Texas Department of Agriculture
Notice of Extension of Comment Period
The Texas Department of Agriculture hereby extends the period for submission
of comments on a proposed amendment to §9.4 of the department's seed
quality rules. The proposal was published in the December 26, 1997, issue
of the
Texas Register
(22 TexReg 12643).
The comment period is extended through February 20, 1998. Comments on the
proposal may be submitted to Charles Leamons, Director for Seed Quality,
Texas Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 629, Giddings, Texas 78942.
TRD-9800285
Dolores Alvarado Hibbs
Deputy General Counsel
Texas Department of Agriculture
Filed: January 8, 1998
Corrections of Error
The Office of the Attorney General submitted Opinions and Request for Opinions,
the opinions appeared in the January 2, 1998, issue of the
Texas Register
, (23 TexReg 12).
Under Opinions-DM-460, line one, the name of the requestor should read
Jose R. Rodriguez.
Under Request for Opinions-RQ-1047, line four and five, the cite Texas
Civil Statutes, should only appear once.
Request for Proposal for the Brazos Valley Workforce Centers
Request for Proposals (RFP): The Brazos Valley Workforce Development Board
is seeking proposals for the staffing and management of its workforce centers,
incorporating, at a minimum, JTPA, JOBS, and FSE & T. Archetype, Incorporated
has been selected as an independent consulting firm to manage the procurement
process for the Board. Copies of the RFP may be obtained by faxing a request
to Don Shepard, President of Archetype, Incorporated, at (512) 343-7392.
Proposals will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on February 27, 1998 at the offices
of Mark Schiffgens, CPA at 940 East 51st Street, in Austin, Texas, 78751.
A bidder's conference will be held on January 26, 1998 at 11:00 a.m. in the
Brazos Valley Workforce Center, located at 1905 South Texas Avenue in Bryan,
Texas, to release the RFP and answer any questions regarding the bidding process.
This bidder's conference is not mandatory an interested parties that are unable
to travel to the conference may pose questions via fax at the number provided
above until one week before the proposals are due. Answers to questions submitted
by individual agencies will be shared, via fax, to all prospective bidders,
usually within one week of receipt by Archetype, Inc. BVWDB reserves the right
to accept or reject any proposals.
TRD-9800611
Fred Jackson
Chair
Brazos Valley Workforce Development Board
Filed: January 14, 1998
Notice and Opportunity to Comment on Requests for Consistency Agreement/Concurrence under the Texas Coastal Management Program
On January 10, 1997, the State of Texas received federal approval of the
Coastal Management Program (CMP) (62 Federal Register pp. 1439-1440). Under
federal law, federal agency activities and actions affecting the Texas coastal
zone must be consistent with the CMP goals and policies identified in 31 TAC
501. Requests for federal consistency review were received for the following
projects(s) during the period of January 6, 1997, through January 13, 1997:
FEDERAL AGENCY ACTIONS:
Applicant: Trans Texas Gas Corporation; Location: State Tracts 331, 332,
349, 350, and 351, Offshore Galveston County, Gulf of Mexico; Project Number:
98-0013-F1; Description of Proposed Action: The applicant proposes to install,
operate and maintain a 20-inch natural gas and condensate right-of-way pipeline.
The pipeline will originate from Trans Texas' Production Platform ''A'' located
in State Tract 331 and transverse through State Tracts 332, 351 and 350, and
terminate at a proposed hot tap valve assembly on Tejas' (formerly Amoco)
existing 18-inch pipeline in State Tract 349; Type of Application: U.S.C.O.E.
permit application #20643(01)/007 under §10 of the Rivers and Harbors
Act of 1899 (33 U.S.C.A. 403), and §404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C.A.
§§125-1387).
FEDERAL AGENCY ACTIVITIES:
Applicant: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Galveston District; Project Number:
98-0005-F2; Description of Proposed Activity: The applicant proposes to maintenance
dredge the Brazos Island Harbor to Brownsville Channel. Two options for beneficial
use of dredged material were evaluated. One option was found not to have reasonable
costs in proportion to their benefits. The other option, placing material
on the beach, appears to satisfy CMP criteria. All placement areas were identified
and used as described in an Environmental Impact Statement or Environmental
Assessment issued prior to federal approval of the CMP. The applicant has
identified Coastal Natural Resource Areas (CNRAs) in the project area and
determined the project activities will not adversely impact these CNRAs.
Applicant: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Galveston District; Project Number:
98-0006-F2; Description of Proposed Activity: The applicant proposes to maintenance
dredge the Brazos Island Harbor to Fishing Boat Harbor. Options for beneficial
use of dredged material were evaluated and found not to have reasonable costs
in proportion to their benefits. All placement areas were identified and used
as described in an Environmental Impact Statement or Environmental Assessment
issued prior to federal approval of the CMP. The applicant has identified
Coastal Natural Resource Areas (CNRAs) in the project area and determined
the project activities will not adversely impact these CNRAs.
Applicant: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Galveston District; Project Number:
98-0007-F2; Description of Proposed Activity: The applicant proposes to maintenance
dredge the Channel to Harlingen. One option for beneficial use of dredged
material were evaluated and found not to have reasonable costs in proportion
to the benefits. All placement areas were identified and used as described
in an Environmental Impact Statement or Environmental Assessment issued prior
to federal approval of the CMP. The applicant has identified Coastal Natural
Resource Areas (CNRAs) in the project area and determined the project activities
will not adversely impact these CNRAs.
Applicant: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Galveston District; Project Number:
98-0008-F2; Description of Proposed Activity: The applicant proposes to maintenance
dredge the Freeport Harbor and Channel. Two options for beneficial use of
dredged material were evaluated and found not to have reasonable costs in
proportion to their benefits. All placement areas were identified and used
as described in an Environmental Impact Statement or Environmental Assessment
issued prior to federal approval of the CMP. The applicant has identified
Coastal Natural Resource Areas (CNRAs) in the project area and determined
the project activities will not adversely impact these CNRAs.
Applicant: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Galveston District; Project Number:
98-0009-F2; Description of Proposed Activity: The applicant proposes to maintenance
dredge the Jewel Fulton Channel. One option for beneficial use of dredged
material were evaluated and found not to have reasonable costs in proportion
to the benefits. All placement areas were identified and used as described
in an Environmental Impact Statement or Environmental Assessment issued prior
to federal approval of the CMP. The applicant has identified Coastal Natural
Resource Areas (CNRAs) in the project area and determined the project activities
will not adversely impact these CNRAs.
Pursuant to §306(d)(14) of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972
(16 U.S.C.A. §§1451-1464), as amended, interested parties are invited
to submit comments on whether a proposed action should be referred to the
Coastal Coordination Council for review and whether the action is or is not
consistent with the Texas Coastal Management Program goals and policies. All
comments must be received within 30 days of publication of this notice and
addressed to Ms. Janet Fatheree, Council Secretary, 1700 North Congress Avenue,
Room 617, Austin, Texas 78701-1495.
TRD-9800557
Garry Mauro
Chairman
Coastal Coordination Council
Filed: January 14, 1998
Notice of Consultant Contract Award
In accordance with the provisions of Chapter 2254, Subchapter B of the
Texas Government Code, the Comptroller of Public Accounts announces this notice
of consultant contract award.
The consultant proposal request was published in the October 24, 1997,
issue of the
Texas Register
(22 TexReg 10549).
The consultant will assist the Comptroller in conducting a management and
performance review of the Port Arthur Independent School District, and will
produce periodic progress reports and assist in producing a final report.
These reports shall include analyses and recommendations to contain costs,
improve management strategies, and to promote better education through school
administrative efficiency.
The contract is awarded to MGT of America, 2425 Torreya Drive, Tallahassee,
Florida 32303. The total dollar value of the contract is not to exceed $125,000.00
in the aggregate. The effective date of the contract was December 17, 1997,
and it extends through August 31, 1998. MGT of America, Inc. is to assist
the Comptroller in preparing a final report which will be made public on or
about May 29, 1998.
