

The world of government contracting is evolving…don’t fail to miss the signs!
by Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.
Public funding constraints, staffing shortages and infrastructure needs are reshaping government contracting and private-sector partnership strategies.

Texas lawmakers receive new priorities for 90th legislative session
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick released updated Texas interim charges covering ticket sales, religious liberty, online safety and Pecos River Basin policy.

Texas adopts 2027 State Water Plan with $174B in needs
The Texas Water Development Board adopted the 2027 State Water Plan, recommending $174 billion in water investments through 2080.

Houston plans $273M investment in Lake Houston Dam Spillway Improvement Project
Houston plans a $273.3 million Lake Houston Dam spillway expansion to add 11 tainter gates and improve flood control.


Texas quantum committee appointment advances state technology plans
Texas made a new appointment to the Texas Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee to support the state’s quantum technology strategy.

Waco plans $213M first phase for downtown district
Waco plans a $213 million first phase for the Barron’s Branch District, a downtown redevelopment focused on parks, mobility and flood upgrades.


Austin approves Dog’s Head TIRZ, paving way for $5.6B in infrastructure investments
Austin created a TIRZ to help finance roads, utilities, drainage, open space and flood infrastructure for Dog’s Head.

TxDOT plans $180M highway reconstruction, widening project along US 90
TxDOT plans a $180 million project to widen and reconstruct 11.4 miles of U.S. 90 in Liberty County beginning in 2027.


Waco selects new assistant city manager

David Olson has been appointed assistant city manager for Waco, effective Aug. 31.
Olson is a licensed professional engineer and graduate of Texas A&M University. He previously served as assistant city manager for Temple and will oversee infrastructure services, public works, customer engagement and development services.
New city administrator named in Conroe

David Willard has been appointed city administrator for Conroe, effective Aug. 10.
He previously served as city manager for Longview and Borger, assistant city manager for Odessa and Hutchinson County judge. Willard will oversee municipal operations, implement City Council priorities and provide administrative leadership across city departments.
New superintendent announced for San Antonio ISD

Adrian Bustillos has been appointed superintendent of the San Antonio Independent School District.
He holds a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from New Mexico State University, a master’s degree in school leadership and a bachelor’s degree in biological science from the University of Texas at El Paso. Previously Aldine ISD’s chief transformation officer, Bustillos will lead district operations, academic strategy and student achievement initiatives.
UT Tyler professional elected to ASCE council

Dr. Mena Souliman has been elected to a three-year term on the American Society of Civil Engineers Department Heads Advisory and Coordinating Council.
Souliman holds master’s and doctoral degrees in civil, environmental and sustainable engineering from Arizona State University. He will help guide civil engineering education, accreditation, curriculum development and departmental leadership.
New fire chief selected for Seguin

Garrick Herbert has been appointed fire chief for Seguin, effective Aug. 3.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership from Texas A&M University-Commerce and an associate degree in fire science. Previously Seguin’s assistant fire chief, Herbert will oversee fire and EMS operations, department personnel and development of Fire Station No. 4.
Tyler ISD names new chief innovation officer

Rachel Sherman has been appointed chief innovation officer for Tyler Independent School District.
She previously served as the district’s executive director of school leadership and as principal of Three Lakes Middle School and Owens Elementary School. Sherman also held administrative positions in Jacksonville and Center independent school districts.
Governor’s Appointments (July 25 – 31):
Governor’s University Research Initiative Advisory Board
Brad Drake – Paris
Director of Legislative Affairs
Austin Holder
Texas Business Court
Andrea Bouressa – Murphy (Reappointed)
William “Bill” Whitehill – Coppell (Reappointed)
Melissa Andrews – Austin (Reappointed)
Patrick K. Sweeten – Austin (Reappointed)
Marialyn Barnard – San Antonio (Reappointed)
Stacy Sharp – San Antonio (Reappointed)
Jerry Bullard – Colleyville (Reappointed)
Brian Stagner – Fort Worth (Reappointed)
Sofia Adrogué – Hoston (Reappointed)
Grant Dorfman – Bellaire (Reappointed)
For more news and opportunities from the public sector
Click Here!
