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REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(November 17, 2011)
FALL USHERS IN NEW FISCAL YEAR(S) AND MULTIPLE CHANGES AT TxDOT
If students of government want an illustration of the difference between the U.S. Congress and the Texas Legislature, the budget is a good example. Although the 82nd session of the Texas Legislature was forced into a brief overtime (mainly over a quasi-state agency which deals with natural disasters on the Gulf Coast), the body was able to complete its budget business within the regular, 140-day session. TxDOT knew what it would have to spend over the next two years on the state highway program. By contrast, at this writing the U.S. Congress had extended the federal highway program eight times since its natural expiration September 30, 2009 and has still not adopted a bill which will tell federal transportation policy folks and the states which depend on them, what the "plan" is for the next six, or two years.
At the state level, change is the buzzword at the Greer Building. In fact, the Transportation Commission has been meeting at its Riverside Drive office in Austin because of renovation in the hearing room. For the first time since its creation in 1917, the Department is now being directed only a daily basis by a non-engineer. This was a mandate of the 81st session of the Texas Legislature. The statute specifically said the change would occur after executive director Amadeo Saenz was no longer with the agency. In January 2011, both Mr. Saenz and his deputy executive director Steve Simmons announced they would both step down at the end of the state fiscal year, August 31, 2011. During the period that the Commission was conducting a national search to replace Saenz, Mr. John Barton, who had been Asst Exec Director for Engineering Operations, served as the interim executive director. Mr. Barton's temporary reign ended September 29 when the Commission unanimously selected Mr. Phil Wilson. Mr. Wilson is a West Texas native, born in Brownwood and having lived in several West Texas towns. He graduated from Hardin Simmons University in Abilene and later earned an MBA at Southern Methodist University. In 2007, he was named by Governor Rick Perry as Secretary of State and served in that post for a bit more than a year, after which he was a senior VP for the energy company, Luminant. Prior to his appointment as secretary of state, he was the deputy chief of staff for Governor Perry. Earlier in his career he was a key aide to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm. He began as the executive director of TxDOT on October 17.
Transportation Commission chairman Deidre Delisi resigned October 6 to join the campaign staff of Governor Perry in his effort to capture the Republican presidential nomination. Delisi, a former chief of staff for Governor Perry, had been named to the Commission and as its leader in April 2008. Governor Perry named Commission member Ted Houghton to succeed Delisi as chairman October 7. Houghton was first appointed by Governor Perry in December 2003, after the Legislature expanded to the commission from three to five members. He was the first Transportation Commission appointee from El Paso. On October 20th, Governor Perry chose Jacksonville banker Jeff Austin III to fill the Delisi slot on the five-member panel.
In addition to Saenz and Simmons, other TxDOT veterans who have recently retired were: David Casteel, Asst Exec Director for Field & District Operations; Russell Lenz, Director of Construction; Owen Whitworth, Internal Auditor; Diana Flores Noble, Environmental Affairs Division Director; Mark Tomlinson, Director of the Turnpike Division; David Hohmann, Director of the Bridge Division; Mary Meyland, Director of Strategic Policy & Performance Management and Doris Howdeshell, Director of Travel Information. IN addition, the following district engineers have also retired; Delvin Dennis, Houston; Chuck Berry, El Paso, Terry Keener, Childress and Alberto Quintanilla, Laredo.
Mr. Wilson announced this week his new organizational chart. Download the chart here along with a FAQ guide. Among five new positions that were specified in the Sunset legislation are the deputy executive director and the chief financial officer. Mr. Wilson has named John Barton and James Bass, respectively, to those two positions and said that the other three spots may be filled within the next 90 days.
FORMER HIGHWAY CHIEF DIES AT 97
Lufkin—One of the leading figures in the development of the Texas Highway Department in the post World War II era, Luther DeBerry, died here November 10 after a long illness. This native of northeast Texas joined the department in 1937 after graduating with a civil engineering degree from the University of Texas. He spent the following 44 years with the department and retired in 1980. He was the last State Highway Engineer, a title that was phased out in 1975 when the Highway Dept. became the State Department of Highways and Public Transportation. He led the department from 1973 to 1980. He served as a Naval officer during World War II. Prior to joining the Administration in Austin in 1968, he served as the district engineer in Dallas. At his funeral service, his minister noted that Luther and his wife Pauline (she died in 1990) moved 33 times during their 63-year marriage.