TRD-9800375
Walter Muse
Legal Counsel
Comptroller of Public Accounts
Filed: January 9, 1998
Notice of Rate Ceilings
The Consumer Credit Commissioner of Texas has ascertained the following
rate ceilings by use of the formulas and methods described in Articles 1D.003
and 1D.009, Title 79, Revised Civil Statutes of Texas, as amended (Articles
5069-1D.003 and 1D.009, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes).
The weekly ceiling as prescribed by Art. 1D.003 and 1D.009 for the period
of 01/19/98 - 01/25/98 is 18% for Consumer
1
/Agricultural/Commercial
The weekly ceiling as prescribed by Art. 1D.003 and 1D.009 for the period
of 01/19/98 - 01/25/98 is 18% for Commercial over $250,000.
1
Credit for personal, family or household
use.
2
Credit for business, commercial, investment
or other similar purpose.
TRD-9800464
Leslie L. Pettijohn
Commissioner
Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner
Filed: January 13, 1998
Notice of Extention of Deadline
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) published Request for Applications (RFA)
701-98-001, concerning the Technology in Integration (TIE) program, in the
December 19, 1997, issue of the
Texas Register
(22 TexReg 12607). The TEA is extending the deadline for receiving applications
from March 5, 1998, to March 19, 1998.
For clarifying information about the RFA, contact Delia R. Duffey, Division
of Instructional Technology, Texas Education Agency, at (512) 463-9401 or
by e-mail at: dduffey@tea.tetn.net.
TRD-9800568
Criss Cloudt
Associate Commissioner for Policy Planning and Research
Texas Education Agency
Filed: January 14, 1998
Notice of Request for Proposals
Introduction
: Notice of Request for Proposals
(RFP) to provide energy engineering services to Texas publicly-supported institutions.
In accordance with the Texas Government Code, §2305.038, the General
Services Commission/State Energy Conservation Office (GSC/SECO) invites proposals
from qualified individuals, independent engineering firms, and institutions
of higher education that specialize in the delivery of energy engineering
services such as energy management training, on-site energy assessments, and
third-party options for financing capital energy projects in Texas public
schools, small hospitals and local governments.
The GSC/SECO, alone and in collaboration with other state and federal entities,
administers a variety of federal grants and oil overcharge funds to promote
programs which significantly impact energy cost and consumption in the institutional,
industrial, transportation and residential sectors of the state. These programs
provide (1) technical resources to institutionalize energy efficient practices;
(2) financial assistance to implement energy conservation retrofits; and (3)
educational materials to make the public aware of the necessity for an energy
efficient society. The GSC/SECO has received funding from federal grants and
oil overcharge court settlements. These monies have funded a myriad of energy-related
programs which focus on energy efficiency.
One of these programs, the Local Government Energy Management Program,
provides a range of integrated services to assist entities set up and maintain
locally controlled energy management programs. Services to be provided through
the program include: (1) energy manager training workshops, (2) partnership
ventures to assist entities develop and maintain customized energy management
programs, (3) on-site energy evaluations to identify energy-saving potential,
and (4) assistance in identifying and evaluating third-party options for financing
capital energy projects. The Program is funded with oil overcharge funds appropriated
by the 75th Texas Legislature for the purpose of promoting the efficient use
of energy resources as well as facilitating the implementation of energy conservation
retrofit measures for the target audience.
Copies of the RFP
: To receive an information
package which contains requirements and procedures regarding this RFP, contact:
Richard P. Taylor, Program Administrator, General Services Commission/State
Energy Conservation Office, 200 East 10th Street, Suite 201, Austin, Texas
78701, Telephone (512) 463-1779.
Pre-Proposal Conference
: All potential proposers
are encouraged to attend a pre-proposal conference which will be conducted
in Austin from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on January 29, 1998 in the GSC/SECO,
located at 200 East 10th Street, Room 227, Austin, Texas 78701. The purpose
of this meeting is to answer any questions regarding the RFP, the required
format, or the evaluation process. IT IS NOT MANDATORY TO ATTEND THE PRE-PROPOSAL
CONFERENCE.
Written Questions
: Questions concerning this
RFP that arise after the Pre-Proposal Conference must be submitted in writing
to Richard P. Taylor, GSC/SECO, P.O. Box 13047, Austin, Texas 78711-3047,
or transmitted by facsimile number (512) 463-7806 by 5:00 p.m. on February
13, 1998.
Closing Date for Receipt of Proposals
: One
original together with (7) copies of the sealed proposal should be sent to:
Richard P. Taylor, General Services Commission, State Energy Conservation
Office, P.O. Box 13047, Austin, Texas 78711-3047.
For hand deliveries, the GSC/SECO is located on the second floor of the
Thomas Jefferson Rusk State Office Building, 200 East 10th Street, Suite 201,
Austin, Texas 78701. Hand deliveries will be time and date stamped. In order
to be considered, proposals must be postmarked or received no later than 5:00
p.m. on February 23, 1998. Proposals received after that time, and proposals
submitted by facsimile will not be considered. Proposals should be concise,
clearly written, and conform to the instructions in the (Proposal Format)
of the RFP.
Selection Criteria
: Proposals will be reviewed
by a committee (Review Panel) which will consist of GSC/SECO staff and/or
other technical advisors. Proposals will be evaluated according to the following
weighted criteria:
(1) Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with (1) state-of-the-art
energy efficient building technologies (including renewable energy technologies)
particularly applicable to K-12, small hospital and local government facilities;
(2) energy-related maintenance and operation procedures critical to efficient
building operation; (3) traditional and current topics or issues related to
energy-efficient building operation; and (4) performance contracting for energy
services and equipment financing. (10 points maximum for each of the four
categories listed previously/40 points maximum for this section.)
(2) Demonstrated knowledge of energy accounting principles, including current
utility rate schedules. (20 points maximum for this section.)
(3) Experience and success in providing a range of energy management training
sessions, particularly for the target audience. (15 points maximum for this
section.)
(4) Ability to (1) commit individuals with experience in conducting assessments
of building energy-using systems and with expertise in 1-3 listed previously,
and (2) respond to GSC/SECO needs and assignments in a timely manner. (25
points maximum for this section.)
Equal Opportunity
: Any contract resulting
from this RFP shall contain provisions prescribed by the GSC/SECO that promote
equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination in employment.
TRD-9800544
Judy Ponder
General Counsel
General Services Commission
Filed: January 14, 1998
Request for Statements
The Harris County Flood Control District requests Statements of Qualification
from qualified consulting engineering firms to assist with study efforts for
three Federal flood control projects in Harris County, Texas - Brays Bayou,
Hunting Bayou, and White Oak Bayou. The projects were designated in the Water
Resources Development Act of 1996 to demonstrate the potential advantages
and effectiveness of local implementation of Federal flood control projects.
Knowledge and experience with local Harris County Flood Control District
methods, Corps of Engineers requirements, public participation, and environmental
compliance is required. An information meeting is scheduled for Monday, February
2, 1998, at 10:00 a.m. at the Harris County Flood Control District office,
9900 Northwest Freeway, Houston, Texas 77092. The Statements of Qualification
are due in the Harris County Flood Control District office by Friday, February
6, 1998, at 4:30 p.m. Please call Taffy Hernandez at (713) 684-4040 to obtain
more detailed information about the projects and requirements for the Statements
of Qualification.
TRD-9800545
Steve Fitzgerald
Chief Engineer
Harris County Flood Control District
Filed: January 14, 1998
Licensing Action for Radioactive Materials
The Texas Department of Health has taken actions regarding licenses for
the possession and use of radioactive materials as listed in the table below.
The subheading labeled “Location” indicates the city in which
the radioactive material may be possessed and/or used. The location listing
“Throughout Texas” indicates that the radioactive material may
be used on a temporary basis at job sites throughout the state.
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The Texas Department of Health has taken actions regarding licenses for
the possession and use of radioactive materials as listed in the table below.
The subheading labeled “Location” indicates the city in which
the radioactive material may be possessed and/or used. The location listing
“Throughout Texas” indicates that the radioactive material may
be used on a temporary basis at job sites throughout the state.
