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REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(Friday, October 28, 2005)
STATEWIDE MOBILITY PLAN OKAYED BY COMMISSION
CORPUS CHRISTI---Meeting October 27 at the Solomon P. Ortiz Convention Center, a rock throw from the Bay, the Texas Transportation Commission signed off on the 2006 Statewide Mobility Program. The proposal allocates more than $12 billion to upgrade state facilities during the next four years. Local selection was the selection method for most of these projects. Chairman Ric Williamson repeated his mantra to the audience, as he had the previous day at a gathering hosted by the City of Corpus and the Port of Corpus, that there was serious problems confronting Texas infrastructure but because of the vision of Governor Rick Perry and the leadership of the Texas Legislature, TxDOT has the needed tools to attack the problem. He expressed confidence that working with its partners in the private sector that the Department would achieve the goals of significantly improving the state's mobility and simultaneously makes our roads safer.
TGR hosted a breakfast of area leaders, local officials and transportation advocates at the Omni Hotel. Texas Road Hand recipient Judy Hawley emceed the well-attended event and the crowd heard positive remarks from Williamson's fellow commission members, Hope Andrade of San Antonio and Ted Houghton of El Paso. Commissioner Johnny W. Johnson devoted his remarks to explaining Proposition 1 which Texas voters will decide November 8 in the constitutional amendment election. Johnson urged support for the Rail Relocation Fund, which would be created by the addition to the state constitution. A brief video, produced by the SafeRail PAC, was presented. State Representatives Gene Seaman and Abel Herrero were at the TGR event and the Commission meeting. Representative Vilma Luna, vice chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, spoke at the Commission meeting. House Transportation Committee Chairman Mike Krusee attended the reception October 26.
CULBERSON AND HOUGHTON PUSH PROPOSITION ONE
HOUSTON---A different city but the message was the same. On October 24 Texas Transportation Commissioner Houghton and Houston Congressman John Culberson did a tag team appearance to tout Proposition 1 before the Greater Houston Partnership. Later they were joined at a press conference by Harris County Judge Robert Eckels and GHP officials to tell why they support the effort to remove rail tracks from congested areas where they are both an impediment to mobility and a danger to drivers.
In response to a question from the audience, U. S. Representative Culberson emphatically denounced attempts to strip monies from the recently enacted federal highway bill. "Those projects in the highway bill are paid for by federal motor fuels taxes. Removing projects would provide no new monies for the general treasury," explained the member of the House Subcommittee on Transportation. In 2000, Culberson was elected to replace the retiring Bill Archer, who was elected in 1970. Archer replaced U.S. Rep. George H. W. Bush.
GOVERNOR PERRY PULLS POLITICAL COUP; TABS FORMER FOE FOR KEY POST
In one fell swoop, Governor Rick Perry completed an outstanding political feat by naming his 1998 opponent for Lt. Governor, John Sharp, to head a committee to explore potential sources of revenue for future legislature efforts to solve the twin problems of school finance and property tax relief. Many anticipate that the State Supreme Court will rule in the not too distant future that the legislature must make significant changes in the state's funding for public schools. Three special sessions have been unable to reach consensus on a solution to these knotty problems. By naming his fellow 1972 Aggie grad, Perry has removed from contention the one person many Democrats hoped would challenge the popular Republican Perry. At the same time, as State Comptroller for eight years, Sharp has high credibility in the state's business community and good relations with legislators of both parties.
SPEAKER CRADDICK ISSUES INTERIM CHARGES
House Speaker Tom Craddick has given his multitude of committees a wide range of issues to study in preparation for the 80th Legislature to convene in January 2007. The interim charges for the House Committee on Transportation are as follows.
1. Review the regulation of utilities by the Texas Department of Transportation relating to utility access along the edge of the road right-of-way and placement of utility facilities along public road rights-of-way. Recommend strategies for the Public Utility Commission and the Department of Transportation to deliver assets of value to the state.
2. Study the relationship between Texas Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration and other federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security. Review the effectiveness and efficiency of the funding process for airports, and capacity needs for commercial and private demands. Examine further needs with regard to private and public airports.
3. Examine the transportation planning and coordination of land use, including planning for large transportation corridors.
4. Research and study the permissibility of rental car companies to sell used rental motor vehicles on credit union premises and other locations not continuously used for the conduct of used rental motor vehicle sales. Analyze comparative laws from other states permitting such sales by rental car companies on premises other than those owned by the rental car companies.
5. Consider the rail relocation needs of the major metropolitan areas in Texas. Identify possible funding sources.
6. Study the economic infrastructure of the state's main trade corridors with special emphasis on the ability to enhance trade and transportation through increased use of technology. (Joint Interim Charge with the House Committee on Border and International Affairs)
7. Study the current border and coastal transportation infrastructure and any enhancements needed to meet growing international trade and economic development. (Joint Interim Charge with the House Committee on Border and International Affairs)
8. Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction.