Luther received many accolades and honors over the years, including distinguished alum of the UT engineering school. In 1973, he created the Road Hand Award that has been a tremendous boon for the Department over the years, by recognizing Texans who have gone "the extra mile" to support the highway program. He is survived by his daughter Nancy and her husband Thomas Moore of Lufkin.
TEXAS VOTERS (BUT NOT MANY OF THEM) WEIGH IN ON CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
Striking a strong blow for apathy, about 5.5 percent of Texas voters participated in the statewide constitutional amendment election November 8. Seven of the 10 amendments passed. One of the most significant, Proposition 2, which authorized the issuance of bonds for water projects, won by a slim margin. There was only one major municipal election (in the City of Houston), which was a spur to the otherwise lethargic voting public. If there were any real indicators about the mood of the electorate, it might be that incumbents should be wary. The Mayor of Houston, Annise Parker, spent more than $2 million against a handful of less than stellar opponents and won by a 50.9 margin, narrowly avoiding a runoff. This was Ms. Parker's reelection effort that usually, in Houston, is conceded to the incumbent mayor.
AWARD WINNERS REVEALED AT SHORT COURSE
College Station—Moving from the campus to the Brazos County Expo Complex, the 85th Annual Transportation Conference heard from new Aggie Chancellor John Sharp, TxDOT executive director (designate) Phil Wilson and the members of the Commission, but the crowd was buzzing over the Department’s unofficial version of the "Oscars." Mr. Wilson quickly won over the assemblage of Department employees by announcing several minor administrative changes dealing with meal per diem, local hiring and so on, all much to the delight of those who would have the new boss on board in some six days. The meeting was October 11 and under state law, Mr. Wilson could not officially assume his new leadership role until 21 days after his election by the Commission.
As for the "Oscar" winners, one was actually handed out October 10: it was the Russell Perry Award which went to Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. He was lauded by his fellow Houstonian and commission member Ned Holmes who had just arrived from a business trip in China. It was certainly a sign of the high regard Commissioner Holmes has for Judge Emmett, who prior to his election served in the Texas House of Representatives and a chairman of the federal Interstate Commerce Commission (appointed by President George Herbert Walker Bush).
Paul Frerich of the Yoakum District won the Gilchrist Award. The Stotzer (non engineer) Award was captured by Russell Luther of the Amarillo District. John Munoz of the Finance Division was selected as the winner of the DeBerry Award and the Greer Award went Jack Foster of the Transportation Planning Division. Congratulations to the excellent recipients and examples of professionalism within the Department.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(July 1, 2011)
LEGISLATIVE SESSION ENDS WITH VICTORY FOR THE GOOD ROADS MOVEMENT
As the final gavel came down Wednesday at the end of the first called session, the 82nd session of the Texas Legislature can be pronounced a success for supporters of TGR. A goal that the association and its members had vigorously pursued since November 2007, passage of a constitutional amendment finally came to fruition. Proposition 12 which 63 percent of Texans endorsed in the election requested the Legislature to expend $5 billion in general obligation bonds to improve the Texas highway system. Its author was State Senator John Carona of Dallas. In the 81st session (during the special) the Legislature had given the Texas Department of Transportation authority to go forth with the first $2 billion in projects. This session added the final $3 billion that the Department says will allow it to exceed to $4 billion in each of the next two fiscal years (2012-13) in lettings.
Obviously, this action occurred because of strong support by the leadership. On the Senate side that meant Lt. Governor David Dewhurst, Finance Committee Chairman Steve Ogden and Transportation and Homeland Security chairman Tommy Williams (who also served on Senate Finance). Speaker Joe Straus led the charge on the House side and was ably assisted by the Chairman of the Subcommittee on TxDOT, Representative Drew Darby. House conferees Myra Crownover and Sylvester Turner also strongly endorsed the Proposition 12 addition to the TxDOT budget.
After being beaten up fairly regularly during the last session, TxDOT was treated much better this go around. It was a given a four-year lease on life with new Sunset legislation. Many past critics of the Department praised the agency for making numerous substantive reforms in its planning and in transparency. The final version of the Sunset (SB 1420), retained the five member commission while defining more specifically a "rural" commissioner.” The department was given authority to use the design build method of construction but that authority was restricted to a total of three projects a year, with a floor of $50 million. Authority was granted for 11 comprehensive development agreements (CDAs), with some restrictions.