In issuing new licenses and amending and renewing existing licenses, the
Texas Department of Health, Bureau of Radiation Control, has determined that
the applicants are qualified by reason of training and experience to use the
material in question for the purposes requested in accordance with Texas Regulations
for Control of Radiation in such a manner as to minimize danger to public
health and safety or property and the environment; the applicants' proposed
equipment, facilities, and procedures are adequate to minimize danger to public
health and safety or property and the environment; the issuance of the license(s)
will not be inimical to the health and safety of the public or the environment;
and the applicants satisfy any applicable special requirements in the Texas
Regulations for Control of Radiation.
This notice affords the opportunity for a hearing on written request of
a licensee, applicant, or “person affected” within 30 days of
the date of publication of this notice. A “person affected” is
defined as a person who is resident of a county, or a county adjacent to the
county, in which the radioactive materials are or will be located, including
any person who is doing business or who has a legal interest in land in the
county or adjacent county, and any local government in the county; and who
can demonstrate that he has suffered or will suffer actual injury or economic
damage due to emissions of radiation. A licensee, applicant, or “person
affected” may request a hearing by writing Richard A. Ratliff, P.E.,
Chief, Bureau of Radiation Control (Director, Radiation Control Program),
1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3189.
Any request for a hearing must contain the name and address of the person
who considers himself affected by Agency action, identify the subject license,
specify the reasons why the person considers himself affected, and state
the relief sought. If the person is represented by an agent, the name and
address of the agent must be stated.
Copies of these documents and supporting materials are available for inspection
and copying at the office of the Bureau of Radiation Control, Texas Department
of Health, Exchange Building, 8407 Wall Street, Austin, Texas, from 8:00
a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday (except holidays).
TRD-9800288
Susan K. Steeg
General Counsel
Texas Department of Health
Filed: January 8, 1998
The Texas Department of Health has taken actions regarding licenses for
the possession and use of radioactive materials as listed in the table below.
The subheading labeled “Location” indicates the city in which
the radioactive material may be possessed and/or used. The location listing
“Throughout Texas” indicates that the radioactive material may
be used on a temporary basis at job sites throughout the state.
[graphic]
[graphic]
[graphic]
[graphic]
The Texas Department of Health has taken actions regarding licenses for
the possession and use of radioactive materials as listed in the table below.
The subheading labeled “Location” indicates the city in which
the radioactive material may be possessed and/or used. The location listing
“Throughout Texas” indicates that the radioactive material may
be used on a temporary basis at job sites throughout the state.
In issuing new licenses and amending and renewing existing licenses, the
Texas Department of Health, Bureau of Radiation Control, has determined that
the applicants are qualified by reason of training and experience to use
the material in question for the purposes requested in accordance with Texas
Regulations for Control of Radiation in such a manner as to minimize danger
to public health and safety or property and the environment; the applicants'
proposed equipment, facilities, and procedures are adequate to minimize danger
to public health and safety or property and the environment; the issuance
of the license(s) will not be inimical to the health and safety of the public
or the environment; and the applicants satisfy any applicable special requirements
in the Texas Regulations for Control of Radiation.
This notice affords the opportunity for a hearing on written request of
a licensee, applicant, or “person affected” within 30 days of
the date of publication of this notice. A “person affected” is
defined as a person who is resident of a county, or a county adjacent to
the county, in which the radioactive materials are or will be located, including
any person who is doing business or who has a legal interest in land in the
county or adjacent county, and any local government in the county; and who
can demonstrate that he has suffered or will suffer actual injury or economic
damage due to emissions of radiation. A licensee, applicant, or “person
affected” may request a hearing by writing Richard A. Ratliff, P.E.,
Chief, Bureau of Radiation Control (Director, Radiation Control Program),
1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3189.
Any request for a hearing must contain the name and address of the person
who considers himself affected by Agency action, identify the subject license,
specify the reasons why the person considers himself affected, and state
the relief sought. If the person is represented by an agent, the name and
address of the agent must be stated.
Copies of these documents and supporting materials are available for inspection
and copying at the office of the Bureau of Radiation Control, Texas Department
of Health, Exchange Building, 8407 Wall Street, Austin, Texas, from 8:00
a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday (except holidays).
TRD-9800494
Susan K. Steeg
General Counsel
Texas Department of Health
Filed: January 13, 1998
Notice is hereby given that the Bureau of Radiation Control (bureau) ordered
Colorado-Fayette Medical Center (registrant M-00492) of Weimar to cease and
desist performing mammographic examinations until all requirements are met
for mammography phantom images, as described in Texas Radiation Control Regulations.
The bureau determined that performing mammography when the images do not
meet the minimum regulatory standards constitutes an immediate threat to
public health and safety, and the existence of an emergency. Poor image quality
may result in missed diagnosis of cancerous or pre-cancerous growths, or
cause unnecessary radiation exposure to patients, due to retakes.
A copy of all relevant material is available for public inspection at the
Bureau of Radiation Control, Texas Department of Health, Exchange Building,
8407 Wall Street, Austin, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (except holidays).
TRD-9800298
Susan K. Steeg
General Counsel
Texas Department of Health
Filed: January 8, 1998
List of Hospitals Exempted from Reporting Requirements
Pursuant to the Texas Health and Safety Code, §108.0025 and §108.009(c),
the following hospitals were notified that they meet the initial requirements
for receiving an exemption from the Council's discharge data reporting requirements.
On December 12, 1997, a questionnaire was mailed to the CEO of each hospital.
Recipients were asked to respond by no later than December 331, 1997.
As specified in 25 TAC §1301.15(a)(1), hospitals that responded were
notified of the status of their exemption request by return mail. Publication
of this list in the Texas Register is also mandated under 25 TAC §1301.15(a)(1).
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TRD-9800151
Jim Loyd
Executive Director
Texas Health Care Information Council
Filed: January 8, 1998
Public Notice
The Health and Human Services Commission State Medicaid Office has received
approval from the Health Care Financing Administration to amend the Title
XIX Medical Assistance Plan by Transmittal 97-11, Amendment Number
535.
The amendment clarifies that the reimbursement methodology currently in
effect for physician services and services provided in an outpatient setting
will continue through the next biennium. The amendment is effective August
1, 1997.
If additional information is needed, please contact Genie DeKneef, Texas
Department of Health, at (512) 388-6509.
TRD-9800553
Marina S. Henderson
Executive Deputy Commissioner
Health and Human Services Commission
Filed: January 14, 1998
Notice of Request for Proposal for the Procurement of Services
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) invites proposals
from experienced and qualified consulting organizations for the purposes
of expanding homeless services in underserved areas of Texas. The primary
task
of the consulting organization will be to assist nonprofit organizations within
a predetermined target area in the development of an application in response
to the pending Notice of Fund Availability (NOFA) for Continuum of Care Assistance
from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The consulting
organization will be responsible for the following types of activities:
PRIMARY ACTIVITIES:
(A) Identification of groups and organizations with which to work to develop
the Continuum of Care application
(B) Evaluating current continuum of care system within the predetermined
target area
(C) Identification and evaluation of the service needs within the target
area
(D) Development of projects to meet the identified service needs within
the target area
(E) Preparing Continuum of Care application
(F) Assist target area with enhancing local coalition and with preparing
for the submission of future Continuum of Care applications.
Interested consulting organizations should submit a brief proposal that
includes (1) documentation of the success of their organization in completing
and submitting an application in response to the HUD Continuum of Care Assistance
NOFA; (2) a letter of interest with a brief narrative description of the proposed
project; and, (3) a proposed budget to accomplish the task. The proposal which
documents the most success in applying for previous HUD Continuum of Care
Assistance NOFAs in addition to a well organized narrative description and
reasonable budget will be chosen. The deadline for submission of proposals
is 5:00 p.m. Thursday, February 5, 1998. the proposed Proposals may be mailed
to Community Services Section, Attention: E.E. Fariss, Program Administrator,
Planning and Contracts Management, Texas Department of Housing and Community
Affairs, P.O. Box 13941, Austin, Texas 78711-3941, or may be hand-delivered
to our street address at 507 Sabine Street, Suite 600, Austin, Texas.
