The upcoming trade mission is being called "the commemorative trade mission" because it occurs within days of the Partners in Trade Agreement of three years ago. It is hoped the new agreement will open more doors to profitable international trade opportunities with Belize. Among the activities are a trade symposium that will present international project funding through Overseas Private Investment Corporation of the United States of America, educate attendees on how to do business in Belize and discuss government incentives. Tourist and business boards, various government agencies and business organizations will conduct one-on-one pre-arranged business match meetings between American and Belizean delegates. Field trips and site visits are scheduled to preview Belize's commercial and free trade zoned districts. Contact trademission@tricountyblackchamber.org for more information.

TWU Nursing awarded $614,000 federal grant

The Texas Woman's University College of Nursing has been awarded a more than $614,000 federal grant for its doctor of nurse practitioner (DNP) degree program. The funds, to be paid out over three years, will be used to improve access to the TWU program by nurses serving rural and underserved populations.

"The DNP is designed to address the need for more highly educated nurses in the country's increasingly technological-based healthcare system," said Dr. Caryl Mobley (pictured), associate dean of nursing at TWU's Dallas-Parkland campus. "Nurses who want to pursue doctoral education can choose between a Ph.D., which is research focused, and a DNP, which is the highest level of specialty clinical practice." The additional funding will allow TWU to reach out to master's level and advanced practicing nurses in rural and underserved areas. Some candidates will be able to take advantage of technology-enhanced education such as online and digital video classes.

TWU's DNP program is based at the TWU Dallas-Parkland campus, with support courses offered from the TWU Denton campus. The degree requires 46 credit hours and can be completed in two years. Nurse practitioners and nurse midwives who have a master's degree in nursing, are certified in their specialty area, are licensed as registered nurses and are recognized or eligible to be recognized as an APN in Texas may apply to the Graduate School for the DNP program.

New department heads chosen at Tarleton

Tarleton State University's College of Business Administration has named three new department heads. Dr. Sankar Sundarrajan (left) has been named head of accounting, finance and economics. Sundarrajan has been with Tarleton since 1992 and has been a full professor since 2003. He holds his master's and doctorate degrees from the University of Alabama.

Dr. David Crockett (center) is the new department head for computer information systems (CIS). Crockett has been at Tarleton since 2007. Prior to that, he taught at The University of Texas at Arlington, Portland State University and Our Lady of the Lake University.

Dr. Rusty Freed (right) will be the new management, marketing and administrative systems department head. He has been a member of the Tarleton staff and faculty for more than 22 years. He holds a doctorate from the University of North Texas and a Professional in Human Resource Certification from the Human Resource Certification Institute.

Anderson takes office as assistant VP at Texas State

Stephanie Anderson (pictured) is the new Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management and Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Texas State University. She comes to Texas State from Texas Tech University, where she was associate vice provost for seven years. She also previously led Tech's division of enrollment management and spent 13 years in admissions at Texas A&M University.

For the last six years, Anderson has served as faculty for the Texas Association for College Admission Counseling-College Board Summer Institute for College Admissions Counseling. She has also previously served that organization as membership committee chair, professional development chair and treasurer.

Anderson holds both bachelor's and master's degrees from Texas A&M and is working on her doctorate from Texas Tech. She will begin her new duties at Texas State on Oct. 1.

Millis new director of UTSA TEAM Center

Barbara Millis (pictured) is the new director of The University of Texas at San Antonio's Teaching, Excellence, Advancement and Mentoring (TEAM) Center. She already organized two days of new faculty orientation and plans each summer to take UTSA faculty members to a Colorado "Boot Camp for Profs," where she is a presenter. She also is involved in teaching assistant (TA) training. Other initiatives of the center will include a fall workshop series with two nationally recognized presenters, and support for faculty interest groups.

Millis comes to UTSA from the University of Nevada, Reno, where she was director of the Excellence in Teaching program. She also has experience at the University of Maryland, University College and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Millis holds a Ph.D. from Florida State University.

W. Texas A&M to launch Mobile Go Center next week

West Texas A&M University's Mobile Go Center (pictured) will be hard to miss when it debuts next week. The 42-foot trailer is awash in color scenes and images and will be mobile to deliver college information to students in the region who plan to go to college.

"We are really excited about the Mobile Go Center and what it will mean to students and families across the Texas Panhandle as well as our neighboring states of Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado and Kansas," Dan Garcia (pictured), vice president of enrollment management, said. "The Mobile Go Center will allow us to take information about college opportunities to these areas to support and encourage higher education goals for all students."

The Mobile Go Center has onboard 16 laptop computers, a satellite for Internet connection and workstations that include college planning materials. The center and a one-ton truck to pull it were paid for by a $130,000 grant from the Texas Pioneer Foundation. The laptops and a printer were purchased with a $15,100 grant from Panhandle-Plains Student Loan Center. Students will be able to ask university officials questions regarding college preparation, admissions, financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

Tarrant County approves sophisticated jail design

Tarrant County commissioners recently approved the design for a new $96-million, five-story building that will not look like a jail, but will resemble other architecture in the downtown area.