With a pledge at the outset by Governor Rick Perry and Lt. Governor Dewhurst and Speaker Straus that this session would exclude any tax increases, the fact that the 82nd Legislature was able to find the general revenue needed to underwrite the remaining $4 billion (the collateral for $1 billion from last session had not been funded) to move the highway program forever is no small feat. And the leadership of the Big 3 made it possible.
HEALD, BEHRENS SERVICE RECOGNIZED
The fleet of ferry boats operated by the Texas Department of Transportation has grown by two with the addition of newly christened ships named for former executive directors, Charles W.(Wes) Heald and Michael Behrens. The duo was feted by family, friends and colleagues June 24 at an impressive ceremony at Port Aransas. West Texan Heald served as the Department’s leader from 1998-2001, capping a 40-year career that included stints as district engineer in Brownwood and Fort Worth.
Like his fellow Aggie, Behrens was a lifer with the Department and was at the No. 1 post from 2001-2007. Prior the coming to Austin, the native of Giddings was Yoakum's district engineer.
Transportation Commissioner Bill Meadows praised the service of the pair as a testament to all department employees' desire to make Texas a better place. Former Commissioner Johnny Johnson of Houston also attended the ceremony, as did aides to State Senators Glenn Hegar, Juan Hinojosa and State Representative Todd Hunter. AGC contractor Jim Anderson of Rockport also participated and represented the association which sponsored a welcoming event. Two former honorees whose names also adorn two other boats enjoyed the event: Arnold Oliver and Bill Burnett.
OTHERS DEPARTMENT LEADERS JOIN RETIREMENT PARADE
Earlier this year we reported on the retirement of the department's top two leaders, Amadeo Saenz and Steve Simmons. With the fiscal year (August 31) rapidly coming to a close, they have received company. Owen Whitworth, the Department's director of the Audit Division, will be stepping down. Joining him in retirement circle will be the following district engineers: Delvin Dennis of Houston, Chuck Berry of El Paso and Terry Keener of Childress. A belated good-bye and good luck to Bob Brown, deputy district engineer in the Dallas district, who has retired to join the private sector. The citizens of Texas are losing many, many years of outstanding service and experience that all these exemplary public employees have contributed to making this state safer for its motorists. Thanks for your dedication.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(February 18, 2011)
ACTIVITY ACCELERATES WITH HOUSE COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS IN TEXAS LEGISLATURE
Texas House Speaker Joe Straus named those who will lead the 38 committees in the Texas House February 9. The 31-member State Senate named its committees January 31.
Speaker Straus of San Antonio was reelected to his second term as Speaker the day the 82d Legislature convened January 11. His election came on a vote of 132-15 with two abstentions.
Two years ago when the House Republicans held a 76-74 margin over the Democrats, the leadership split among the committee chairmen was 18 Republicans and 16 Democrats. In this session, the party composition is 101 Republicans, 49 Democrats and the party breakdown of panel chiefs is 27 Republicans, 11 Democrats.
Speaker Straus has named Larry Phillips, R-Sherman to be the new chairman of the House Transportation Committee. He replaces El Paso Democrat Joe Pickett who shifts to lead the Defense Affairs Committee. Joining Rep. Phillips on the Transportation Committee are Drew Darby, R- San Angelo, vice chairman; Linda Harper Brown, R- Irving; Dennis Bonnen, R-Angleton; Allen Fletcher, R-Tomball; George Lavender, R-Texarkana; Yvonne Davis, D-Dallas; Pickett, D-El Paso; Armando (Mando) Martinez, D-Weslaco; Ruth Jones McClendon, D-San Antonio and Eddie Rodriguez, D-Austin. New to the committee are Bonnen, Fletcher and Lavender, a freshman who ousted Democratic incumbent Stephen Frost. Although they were not on the full committee last session, Darby, Martinez and Rodriguez all served in key spots on the Speaker-appointed special interim committee to study transportation funding and governance. In addition to his critical leadership slot on the Transportation Committee, third term member Darby, a veteran businessman and attorney, will head the Appropriations Subcommittee which deals with funding a wide variety of state agencies, including TxDOT. In fact, Rep. Darby and his six-member subcommittee have been meeting, nearly around the clock, all this week. Other members of the Appropriations Subcommittee are Doug Miller, R-New Braunfels (a returnee to the committee from last session, as is Darby); Debbie Riddle, R- Houston; and three freshmen: Republicans Raul Torres of Corpus Christi; Lance Gooden of Terrell and Democrat Eric Johnson of Dallas. Jim Pitts of Waxahachie, a key Straus advocate in his successful effort to topple sitting Speaker Tom Craddick two years ago, retains his important post as chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. In addition to Darby, other members who serve as subcommittee chairmen are Republicans John Otto of Liberty, John Zerwas of Richmond, Jimmie Don Aycock of Belton and Democrat Scott Hochberg of Houston.