TRD-9800550
Larry Paul Manley
Executive Director
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
Filed: January 14, 1998
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) is issuing
this Request for Proposals (RFP) for inspection services. The services may
include a wide range of inspections for projects involving rehabilitation
and/or new construction of single family and multi-family housing during the
construction phase and upon completion. Assistance may also be required in
conducting inspection of Housing Quality Standards, Accessibility Standards
for Disabled Persons and any other standards required by the Department.
The pool of approved firms will be the source from which the Department
and TDHCA program applicants and recipients may choose to contract for Required
Services. The Department and/or program applicants or recipients will contract
directly with the pre-approved service provider of their choice as established
by TDHCA program guidelines. Organizations which may require these services
would include, but not be limited to Units of State and Local Government,
Public Housing Agencies, State Certified Community Housing Development Organizations
(CHDO's), Non-Profit Organizations, and For Profit Organizations.
The inspection firm may be required to perform one or more of the following
inspections:
a. Civil
b. Structural
c. Building Layout
d. Foundation
e. Framing
f. Insulation
g. Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing Rough-in
h. Drywall
i. Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing Final
j. Building Final
k. Individual property conditions inspection of a minimum of 35% of the
units of every building to ensure a fair and reasonable sampling.
l. Local building code inspection (1994 Uniform Building Code to be used
in the absence of local building codes).
m. Other inspections as may be required, such as environmental, asbestos,
and lead based paint
n. Housing Quality Inspections (minimum standards provided by TDHCA)
The scope of services will typically follow the process of (1) data collection,
(2) analysis, (3) data organization and identification or problems, (4) review
and assessment of data and recommendation, (5) statement of probable cost,
(6) development of reports or contract documents.
General Information. TDHCA reserves the right to accept or reject any,
or all, proposals submitted. The information contained in this proposal request
is intended to serve only as a general description of the services desired
by TDHCA. In the event TDHCA selects a firm to provide the services described,
TDHCA will base its choice on demonstrated competence and qualifications
and
the reasonableness of the fee for services. This request does not commit TDHCA
to pay for any costs incurred prior to execution of a contract and is subject
to availability of funds. Issuance of this proposal in no way obligates TDHCA
to contract for inspection services or to pay any costs incurred in the preparation
of a response.
Proposals must be received at TDHCA headquarters no later than
4:30 p.m. on February 23, 1998
. Please contact Yvonne Flores with the
Department's Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program at 512-475-3340 to request
an RFP packet or for more information.
TRD-9800362
Larry Paul Manley
Executive Director
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
Filed: January 9, 1998
Public Notice-Closed Solicitation for Donley County
Pursuant to Title 2, Chapters 22 and 32, of the Human Resources Code and
40 TAC §19.2324, in the March 31, 1995, issue of the
Texas Register
(20 TexReg 2443), the Texas Department of Human Services
(TDHS) is closing the solicitation for new Medicaid beds in Donley County,
County Number 065, which appeared in the September 17, 1993, issue of the
TRD-9800521
Glenn Scott
General Counsel, Legal Services
Texas Department of Human Services
Filed: January 13, 1998
Insurer Services
The following applications have been filed with the Texas Department of
Insurance and are under consideration:
Application to change the name of FINANCIAL SECURITY ASSURANCE OF MARYLAND,
INC. to ACA FINANCIAL GUARANTY CORPORATION, a foreign property and casualty
company. The home office is located in Potomac, Maryland.
Application to change the name of FINANCIAL BENEFIT LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
to FINANCIAL SAVERS LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, a foreign life company. The home
office is located in Boca Raton, Florida.
Application to change the name of AMERICAN POLICYHOLDERS INSURANCE COMPANY
to VILLANOVA INSURANCE COMPANY, a foreign property and casualty company.
The home office is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Any objections must be filed within 20 days after this notice was filed
with the Texas Department of Insurance, addressed to the attention of Kathy
Wilcox, 333 Guadalupe Street, M/C 305-2C, Austin, Texas 78701.
TRD-9800275
Bernice Ross
Deputy Chief Clerk
Texas Department of Insurance
Filed: January 8, 1998
The following applications have been filed with the Texas Department of
Insurance and are under consideration:
Application to change the name of NETWORK AMERICA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
to PENN TREATY AMERICA INSURANCE COMPANY, a foreign life company. The home
office is located in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Application to change the name of NORTHWESTERN NATIONAL COUNTY MUTUAL INSURANCE
COMPANY to FARM BUREAU COUNTY MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY OF TEXAS, a domestic
mutual company. The home office is located in Waco, Texas.
Application for admission in the State of Texas for THE DENTAL CONCERN,
INC, a foreign HMO. The home office is located in Louisville, Kentucky.
Any objections must be filed within 20 days after this notice was filed
with the Texas Department of Insurance, addressed to the attention of Kathy
Wilcox, 333 Guadalupe Street, M/C 305-2C, Austin, Texas 78701.
TRD-9800514
Bernice Ross
Deputy Chief Clerk
Texas Department of Insurance
Filed: January 13, 1998
The following third party administrator (TPA) application has been filed
with the Texas Department of Insurance and is under consideration.
Application for admission to Texas of Cher A. Bumps & Associates, Inc.,
a foreign third party administrator. The home office is Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Any objections must be filed within 20 days after this notice was filed
with the Secretary of State, addressed to the attention of Charles M. Waits,
MC 107-5A, 333 Guadalupe, Austin, Texas 78714-9104.
TRD-9800515
Bernice Ross
Deputy Chief Clerk
Texas Department of Insurance
Filed: January 13, 1998
Legislative Budget Board
Proposed Legislative Budget Board Procedures Pertaining to School Finance Studies
CODE §42.007
1. Legislative Budget Board staff will study and report on the following
topics in accordance with Texas Education Code, §42.007: Regular Program;
Fiscal Neutrality; School Facilities; Compensatory Education; Special
Education, including a review of the Admission, Retention and Dismissal (ARD)
process.
2. Legislative Budget Board staff will hold an open meeting to discuss
the proposed fiscal studies prior to beginning research and analysis. This
meeting is scheduled for February 4, 1998, at 9:00 a.m. in room E1.036 of
the Capitol Extension. At this meeting, staff will take testimony and written
comments concerning the proposed research topics.
Meeting participants representing the education community will be invited
to attend the meeting. These will include representatives from the Texas
Association of School Boards, Texas Association of School Administrators,
Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund (MALDEF), Equity Center,
Advocacy Inc., and the Association of Retarded Citizens (ARC) of Texas.
Interested individuals from other branches of State Government and the
education community will be invited to observe the meeting. These will include
representatives from the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Speaker
of the House, House Appropriations Committee, House Public Education Committee,
Senate Finance Committee, Senate Education Committee, Texas Education Agency,
Comptroller of Public Accounts, and the Texas Center for Educational Research.
3. Legislative Budget Board staff will hold a subsequent open meeting to
discuss the findings of the study upon completion.
4. Legislative Budget Board staff will report the results of the studies
to the 76th Legislature prior to the start of its regular session.
TRD-9800860
John Keel
Executive Director
Legislative Budget Board
Filed: January 16, 1998
Notice of Public Presentation on Medicaid Managed Care In Dallas Service Area
The Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Texas Department of Health,
Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation, and Texas Health
and Human Services Commission will offer a presentation to the public on the
proposed model of physical and behavioral health care delivery in the Medicaid
managed care program for the Dallas service area. Medicaid managed care will
be implemented in Dallas, Collin, Hunt, Rockwell, Ellis, Navarro, and Kaufman
counties in July 1999. The public presentation will be held on Tuesday, February
10, 1998, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Dallas County Health and Human Services,
Health Department Tower, 6th Floor, Room 627, 2377 North Stemmons Freeway,
Dallas, Texas.
For further information or to arrange for an interpreter for the deaf or
hearing impaired, contact Joy Faught at (512/794-5163.)
TRD-9800559
Ann K. Utley
Chair, Texas MHMR Board
Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation
Filed: January 14,1998
Corrections of Error
The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission proposed an amendment
to 30 TAC §106.2. The rule appeared in the January 2, 1998, issue of
the
Texas Register
, (23 TexReg 60).
Due to error as submitted. On page 60, ninth paragraph of the preamble,
second sentence, was incorrectly printed, it should read “The commission
has determined that the use of substances with an ESL below that figure could
result in a ground level concentration that may not be protective of human
health in all situations.”