The brick and stone facade will resemble the nearby Texas & Pacific Terminal and the tower at Will Rogers Memorial Center, commissioners said. The 195,850-square-foot building will provide 445 maximum-security beds, a new kitchen, visiting areas and a medical infirmary. It will be built on land now occupied by the Muller Building, which previously was used for records storage. A sky bridge will connect the new jail with the existing 13-level corrections center.

Commissioners noted they were pleased the design added more jail beds and that the costs came in below the estimate. County officials expect to begin accepting construction bids next summer, with groundbreaking slated for fall 2009.

More district clerk records online in Harris County

Government entities that use Harris County's criminal records will now be able to access those records online, according to Harris County District Clerk Theresa Chang (pictured with radio reporter Bill Stamps). The district clerk said now city, county, district, state and federal agencies and military recruiters can check criminal backgrounds of potential employees and recruits from their desks and print out the information they need.

The resources saved will be significant, said Chang, as last year more than 3,100 criminal background checks by government agencies were requested. Chang said the initiative will save agencies, taxpayers and county employees time and money.

The program checks the records in Harris County's Justice Information Management System entries using names and other criteria, such as date of birth, Social Security number and/or Texas driver license information.

The new initiative is one of several in the Harris County District Clerk's office that provide electronic access to documents maintained there, some available to the general public. Government officials have downloaded more than 68,000 documents and more than 225,000 documents have been downloaded and purchased by the general public in the last six years.

UTEP hosts U.S./Mexico Health Research Symposium

Health experts from across the United States and Mexico are gathering at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) to discuss health issues that impact both sides of the border at The U.S./Mexico Health Research Symposium. The two-day event will conclude today, Friday, at Union Building East, Tomas Rivera Conference Center.

"This is one of the first bi-national research conferences hosted by the (center) that is designed to bring together experts engaged in examining border health issues," said Robert Anders (pictured), Ph.D. and dean of UTEP's nursing school.

The forum will host meetings, lectures, panel discussions and poster presentations that cover a wide range of health-related issues including diabetes, obesity and mental health issues. Experts will discuss research that can be translated into practical public health approaches within the U.S.-Mexico border environment.

Texas Campus Compact appoints Funke to staff

Texas Campus Compact has announced the appointment of its first director of communications, Angela Funke (pictured), to oversee graphic design, Web management, printed and electronic collateral production and visual and brand identity.

Funke has almost 10 years of media and graphic design experience, having received an award from the National Association of Government Communicators for the You Can Read Again campaign with the Texas Talking Books Program. Prior to Texas Campus Compact, Funke worked with Homework Helpline, a community program of the Austin American-Statesman. She has also served in the Public Information offices of the Louisiana Department of Transportation and the Texas State Library.

Funke holds a bachelor's degree from St. Edward's University, graduating Summa Cum Laude and part of the Honors studies program. Currently, she is working on her master's degree at St. Edward's.

Harris County wins $32M grant to improve port security

The Harris County Commissioners Court recently accepted a $32 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to improve security at the Houston Ship Channel and the ports of Galveston and Texas City.

The $32 million will be used to correct problems identified in an ongoing study of the security risks in area ports, said Douglas Adkinson, director of criminal justice issues for the office of the county judge. The grant is nearly as large as all similar grants the region has received in the pasta three years, he noted.

Earlier FEMA grants have been used to install closed-circuit video cameras and radar detection systems along waterways roads and bridges and to improve radio communication for first responders. The county will distribute the grant funds to public and private groups such as terminal owners, port authorities and law enforcement agencies that protect the three ports. Recipients must provide a 25 percent match to qualify for funds from the grant.

University of Houston adds electric trucks to its fleet

The University of Houston Plant Operations furthered its green initiatives by adding three electric, gas-free trucks (pictured) to its fleet, purchased from a California-based electric vehicle company. These are the first fully electric trucks on campus, producing zero tailpipe emissions.

"Plant Operations has been a leader in sustainability in many areas since the mid-90s," said Dave Irvin, associate vice president for plant operations. "These new mid-sized electric vehicles expand that effort while saving the university life cycle costs."

"New technology primarily costs more at the beginning, so we look at this as an investment rather than an expense," said Neil Smith, supervisor of the Auto Shop. "The truck costs less than $5 a day when you charge it, and it fits into a regular 110v outlet. There's no carbon foot print. It's a step in the right direction, and a step that's needed."

Plano authorizes new transportation service for seniors

Plano City Council members recently approved a new transportation system for seniors. The service includes a $20,000 mobility taxi voucher service that requires seniors to pay 25 percent of the cab fare in addition to $2 per mile traveled.

