Texas Government Insider

Published: Fri, 01/23/26

Updated: Fri, 01/23/26

Capital projects spotlight a nationwide push to modernize and expand America’s libraries

by Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.

Cities across the U.S. are investing in library projects, expanding facilities to support education, workforces and communities.

TxDOT is adapting to rapid changes in its updated AI Strategic Plan

TxDOT released a January update, outlining governance, data and workforce priorities to responsibly expand artificial intelligence across transportation operations.

Plano plans roadway, public safety and park overhaul under historic $657M bond

Plano voters approved a $647.9 million bond to fund street improvements, police and fire facilities, parks, fleet operations and library renovations across the city.

TAMU plans $130M learning commons facility

Texas A&M University will spend $130 million to build the West Campus Learning Commons, a new classroom facility designed to support flexible and active learning.

TWDB approves $34M to support water, wastewater system projects

The Texas Water Development Board approved $33.7 million to fund wastewater system improvements in San Marcos and water distribution upgrades in Port Arthur.

LCRA secures $29M grant to expand internet access, flood monitoring systems

The Lower Colorado River Authority received $29 million to expand rural broadband access and strengthen flood-monitoring systems across Central Texas.

TTU to build $24M semiconductor cleanroom to drive research, innovation

Texas Tech University will invest $24 million to build a nanotechnology cleanroom facility in Lubbock, following the approval of state support for the project.

Padre Island adds $11M for seawall restoration, disaster mitigation project

Padre Island approved $11 million in additional funding for a seawall restoration project, with construction expected to move forward soon.

New leader announced for CPS Energy board

Dr. Erika Gonzalez has been appointed as a board member for CPS Energy.

Gonzalez will help guide governance for the municipally owned utility. She brings executive leadership experience in health care operations and community-focused organizations, with a stated focus on affordability, transparency, and clear communication with customers. Gonzalez previously served as an associate professor of clinical pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine.

Waco names new city manager

Ryan Holt has been appointed as city manager for the city of Waco.

Holt will oversee municipal operations and implement City Council priorities. He brings nearly three decades of service with Waco, most recently serving as assistant city manager. Holt has emphasized integrity, responsiveness, and long-term service to the community as guiding principles for his leadership.

San Marcos names economic, local business development director

Helen Ramirez has been named director of the Economic and Local Business Development Department for the city of San Marcos.

Ramirez will lead the city’s newly established department supporting business growth and economic strategy. She brings experience working with local businesses, regional partners, and municipal leadership. Ramirez stated her vision is to foster sustainable economic development aligned with community values.

Baylor College of Medicine names president, CEO

Dr. Jakub Tolar has been named president and chief executive officer of Baylor College of Medicine.

Tolar will lead the institution’s academic, research, and clinical missions. He brings executive leadership experience, most recently serving as vice president for clinical affairs at the University of Minnesota. Tolar is known for his treatment of patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.

Bellmead appoints public works director

Jim Reed has been appointed as director of public works for the city of Bellmead.

Reed will oversee streets, drainage, infrastructure maintenance, and public works operations. He brings extensive municipal public works experience, including senior leadership roles with Waco and the Texas Department of Transportation. Reed has identified infrastructure reliability, mobility, and service responsiveness as key priorities in the role.

Canadian hires city manager

James Rawls has been hired as city manager for the city of Canadian.

Rawls will manage city operations and carry out the policy direction of the city commission. Rawls brings experience in municipal development services and public administration. Most recently, Rawls worked with the city of Midland, supporting planning and development operations and organizational improvement efforts.