The following notice of an application was issued on January 9, 1998.
Aluminum Company of America; in care of Jerry Ripp, P.E., P.O. Box 1491,
Rockdale, Texas 76567; Application Number RE-0302; applicant seeks approval
of preliminary plans to modify 16,300 linear feet of Yegua Creek in Milam
County, approximately 5.7 miles south of Rockdale, Texas, pursuant to Section
16.236 of the Texas Water Code and the Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission ("TNRCC" or the "Commission") Rules 30 TAC Chapters 281 and 301.
The channel modifications will provide protection to the natural waters, the
mine offices and facilities infrastructure, and the surface coal mining activities.
The project consists of four phases that will modify a total of 16,300 linear
feet of Yegua Creek to a bottom width of 20 to 51 feet, an average depth of
5 to 35 feet, and sides slopes of 4 to 1. Earth removed for the channel will
be placed in adjacent areas which will not impede flood flows, but will allow
the mining of lignite within the Yegua Creek floodplain. After the lignite
has been mined, the original Yegua Creek channel will be restored to approximate
the original contours. The diversion channel will be removed and the affected
areas regraded to blend with the proposed post-mining contours. Bottom land
and floodplain vegetation will be re-established following restoration of
the topography. If the plans are approved by the Commission, construction
will begin within one month and be completed within four years from the date
of Commission approval.
If a hearing request is filed, the Executive Director will not approve
the application and will forward the application and hearing request to the
TNRCC Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting.
If a hearing is held, it will be a legal proceeding similar to civil trials
in state district court.
If you wish to appeal preliminary plans approved by the Executive Director,
you may do so by filing a written Motion for Reconsideration with the Chief
Clerk of the Commission no later than 20 days after the date the Executive
Director approves the plans.
Requests for a public hearing must be submitted in writing to the Chief
Clerk's Office, MC 105, TNRCC, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.
Individual members of the public who wish to inquire about the information
contained in this notice, or to inquire about other agency permit applications
or permitting processes, should call the TNRCC Office of Public Assistance,
Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040.
TRD-9800600
Eugenia K. Brumm, Ph.D.
Chief Clerk
Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission
Filed: January 14, 1998
Attached are Notices of Applications for waste disposal/discharge permits
issued during the period of December 18th 1997 through January 9, 1998.
The Executive Director will issue these permits unless one or more persons
file written protests and/or a request for a hearing within 30 days after
newspaper publication of the notice.
To request a hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or
for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address,
daytime phone number, and fax number, if any; (2) the name of the applicant
and the permit number; (3) the statement "I/we request a public hearing;"
(4) a brief description of how you would be adversely affected by the granting
of the application in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location
of your property relative to the applicant's operations; and (6) your proposed
adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns and
cause you to withdraw your request for hearing.
Information concerning any aspect of these applications may be obtained
by contacting the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, Chief Clerks
Office-MC105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711. Individual members of the
public who wish to inquire about the information contained in this notice,
or to inquire about other agency permit applications or permitting processes,
should call the TNRCC Office of Public Assistance, Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040.
Listed are the name of the applicant and the city in which the facility
is located, type of facility, location of the facility, type of application-new
permit, amendment, or renewal and permit number.
CHIRENO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, P.O. 85, Chireno, Texas 75937; the
Chireno ISD Wastewater Treatment Facilities are located on the north side
of Farm-to-Market 95, approximately 1/2 mile south of the junction of Highway
21 and Farm-to-Market Road 95 in Nacogdoches County, Texas; new; 13917-001.
ELI SASSON, 6776 Southwest Freeway #350, Houston, Texas 77074, the Green
Road Mobile Home Park Wastewater Treatment Facilities, the facilities are
located north of Greens Bayou; approximately 3,150, feet west of the intersection
of Greens Road and Aldine Westfield Road; 5,100 feet east of the intersection
of Greens Road and Hardy Road in Harris County, Texas; new; Permit Number
11414-002.
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Forest Service, 701 North First
Street, Lufkin, Texas, the Caney Creek Recreation Area Wastewater Treatment
Facilities are located in the Angelina National Forest, approximately 5.8
miles southeast of the intersection of State Highways 63 and Farm-to-Market
Road 2743 near the Caney Creek Recreation Area, on the north side of Forest
Service Road 336 and approximately 1,000 feet from Sam Rayburn Reservoir in
Angelina County, Texas; new; Permit Number 12263-005.
CITGO REFINING AND CHEMICALS COMPANY, L.P., P.O. Box 9176, Corpus Christi,
Texas 78469-0321 ;a petroleum refinery which manufactures gasoline, LPG Number
2 oil (diesel), sulfur, and petroleum coke. The wastes managed by the facility
include hazardous wastes and Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 non-hazardous industrial
solid wastes; The facility is located at 1801 Nueces Bay Boulevard, north
on Interstate Highway 37 approximately 1.75 miles after the intersection of
State Highway 358 (Padre Island Drive) and Interstate Highway 37 in Corpus
Christi, Nueces County, Texas; Proposed Permit Number HW50353; 45 day notice.
RED RIVER ARMY DEPOT, Commander, SIORR-OL, Texarkana, Texas 75507-5000;
an industrial hazardous waste management facility. Wastes are generated on-site
and include wastes associated with the maintenance of light and medium tracked
vehicles and weapon systems, and from x-ray, renovation and demilitarization
of a wide variety of munitions and explosives. The facility is located on
approximately 14,000 acres approximately one-fourth mile south of exit #206
of U.S. Interstate Highway 30 in Bowie County, Texas; Major Amendment to
Permit Number HW50178; 45 day notice.
TRD-9800598
Eugenia K. Brumm, Ph.D.
Chief Clerk
Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission
Filed: January 14, 1998
The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) furnishes this
notice of a consulting services contract for developing a Consolidated Uniform
Report for the Environment (CURE) policy.
Description of Contract. The consultant will: Analyze a variety of source
documents, including regulations and the stakeholder needs assessment, as
input for the CURE policy; Portray how the CURE policy would work; Facilitate
reviews of the CURE policy at pilot sites and analyze the results; Compare
the CURE to existing policies, rules, and statues to determine the changes
needed to implement CURE for C&E facilities and other sectors; Document
the project's process and results for each activity in a report; and Support
TNRCC's communication with and outreach to stakeholders. Primary funding for
this contract is provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Effective Date and Value of Contract. The contract dates are December 19,
1997 through April 30, 1999. The total cost of the contract is $230,000.
Deliverable Due Dates. The deliverables are due on the schedule provided
below. All deliverables must be completed and approved prior to the contract
completion date, April 30, 1999. Required deliverables and final due dates
are listed as follows: 1-1 Work plan report: March 1, 1998; 2-1 Policy Outline:
May 1, 1998; 2-2 Form and meta-data: June 1, 1998; 2-3 Comparison: September
1, 1998; 3-1 Presentations on logical design and external ("look and feel")
prototype: June 1, 1998; 3-2 Copies of and documentation for logical design
and external ("look and feel") prototype: June 1, 1998; 4-1 Metrics to measure
CURE efficiency and effectiveness: June 1, 1998; 4-2 Materials for & participation
in meetings and trainings: as requested; 4-3 Pilot results report: February
1, 1999; 5-1 Present change strategies: February 1, 1999; 5-2 "Roadmap" Report:
February 1, 1999; 6-1 Facilitate workgroup meetings: as requested; 6-2 Materials
for meetings/outreach: as requested; 6-3 Logistical support for meetings/outreach:
as requested; 6-4 Outreach/publicity strategy: April 30, 1999; 7-1 Files and
raw data: April 30, 1999.
Name of the Contractor. The consultant is RFD and Associates, Inc. The
address for RFD and Associates is 1210 West Fifth Street, Austin, TX 78703.