To qualify for the taxi program, seniors must be assessed by a geriatric wellness center to determine need for the transportation program. Users of the taxi service must buy a booklet for $2.50 that is worth $10 and then call a taxi company to arrange for the ride and accept the vouchers. Seniors will be allowed to buy no more than 10 books, or $100 toward taxi rides.

TWU selected for American Democracy Project

Texas Woman's University (TWU) has been selected to participate in the American Democracy Project Civic Agency Initiative, a national program beginning this fall which encourages students to be civic leaders in their communities.

"One of the key duties of a university is to teach the importance of civic engagement to its students," said TWU Provost Dr. Kay Clayton (pictured). "This project provides another opportunity for TWU to encourage students to make ongoing civic contributions to their professions and communities."

TWU is one of 16 universities in the United States chosen by The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) and is the only university in Texas to be selected for the three-year program. The initiative will be coordinated by Dr. Katherine Landdeck, TWU associate professor of history.

Midland, Wichita Falls, Rusk airports awarded grants

The cities of Midland and Wichita Falls recently won $600,000 and $500,000 grants respectively from the Federal Aviation Administration of the U.S. Transportation Department. The Midland grant will help develop more air service at the Midland International Airport. The grant is designed to help leverage local dollars for airline risk abatement, said Marv Esterly, director of airports for the city. Midland city leaders hired a firm to assist in airline retention and recruitment initiative, he said.

Wichita Falls Municipal Airport grant will be used to expand air service to the facility. The grant, awarded through the Small Community Air Service Development Program, also will be used to beef up local air service, expand airport office space and buy more equipment. Before Sept. 11, 2001, about 60,000 passengers a year used the city airport while today that number has fallen to about 48,000 passengers a year. The grant, which is designed to help smaller communities, required the city to provide $250,000 in matching funds to qualify for the grant. In the past, one regional airline offered up to seven flights per day from the city-owned airport, but now it offers only three flights per day, said John Burrus, city director of aviation, traffic and transportation. That reduction in service may make Wichita Falls more attractive to a second air carrier, Burrus said.

Rusk County was granted $1 million to be used to repair and resurface two runways, the taxiways and the parking lot, said Jim Patterson, the airport manager. The county is required to provide 10 percent of the funding for the renovation projects paid for with grant money. Patterson expects to begin advertising for construction bids soon and expects to award a contract this fall. TxDOT also awarded the Rusk County Airport a grant in January to install an automated weather observation system at the airport. The $100,000 system allows pilots and area residents to receive automated reports of wind, lightning, barometric pressure reading and other information over the plane radio or by telephone.

Brownwood moves on sports complex, senior center

Brownwood City Council recently approved the selection of an architectural/engineering firm for a new sports complex with a swimming pool and renovation of the Brownwood Coliseum Annex for the senior citizens center. The projects are expected to cost more than $7 million.

Brownwood voters in May approved two bond proposals for $6 million to build the first two phases of the four-phase sports complex and the senior center renovation. The architectural/engineering firm will oversee design and construction phases of the project, including a topographic survey, geotechnical survey, grant writing assistance, bid preparation, final designs, plans and construction financial tabulations, said City Manager Bobby Rountree (pictured).

The sports complex will be located on more than 66 acres of land donated by the Brownwood Industrial Foundation and valued at about $800,000 in the Camp Bowie Industrial Area.

Westlake Academy to get $7.1 million expansion

The Board of Aldermen for Westlake recently agreed to proceed on a $7.1 million arts and science building for Westlake Academy, the town's charter school. Plans call for the science building to be built with plans to add space for the arts as more funding becomes available. The building originally was expected to cost $5.5 million.

Board members are scheduled to meet on Sept. 15 to review bids and award contracts on the first of two phases of the school project, said Mayor Laura Wheat. Westlake has no municipal property tax and will pay for the school expansion with revenues from sales taxes, revenue from fees and fines and a fund set aside to finance capital projects, she said.

Westlake Academy is the only municipally operated open-enrollment charter school in Texas. The academy guarantees enrollment to Westlake residents and offers enrollment to students from neighboring communities.

Abilene ISD planning for career, technology school

Trustees for the Abilene Independent School District recently revived discussion of a career and technology school despite rejection by voters in a May bond proposal that included $22 million for a career magnet school.

Board President Stan Lambert (pictured) said the district is aware that the community will not support spending $15 million or more to build a facility or school, but community members also expressed the need for a career, technology high school.

Lambert said the board must determine short-term and long-term goals first, then determine the roadblocks and hurdles that need to be overcome before presenting another proposal for a career tech high school. The board is expected to discuss the issue again at a meeting on Sept. 29.

Public Safety head recommends closing Kilgore's city jail

Ronnie Moore, City of Kilgore's director of public safety, is recommending the city close its jail and transfer inmates to a jail in Gregg County. Moore said he has been asking for this for years. "The county is better equipped to handle the flow of prisoners," he said.

