

Grid modernizations fuel new wave of energy storage projects
by Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.

Central Texas Alliance forms to bolster Austin-San Antonio Corridor development
The Central Texas Alliance will coordinate planning and advocacy across a 13-county region facing growing transportation, water, housing, workforce and energy demands.

Gov. Abbott selects longtime Capitol adviser as next Secretary of State
Gov. Greg Abbott appointed a longtime Capitol adviser as Texas’ next secretary of state, placing him over elections and business filings.

Port of Brownsville lands $3.2B next-generation shipyard development
Port of Brownsville officials announced plans for a $3.2 billion Port Alpha shipyard, with construction beginning in 2026 and operations in 2028.


Houston ISD advances $100M CTE center enhance education outcomes
Houston ISD plans a $100 million career training center offering 17 programs in health care, manufacturing, skilled trades, cybersecurity, engineering and business.

New technologies could revolutionize infrastructure planning in Texas
Sponsored: A new statewide program could help Texas agencies improve infrastructure planning, emergency response and natural resource management.

Southwestern University advances first phase of 560-acre Georgetown development
Southwestern University plans September construction for the first phase of SU 560, a mixed-use Georgetown development anchored by a new city facility.


Galveston port expansion plan includes fifth terminal, cargo and waterfront projects
The Port of Galveston is studying a fifth cruise terminal at Pier 14 as part of a $2.4 billion long-range expansion program.

TXCC unveils strategic plan mapping cybersecurity services, strategies statewide
Texas Cyber Command’s strategic plan outlines workforce growth, statewide cyber services, AI tools, incident response and proposed procurement reforms.



Jennifer Cowley, Ph.D.
President
The University of Texas at Arlington
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Garland law enforcement expert promoted to assistant city manager

Garland Police Chief Jeff Bryan has been appointed as an assistant city manager, effective July 20.
Bryan, who will succeed Phil Urrutia following Urrutia’s selection as San Angelo city manager, has served with the Garland Police Department for 30 years. He joined the department as a patrol officer in 1997, advanced through several assignments and leadership positions and was named police chief in 2019.
Anson selects new leader as next city manager

EJ Hernandez has been appointed city manager for Anson after serving as interim city manager and public works director.
Hernandez previously led municipal operations following his interim appointment in March 2026. In his new role, he will oversee the city’s daily operations, implement city council policies and manage municipal departments and services.
Laredo unveils new HR director to guide workforce, retention

Nakesla Blount has been appointed director of human resources for the city of Laredo.
Blount holds a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in human resources from Capella University and most recently served as human resources director for the Louisiana Housing Corporation. In her new role, she will oversee the city’s Human Resources Department and lead workforce recruitment, development and retention efforts.
Business leader announced as next Wilmer City Administrator

Frank Posada has been appointed city administrator for Wilmer, following approval by the city council.
Posada holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Dallas and previously managed facilities, budgets, capital improvement projects, technology and daily operations for Texas organizations. He will work with the City Council to lead city operations and strengthen community service.
Rockport-Fulton ISD name new trustee board president

Kenny Cruzan has been elected president of the Rockport-Fulton ISD Board of Trustees.
Cruzan has served on the board since 2018 and previously held the president’s role. He will lead board meetings, help guide district governance and work with fellow trustees on educational priorities, budgeting and oversight.
City officials swear in new Howe Fire Chief

Gary Estep has been appointed fire chief for the city of Howe after being sworn in by the city council.
Estep previously served as fire chief and general manager of Bexar County Emergency Services District 5 and began his fire service career with the Anna Fire Department. He will oversee department growth, firefighter training, staffing, equipment and the transition toward full-time operations.
Governor’s Appointments (July 11 – 17):
Texas Commission on Licensing and Regulation
Jana Hall – Sweetwater
Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission
Hasan Mack – Austin (Reappointed)
Deborah “Debbie” Gray Marino – San Antonio (Reappointed)
Task Force on Infectious Disease Preparedness and Response
Imelda Garcia – Austin (Chair)
Texas Medical Board District Review Committees
Manish Rungta, M.D. – Houston (District One)
Elizabeth Cloninger, M.D. – League City (District One)
Adrian Caraves – Galveston (District One)
Ivan Rovner, M.D. – Plano (District Two)
Steven Westbrook, Ed.D. – Nacogdoches (District Two)
Matthew Wallace, M.D. – Austin (District Four)
Ruth Villarreal – Mission (District Four)
Texas Opioid Abatement Fund Council
Yasser Zeid, M.D. – Tyler
San Jacinto County Criminal District Attorney
Greg Magee – Pointblank
217th Judicial District Attorney
Kristi Skillern – Lufkin
486th Judicial District Court in Harris County
Vanessa Velasquez – Houston
Tyler County Criminal District Attorney
Brooke Koi – Woodville
State Cemetery Committee
Andrea Tirey – Lubbock
State Board for Educator Certification
Cassidy Estes – Amarillo
Kathy Ward – Plano
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