TRD-9800536
Kevin McCalla
Director, Legal Division
Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission
Filed: January 13, 1998
Amended Notice Of Receipt Of Application And Declaration Of Administrative
Completeness For Municipal Solid Waste Management Facility
For The Period of January 5, 1998 to January 9, 1998
APPLICATION BY BFI WASTE SYSTEMS OF NORTH AMERICA, INC., Proposed Permit
Amendment Number MSW1948-A, to authorize an amendment for vertical expansion
of an existing Type I Municipal Solid Waste Landfill for the disposal of municipal
solid waste and to authorize the disposal of Class 1 nonhazardous industrial
solid waste. The facility proposes to receive approximately 606 tons of solid
waste per day for disposal or processing. The existing site is in Hidalgo
County, approximately 3.2 miles north of Donna, Texas, within the ETJ of the
City of Donna. It is approximately one-fourth mile east of FM 493, with access
to the landfill from Mile 12 North Road.
If you wish to request a public hearing, you must submit your request in
writing. You must state (1) your name, mailing address and daytime phone number;
(2) the application number, TNRCC docket number or other recognizable reference
to the application; (3) the statement I/we request an evidentiary public hearing;
(4) a brief description of how you, or the persons you represent, would be
adversely affected by the granting of the application; and (5) a description
of the location of your property relative to the applicant's operations.
Requests for a public hearing or questions concerning procedures should
be submitted in writing to the Chief Clerk's Office, Park 35 TNRCC Complex,
Building F, Room 1101, Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, Mail
Code 105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711. Individual members of the public
who wish to inquire about the information contained in this notice, or to
inquire about other agency permit applications or permitting processes, should
call the TNRCC Office of Public Assistance, Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040.
TRD-9800599
Eugenia K. Brumm, Ph.D.
Chief Clerk
Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission
Filed: January 14, 1998
Listed below are permits issued during the period of January 13, 1998
Application Number TA-7907 by Intercontinental Terminals Co. for diversion
of 40 acre-feet in a 1-year period for industrial (hydrostatic testing) use.
Water may be diverted from Buffalo Bayou (Houston Ship Channel), San Jacinto
River Basin, approximately 15 miles east of Houston, Harris County, Texas
near the crossing of Tidal Road and Buffalo Bayou (Houston Ship Channel).
Application Number TA-7908 by Sonat Exploration Co. for diversion of ten
acre-feet in a one year period for mining (oil & gas well drilling) use.
Water may be diverted from the Pecos River, Rio Grande Basin, approximately
25 miles southwest of Ozona, Crockett County, Texas and one mile southwest
of the Brown-Bassett/JM low water crossing and the Pecos River.
Application Number TA-7910 by Water Partners for diversion of ten acre-feet
in a one year period for mining (oil & gas well drilling) use. Water may
be diverted anywhere in the Rio Grande Watershed in Hidalgo, Starr and Cameron
Counties, Texas, Rio Grande Basin.
Application Number 7911 by Vintage Petroleum, Inc, for diversion of ten
acre-feet in a one year period for mining (oil & gas well drilling) use.
Water may be diverted from the San Marcos River, Guadalupe River Basin, approximately
18 miles northeast of Seguin, Guadalupe County, Texas at the crossing of an
unnamed county road and the San Marcos River and approximately four miles
northwest of the crossing of US Hwy 90 and the San Marcos River.
The Executive Director of the TNRCC has reviewed each application for the
permits listed and determined that sufficient water is available at the proposed
point of diversion to satisfy the requirements of the application as well
as all existing water rights. Any person or persons who own water rights or
who are lawful users of water on a stream affected by the temporary permits
listed above and who believe that the diversion of water under the temporary
permit will impair their rights may file a complaint with the TNRCC. The complaint
can be filed at any point after the application has been filed with the TNRCC
and the time the permit expires. The Executive Director shall make an immediate
investigation to determine whether there is a reasonable basis for such a
complaint. If a preliminary investigation determines that diversion under
the temporary permit will cause injury to the complainant the commission shall
notify the holder that the permit shall be canceled without notice and hearing.
No further diversions may be made pending a full hearing as provided in §295.174.
Complaints should be addressed to Water Rights Permitting Section, Texas Natural
Resource Conservation Commission, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711, Telephone
(512) 239-4433. Information concerning these applications may be obtained
by contacting the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, P.O. Box
13087, Austin, Texas 78711, Telephone (512) 239-3300.
TRD-9800601
Eugenia K. Brumm, Ph.D.
Chief Clerk
Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission
Filed: January 14, 1998
The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC), under the authority
granted in the Consulting Services Procurement Act, Texas Government Code,
§2254, Chapter B, solicits qualified consulting firms to submit proposals
to develop and provide outreach and training to enable Texas communities and
organizations institute economically and environmentally responsible waste
reduction programs.
Project Objective. The Texas Community Waste Reduction Outreach Project
is to provide waste minimization, composting, and recycling outreach and training
for Texas communities and organizations. Services to be provided by the consultant
include: training community leaders, and solid waste and recycling coordinators
in the basics of integrated waste management, source reduction, recycling,
and consumer purchasing for waste reduction, recycled content, and recyclability;
providing information to city elected officials and staff on the benefits
of membership in TNRCC's Clean Cities 2000 program; recruiting public, private,
educational, and non-profit organizations for membership in the Clean Texas
Star program; recruiting communities and assisting them to initiate local
waste reduction projects targeting residential yard trimmings; providing technical
assistance and informational materials to communities with YardWise and Master
Composter programs; and reporting and advising the TNRCC on the progress of
the work.
Proposal Contact Information. Prior to submitting proposals, proposers
are encouraged to write or call Andrew Neblett, Director, Office of Pollution
Prevention and Recycling (MC 112) Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission,
P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087, telephone - 512/239-3166 or telefax
- 512/239-6763, and request a Project Information Packet, which contains
details concerning TNRCC's intended scope of work for this project as well
as selection criteria and evaluation procedures.
The
Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Texas Community Waste Reduction Outreach
Project will be available for distribution on January 6, 1998.
Proposal Requirements. All proposers must describe the experience and professional
qualifications they would bring to the proposed project. Proposers must also
set forth clearly and specifically those procedures and methodologies they
would use in the course of project design and development.
Submittal Procedures and Response Deadline. In order to be considered,
proposals must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the request for
proposals (RFP) as part of the Texas Community Waste Reduction Outreach Project
Information Packet. Any consultant interested in submitting a proposal must
provide one original and three copies of the proposal by certified mail,
personal delivery, or express mail as specified in the RFP. Proposals must
be received no later than 3:00 p.m. Central Standard time on February 13,
1998. In keeping with environmentally sound practices, proposals must be
printed on recycled-content paper using both sides. Late proposals will not
be accepted. Upon submittal, the proposals will become the property of the
State of Texas. The contents of all proposals shall be considered public
record, therefore no confidential, proprietary, or trade secret information
should be submitted.
Contract Budget. The consulting contract to be established under this request
for proposal will provide for compensation on the basis of invoices submitted
by the Consultant, up to the amount contracted for this project.
Procedure for Ranking Proposers. Proposals will be evaluated based on criteria
established by the TNRCC. The Project Information Packet fully describes the
criteria by which the Proposer's submission will be scored. This criteria
focuses on the organization's and key personnel's experience and qualifications
relevant to this project, including: Management and administration of complex
programs involving volunteer activities in multiple communities and coordination
across diverse regions of Texas; Familiarity with the principles and strategies
of waste reduction and recycling; Experience in development of educational
materials and conduct of training programs; A record of successful implementation
of public education, awareness, and recognition programs; and Familiarity
with state government environmental programs, including waste minimization
and recycling. The completeness, feasibility, and technical merit of the work
plan and the cost for services will also be considered.
Final Negotiations. After an initial evaluation of proposals, the TNRCC
will choose the best qualified proposal based on the selection criteria and
begin negotiating a contract. If the TNRCC is unable to negotiate a satisfactory
contract with this proposer, the TNRCC will formally end negotiations with
this proposer and begin negotiations with the next best qualified proposer.
Negotiations will continue in this manner until a satisfactory contract is
secured. No contract will be executed until an affirmative finding of fact
has been obtained by the agency.
TRD-9800574
Kevin McCalla
Director, Legal Division
Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission
Filed: January 14, 1998
Corrections of Error
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department adopted amendments to 31 TAC §57.111.
The rule appeared in the December 19, 1997, issue of the
Texas Register
, (22 TexReg 12535).