It would cost Kilgore about $230,000 annually for the county to house its inmates, which includes salaries for three transportation officers, according to Moore's estimation. The city would pay Gregg County approximately $40 per day for inmates convicted of crimes more serious than Class B misdemeanors. That sum is considerably less costly than building a new, 20-bed facility, which would cost between $1.5 million and $2 million in addition to yearly employee salaries.

City council members are set to discuss the proposal in the coming weeks.

UTMB Galveston cutting indigent care budget

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston is moving away from its traditional role of caring for the uninsured by slashing its budget by $24 million. For fiscal year 2008, UTMB's indigent-care program has been scaled back to $91 million amid a $59 million budget shortfall.

Karen Sexton (pictured), interim executive vice president and health system CEO, said fewer state and federal dollars in addition to higher costs have spurred the setback. The medical school has assisted the uninsured in nearly 160 Texas counties in the past.

Other cutbacks at UTMB include the dissolution of the pastoral program, a staff reduction of 73 personnel and the transference of senior service programs to other departments.

Cisco looking to build $35 million lake resort

A committee of Cisco residents will convene to discuss prospects of a $35 million resort at Lake Cisco despite Hilton Hotels Corp.'s declining to get involved with the project.

The Cisco Development Corp. has assisted with hiring a consulting firm (for $17,000) to conduct a feasibility study. An architectural firm in Abilene drew up plans for the 100-room hotel and resort, which would include a water park, expanded golf course and rodeo arena.

Cisco, with a population of 3,800, is home to Conrad Hilton's first hotel. Mayor Hal Porter said the Hilton Corp. did not "take into account the attractions we planned to develop that are unique to Cisco when they looked at the proposal."

Welch named UT-Tyler director of academic success

The University of Texas at Tyler recently appointed Dana Welch (pictured) as director of the Academic Success Department at the university.

Welch joined UT-Tyler in 2004 and currently is an adjunct lecturer in the School of Human Resource Development and Technology within the College of Business Technology. She has a bachelor's and a master's degree from UT-Tyler.

Previously a part of the Student Affairs Division, the Academic Success Department, including the Academic Advising Center, was moved to the Academic Affairs Division. Welch will oversee the Academic Advising Center and the Office of Academic Support in her new duties.

Packery Channel upgrades under way in Padre Island

Packery Channel upgrades totaling $944,000 - which include parking lot and access road pavement, drainage repairs and landscaping - are beginning. The venture is the first associated with the dredging of Packery Channel, which provides ready access to the Gulf of Mexico at Padre Island.

The channel was approved by voters in 2001 and opened in 2006 amid hopes it would spur development. Tax revenues earmarked for the parking lot project are being paired with a $500,000 grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

The city council will convene to discuss how it will proceed with funding for future initiatives. "There is quite a lot left to do," Councilman Mike McCutchon said, including shade structures, looping of a road through the boat launch area, and adding more parking lots and restrooms, among other amenities.

Jacksonville ISD superintendent Bird retiring

Jacksonville Independent School District Superintendent Stuart Bird (pictured) has announced plans to retire after five years with the district. "Now is the right time to make a change," he said.

Bird will finish the academic year before stepping down. JISD will begin its charge of hiring a search firm to find a suitable replacement for Bird, who leaves behind an impressive legacy. The Texas Education Agency recently rated three of JISD's campuses as Recognized (the agency's second-highest honor) and one as Exemplary.

Bird graduated from Northwestern University in Natchitoches, La., before beginning his 30-plus year career in academics.

City of Rhome mulling prospect of wind turbines

In a bid to color the City of Rhome greener, members of the planning and zoning committee are weighing the benefits of wind turbines. The turbines would allow residents an opportunity to save on oil and electrical power, Mayor Pro-Tem David Wilson said.

City council member Brandon Davis said he's pushing for Rhome to be "as green as we can possibly be."

The planning and zoning committee is looking at how much land a resident would need to operate one of the machines.

Taylor ISD raises bond issue to $43 million

Proposals for a new bond issue at Taylor Independent School District have been increased to nearly $43 million to cover costs of general renovations and the construction of a new high school facility. A combination of factors, including inflation and a growing property tax base, led to the proposed bond increase.

The budget, even with the increase, will still be tight, according to TISD Superintendent Bruce Scott (pictured). Scott said the district is using 16 cents (of a state cap of 50 cents) for debts. He said the old debt was Pasemann (Elementary) and the middle school, so there is only 34 cents of capacity left for the bond.

Allocations from the bond sale will include $38.5 million to purchase classrooms and core spaces (an auditorium, cafeteria, library, gyms, offices and hallways) for 1,000 students, and $4.5 million to pay for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and plumbing system upgrades and repairs.

City of Bridgeport looks at five-year improvement plan

A proposed five-year capital improvement plan is in the works for many City of Bridgeport projects. These upgrades include options for underfunded projects: paving Industrial Park Boulevard, improvements to the community center and police department, a fence for the water plant and construction of a four-lane divided roadway leading into Industrial Park, among others.

