Data centers and the new public works debate in America
by Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.
Data centers take the stage as one of the fastest growing industries in America as states race to attract companies. Residents raise concerns about how these facilities impact local communities.
LCRA plan includes $8.6B to boost Texas power grid
The Lower Colorado River Authority approved a $656 million FY2027 operating budget and $1.8 billion capital plan to expand Texas water supplies, strengthen the power grid, rehabilitate dams and grow broadband infrastructure amid rising regional demand.
Texas A&M System Board of Regents sign off on mega $7B capital infrastructure plan
The Texas A&M University System approved a $6.8 billion five-year capital plan funding student housing, infrastructure and research projects. Major investments include emergency operations facilities, semiconductor research, athletics upgrades and new academic buildings across multiple campuses.
Three directors reappointed to Upper Colorado River Authority
Greg Abbott reappointed Nancy Blackwell, Fred Hernandez and Mason Vaughan to six-year terms on the Upper Colorado River Authority board, maintaining leadership continuity as Texas officials pursue greater oversight of statewide water resources and infrastructure.
Dripping Springs enters design phase for solids storage and recuperative thickening facility
Dripping Springs approved nearly $200,000 for final design work on wastewater facility upgrades to improve biosolids handling, odor control and water reuse capacity, advancing a long-delayed expansion project following a favorable 2025 Texas Supreme Court permit ruling.
Austin embraces clean energy expansion with new power resource agreement
Austin approved new contracts with Austin Energy for wind power, battery storage and natural gas peaker units to strengthen grid reliability, expand clean energy resources and support the city’s 2035 climate and energy goals.
Denton paves way for safer streets with Vision Zero Plan adoption
Denton adopted a Vision Zero Action Plan targeting a 50% reduction in traffic deaths by 2035 and zero fatalities by 2050, while pursuing $12.7 million in federal funding for roadway, pedestrian and ADA safety improvements.
Texas Women’s University seeks design and construction firms for $30 million athletic complex
Texas Woman’s University plans a $30 million athletic complex in Denton to support expanding sports programs with new training facilities, locker rooms and team spaces. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 and finish by spring 2029.
Chris Boone chosen as sole finalist for Beaumont city manager
Chris Boone has been identified as the sole finalist for the open city manager position for the city of Beaumont.
Following the retirement of Kenneth Williams, Boone will join the city in a top administrative position. He currently serves as the city’s assistant city manager, bringing more than 30 years of experience in municipal government and 20 years with the city of Beaumont.
Burkburnett appoints Lindsey McNabb-Fox as city manager
The city of Burkburnett has announced the appointment of Lindsey McNabb-Fox to serve as next city manager.
McNabb-Fox previously served the city as assistant city manager and finance director, where she oversaw financial operations, budgets and financial reporting. In her new role, the Texas A&M University-Texarkana graduate will lead city operations and collaboration across departments.
Steve Riggs chosen as administrator of building codes
Steve Riggs has been announced by the city of Burnet as the next dedicated administrator of building codes.
Riggs has previously served as chief building official for Boerne for three years, an interim chief building official in Kerrville and a building inspector for Kerrville. With Burnet, Riggs will work to streamline responsiveness and communication across city entities during planning and development.
Kevin Pantoja to serve Quanah as city administrator
The city of Quanah will gain new leadership following the appointment of Kevin Pantoja as the next city administrator.
Pantoja, an Abilene native, will join the city as officials prioritize reliable financial reporting and planning. Joining during a city auditing process, he anticipates driving innovation and transparency in city operations.
Frisco ISD approves Dr. Todd Fouche as superintendent
The Frisco Independent School District (Frisco ISD) board unanimously approved Dr. Todd Fouche to lead the district as next superintendent.
Assuming the role immediately, Dr. Fouche will fill the role of retiring Dr. Mike Waldrip. Dr. Fouche has served Frisco ISD for nearly his entire education career, working as deputy superintendent, science teacher, principal and director of finance. He will lead one of the largest and fastest-growing districts in Texas.
Dr. Jill Strube appointed business and community development manager for Bastrop
The city of Bastrop and the Bastrop Economic Development Corporation have jointly announced Dr. Jill Strube as the next business and community development manager.
Dr. Strube brings over 17 years of experience in grant management, community development and various projects and programs across Bastrop. In her new role, she will lead the city’s “Economic Gardening” strategy to use economic development tools to support fundamental efforts in building small business and community capacity.
Governor’s Appointments (May 23 – 29):
Family Violence Criminal Homicide Prevention Task Force
Andrew Friedrichs – Austin
Shari Nightingale – Katy
Texas Violent Gang Task Force
Alison Baimbridge – Missouri City
Russell Mayne – Lubbock
Commercial Oyster Mariculture Advisory Board
Amy Belaire, Ph.D. – Rockport
Texas Commission On The Arts
Janine Turner – North Texas
Sulphur River Basin Authority Board of Directors
Shane Roethle – Sulphur Bluff
Robert “Reeves” Hayter – Paris (Reappointed)
For more news and opportunities from the public sector