On the other side of the Capitol, the Texas Senate has passed several measures and had about a week's head start on the House in hearings in its Finance Committee. This is Sherman, West Texas and points north, south, east and west—Starting during the last week of October, Texas Good Roads has traveled throughout the state because, at 31 members, organization of the smaller body is quite a bit easier and also the Senate added two members this session while the 150- member House has 38 members who did not serve in the previous session (three of whom had previous service). The State Senate has passed legislation to further regulate abortion, establish stricter voter identification and will soon consider a proposed constitutional amendment that would instruct the U.S. Congress to balance the federal budget. These are all items that Governor Rick Perry has declared emergencies that allow for the Legislature to consider them within the first 60 days. The Senate Finance Committee will hear from TxDOT leadership March 1; Chairman Deidre Delisi and executive director Amadeo Saenz testified before Chairman Darby's subcommittee February 14. At this point in the budget deliberations, TxDOT is not on the front burner because it has a miniscule amount of general revenue. And general revenue is what the Appropriators need to fill the large budget gap.
SAENZ, SIMMONS ANNOUNCE RETIREMENTS
During the January Transportation Commission meeting, veteran TxDOT leaders Amadeo Saenz and Steve Simmons announced each would retire August 31. Mr. Saenz has served as executive director of the agency since October 2007 and Mr. Simmons has been deputy executive director during that same period. Saenz has been with the Department 33 years and Simmons almost 30 years. A native of Hebbronville in South Texas, Amadeo was the district engineer in the Pharr District before his promotion to the administration in 2001. He is a UT grad. Before coming to Austin, Steve was the Fort Worth district engineer after many years as a key executive for the Department in his native Houston where he graduated at UH. Both of these gentlemen exemplify professionalism and dedicated public service and are role models for their "can-do" attitudes. Amadeo currently serves as president of the Western Association of Highway and Transportation Officials (WASHTO).
IN MEMORIAM
Gilbert Turner, the founder of the Boring and Tunneling Company of America (BorTunCo) recently died at age 88 after a lengthy illness. He was a very significant contributor for the betterment of his industry, his state and his country. He was an A&M graduate (and a distinguished alum) and very active with the Second Baptist Church of Houston. Our condolences to his family.
Tom Vandergriff, a Road Hand, a Russell Perry (short course honor) Award winner, the former Mayor of Arlington, Tarrant County Judge, died after a long illness. This was the guy who put Arlington, Texas on the map; a tireless promoter for the Good Roads cause (and thousands of other good causes). His son Victor, chairman of the NTTA and the Department of Motor Vehicles, continues the family tradition of public service.
Marvin Selig, 87, founded and served as chairman of the Commercial Metal Steels Group, a division of CMC, died in San Antonio December 27. He was recognized by his peers in the steel industry as one of its most innovative leaders. We extend our sympathies to his family.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(November 22, 2010)
ROUGH ROADS AHEAD
Austin, Sherman, West Texas and points north, south, east and west—Starting during the last week of October, Texas Good Roads has traveled throughout the state to inform citizens about the looming crisis in Texas highway funding. In addition to the more than a dozen meetings in the last couple of weeks, the Road Information Program (TRIP), a nationwide transportation research group, unveiled its in-depth study of Texas highway conditions. This was during a November 17 statewide press conference at the Capitol.