These charges can also be found on our interim report page.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(Monday, October 17, 2005)
HELP TxDOT FAMILIES HURT BY HURRICANE RITA
Prior to Hurricane Rita hitting our state, TxDOT employees formed a Katrina relief fund. With Rita's onslaught in Southeast Texas, several TxDOT families suffered property damage and other losses. If you would like to help, please write a check to KARE-TxDOT and mail to Ed Serna, 125 E. 11th Street, Austin, TX 78701. Collections are to be disbursed prior to Thanksgiving.
TRANSPORTATION SHORT COURSE AWARDS
COLLEGE STATION----- More than 2,000 gathered here on the campus of Texas A&M for the 79th annual Transportation Short Course October 11-12. A highlight of the conference were presentations by the members of the Texas Transportation Commission, 20 sessions focusing on the activities of TxDOT and the announcement of five prestigious awards bestowed on high achieving individuals. Those attending including department employees and representatives of the private sector.
The short course is sponsored jointly by the Department and the Texas Transportation Institute. Winners were announced by Dr. Herb Richardson, P.E., director of TTI.
Winning the Dewitt C. Greer Award was Joe S. Graff, Deputy Director for the Maintenance Division, in addition to Maintenance Section Director. Graff is a second-generation employee and has been with TxDOT for more than 27 years. After graduating in civil engineering from Texas A&M, Graff went to work as an engineering assistant in the Tyler office. He came to Austin in 1986.
Capturing the Gibb Gilchrist Award was Midland Area Engineer Doug W. Eichorst II, P.E. Eichorst started with the Department in 1987 in the Abilene District after earning two bachelor's degrees at Texas A&M, in civil engineering and engineering technology. He is described as an "engineer's engineer."
Clifford W. Halvorsen, P.E., area engineer in central Houston, was chosen for the Luther DeBerry Award. The 91-year DeBerry was in attendance, it was noted by Executive Director Mike Behrens, for his 67th short course. Halvorsen joined the Department 19 years ago. He is a civil engineering graduate of Texas A&M. Today, Halvorsen oversees the largest single contract ever awarded (via standard bidding procedures) of $263 million (Williams Brothers) for reconstruction of IH 610-West Loop/IH10-Katy Freeway interchange. Clifford is a member of the Texas Society of Professional Engineers and an enthusiastic outdoorsman.
The Raymond Stotzer Award, which is given to a non-engineer and is underwritten by Bob and Elyse Lanier, was bestowed upon Robert W. (Bob) Jackson, deputy general counsel for TxDOT. Bob went to work for the Department in 1984 while attending the LBJ School of Public Affairs. He later worked in the Houston district while attending law school at the University of Houston from which he graduated in 1990. He returned to the office of General Counsel in 1993 and has been very active in drafting and reviewing proposed legislation affecting TxDOT.
The Russell Perry Award, named for the late Dallas civic leader who was a tremendous booster of both TxDOT and Texas Good Roads, was given to Tom Kornegay, the executive director of the Port of Houston Authority. Kornegay, a civil engineering grad of the University of Texas, has held the post since 1992.
SPEAKER CRADDICK ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS TO TRANSPORTATION FINANCE STUDY AND SUNSET ADVISORY COMMISSION
Texas House Speaker Tom Craddick has named his top "transportation guru" to co chair an interim study on Transportation Finance. House Transportation Committee Chairman Mike Krusee of Round Rock is one of the Speaker's three picks. He is joined by Representative Warren Chisum of Pampa and Harris County Judge Robert Eckels. Governor Rick Perry and Lt. Governor David Dewhurst also have three appointments each. The study is the result of Senate Bill 1713 authored by Todd Staples of Palestine. Staples has opted to run for Commissioner of Agriculture and will not return for the 80th session of the Texas Legislature.
Speaker Craddick also announced several of his picks for the Sunset Advisory Commission. He has named Representative Vicki Truitt of Keller to be the vice chairman of 12 member body. Her term continues through September 1, 2007. Joining the commission for four-year terms are Representatives Glenn Hegar of Katy, Ruth Jones McClendon of San Antonio and Carl Isett of Lubbock. Mr. Craddick did not announce his appointee to the designated "Public Member" slot. Lt. Governor Dewhurst has not announced his three senate members or his "public" member. Continuing as members of the Sunset Advisory Commission are Senators John Whitmire of Houston and Eliot Shapleigh of El Paso whose terms expire September 1, 2007. TxDOT will be before the 81st session in 2009 for Sunset review. Agencies are reviewed every 12 years and the last TxDOT review was 1997. There was an effort by some to push up the Department for the next session but it was rejected by the leadership.