In the midst of rising construction costs, Mayor Don Majka (pictured) said putting the Industrial Park project on hold made sense, as this would allow for nearly $500,000 in funding for other projects. The council has not yet made any final decisions.

Proposed projects for fiscal year 2008-2009 include a new drainage system, parking lot, improvements to County Road 1304 and the installation of a three-lane traffic signal. The airport runway and taxiway are slated for upgrades also.

Katy approves $7.5M for equipment, other projects

The Katy City Council recently authorized $7.5 million to purchase public safety equipment, a municipal courts building, renovate a fire station and for street improvements. Mayor Don Elder (pictured) said the improvements are necessary even in the face of a slight decline in sales tax revenues to the city.

Council members authorized $1.5 million for the municipal courts building, $1.5 million for fire station renovations and $4.5 million for street improvements. The Katy Police Department received approval to buy $65,000 in new equipment, including tasers and lap bars for the backseats of police vehicles to prevent escapes and the Katy Fire Department is expecting to spend $70,000 for new support vehicles and $60,000 for new cardiac monitors.

The city's park department is slated to spend $193,000 for improvements to Katy City Park and purchase playground equipment for the city's new barrier-free park.

Dallas ISD selling $4.5M general obligation bonds

To fund the remaining costs of Lake Dallas Elementary, the Dallas Independent School District Board of Trustees is selling $4.5 million in general obligation bonds.

Funds totaling $2.8 million will be used to renovate Lake Dallas High School's 10-year-old football stadium. Upgrades will include more seating and a larger press box. The expansion will be completed in time for the 2009-2010 season.

Proposed construction costs for Lake Dallas Elementary School total $24.5 million, which was approved in a bond package last May. The costs will allow for future upgrades in math and computer sciences in the district.

Fort Stockton officials at odds over bond election

After Fort Stockton City Councilman Steve Hampton (left) asked voters to sign a petition to place a $7 million bond proposal before voters in May 2009, Mayor Ruben Falcon (right) warned residents to think twice before signing the petition.

The bond would fund $400,000 for water lines for new residential developments and thousands more on water treatment plant upgrades. The bond also would be used to pay for a trash compactor for the city's landfill, new police cars, a new fire truck and a new animal shelter. It also would allocate $1 million for upgrades to the city's parks and recreational facility.

The mayor said it is too late to get the bond proposal on the November ballot and the city cannot wait that long for some of the proposed projects. A developer plans on building 400 homes and the city is responsible for water lines and streets in the neighborhood, Falcon added. If the petition effort is successful, he said, the city will not have the money to proceed with the projects. Hampton argued that the city is spending too much and voters should decide on how to spend the money.

Galveston quits gas-guzzlers for hybrids, small vehicles

In an effort to reduce fuel costs and be environmentally friendly, the Galveston City Council recently instructed city staff to replace large, gas-guzzling vehicles with more fuel-efficient vehicles such as smaller or hybrid vehicles.

While council members approved the purchase of two six-cylinder trucks for the planning department when it had requested two eight-cylinder trucks, Councilwoman Karen Mahoney disagreed. Rather than buying a smaller truck that gets 14 miles per gallon, the city should purchase more hybrid hatchback vehicles that get 45 miles per gallon of gas, Mahoney said.

David Smith, the city's garage manager, told council members that administrators are about the only city employees who will be issued hybrid vehicles because city crews often need trucks with hauling capacity and rugged vehicles to use during emergencies. If the city employee does not plan to tow anything, participate in pre- or post-storm activities, drive on rough terrain or need high clearance, they will most likely get a hybrid, he said.

Ever wonder how all your tax dollars are being spent?

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

Transparency in government has taken on a whole new meaning in government circles as many states, including Texas, opt to provide online information regarding expenditures through state accountability portals. With comprehensive online databases, which include existing contracts and all state spending, taxpayers can see exactly where their tax dollars are being spent.

Some states, such as Missouri, also provide access to more sensitive information such as state employee salaries, data on grants that are awarded...and more.

The Texas database, "Where the Money Goes," is located on the State Comptroller's Office Web site. The portal allows anyone to search for expenditures, names of payees and a listing of agencies making the payments. Like many of the other state sites, the data is updated at the close of each business day, ensuring up-to-date information.

In 2007, Kansas became the first state to enact legislation mandating a Web site detailing state expenditures. Texas, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Hawaii, South Carolina and Missouri followed suit. Oklahoma, Kansas and South Carolina were some of the early states to go live with searchable databases which simplify information gathering considerably.

Deer Park considering
Dow Park renovations

The Deer Park City Council is considering renovations to Dow Park and will hold a public hearing on Sept. 30 to review a new design plan.

City Manager Ronald Crabtree (pictured) said a consulting firm began developing a master plan for the park and has several concepts for city leaders to review. The city is seeking grants for sustainability projects for Dow Park and for recreational trails at the Harris County Flood Control District detention pond, he said. He also suggested the city could use bond funds to pay for some of the improvements to Dow Park.