Numerous state representatives and other local leaders, including Road Hands, attended the meetings across the state. Larry Phillips of Sherman, chairman of the Select Committee on Transportation, welcomed those attending a breakfast in the Sherman-Denison area November 12. State Representative Drew Darby of San Angelo, chairman of Funding subcommittee of the Select Transportation Committee, spoke at meetings in San Angelo, Midland, Lubbock, Amarillo, Abilene and Brownwood. State Representatives Tom Craddick, Susan King, Larry Taylor and David Farabee heard our presentation in meetings in West Texas and on the Gulf Coast.
A special TGR tip of the hat to the following whose help was critical to the success of these gatherings: Sherman: Jerry Chapman (Road Hand) and Tony Kaai, Denison economic development leader; Wichita Falls: Rick Schleider, Zack Burkett Company; San Angelo: Phil Neighbors, chamber of commerce and the good folks at Reece Albert, Inc.; Midland: Grant Billingsley, Wagner & Brown, Terry Bryant, Jones Brothers and Jim Nelson, Warren-CAT (TGR executive committee); Lubbock: Eddie McBride, chamber (Commissioner Fred Underwood in attendance, along with State Representatives elect John Frullo and Charles Perry); Amarillo: Gary Molberg (Road Hand), chamber of commerce; Abilene: Ross Jones (Road Hand) and Steve Strain, J.H Strain; Brownwood: City Manager Bobby Rountree and Bay Tran, Seabrook, Bob Robinson, Gulf Coast Limestone.
In addition, highway industry groups have hosted TGR in Austin (twice), San Antonio and Houston.
We are working with the Tyler Chamber on a November 30 breakfast in the Rose City and will show the video at lunch the same day in the Longview area.
All of the material we disseminate during our meetings is available here. Readers are welcome to use the video and to share the petition with as many others as possible. When the petitions are signed please return them to us.
FORMER CHAIRMAN DAVID LANEY JOINTS ELITE GROUP
Dallas born and bred lawyer David Laney was Governor George Bush's first nominee to the Texas Transportation Commission in 1995. As is his right, the governor named the Stanford educated barrister as the commission chairman, a post he occupied until 2000.
Early last month Mr. Laney was named to the Texas Transportation Institute's Hall of Honor. More than 100 colleagues and friends attended at Austin dinner to mark his induction, one of just 32 since the Hall began in 2000.
Mr. Laney's initial transportation work came as he represented Dallas County, under the able leadership of County Judge Lee Jackson, when the county sought to purchase the Dallas North Tollway. During his strong leadership at the Commission, Mr. Laney created the department's first toll division and aided efforts to create the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA).
In 2002, a year after his term ended at the Commission, Mr. Bush again relied on his expertise and named him to a five year term on the Amtrak board of directors. Soon thereafter he was elected chairman. Today Mr. Laney serves on numerous boards including the TTI Advisory Committee. Recently, Texas House Speaker Joe Straus asked Mr. Laney to join appointees of the governor and lieutenant governor to advise the Texas Transportation Commission regarding the Grant-Thornton report and other recent studies aimed at increasing department efficiency.
TEXAS HOUSE FOLLOWS NATIONAL TRENDS AND COLORS IT VERY RED
After the smoke cleared November 2, the Democrats in the Texas House were very blue and the Republican eyes were very red (tears of joy), as 21 incumbents were knocked out of the ring by challengers. When the night began, the Republicans enjoyed a 77-73 margin over the Democrats. After the votes were tallied, the Republican surge gave the GOP 99 and the Democrats 51. One Democratic incumbent Donna Howard of Austin beat her challenger, former UT and pro footballer Dan Neil by (two touchdowns and a pair of two PATs) that is, 16 votes. Mr. Neil has yet to ask for a recount.
Two days after the elections, the Republicans and Texans everywhere (including those friends and supporters of TGR) lost a stalwart with the death of State Representative Edmund Kuempel of Seguin. Edmund had served with honor and distinction in the Texas House since 1983 and was chairman of the Licensing Committee. His son John Kuempel is among ten residents of District 44 (Guadalupe, Wilson and Gonzales counties) to file for his seat in a December 14 special election.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO OUR TEXAS GOOD ROADS FAMILY
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(August 31, 2010)
STATE CLOSES BOOKS ON FISCAL YEAR 2010
In Texas, the end of August means several things: high school football (second only to organized religion for devotion) kicks off with the start of public school; dove season (in all but South Texas) starts September 1 and the large conglomerate known as the State of Texas ends its fiscal year.