EARLY VOTING TO START OCTOBER 24 FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
If you want to vote November 8 in Texas latest efforts to amend the state constitution, chances are very great you will have no wait time whatsoever. In the next issue, we will provide more detail on the proposed changes to the state's 1876 governing document which has been amended more than 400 times since its adoption 129 years ago. Much of the transportation community's focus will be on Proposition 1, which creates a rail relocation fund and is set up on the model of the Texas Mobility Fund. It would allow the legislature to designate a funding source (other than one which is currently dedicated) to use as a bonding source to assist in moving rail from congested urbanized areas. More info in the next issue.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(Monday, October 3, 2005)
ROAD HAND ADDS FORMER TEXAS HOUSE SPEAKER TO HONOR ROLL
Grapevine---During a mid September luncheon at the Texas Motor Speedway, Texas Transportation Commissioner Ric Williamson announced that Gib Lewis was the newest recipient of the Texas Road Hand Award. This award was created by State Highway Engineer Luther DeBerry in 1973 to recognize public-spirited citizens who championed transportation. During the 32 years the accolade has been issued, 198 Texans have been so honored.
Gib Lewis represented Tarrant County in the Texas House of Representatives from 1971 until 1993. He served five terms as Speaker of the House, beginning in 1983. Under his leadership, the Texas Legislature increased the motor fuel tax in 1984, the first increase since 1955. It also increased motor vehicle registration fees that same year which represented the first fee upgrade in a generation. Additional increases in the motor fuels tax came under and because of his leadership in 1986 (temporary) and in 1987 and 1991. In addition, Speaker Lewis was the House sponsor of a constitutional amendment in 1987, which became known as the 2nd Good Roads Amendment. This change to the state constitution, approved by votes in 1988 with a 87 percent favorable vote, guaranteed that federal highway funds returned to Texas could only be used for building and maintaining highways.
Chairman Williamson, elected to the Texas Legislature in 1984 from Weatherford (Parker County), praised Speaker Lewis for giving him and other younger members of the Texas House an opportunity to try new ideas, especially in the critical area of the state's appropriation procedures. Many of the innovations made during the Lewis era in budgeting methods remain a vital part of state government today.
Senators Jane Nelson and Kim Brimer and Representative Vicki Truitt were all part of the 70 plus who were there to honor the contributions of Speaker Gib Lewis. Fellow Road Hands at the luncheon were Denton County Commissioner Sandy Jacobs, Tarrant County leader Gary Fickes and the chairman of the Grayson County RMA, Jerdy Gary.
This summer three new Road Hands were lauded during the TGR annual meeting: Collin County Commissioner Jack Hatchell, Roger H. Hord of Houston and Charles E. Powell of San Angelo.
Former Jefferson County Judge Richard LeBlanc was honored at a ceremony by Commissioner Johnny Johnson in Beaumont in June.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR BREAKFAST IN CORPUS
The Commission will make its final road trip of 2005 to Corpus Christi October 27. As usual, TGR will play host for a breakfast at 7:30 a.m. at the Omni Bayfront Corpus Christi Hotel. Included at the meeting will be a presentation on Proposition One, the constitutional amendment which will allow for rail relocation. Texans will decide on this and eight other proposed amendments to the constitution November 8.
GOLFERS ENJOY FALL TOURNEY
Georgetown---Although it was a bit "toasty," more than 100 TGR golfers enjoyed the outstanding course at Cimarron Hills September 19 near the seat of Williamson County.
Chairman Tom Robertson and his golf committee are deserving of praise in selecting such an outstanding facility.
Winners of the top prize were the Ramming Paving team consisting of Dean Lundquist, Chuck Fuller, Lee Solis and Ken Davis.
TGR MEMBERS RECEIVE HONORS
San Antonio contractor Tim Word will be inducted into the Texas Business Hall of Fame in November. The Texas A&M grad will be honored along with such luminaries as energy magnate Boone Pickens and the founder of a leading Houston bank, Walter E. Johnson. Congratulations, Tim!
Martin Molloy, President of Halff Associates in Dallas, was a recipient of the 2005 Greater Dallas Business Ethics Award.
MOURN PASSING OF OUTSTANDING LEADERS
Former Chairman of the Highway Commission, E. H. Thornton, Jr., died this summer in Houston. He was 95. Thornton served three terms in the Texas House representing his native Galveston. He served one term on the Commission and was named Chairman by Governor Allan Shivers, with whom he had served in the Texas House.
Another leader in the Texas House, in the 1970s, Jim Kaster of El Paso, died this summer in Austin. Kaster was a strong advocate for the Good Roads effort, especially during the fight to increase funding in 1977. After he left the Legislature, Kaster served as a top aide to Governor Clements and later on the Texas Employment Commission. When he retired in Austin, he was a volunteer school bus driver.
Our condolences to the families of both these outstanding public servants.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(Thursday, September 1, 2005)
OUTSTANDING WORK BY TXDOT & INDUSTRY RESULTS IN RECORD CONSTRUCTION LETTINGS
Yesterday, the books were officially closed for the state fiscal year. The Texas Department of Transportation set a record in issuing more than $4.537 billion in construction contracts for the last 12 months. This amount is for “approximately” 965 contracts, with an official number to be cited soon. Additionally, $289 million was let for maintenance contracts.