Odessa approves $2.3 million for improvements

The Odessa City Council recently approved $2.3 million for one-time projects ranging from new ambulances to park improvements. The largest allocation of $770,000 went to the parks department. Of that, about $100,000 will be used to resurface Progressive Park and another $100,000 will be used for improvements to the newly opened "sprayground" at McKinney Park.

Also included in the funding was $663,150 for the fire department, which will use $545,000 for six new ambulances. The police department received $311,205 and will spend about $250,000 for a live fire "shoot house."

Midland ISD wins $800,000 grant to combat illiteracy

The Midland Independent School district recently received an $800,000 grant from the "Even Start Family Literacy Grant" of the Texas Education Agency. The grant will be used for educational opportunities and parenting and literacy courses for low-income families in the district.

Waxahachie parks awarded $200,000 state grant

The Waxahachie Parks and Recreation Department recently won a $200,000 grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The grant will be used to build a new walking trail to run from the train depot south to Farm-to-Market Road 55.

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.

Dianne White Delisi served nine terms in the Texas House of Representatives, announcing in July of this year that she would not finish out her term. She was elected to her first term in 1990. She was a long-time chair of the House Committee on Public Health. This week, she was sworn in at the Pentagon as a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA). She will serve as CASA in the Austin district. Delisi will advocate for and advise the Secretary of the Army on issues relating to improving quality of life for military families, expansion of in-state tuition opportunities for military spouses and expansion of the Military Child Education Coalition./

Ann Kitchen is a former member of the Texas House of Representatives. Prior to her election, she was a senior Medicaid policy advisor with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission's State Medicaid Office. She also previously served as an assistant attorney general with the Charitable Trust Section of the Texas Attorney General's Office. Earlier in her career, Kitchen was a caseworker for special needs children at the Texas Commission for the Blind. Kitchen today serves as executive director of the Indigent Care Coalition.

Yselta ISD begins looking
for new superintendent

A Ysleta Independent School District search committee made up of parents, teachers and community members has begun its march toward finding a superintendent to replace Hector Montenegro. The search begins 11 months after Montenegro's announcement to step down.

Montenegro recently resigned from the Arlington Independent School District after disagreements over his accepting honorariums. Roger Parks is currently serving as YISD's interim superintendent.

Grandview ISD garners
$17,412 state grant

The Grandview Independent School District recently received a $17,412 grant from the federal Safe and Drug-Free Schools Act to prevent drug use and combat teen violence.

The grant, distributed by the Governor's Criminal Justice Division, will pay 40 percent of the cost of a school resource officer for one year. The district will pay the remaining 60 percent of the cost, including the school officer's uniform, salary, allowances and training. This is the last of three years the district has received the grant. The school district and county will split the cost of the resource officer at the school district next year, said Holly Morris, budget coordinator for Johnson County.

SPI launches new 'Special Services' division

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

"Be prepared to be entertained, inspired and informed," says Zig Ziglar of keynote speaker Don Newbury. With a speaking style compared to that of Paul Harvey and Will Rogers, Newbury finds humor in everyday situations and has translated that into a successful speaking career that includes some 5,500 speeches in 45 states.

A long-time educator by trade (he served 15 years as chancellor of Howard Payne University), Newbury has been the keynote speaker for national, regional and state meetings of educational groups of all types, including conventions of board members, administrators, teachers and students at both higher education and public school levels. He has addressed in-service programs, athletic banquets, student assemblies, commencement exercises, workshops, chamber of commerce banquets and churches in more than 1,000 Texas communities. He has also addressed hundreds of organizations from the business and corporate world at national, state and local levels.

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

Harrison approves $7.9M
for jail, courthouse updates

Harrison County commissioners recently approved $5.8 million for jail construction and $2.1 million for renovation of the old courthouse. Previously the court had allocated $2.6 million to the courthouse renovation and $5.1 million to build the new jail. The courthouse renovation is also partially funded with a grant from the Texas Historical Commission.

Commissioners also reduced the budget amount to purchase new county vehicles from $306,177 to $244,800 and for equipment purchase from $388,004 to $333, 378.

Roscoe city administrator Jack Brown resigns

Roscoe City Administrator Jack Brown recently resigned that position to become the city administrator in Roby. Brown had served as city administrator in Roscoe for seven years and previously as public works director. Brown began his duties in Roby on Sept. 8.

Council members discussed posting advertisements to fill the vacant position of city administrator.

Lewis to serve as interim vice president for SFA

Stephen F. Austin State University recently selected Dr. John Lewis (pictured) as its interim vice president for development. A native of Nacogdoches, Lewis has bachelor's and master's degrees from Texas A&M University and a Ph.D. from Louisiana Tech University.

SFA President Dr. Baker Pattillo said he soon will begin the search to fill the permanent position of vice president of development and plans to find a replacement before Lewis retires as planned in May 2009.