For our friends at TxDOT it also signals the end of many glorious careers of public servants who have provided their talents and services in the furtherance of building a outstanding highway system for their fellow citizens. Among those who are moving on are San Angelo district engineer Walter McCullough, with 39 years service and the "dean" or longest service district engineer; Houston area engineers Larry Heckathorn and Karen Baker; San Antonio area engineer David Kopp; Shirley Macik, who aided the executive staff on the second floor immeasurably; valued government and public administration leader Helen Havelka and scores of other unnamed loyalists whose seniority totaled more than 1,350 years.
On the construction side, the amount of contracts awarded during the fiscal year was $3.27 billion.
LT. GOV. DEWHURST SHUFFLES COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP POSTS
Senator Tommy Williams of the Woodlands has been named chairman of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Homeland Security. Former chairman John Carona of Dallas shifts to the leadership of the Business and Commerce Committee. The former leader of the Business and Commerce committee, Troy Fraser, assumes the gavel at the Natural Resources Committee. Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst announced these changes July 14. That committee's previous chief, Senator Kip Averitt of Waco resigned from the senate March 17. He has been succeeded by Senator Brian Birdwell of Granbury who won a special election this summer, handily defeating former senator David Sibley of Waco in a June runoff. Only Senator Eliot Shapleigh of El Paso did not seek reelection. Senator Jeff Wentworth has told the press that he has been offered an executive post with the Texas A&M University System but will not leave office until after his November reelection. So, it is highly unlikely at this point that there will be any alteration in the current partisan makeup of the 31-member Texas Senate that has 19 Republicans and 12 Democrats.
On the other side of the Capitol, the GOP margin is bit thinner, at 77 R, 73 D. The Republicans and Speaker Joe Straus are hoping to increase their flock to a larger cushion and all indications, at this point, are that they will succeed. Remaining, is the question of by how much and who are the winners and losers among the 10 to 20 seats which most observers think are "in play?"
FRIENDS AND LEADERS, REST IN PEACE
Governor Dolph Briscoe, 87, a stalwart supporter of the good roads movement, died June 27 in his hometown of Uvalde. During his time as a member of the Texas House of Representatives (1949-1955) and during his successful tenure in the mansion (1973-1979), the highway program has no stronger proponent and supporter (for more details, please click here).
Former TGR president Charles D. Kirkham died April 20 in his native Cleburne. A decorated World War II hero, this proud Aggie served a couple of terms in the Texas House (with Gov. Briscoe) and had a outstanding career as a stockbroker in Dallas. He was a recipient of the Road Hand Award. He was 84.
Highway contractor Harold Dean Martin of Junction died August 18 at age 73. He was very active with AGC of Texas and a longtime member of TGR.
Retired contractor Jones G. Finke of Sealy died March 23 at age 93. He was a loyal supporter of industry groups, including TGR, for many years.
Road Hand Michael A. (Mike) Allen succumbed after a long valiant battle with cancer August 5 at age 72. For 18 years he led the McAllen Economic Development Corporation that he helped found. He was instrumental in fighting for road projects in the Rio Grande Valley and for landing new employers for the area. He was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in Port Lavaca. Prior to his business career, he served many years as a Catholic priest.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(May 27, 2010)
LEGISLATIVE BUDGET BOARD RELEASES BOND MONEY
The Legislative Budget Board (LBB) is a ten-member body, led by the lieutenant governor and speaker, that has the authority to act on budgetary items between legislative sessions. In a significant action, May 21 the LBB okayed the Texas Department of Transportation plan to move forward with bond monies approved as part of Proposition 12 in November 2007. Following the 63 percent positive vote by Texans, the legislature had to enact legislation to implement the bond monies allocated to the Department and with the debt paid for by general revenues. The LBB agreed with the TxDOT proposal to award $1.85 billion in new multi-year construction contracts during the 2010-2011 biennium.
GOVERNOR SETS ELECTION DATE
Governor Rick Perry picked June 22 for the special election runoff date in the state Senate race for District 22 in north central Texas.
Former state senator David Sibley of Waco led the May 8 race with 45 percent. He will face Brian Birdwell of Granbury, a retired military veteran.