CHAIRMAN ROBERTSON SAYS SIGN UP TODAY FOR FALL GOLF
Georgetown----Cimarron Hills, a Jack Nicklaus designed course, will be a beautiful place to see the Hill Country, TGR golf chairman Tom Robertson notes. Robertson is among a handful of volunteers working diligently to sign up fellow members and other supporters for the September 19 outing at the new site in fast growing Williamson County, conveniently located for those visitors coming from near and far.
“An outstanding feature of the tournament will be the 19th hole and I do not refer to post play libations,” Robertson added. The 19th hole at Cimarron features a 70-yard shot and the closest to the pin will earn a special prize for only a nominal entry fee, said veteran linkster Robertson of Hanson Pipe and Products.
MEET YOUR NEW TGR LEADERS
Jack Bowen of Fordyce, Ltd. In Victoria was elected president of TGR during the annual meeting. Jack serves as vice president and general manager and has been with the company since 1971. He was raised in Alto, Texas and is a veteran. He and his wife Peggy have two sons and five grandchildren.
Chosen as the new vice president of TGR is Howard Cowan. Howard is the owner of the Cowan Bond Agency that he established in Lubbock in 1987. A native of Louisiana and a graduate of Louisiana Tech, Howard has also done postgraduate studies at the University of Munich; he is an Air Force veteran. He and wife Sue have two sons.
Newly elected to the TGR executive committee were Danny Rios of S&B Infrastructure, Ltd., McAllen; Anne Culver, the Greater Houston Partnership; Doug Alumbaugh, AUI Contractors, Fort Worth; Mike Stone of Professional Project Management Services, Richmond; Lila Weirich of Austin White Lime and John Thompson of Livingston, Polk County Judge.
In other association news, executive committee member Gillian Jenkins delivered her second child, July 29th, in Beaumont. Congrats to Gillian and her husband on the arrival of son William Gates Jenkins IV.
WILLETT MAKES GOVERNOR NO. 5 APPOINTMENT TO STATE SUPREME COURT
With the long delayed but ultimately successful confirmation of Texas Supreme Court Justice Priscilla Owen to the U.S. 5th Circuit, Governor Rick Perry has filled this vacancy by naming 39-year old Austinite Don Willett to the state's highest court. With this appointment, Governor Perry has now named five of the state's nine high court justices. Recently, Willett has been chief legal counsel to State Attorney General Greg Abbott. Willett will be on the ballot next year for a full term.
EARLY ACTION IN LEGISLATIVE RACES
Sixteen of the state's 31 state senators will face reelection, and two have already announced they have other plans. Todd Staples of Palestine has announced he will seek his party (GOP) nomination for the Commissioner of Agriculture spot. It is being vacated by incumbent Susan Combs who seek the office of State Comptroller. The current occupant of that office, Carole Strayhorn, has said she will challenge Governor Perry for the Republican nomination next March. Among those who are seeking the Staples SD 3 seat that is made up of 14 deep East Texas counties and parts of two others, Smith and Montgomery, is former TxDOT Commissioner Robert Nichols of Jacksonville. Frank Denton of Conroe and a couple of others have also discussed making the race.
Senator Jon Lindsay, a member of the State Senate since 1997, has said he will not seek reelection. Those who have announced they will seek the post are House of Representative veterans Peggy Hamric and Joe Nixon, both chairmen under Speaker Tom Craddick, former Houston City councilman Mark Ellis and perhaps, Ben Streusand, who lost in runoff in 2004 for U.S. Representative, District 10, stretching from Houston to Austin.
In addition to the aforementioned Hamric and Nixon, two other Craddick leaders, Terry Keel of Austin and Suzanne Hupp of Lampasas, have announced they will not attempt to return for the 80th session of the Texas Legislature. Keel will seek a spot on the Court of Criminal Appeals and Mrs. Hupp will not seek public office in the next cycle.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(Monday, August 8, 2005)
AFTER A TWO YEAR DROUGHT, CONGRESS FINALLY LETS HIGHWAY BILL REIGN (OR RAIN)
When President George W. Bush signs the federal-aid highway bill Wednesday in the Chicago area, it will mark the end of an arduous and winding path. Since the expiration of the TEA-21 legislation September 30, 2003, Congress extended the highway program eleven times before the conference committee report was finally adopted July 29 by overwhelming votes in the U.S. House (412-8) and the U.S. Senate (91-4). The bill Authorizes $286 billion over six years; and Texas will see its annual federal-aid allocation increase from a current level of $2.1 to $2.9 billion. Eventually, Texas and other donor states, will receive 92 percent return on monies forwarded to the federal government via motor fuels taxes and other minor levies. Texas Senator John Cornyn opposed the final bill because he said Texas deserves a larger share than it receives in the bill. The increase for Texas represents about a 37 percent jump above current legislation. An extra $669 million will go for 220 special projects specifically requested by members of the Texas Delegation. Click here to view the list of the 220 special projects.
Texas Transportation Commission Chairman Ric Williamson said, "Texas scored some impressive victories in the bill.” He singled out Majority Leader Tom DeLay for his work on the conference committee.
NICHOLS RESIGNATION MARKS END OF ERA
Prior to the convening of the Texas Transportation Commission, Robert L. Nichols tendered his letter of resignation to Governor Rick Perry, effective June 30. Click here to download a copy of his letter.