Yeager to retire as superintendent at Brenham

Superintendent David Yeager of the Brenham Independent School District recently announced he plans to retire at the end of this school year. Yeager said after serving 28 years as an educator, with 17 of those as a superintendent, he is ready to try other things.

Yeager said he expects school trustees will formally begin the process of hiring a new superintendent at the next meeting of the school board. He has a bachelor's degree from Southwest Texas State University and began working as a superintendent at the Three Rivers ISD.

Lee College receives grant for new technology program

The National Science Foundation recently selected Lee College to receive an Advanced Technological Education grant for $796,829 to begin an analyzer technician opportunities project. San Jacinto College will partner with Lee College in the initiative.

The grant is designed to help the two colleges begin a field of study in analyzer technology by creating a competency-based curriculum and a standardized, recognized credential that provides technical training and education to prepare students for jobs in analyzer technology.

San Antonio to spend $1.7M for land for fire stations

The San Antonio City Council recently approved spending $1.7 million to pay for land for two new fire stations to replace small, out-of-date stations on Vance Jackson Road and on Villaret Boulevard.

Construction on the two fire stations will most likely begin in 2012, said Assistant Fire Chief Carl Wedige. Under the fire department's capital improvement program, another five fire stations are expected to be replaced. City staff is looking for suitable land for those five stations, Wedige said.

Thorndale ISD selects Lindemann for interim

The Thorndale Independent School District recently named Robert Lindemann as the interim superintendent. He has served as the district's business manager for 11 years. The position became open after Superintendent Gene Solis resigned to become superintendent of Whitney ISD.

Board members said they expect a search for a new superintendent could take at least three or four months.

Waco/McLennan County
awarded federal grant

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program recently awarded a $32,649 federal grant to McLennan County and the City of Waco.

The grant funds will be used to purchase wireless data radios for patrol cars and to support the Waco Police Department Cadet Program.

Bexar County justice programs receive grants

Justice programs in Bexar County and San Antonio recently received $307,000 in federal grants to protect children and fight juvenile crime. The grants were awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice's Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program.

Bexar County plans to use part of the grant to continue support of an investigator for the district attorney and a juvenile probation officer and another portion for the Child Welfare Strategic Alliance Task Force to expand its protection services and its network of medical professionals and prosecutors.

Aransas Pass awarded $50,000 to replace lighting

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission recently awarded the City of Aransas Pass a $50,000 grant to replace old baseball field lighting at Community Park.

Replacing the lighting was necessary as proper lighting is a safety issue and specific requirements must be met in order to play night games, said Interim City Manager Mike Sullinger. The grant to Aransas Pass is part of $10 million in grants the agency awarded for parks and recreation projects.

TAMU appoints Gatson to race, ethnic studies head

Texas A&M University recently appointed Sarah Gatson (pictured) as interim director of the Race and Ethnic Studies Institute (RESI) for a one-year period that became effective on Sept. 1. Gatson is an associate professor of sociology and served as ad hoc associate director of RESI last year.

The university established RESI to highlight its strength and academic leadership in research relating to the study of race and ethnicity. Last year it funded two groups of research fellows and hosted its first conference.

Weatherford city manager Jennifer Fadden resigns

The resignation of Weatherford City Manager Jennifer Fadden was accepted this week by the City Council.

Assistant City Manager Jerry Blaisdell was named interim city manager.

Recent Reports

• Joint Budget Hearing on 2010-2011 Legislative Appropriations Request - September 2008, HHSC
• Health and Human Services Major Funding for County Public Hospitals - September 2008
• An Audit Report on Energy Savings Performance Contracts at Selected Agencies and Institutions of Higher Education
• An Audit Report on Student Fees at Selected Higher Education Institutions
• DADS presentation to Senate Finance Committee, Sept. 9, 2008
• SPI's May 2008 Municipal Bond Elections Report
• SPI's November 2007 Bond Election Results Report

Event Links

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

Texas Government Insider Archives

Volume 1 - 6 Archives · 11/7/03 - 9/05/08

Guadalupe County approves new parking garage, center

Guadalupe County commissioners recently approved several capital projects when they adopted the 2009 county budget. Capital projects approved to begin this year include remodeling a downtown building into a new justice center, building a downtown parking garage to serve the justice center and building a new animal control facility, said County Judge Mike Wiggins (pictured). Commissioners also approved $900,000 to purchase new technology, a new vehicle and upgrade equipment.

Cost estimates were not available for some of the projects, but commissioners said a part of the construction will be funded with tax anticipation notes and the remaining from the county's $10.7 million reserve fund.

La Porte approves $25 million in capital projects

La Porte City Council recently adopted an $86-million budget featuring $25 million in capital projects. Included in the approved projects are a new sports complex, a new municipal courthouse, new bike trails and relocation of a water line, said Budget Director Michael Dolby.

