Battery storage projects surge as grid reinforcement becomes a national priority
by Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.
Battery storage and grid modernization projects are expanding across the U.S., investing in microgrids, solar and energy resilience infrastructure.
New legislative priorities unveiled in Senate announcement
The Texas Senate released new interim charges outlining priorities for energy, infrastructure, AI, data centers and public safety ahead of the next legislative session.
Texas House publishes priorities ahead of next legislative session
The House Speaker released interim charges outlining priorities for the next legislative session, including energy, infrastructure, data centers and government efficiency initiatives.
State officials outline funding, strategy for $350M advanced nuclear energy expansion
Texas is advancing a $350 million nuclear energy initiative to support next-generation reactor development, manufacturing and infrastructure through new state funding programs.
Port of Galveston outlines updated $2.4B expansion plan
The Port of Galveston released a $2.4 billion master plan outlining future expansion, infrastructure upgrades and waterfront development.
Dallas secures $51.6M in federal funding for World Cup security preparations
Dallas received $51.6 million in federal funding to enhance public safety and security operations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
GLO distributes $52M in coastal protection grants
Texas awarded more than $52 million in coastal grants to support erosion control, shoreline stabilization and habitat restoration projects across multiple Gulf Coast counties.
Hereford advances $59M wastewater treatment plant project
Hereford is advancing a $59 million wastewater treatment plant project to replace its aging facility and improve capacity, compliance and long-term water system reliability.
Houston plans drainage project linking Turkey Gully to bayou
Houston is planning a $17 million stormwater project to improve drainage and reduce flooding by diverting flow from Turkey Gully to White Oak Bayou.
Buda unveils new leader to head public works
The city of Buda has appointed Blair Murski as its new public works director, bringing extensive experience in infrastructure management, capital projects, and municipal operations.
In this role, Murski will oversee public works functions including streets, drainage, utilities and long-term infrastructure planning as the rapidly growing Central Texas city continues to expand. His appointment strengthens executive leadership overseeing critical service delivery and development priorities.
Victoria overhauls police department with leadership appointment
The city of Victoria has appointed Clay Fetters as its new chief of police, effective immediately following his service as interim chief since October 2025.
Fetters brings decades of leadership experience in law enforcement and the military, having served with the department since 2008 in roles including Deputy Chief of Operations, Captain of Investigations, and SWAT Commander.
Fort Worth ISD secure new superintendent
The Texas Education Agency has appointed Dr. Peter B. Licata as Superintendent of Fort Worth Independent School District, placing him in charge of one of the largest school systems in Texas.
The appointment is part of a broader state intervention that includes the installation of a Board of Managers to oversee district governance. Licata will now lead academic strategy, district operations and reform efforts aimed at improving student outcomes in Fort Worth ISD.
Lamesa selects new city manager
The city of Lamesa has officially selected Aron Kulhavy as its new city manager, following a council vote in March 2026.
Kulhavy had been serving in the interim role since late 2025 after the retirement of the previous city manager and was ultimately chosen after a formal search process. Council members highlighting his leadership during the transition as he now takes on full responsibility for municipal operations and strategic direction.
Mathis appoints new leader to head law enforcement
Mathis city officials have appointed John “Matt” Jones as its new chief of police, with his swearing-in held in March 2026.
Jones brings more than two decades of law enforcement experience, including service with the Brownsville Police Department and prior leadership roles as a temporary police chief. In his new role, he will focus on officer recruitment and improving emergency response times while leading public safety operations for the city.
Governor’s Appointments (March 21 – 27)
Red River Authority Board of Directors
Tonya Detten – Panhandle (reappointed)
Ron Mullins – Archer City
Troy Weber – Denison
Ruben Arias – Amarillo
Business Advisory Council to the Texas Division of Emergency Management
Matthew Powell – Cedar Park (reappointed)
Presiding Officer of Webb County – City of Laredo Regional Mobility Authority
Jed Alton Brown – Laredo (reappointed)
State Commission on Emergency Communications
Clinton Sawyer – Amherst (reappointed)
Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority
Frank Parker, Jr. – Brownsville (reappointed)
Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority Board of Directors
William Carbonara – Cuero (reappointed)
Texas Commission on Law Enforcement
David Criner – Midland
Jason Griffen – Liberty Hill
Rita Watkins, Ed.D. – College Station
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