The former mayor of Jacksonville was named to the Commission by Governor George W. Bush in May, 1997. He was reappointed by Governor Perry in June, 2003. He is one of only four commissioners to be named to the prestigious post by more than one governor. Only Herb Petry of Carrizo Springs and Dewitt C. Greer exceeded his eight plus years on the commission.
In his closing remarks, Nichols expressed regrets that he had missed visiting a few of the Department's field offices during his tenure, only having been to about 156 of them.
Mr. Nichols stated that he intended to seek the Republican nomination for State Senate District 3, now held by Todd Staples of Palestine. Republican Staples has said he intended to seek his party's nomination for the post of Agriculture Commissioner. Incumbent Ag Commissioner Susan Combs has indicated she will run for the Office of Comptroller of Public Accounts being vacated by incumbent Carole Strayhorn. Strayhorn announced June 18 that she would oppose Governor Perry's in the primary of March 2006.
In a letter read to the Commission by aide Kris Heckmann, Governor Perry said that Nichols "embraced the job of commissioner like few before you."
Commission Chairman Ric Williamson and his colleagues highly praised their departing colleague. Former legislator Williamson complimented Nichols saying that legislators thought most favorably of "workhorses over showhorses and you have certainly been the workhorse of this Commission throughout your service."
GOOD ROADS HOSTS COMMISSION AT BROWNWOOD
Brownwood---TGR leaders ate eggs and bacon with members of the Texas Transportation Commission July 28 as the governing board for the TxDOT held its first ever meeting in the "heart of Central Texas" as local leaders label the Brown County seat.
More than three score were in attendance for the breakfast gathering at the Brownwood Country Club emceed by Road Hand Bert Massey. Massey has served as Mayor of Brownwood since 1982. The group heard from Chairman Williamson and Commissioners Johnny Johnson and Hope Andrade. Commissioner Ted Houghton was en route and did attend the Commission meeting held later that morning on the campus of Howard Payne University. Also speaking at the breakfast was Howard Payne University President Lanny Hall. In the early 1980s, Mr. Hall represented Tarrant County in the Texas Legislature and served as vice-chairman of the House Transportation Committee.
With the Brownwood meeting, the Commission has now convened in each of 25 highway districts. The next "road trip" will be to Corpus Christi for the October commission meeting. Next year the Commission's itinerary includes Conroe (January), Brownsville (April), El Paso (July), and Denton (October).
MOTRAN JOINS FORCES WITH TGR MEMBERS TO SALUTE TxDOT
The Willows----More than 180 folks enjoyed the Chuckwagon Gang's sirloins at this site, located midway between the West Texas cities of Midland and Odessa and heard much praise heaped upon the outstanding efforts of the TxDOT's Odessa district.
The dinner was sponsored by MOTRAN and TGR stalwarts, Jones Brothers Dirt and Paving Construction, Inc. and Parkhill, Smith and Cooper.
Chairman Ric Williamson and Commissioner Johnny Johnson, who has business interests in the Permian Basin, accepted the plaudits of area leaders for the work accomplished under the leadership of district engineer Lauren Garduno. Executive director Mike Behrens also participated in the festivities.
MOTRAN executive director James Beauchamp presented special plaques to the Commissioners and to TxDOT legislative staff. He was assisted by several MOTRAN leaders, including Road Hand Charles Perry.
TGR GOLF COMMITTEE TO MEET AND PLAN FALL EVENT
Under the leadership of soon to be senior tour regular Tom Robertson, the TGR golf committee will meet August 10 to plan for our autumn tourney. Other committee members are Beth Adler, Zurich North American Surety; Eddie Bostic, Austin White Lime Company; Gary Botkin, Capital Excavation; David Johnson, Texas Crushed Stone Company; Kevin King, Texas Industries; Kelly Morgan, Hanson Pipe & Products; Bobby Nauert, Hunter Industries; David Stroud, Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions; and Shelley Williams, Trinity Industries. Chairman Robertson is with Hanson Pipe & Products.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(Friday, April 22, 2005)
CONFEREES WORK ON MONEY BILL AS SESSION HEADS TOWARD CLOSE
With a May 30 gavel hanging over their heads, members of the conference committee on the state Appropriations bill have begun their deliberations in earnest. The two sides are not too far apart as their jousting begins. The Senate passed its budget March 23 at a level of $139 billion for the next two state fiscal years. The House countered with its version April 7 coming in at $137.5 billion. Representing the Senate are Chairman Steve Ogden of Bryan, Judith Zaffirini of Laredo, John Whitmire of Houston and Kip Averitt of Waco. Speaker Tom Craddick named his conferees: Chairman Jim Pitts of Waxahachie, Vilma Luna of Corpus Christi, Sylvester Turner of Houston, Lois Kolkhorst of Brenham and Dan Gattis of Georgetown. Newcomers as conferees are Senator Averitt and Representatives Kolkhorst and Gattis, both sophomores. Zaffirini, Whitmire, Luna and Turner are Democrats and the others are Republicans. Republicans command a majority in both bodies, 19-12 in the Senate and 87-63 in the House.