Improvements to streets, drainage and sidewalks also were approved.

Governor's apppointments

Governor Rick Perry has made the following appointments:

• Charlotte C. Foster of Houston, State Preservation Board
• Frank Bryan Jr. of Austin, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners
• Karen Gordon of Port O'Connor, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners
• Shari Waldie of Fredericksburg, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

Bellaire approves five-year capital improvement plan

The Bellaire City Council recently approved a five-year capital improvement plan that calls for $18 million in projects to be funded in 2009. Projects included in the plan are completion of the Bellaire Millennium Renewal program and continuation of the Rebuild Bellaire program, including the design of a new fire station, said Mayor Cindy Siegel (pictured). The council also approved upgrades to water and wastewater facilities as part of the CIP plan.

Texas researchers to study childhood obesity

Texas is one of three states recently selected for a $2 million grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to evaluate the effectiveness of childhood obesity prevention policies. New York and Mississippi were the other states selected to receive similar grants.

The Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Rural Public Health and the Michael & Susan Dell Center for Advancement of Healthy Living at The University of Texas School of Public Health Austin Regional Campus will collaborate with the Texas Health Institute and a statewide coalition of more than 80 organizations to conduct the study. The coalition includes state agencies, policy institutes, academic institutions, community organizations and advocacy groups committed to eliminating childhood obesity.

The study will evaluate two childhood obesity prevention policies: the Texas Safe Routes to School program that encourages students to be more physically active by walking to and from school, and food allocation package revisions administered through Texas Women, Infants and Children (WIC) nutrition program. The goal is to help local, state and national policymakers identify policies that are effective in promoting healthy eating and increased physical activity. Diane Dowdy, Ph.D., from the Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Rural Public Health, will serve as project director.

TGI ad space available

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

Denton panel recommends school zone cell ban

The Denton Traffic Safety Commission recently recommended that the city ban the use of handheld cell phones to talk or to send text messages in the city's 31 school zones.

The commission recommended that the ban should be in effect from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and 2:30 to 4 p.m. on school days. Drivers using a handheld cell phone for an emergency call while in the school zone would be exempt from fines. Violators could be fined up to $200, said Police Chief Roy Minter.

The city will erect signs notifying drivers of the ban, he said. Dallas, Flower Mound, Highland Park and University Park also have similar bans on handheld cell phones.

Texas Tech nursing
awarded $854,835 grant

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission recently awarded an $854,835 grant to the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing to establish a Nurse Family Partnership program.

The partnership is a pilot program designed to provide cost-effective, evidence-based home visitation for low-income, first-time mothers, said Chris Esperat (pictured), the associate dean of research and practice at TTUHSC. The goal is for a nurse to work with the pregnant woman and her family for 30 months to improve pregnancy care, children's health and development as well as help the family achieve economic self-sufficiency, Esperat said.

DeSoto seeks economic development director

Phase two of a search for a new director for DeSoto Economic Development is under way. The board has named Norma Nickles, from Famer's Branch, interim director.

The current director, Scott Livingston, is leaving at the end of September. Curtistene McCowan, board chair, said Nickles was interested on a part-time basis.

McCowan cited the high expectations of the community in finding a permanent director. "I can't stress enough that the board is committed to...getting it right," she said.

Cottonwood Shores officials dismiss city administrator

Don Q. Reynolds, city administrator for Cottonwood Shores, has been dismissed from his post in a decision made during an executive session held by the city council. Reasons for the termination have not been made available to the public.

Reynolds, who has more than 30 years experience in city management, said the council voted in favor of his continued tenure a month ago after his 90-day evaluation.

Rhome garners grant
for children's park

The City of Rhome is seeking a location for a new, one-acre children's park to be funded in part by a $50,000 grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Plans to develop in one area have fallen through. Rhome residents have long clamored for a park to give children a place to visit and be safe.

City officials are looking to pair the grant money with $75,000 the council has set aside for park funds.

A recently formed parks and recreation board is overseeing the project. A timeline has not yet been issued, according to Chairwoman Nell Fernandez.

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The Texas Government Insider is a free weekly e-newsletter detailing important happenings throughout the state and summarizing current political issues relevant to individuals interested in government.

Publisher: Mary Scott Nabers

The Insider is published by Strategic Partnerships, Inc. (SPI), a research and consulting firm. Founded in Texas in 1994 by former government executives and public sector experts, SPI has developed a national reputation as the premier marketing partner dedicated to helping companies secure contracts in the $1.5 trillion state and local government marketplace.

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SPI hosts 'Selling to Government' training workshop

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

Texas Conference on Regionalism begins Oct. 1

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

6th Biennial Legislative Communications Conference set

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

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

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

Tee IT Up Texas government IT tourney set Oct. 24

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

Executive Women in Texas Government set conference

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

CONSEC 2008 event set in Austin Sept. 22-25

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

Texas GIS Forum 2008 slated for Oct. 27-31

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