Texas Government Insider

Published: Fri, 06/13/25

Updated: Fri, 06/13/25

Tourism-fueled events offer billions in economic impact for cities and counties nationwide

Tourism generated $2.6 trillion for the U.S. economy last year, and cities and counties nationwide are tapping into its power through major events. From small-town festivals to global showcases like the Olympics, these events boost local economies, create jobs, and foster public-private partnerships—making them vital tools for economic development and community engagement across the country.

Texas is set to launch $350M nuclear energy program

Lawmakers passed House Bill 14, creating the Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office and investing $350 million to develop next-gen nuclear energy. Seeking to improve grid reliability, boost economic growth and support clean energy, the bill advances Texas’ leadership in nuclear power amid rising electricity demand and positions the state for a more resilient energy future, pending Gov. Abbott's signature.

Recently passed legislation seeks to overhaul Alamo site and boost tourism

Texas lawmakers passed legislation to transition Alamo site management to a new commission by 2028 and enhance historical exhibits. A $550 million visitor center and museum is under construction, seeking to boost tourism and education. Now on Gov. Abbott's desk, the bills' plans include displaying the Travis letter and historic artifacts, with continued collaboration between the state, city and the Alamo Trust.

Is FEMA as we know it about to be abolished?

The White House is considering changes to disaster management, with proposed plans to phase out FEMA after the current hurricane season. Future disaster response efforts would shift to states, requiring them to independently manage recovery and funding. Though, the plan would need congressional approval before implementation.

Update: Strategic Partnerships, Inc. announces changes to upcoming legislative conference

The SPI team has an exciting update about the “Unpacking the 89th Legislative Session” Conference, scheduled for July 29 at the AT&T Conference Center: the format has changed—and we think you'll like it even more.

To make the content more accessible and flexible, we're transforming the event into a podcast series that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere, across all major podcast platforms.

The first episode drops July 29 on governmentmarketnews.com, featuring key voices behind the session’s outcomes. Stay tuned for details on the remaining episodes—mark your calendar and join us online!

Enacted Texas law will streamline car buying with metal license plates

Starting July 1, Texas car buyers will receive metal license plates directly from dealers, replacing temporary tags, under House Bill 718, which passed in 2023. The change seeks to reduce fraud and enhance customer service. Additional updates affect vehicle trades and plate transfers while private sales remain unchanged.

NCTCOG launches $60M grant program for clean fleet upgrades

The North Central Texas Council of Governments will launch a $60 million Call for Projects this summer to support zero-emission fleet upgrades. Funded by the EPA, the council will offer grants to replace Class 6–7 fossil fuel vehicles with clean alternatives. Eligible projects may also include charging infrastructure and workforce development. Awards begin winter 2025.

San Antonio voters elect mayor to first-ever, four-year term after runoff

Gina Ortiz Jones has won the San Antonio mayoral runoff with 54.3% of the vote, defeating Rolando Pablos. With 100% of voting locations reporting, Ortiz Jones becomes the city’s first four-year term mayor, succeeding Ron Nirenberg. The historic race saw 17% voter turnout and marked the first open mayoral seat in San Antonio since 2009.

Tomball approves updated drainage master plan, details $31M for projects

The Tomball City Council has approved a new drainage master plan, the first update since 2014, to address current and future flood risks. The plan outlines infrastructure improvements across nine basins, with $31.2 million allocated for three major projects over five years. Key upgrades include detention basins, storm sewer enhancements, and improved drainage channels to boost flood resilience.

Johnny Casias

City Administrator

City of Selma

Wichita Falls names new city manager nearly a year after Leiker’s resignation

Jeff Jenkins has been appointed as the new city manager for Wichita Falls.

Jenkins brings over 20 years of experience in city management to the role and steps into the new position following the resignation of former city manager Darron Leiker nearly a year ago in August 2024.

Lake Worth ISD hires Dallas ISD associate superintendent as new superintendent

Mark Ramirez has been selected by Lake Worth ISD Board of Trustees as the district's new superintendent.

Ramirez brings over 25 years of experience in public education to the role and began his career as a teacher for Dallas ISD. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Dallas Baptist University, a masters in Interdisciplinary Science from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Texas Tech University.

Seagoville selects Lancaster deputy city manager as new city manager

Carey Neal has been selected as the new city manager for the city of Seagoville, effective June 23.

Neal currently serves as the deputy city manager for the city of Lancaster and he began his time with Lancaster as assistant to the city manager. He holds a bachelor of science degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and a master’s in public administration from American Public University.

Carrollton hires new economic development manager

Louise Ma has been appointed as manager for the city of Carrollton’s economic development department.

Prior to joining the city of Carrollton, Ma served as the senior marketing specialist for the city of Plano for two years. She holds her bachelor’s in business administration and master’s in healthcare management both from the University of Texas at Dallas.

Governor's Appointments (June 6-June 13):

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Ryan Bridges (Chair) - Katy

Brian Rentsch - Grapevine

Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Keith Wall - Spring

For more news and opportunities from the public sector

Click Here!

7500 Rialto Blvd
Bldg 2, Suite #145
Austin TX 78735
US

Unsubscribe | Change Subscriber Options