STATE BOND REVIEW BOARD INACTION DELAYS PROJECTS
After the state Bond Review Board took no action at its March 17 meeting to approve the Texas Department of Transportation's request to issue Texas Mobility Fund bonds, the Texas Transportation Commission has postponed $14 million in projects from May until June and indefinitely delayed an additional $242 million in projects. There are three members of the Bond Review Board; the governor, the lieutenant governor and the comptroller of public accounts. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Bond Review Board is May 19 although a special meeting may be called with seven days notice.
COMMISSION NAMES TRANS TEXAS CORRIDOR COMMITTEE
At is March 31 meeting, the Texas Transportation Commission named 21 citizens to an advisory committee on the Trans Texas Corridor. Commission Chairman Ric Williamson said the committee will review the department's pending decisions, options and strategies.
Those appointed are as follows: K. Stephen Bonnette, San Antonio; Marc Maxwell, Sulphur Springs; Louis Bronaugh, Lufkin; Ann O'Ryan, Austin; Tim Brown, Belton; Charles Perry, Odessa; Sid Covington, Austin; Jose R. Ramos, Buda; Deborah Garcia, El Paso; Wes Reeves, Amarillo; Sandy Greyson, Dallas; Grady W. Smithey, Jr., Duncanville; Judy Hawley, Corpus Christi; Linda Stall, Fayetteville; Dr. Charles Henry, Lubbock; John Thompson, Livingston; Roger Hord, Houston; Martha Tyroch, Temple; Alan Johnson, Harlingen; Roy Walthall, Waco; and William B. Madden, Dallas.
NORTH TEXAS GOLF TOURNEY BIG SUCCESS
Lewisville---Monday March 28 was a beautiful spring day in the Metroplex for the TGR golf outing at the Golf Club at Castle Hills. About 100 golfers enjoyed the fine weather that had been in question, as snow had hit North Texas the day before. Walking off with the winning score was the Texas Lime Company team of Dick Fratus, Alex Hammac, Joe Klepper and Rick Rucker. Capturing the deluxe box tickets to the Maverics-Spurs game (generously donated by Holt CAT) was the Traylor family of Jacksonville and Dallas. Thanks to all our sponsors and participants for a great event.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(Friday, March 18, 2005)
TEXAS HOUSE PANELS ADVANCE INDEXING PROPOSAL
On Saint Patrick's Day, the House Ways and Means Committee gave a green light to a bill that would index motor fuels in Texas. The bill is authored by Representative Mike Krusee of Round Rock, chairman of the House Committee on Transportation. Voting for the bill were Chairman Jim Keffer, Beverly Woolley of Houston, Al Edwards of Houston, Allan Ritter of Nederland, Kent Grusendorf of Arlington and Ken Paxton of McKinney. The other three committee members were absent. On March 16, the committee had heard the bill that was supported by TGR and numerous other groups, including Realtors, cities, counties and oil marketers. It was opposed by the Texas Motor Transportation Association (truckers) and AAA. Chairman Krusee told the committee that the bill would likely result in an increase of about one half cent per year in the state motor fuels levy, now 20 cents. The state motor fuels tax was last raised in 1991. House Speaker Tom Craddick has voiced support for the proposal and both Governor Rick Perry and Lt. Governor David Dewhurst have been open to the concept. The next step in the process will be on the floor of the 150-member Texas House of Representatives. We will keep you posted on this important bill.
HOUSE ACTS ON PUBLIC EDUCATION/PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
During the last several days, the Texas House of Representatives has enacted two of the "hot" issues of the 79th Legislature, public school finance and property tax relief. Public Education Chairman Kent Grusendorf directed the House in its passage of H.B.2, public education reform that would add $3 billion for schools in Texas and reduce the maximum for school property taxes (for maintenance and operation) from the current $1.50 level to $1.00. This bill passed the House March 10 by 75-69. All yes votes were from Republicans. On March 15, the House passed H.B.3, authored by Ways and Means Chairman Jim Keffer of Eastland. This bill would increase the state sales tax from 6.25% to 7.25%, expand the base to several new items, increase the cigarette tax by $1.01 and reformulate the state franchise tax to bring in the 80 % of businesses that currently do not pay franchise taxes. It would give employers the option to choose either the reformulated franchise tax or a tax on payroll and pay whichever is the lesser. It passed the House with 72 Republicans votes and one from Democrat Al Edwards of Houston. Nine Republicans opposed both H.B. 2 and H.B 3, but they were not the same nine.
Meanwhile, across the rotunda the State Senate has been working diligently on the state budget. It is expected that the funding bill for state government will emerge from the Finance Committee Monday and be considered soon after the Easter break, according to Finance Committee Chairman Steve Ogden of Bryan. Senate Education leader Florence Shapiro of Plano has said the Senate will start working through the House education bill when it returns from Easter break but will probably not have a finished product to the floor of the Senate until late April-early May. Some have anticipated that will also be timeframe for the Senate's version of the revenue bill. This week the Senate unanimously passed worker's compensation reform, authored by Senator Todd Staples of Palestine. Next week will mark the halfway point of the 140-day regular session set to end May 30.