WEATHER GODS SMILE ON TGR GOLF TOURNEY; ALL WINNERS AT COWBOYS GOLF CLUB IN GRAPEVINE
With heavy storms the evening before, the TGR spring tourney at Grapevine May 18 seemed iffy. But the storms broke and blue skies prevailed and an excellent turnout enjoyed the course and the outstanding staff at Cowboy Golf Club.
The winning team was sponsored by Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions and was comprised of David Stroud, Steve Douglas, Kevin King and Barrett Reese.
Again, we sincerely thank our two premier sponsors, Zurich Surety and Austin Bridge & Road. And a tip of the cap to our event sponsors and everyone who helped made this a great event. Please see here a complete list of our sponsors.
We could not have had this successful event without the prep work done by our excellent committee: Beth Adler, Zurich Surety, TGR president and committee chairman; Dale Stubblefield, Austin Bridge and Road; Rodney Scott, CMC; Shelley Williams of Trinity; Bob Reeves, Texas Lime Company and Art Daniel, AR Daniel Construction Services.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(April 15, 2010)
DUST OFF THOSE IRONS, IT'S TIME TO PLAY
TGR President Beth Adler of Zurich Surety and her hard-working Metroplex golf committee have secured a new and exciting venue for our spring tourney—The Cowboy’s Golf Club in Grapevine. Tuesday, May 18 is the big tee off date. An especial tip of the hat to our two premier sponsors, Austin Bridge & Road and Zurich. This course is affiliated with the Dallas Cowboys football organization and has drawn rave reviews. We are extremely pleased that our committee has landed this enviable site. In addition to President Adler, those serving on the committee are Dale Stubblefield, Austin Bridge and Road; Rodney Scott, CMC; Shelley Williams of Trinity; Bob Reeves, Texas Lime Company and Art Daniel, AR Daniel Construction Services.
We believe the playing slots may well go quickly so contact us as soon as possible. Download registration forms here. You can also find a list of sponsors already on board.
TEXAS TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION: ON THE ROAD AGAIN
They may not be touring quite as much as the Willie Nelson bus, but the five-member Texas Transportation Commission will continue a tradition begun in 1994 by shifting its monthly meeting to Beaumont April 29. The commission will meet at The MCM Elegante Hotel at 9 a.m. to conduct its routine business meeting after it hears from area elected and business leaders about the highway needs in Southeast Texas. TGR is hosting a 7:30 a.m. breakfast before the meeting at the same location. Please contact us if you are interested in attending.
PRIMARY RUNOFFS ESTABLISH FALL LINE UP
With only a state Supreme Court runoff as the top draw on the Republican primary ticket (the Democrats had no statewide runoffs), the turnout April 13 was dismal, as expected. Fort Worth District Judge Debra Lehrmann did best former state Representative Rick Green, 52-48, despite Green leading the voting in the first primary. Of the three state representative incumbents forced into "overtime" two lost. Those were Republican Delwin Jones of Lubbock defeated by Charles Perry and Democrat Norma Chavez of El Paso, ousted by Naomi Gonzalez. Republican Fred Brown of College Station survived his runoff race. Former state senator David Sibley of Waco is the leading candidate among four seeking the interim term of State Senator Kip Averitt of Waco who resigned March 17. The special election is May 8.
HOLT HONORED BY TEXAS LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE
Long time TGR member and stalwart supportor Peter M. Holt was named Texan of the Year by the Texas Legislative Conference last month in New Braunfels. Mr. Holt is CEO of HOLT CAT and also CEO and principal owner of the San Antonio Spurs. He was appointed by Governor Rick Perry to serve as chairman of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission. He is also a highly decorated Vietnam War veteran.
TxDOT PROMOTIONS
Congratulations to Carol Rawson and Russel Lenz. Carol succeeds Carlos Lopez as head of the Traffic Operations Division; Carlos is now the Austin district engineer. Russel follows Thomas Bohuslav to direct the Construction Division. Mr. Bohuslav retired last year. Both Carol and Russel are very capable and experienced professionals who will perform admirably.
REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
By: Lawrence Olsen
(March 17, 2010)
PRIMARIES: SHOW OF STRENGTH FOR GOVERNOR PERRY, GOP AS HANDFUL OF LEGISLATORS TOPPLED
If you were interested in nail-biting drama, there were very few "shows" available on March 2, primary night. Challenger Kay B. Hutchison conceded to Governor Rick Perry before the 10 o'clock news. Final results gave Perry 51 percent, U.S. Senator Hutchison 30 percent and Tea party favorite Debra Medina 19 percent. GOP votes tallied 1.48 million while the D's managed to turn out 680 thousand. Just a smidgen of the state's 254 counties had more Democrats voting; even reliably Democratic Travis County (Austin) had more GOP voters.
Though numerous Republican members of Congress were challenged by Tea Party and other anti-incumbent foes, none were really pressed. Dean of the Texas Delegation, Ralph Hall of Rockwall, was the lowest percentage winner at 57 percent, and he had five opponents. The Tea Party further demonstrated it was mostly decaf in its efforts to beat Republican State Senator Bob Deuell of Greenville and Steve Ogden of Bryan both of whom were around the 70 percent mark. State Senator Kip Averitt of Waco won 60-40 over Darren Yancy, even after Averitt announced he intended to resign, which he did March 17. Governor Perry will call a special election to fill out the remainder of Averitt's current term. The party chiefs in the ten counties that comprise Senate District 22 will choose candidates who will vie for a full term. Press reports state that former Waco State Senator David Sibley is seeking the nod from the GOP party leaders.
Whether it was the Tea Party influence or something in the local waters, three Democratic incumbents and two Republicans were ousted in the primary. Republicans falling were Tommy Merritt of Longview, an early GOP foe of former Speaker Craddick and Betty Brown of Terrell. Democrats who lost were veteran Dora Olivo of Rosenberg and rookie Tara Rios Ybarra of South Padre Island. Houstonian Al Edwards, third in seniority in the Texas House (first elected in 1978), lost by ten votes to former Representative Borris Miles. Edwards has paid the fee for a recount.
Three more House incumbents will have to go through the runoff process, culminating with a vote April 13. These include Delwin Jones of Lubbock, fourth in seniority in the House. Jones, part of the inner-circle of 10 GOP members who supported the successful insurgent candidacy of successful Speaker Joe Straus over Speaker Craddick, led a field of three with 39 percent. Norma Chavez of El Paso, a Democrat, trailed a challenger by a slight margin. Republican Fred Brown of College Station captured 45 percent in a crowded field and will face with a former local office holder who won 26 percent.
Only one statewide race will be featured in GOP runoff and that will be for an open seat on the state supreme court. Former State Representative Rick Green of Dripping Springs will face Deborah Lehrmann, a veteran jurist of Fort Worth. FORT WORTH—Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief welcomed an enthusiastic crowd to the Texas Good Roads sponsored breakfast October 29th as the Transportation Commission held its monthly meeting in this booming metropolis. Commission members briefly addressed the crowd that included numerous local officials, in addition to TGR leaders.
There were a pair of interesting races in Tarrant County where an anti-highway group, Empower Texas, spent considerable amounts trying to defeat two state representatives it attacked for promoting increased highway funding: Todd Smith of Euless and Vicki Truitt of Southlake. Despite the shrill and misleading information used by group, Mr. Smith beat his opponent with 59 percent of the vote, and Representative Truitt had 52 percent winning outright over three foes.
SAENZ NAMES NEW LEADERS
Russel Lenz, recently district engineer in Corpus Christi, will be the new head of the Construction Division of TxDOT, replacing Thomas Bohuslav who retired last year. Julie Brown of San Antonio will be the interim district engineer in Corpus Christi.
U.S. SENATE TO VOTE ON HIGHWAY EXTENSION
This week the United States Senate is expected to consider legislation that recently passed the U.S. House that will extend authority for federal highway spending through the end of this calendar year. About $20 billion will be added to the highway trust fund to help implement federal-aid for the next eight months or so. These provisions are a part of the jobs billed that will extend tax credits to small business to encourage and retain employment. It passed 217-201 with six Republicans in favor.
AS SPRING IS UPON US, CLEAN OFF THOSE GOLF SHOES AND MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR UPCOMING TGR GOLF TOURNEY
Our Good Roads golf tournament is set for Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at the Cowboys Golf Club in Grapevine, TX. Registration forms will be sent in the upcoming weeks. Check with our website for the most up to date information on the tournament.