WASHINGTON MOVES ON HIGHWAY BILL; DEADLINE LOOMS.....AGAIN
Washington---Last week the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed its version of the federal highway reauthorization that contains $284 billion ($226 billion for highways) in spending for the next six years. The vote was 417-9 and the nine naysayers including two from Texas, Ron (Dr. No) Paul of Surfside and Mac Thornberry of Clarendon.
The U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works enacted legislation with comparable budget numbers but numerous Senators have said they want to see funding increased when the bill comes to the Senate floor. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist of Tennessee has said that would in mid to late April. Bush Administration officials have been quoted, anonymously, as promising a veto of anything beyond the $284 billion figure.
House Transportation Chairman Don Young of Alaska said that this bill will provide a rate of return to donor states, which includes Texas, of 92.5 %, an increase over the 1998 bill that promised 90.5% but actually delivered about 87% to Texas, because numerous programs did not count against this minimum allocation. Texas will receive about $16.6 billion over the six years, up $4 billion over the allotment in the 1998 bill. Authority to spend under current law expired 9/30/2003 and has been extended six times. Odds are that the present May 31 authority will have to be extended, yet again.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(Tuesday, February 22, 2005)
CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS VOW TO PUSH HIGHWAY BILL
Leading lights in both chambers have announced that reauthorizing federal highway legislation will be among the highest priorities in the 109th session. This would be welcome news as it obviously was not among the "must" items during the session that ended, with a whimper, in December. Current spending authority extends through the end of May; authorization for the last federal highway legislation expired October 1, 2003.
Don Young of Alaska, who chairs the House Transportation Committee, welcomes two new Texans to his behemoth (70 plus members) committee for the new year. Last session, Dr. Michael Burgess, of Highland Village (Denton County) served on the committee during his initial session in Congress. He has departed for the Commerce Committee. Two Republican freshmen from Texas will join the majority side. One is 18-year veteran of the Texas House of Representatives, Kenny Marchant of Coppell. U.S. Rep. Marchant was a leader in the Texas Legislature and chaired several critical committees. He is a former Carrollton Mayor and was active as a homebuilder and real estate investor. Marchant was a strong supporter of Texas Good Roads during his tenure in the Texas Legislature. He will be joined by Houstonian Ted Poe, who served many years as a district judge. Poe ousted Democratic incumbent Nick Lampson of Beaumont, who had served on the Transportation Committee. Mr. Young has introduced H.R. 3, The Transportation Equity Act, which would provide $284 billion for transportation programs over six years. Chairman Young has said he intends to bring the bill to the House floor the week of March 7.
On the other side of the rotunda, Texas junior Senator John Cornyn of San Antonio has left the Environment and Public Works Committee. This committee is chaired by James Inhofe of Oklahoma. Inhofe has yet to declare when his committee will come forward with its version of the highway "rewrite."
THE BALLOTING IS OVER AND THE WINNNER IS
No, we're not talking about the Oscars. This is much more important than that. This is the Good Roads spring golf tourney in the Metroplex. Our North Texas area Golf Committee has been devoting countless hours of in depth study of fairways, greens and clubhouses to arrive at the ideal course for our March 28 outing. And the winner is the Golf Club at Castle Hills in Lewisville, also known as the home of the "Fighting Farmers" of high school football renown.
A special tip of the hat goes to our committee members: Mike Lacy, L.H. Lacy; Beth Adler, Zurich; Rodney Scott, The Lofland Company; Montie Broom, Texas Industries; Will Burney, Trinity Industries; Tom Krampitz, Texas Motor Speedway; Jim Andoga, Austin Bridge & Road; Jay Nelson, Pate Engineers; and Jim Hunt, PBS&J.
FRIENDS OF TEXAS GOOD ROADS LOBBY AT TEXAS CAPITOL
Harris County Judge Robert Eckels led a large contingent of Texas leaders in a two day foray to Austin on behalf of the Alliance for I-69 Texas. Included among his group were many TGR members, including board member Mayor Louis Bronaugh of Lufkin. They met with numerous key elected officials to push their agenda. They were also briefed by TxDOT leaders Mike Behrens and Phil Russell.
LARGER HOUSTON COMMUNITY RECOGNIZES GARY K. TRIETSCH
We don't mean to brag that we knew him first, but two years ago, TGR and our friends at the West Houston Association gave special recognition to Houston District Engineer Gary K. Trietsch as the "Billion Dollar Man." Now, Gary, a Fort Worth native, has been named as 2005 Engineer of the Year in Houston, and rightly so. The 37-year veteran of TxDOT has been the No. l person in the Houston area since 1992. All accolades the modest Trietsch has received, he attributes to his co-workers who he states, "Do a great job of making me look good." Gary, congratulations on a well-deserved honor.
CHAIRMAN BUTLER STEPS FORWARD
TGR chairman John Butler served as emcee during the breakfast the association hosted honoring the Texas Transportation Commission January 27 in Houston. All members of the Commission spoke at the gathering that attracted more than 100 participants at the Intercontinental Hotel. Chairman Ric Williamson paid homage to his predecessor Johnny Johnson. He told Johnson's hometown audience that Johnson certainly has been helpful to Houston during his six-year tenure on the Commission, but he was also very fair to the rest of the share. Johnson's deadpan reply was "Ric, that was a great introduction----if we were meeting in Dallas." Johnson is the lone commissioner appointed by former Governor George W. Bush. Commissioner Robert Nichols was elected by Governor Bush in 1997 and was reappointed by Governor Rick Perry in 2003. Bush named Johnson to the commission in 1999 and selected him as chairman in the spring of 2000. He held that post until Governor Perry named Williamson chairman in January 2004. Numerous dignitaries attended the function, including Road Hands Patricia Maddox (former TGR president); Ernest Clouser; Alan Clark and Dick Lindley.
COMMITTEES SET FOR 79TH TEXAS LEGISLATURE
While the Commission was conducting its monthly business meeting in the Bayou City, Lt. Governor David Dewhurst and Texas House Speaker Tom Craddick were busy at the Capitol handing out homework assignments to the members of their respective chambers. The Senate committee panels were of the no surprise variety as the coveted slots had been parceled out last year following the early departure of Senate Finance Chairman Teel Bivins and Senate State Affairs Chairman Bill Ratliff. Continuing in those vital posts were Steve Ogden of Bryan and Bob Duncan of Lubbock, respectively. When Ogden moved to Finance, his Transportation slot shifted to Todd Staples of Palestine. Joining Staples on that critical committee are Gonzalo Barrientos of Austin (vice chairman); Rodney Ellis of Houston; Jon Lindsay, also of Houston; Frank Madla of San Antonio; Florence Shapiro of Plano; Eliot Shapleigh of El Paso and Jeff Wentworth of San Antonio. All of these are repeat members from last session. New to the committee for the 79th is Kim Brimer of Arlington. And the committee has changed its named from Infrastructure Development and Security to
Transportation and Homeland Security.
On the House side, Speaker Craddick tapped Mike Krusee of Round Rock to again lead the House Transportation Committee. Unlike the Senate, though, the committee's nine members will be a majority (five) of newcomers. First, the returnees, in addition to Chairman Krusee, are Vice Chairman Larry Phillips of Sherman; Peggy Hamric of Houston and Fred Hill of Dallas. First timers on the committee are Buddy West of Odessa; Bill Callegari of Katy; Carter Casteel of New Braunfels; Joe Deshotel of Beaumont and Ismael "Kino" Flores of Palmview. Incidentally, when Representative Casteel served as Comal County Judge, she was named to the prestigious Road Hand collective.
TxDOT has already begun to appear before the Senate Finance Committee and the House Appropriations Committee to discuss the recommendations put forth for its 2006-2007 budget. Leading the Senate subcommittee dealing with the Department will be Chairman Ogden. On the House side, Appropriations Committee Chairman Jim Pitts named Warren Chisum of Pampa to lead the subcommittee on General Government that will deal with TxDOT. Also serving on the committee are Peggy Hamric of Houston; Leo Berman of Tyler; Jose Menendez of San Antonio and Joe Pickett of El Paso. Mr. Pickett has been highly critical of the Department's effort to expand tolling, especially in the El Paso area.
JONES OUT, STRAUS IN; VO IN, HEFLIN OUT
When the 150 House members took their oaths for the 79th session January 11, one refused. That was Representative Elizabeth Ames Jones of San Antonio. She chose not to take her oath, because Governor Perry was about to name her to the Texas Railroad Commission. Governor Perry could not make that appointment until Railroad Commissioner Charles Matthews resigned which he did, effective January 27. The State Senate this week confirmed the former San Antonio State Representative Jones (first elected to the House in 2000). On February 5, the voters in District 121 (Alamo Heights area) overwhelming chose financial consultant Joe Straus III to succeed Representative Jones. Republican Straus beat Democrat Rose Spector, a former State Supreme Court Judge and Paul Silber, a one-term State Representative 30 years ago, to gain the seat. Silber ran as an independent. Straus was sworn in on February 10.
Speaker Craddick named Representative Will Hartnett of Dallas as special master of the election contest brought by Talmadge Heflin. Hartnett effectively acted as the “Judge” during two days of hearings. Representative Hartnett announced February 7 that Talmadge Heflin was unsuccessful in proving that intentional fraud had caused his razor thin loss to challenger Hubert Vo in District 149 in southwest Houston. Vo, the first Vietnamese-American elected to the Texas Legislature, is a 48-year old businessman. Heflin served 22 years in the Texas House and was Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee during the last Legislature. The final party split in the Texas House is 87 Republicans, 63 Democrats, representing a net gain of one for the Democrats from last session.