The follow errors were made by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
during the preparation of the documents.
In the definition of “Waste” that appears on page 12538, the
incorrect language reads: “...as in Chapter 26 §26.001(5) of the
Texas Water Code.”
The correct language should read: “...as in Chapter 26, §26.001(6)
of the Texas Water Code.”
In the definition of “Water in the state” that appears on page
12538, the incorrect language reads, “..as in Chapter 26, §26.001(6)
of the Texas Water Code.”
The correct citation should read, “as in Chapter 26, §26.001(5)
of the Texas Water Code.”
Notification of Meeting of Task Force to Develop a List of Narrow Therapeutic Index Drugs
The Texas State Board of Pharmacy Announces that the Task Force to Develop
a List of Narrow Therapeutic Index Drugs met on Thursday, January 15, 1998.
The meeting was held in the Texas State Board of Pharmacy Conference Room,
Tower 3, Suite 600, William P. Hobby, Jr. State Office Building, 333 Guadalupe
Street, Austin, Texas at 9:30 a.m.
TRD-9800369
Gay Dodson, R.Ph.
Executive Director/Secretary
Texas State Board of Pharmacy
Filed: January 9, 1998
Public Hearing-Services to At-Risk (STAR) Policy Revision.
The Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services (TDPRS) will
conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the Services to At-Risk (STAR)
policy revision. The public hearing will be held on Monday, February 9, 1998
at 2:00 p.m. in the Public Hearing Room of the John H. Winters Center (701
West 51st Street, Austin, Texas, First Floor, East Tower, Room 100). Parking
is available at the Winters Center.
Contact person: Please contact Cynthia Ximenes, STAR Program Specialist,
(512) 438-3127 for additional information.
Request for copies of the STAR policies can be made by sending written
request or faxing a request to Cynthia Ximenes (E-541), Texas Department
of Protective and Regulatory Services, P.O. Box 149030, 701 West 51st Street,
Fifth Floor, East Tower, Section K, Austin, Texas 78714-9030, (512) 438-3127,
Fax (512) 438-2031.
Persons with disabilities planning to attend this hearing who may need
auxiliary aids or services are asked to contact Cynthia Ximenes, (512) 438-3127
by February 6, 1998, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
TRD-9800520
C. Ed Davis
Deputy Commissioner for Legal Services
Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services
Filed: January 13, 1998
Under provisions of the Texas Human Resources Code Chapter 40, the Texas
Department of Protective and Regulatory Services (PRS) hereby requests proposals
to provide Levels of Care (LOC) Services Support System pertaining to Protective
Services for Families and Children (PSFC) programs.
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES:
Services to be provided
under this RFP include making clinical determinations of the level of care
necessary to meet the child's treatment and service needs; service authorizations
and reauthorizations, including those covered by Medicaid; utilization reviews;
quality assurance monitoring of residential care; and related resource information
and reporting services.
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS:
Eligible applicants
include public or private profit or non-profit agencies with demonstrated
knowledge, competence, and qualifications in providing similar residential
facility quality assurance monitoring services. Funds provided through this
project may not be used to replace existing federal, state, or local funding.
Eligible applicants who may also be Historically Underutilized Businesses,
Minority or Women's Enterprise Businesses, and Small Business Enterprises
are encouraged to apply by notifying the contact person named as follows.
CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS:
The last date and time that offers and modifications of offers will be received
is February 24, 1998, Tuesday, at 4:00 p.m. Proposals received after the deadline
will be accepted only if received by next day delivery and with proof of mailing
at least two days prior to the deadline. Modifications to the original proposal
must also be received by the February 24, 1998, deadline. PRS shall be the
sole and final arbitrator of when offers and modifications are received.
NECESSARY CREDENTIALS:
A panel of PRS designated
personnel and others deemed appropriate by PRS who have no conflicts of interest
will assess incoming proposals to determine if potential contractors have
(1) provided detailed and ample service description, (2) demonstrated relevant
prior experience of organization and of key assigned staff, and (3) made an
offer of reasonable, necessary, and allowable costs that are appropriately
allocated to effectively and efficiently implement the services requested
under the RFP. These credentials are deemed necessary for providing the services
further described in the RFP.
TERM AND TOTAL VALUE:
The contract is projected
from September 1, 1998, through August 31, 1998. Funding is projected not
to exceed $990,000.00 during the period of Texas Fiscal Year 1998 (9/98 through
8/99). Additional funds may be made available to continue this project through
2002. Funding will be dependent upon available federal and state appropriations
for these services.
LIMITATIONS:
PRS reserves the absolute right
to reject in whole or in part any and all offers received in response to the
Request for Proposals, and to amend, suspend, or cancel the Request for Proposals
in whole or in part if it is deemed in PRS' best interest. PRS does not guarantee
that any quantity or kind of services, goods, customers, etc., will be made
available to any offeror or contractor under this RFP. PRS shall not reimburse
costs incurred in applying for this RFP.
CONTACT PERSONS AND OFFEROR'S CONFERENCE NOTICE:
Requests for Proposal (RFP) packets may be obtained by writing to or
calling the designated PRS purchasing officer as follows: Attention: Deborah
Williams, Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services, Purchased
Services E-559, Winters Building, 701 West 51st Street, P. O. Box 149030,
Austin, Texas 78714-9030 (78751), at telephone number 512-438- 3862. Also,
designated to answer incoming inquiries concerning program matters on this
RFP is Margaret Monk, PRS-CPS Program Management, at the same telephone number.
Official replies to inquiries will be in writing only from these designated
PRS personnel. An Offeror's Conference has been tentatively scheduled for
Wednesday, February 11, 1998, at PRS headquarters, in the Winters Building,
701 West 51st Street, Austin, Texas 78751. Please call the designated purchasing
officer for further details on the conference. Persons with disabilities who
will participate in this RFP and who need auxiliary aids or other services
or items for reasonable accommodations are requested to contact the designated
purchasing officer, Deborah Williams at 512-438-3862, within 72 hours of the
Offeror's Conference.
TRD-9800563
C. Ed Davis
Deputy Commissioner for Legal Services
Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services
Filed: January 14, 1998
Notice of Application for Amendment to Service Provider Certificate of Operating Authority
On January 12, 1998, DeLoach's Home Entertainment Centers, Inc., doing
business as Rent City filed an application with the Public Utility Commission
of Texas (PUC) to amend its service provider certificate of operating authority
(SPCOA) granted in SPCOA Certificate Number 60076. Applicant intends to expand
its geographic area to include all areas in Texas currently serviced by Southwestern
Bell Telephone Company and GTE-Southwest, Inc.
The Application: Application of DeLoach's Entertainment Centers, Inc.,
d/b/a Rent City for an Amendment to its Service Provider Certificate of Operating
Authority, Docket Number 18493.
Persons with questions about this docket, or who wish to intervene or otherwise
participate in these proceedings should make appropriate filings or comments
to the commission at the Public Utility Commission of Texas, at P.O. Box 13326,
Austin, Texas 78711-3326 no later than January 28, 1998. You may contact the
PUC Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired
individuals with text telephone (TTY) may contact the commission at (512)
936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket Number 18493.
TRD-9800528
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 13, 1998
Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission
of Texas an application on December 18, 1997, pursuant to Public Utility Commission
Substantive Rule 23.49(c)(12) for authority to recovery lost revenues and
costs of implementing expanded local calling service.
Docket Style and Number: Application of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company
to Recover Lost Revenues and Cost of Implementing Expanded Local Calling Service
Pursuant to Public Utility Commission Substantive Rule 23.49(c)(12). Docket
Number 18513.
The Application: Southwestern Bell Telephone requests authority to recover
a total annual shortfall of $26,826,817. Southwestern Bell Telephone Company
seeks approval to impose a monthly surcharge of $0.26 on each access line
that is not currently paying the maximum expanded local calling service rate
of $3.50 for residence and $7.00 for business. In addition, Southwestern Bell
Telephone Company states that surcharges are included for those customers
in expanded local calling service exchanges who cannot be charged the full
$0.26 without exceeding the $3.50 or $7.00 rate. Southwestern Bell Telephone
Company's application is the result of implementing 435 expanded local calling
service projects involving more than 1,000 interexchange routes.
Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public
Utility Commission of Texas, by mail at P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas, 78711-3326,
or call the Public tility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512)
936-7120 within 15 days of the date this notice is published. Hearing and
speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission
at (512) 936-7136.
TRD-9800262
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 7, 1998
Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission
of Texas on December 18, 1997, an application in accordance with the Public
Utility Regulatory Act, Texas Utilities Code Annotated, §58.058 (Vernon
1998) (PURA) and Public Utility Commission Substantive Rule §23.24.
Docket and Title Number. Application of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company
for Approval to Change the Rate Group Classification of 52 Exchanges in Texas.
Docket Number 18509.
The Application. SWBT seeks approval to change the rate group classification
of 52 of its 300 exchanges in Texas, which is the result of changes in the
number of exchange access arrangements, i.e., access lines. SWBT states that
the rate group reclassification does not include any changes in access lines
as a result of the provision of optional Extended Area Service (EAS) or Expanded
Local Calling Services (ELCS). A typical customer's bill for a basic local
service one-party line will increase from $2.40 to $7.80 annually for residence
and from $5.40 to $36 annually for business.
Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the
application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the
Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket
Number 18509.
TRD-9800529
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 13, 1998
Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission
of Texas an application on January 12, 1998, for a service provider certificate
of operating authority (SPCOA), pursuant to §§54.154 - 54.159 of
the Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA). A summary of the application follows.
Docket Title and Number: Application of Future Communications for a Service
Provider Certificate of Operating Authority, Docket Number 18639 before the
Public Utility Commission of Texas.
Applicant intends to resell local exchange service including tone dialing,
custom calling, Caller ID, toll restriction, prepaid long distance, bill number
screening and any other services which are available on a resale basis from
the underlying incumbent local exchange companies to other certificated carriers
within the Applicant's service area.
Applicant's requested SPCOA geographic area includes the geographic areas
of the following incumbent local exchange companies: Southwestern Bell Telephone
Company, GTE- SW, United Telephone Company of Texas, Inc., Lufkin-Conroe Telephone
Exchange, Inc., Texas Alltel, Inc., Livingston Telephone Company, and Eastex
Telephone Cooperative, Inc.
Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public
Utility Commission of Texas, at P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326,
or call the commission's Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120 no
later than January 28, 1998. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with
text telephone (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136.
TRD-9800535
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 13, 1998
Notice is given to the public of the intent to file with the Public Utility
Commission of Texas an application pursuant to P.U.C. SUBSTANTIVE RULE 23.27
for a 200 station addition to the existing PLEXAR-Custom service for Edinburg
ISD in Edinburg, Texas.
Tariff Title and Number: Application of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company
for a 200 Station Addition to the Existing PLEXAR-Custom Service for Edinburg
ISD in Edinburg, Texas Pursuant to P.U.C. SUBSTANTIVE RULE 23.27. Tariff Control
Number 18634.
The Application: Southwestern Bell Telephone Company is requesting approval
for a 200 station addition to the existing PLEXAR-Custom service for Edinburg
ISD in Edinburg, Texas. The designated exchange for this service is the Edinburg
exchange, and the geographic market for this specific PLEXAR-Custom service
is the Brownsville LATA.
Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public
Utility Commission of Texas, by mail at P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326,
or call the commission's Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephone (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136.
TRD-9800459
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 12, 1998
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) has received a petition
for rulemaking, designated as Project Number 18615, from the Texas Payphone
Association, Inc. (TPA). The petition, which was filed on January 2, 1998,
requests that the commission amend Substantive Rule §23.54(d)(4)(A)(x)
(the Rule) to allow pay telephone service providers to provide access to incumbent
local exchange carrier (ILEC) operators by dialing a three-digit access code
specified by the pay telephone service provider. The Rule presently states
that a payphone must provide users access to the ILEC operator by dialing
"0" or "00" access codes. The TPA argues that the Rule, as adopted, has an
adverse financial impact on payphone service providers and may inconvenience
payphone users because the use of "0" or "00" access codes for ILEC operators
may redirect operator traffic away from operator service providers contracted
to provide services for each payphone.
Comments on the petition may be filed not later than February 13, 1998.
Persons who are interested in obtaining a copy of the petition for rulemaking
may do so by contacting the commission's Central Records Office, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. All inquiries and
comments concerning this petition for rulemaking should refer to Project Number
18615.
TRD-9800474
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 13, 1998
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) will conduct a public, staff
level workshop as part of a customer survey and assessment of the PUC's Interchange
System, at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 3, 1998. The purpose of this workshop
is to assess the customer's perception as to the quality of service they are
receiving while using the PUC's Interchange System. The PUC would like to
find out from the users of the PUC's Interchange System:
1. What do you like about the Interchange?
2. What problems have you encountered in using the Interchange?
3. How do you feel the Interchange could be improved?
The workshop will be conducted in the commissioner's hearing room located
on the 7th floor of the William B. Travis building, located at 1701 North
Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas, 78701. Please call Iris Ericson at (512) 936-7099
to register for the workshop. Any other questions in regards to the workshop
should be directed to Marco Zamora at (512) 936-7095.
TRD-9800537
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 14, 1998
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) will conduct a public, staff
level workshop as part of a survey and assessment of customer satisfaction
with services provided by the PUC, from 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February
3, 1998. The purpose of the workshop is to assess the level of satisfaction
among groups of customers who receive PUC services. Pursuant to a provision
of the General Appropriations Act (Article IX, Section 68, 1997), assessment
results will be reported in the PUC Strategic Plan for the 1999-2004 period.
Generally, the PUC would like to determine:
1. What do customers like about various PUC services?
2. What problems do customers encounter in receiving PUC services?
3. How could PUC services be improved?
The workshop will be conducted in the commissioners' hearing room located
on the 7th Floor of the William B. Travis building, located at 1701 North
Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas, 78701. Any questions regarding the workshop
should be directed to John Laakso at (512) 936- 7039, or Bill Magness at 936-7145.
TRD-9800556
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 14, 1998
On January 9, 1997, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and NTS Communications,
Inc., collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for
approval of an amendment to an existing interconnection agreement under §252(i)
of the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, Public Law Number 104-104,
110 Statute 56, (codified as amended in scattered sections of 15 and 47 United
States Code) (FTA) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act, Texas Utilities
Code Annotated, §§11.001-63.063 (Vernon 1998) (PURA). The joint
application has been designated Docket Number 18637. The joint application
and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for public inspection
at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.
Pursuant to P.U.C. PROC. R. 22.341, the commission must act to approve
the amendment to the interconnection agreement within 35 days after it is
submitted by the parties.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the amendment
to the interconnection agreement. Any interested person may file written comments
on the joint application by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's
filing clerk. Additionally, a copy of the comments should be served on each
of the applicants. The comments should specifically refer to Docket Number
18637. As a part of the comments, an interested person may request that a
public hearing be conducted. The comments, including any request for public
hearing, shall be filed by February 9, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will issue a notice of approval,
denial, or determine whether to conduct further proceedings concerning the
joint application. The commission shall have the authority given to a presiding
officer pursuant to P.U.C. Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may
identify issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish
a schedule for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence
by the applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this project or who wish to comment on the
joint application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701
North Congress Avenue, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may
call the Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512)
936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY)
may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer
to Docket Number 18637.
TRD-9800532
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 13, 1998
On January 9, 1997, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and KMC Telecom,
Inc., collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for
approval of an amendment to an existing interconnection agreement under §252(i)
of the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, Public Law Number 104-104,
110 Statute 56, (codified as amended in scattered sections of 15 and 47 United
States Code) (FTA) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act, Texas Utilities
Code Annotated, §§11.001-63.063 (Vernon 1998) (PURA). The joint
application has been designated Docket Number 18638. The joint application
and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for public inspection
at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.
Pursuant to P.U.C. PROC. R. 22.341, the commission must act to approve
the amendment to the interconnection agreement within 35 days after it is
submitted by the parties.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the amendment
to the interconnection agreement. Any interested person may file written comments
on the joint application by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's
filing clerk. Additionally, a copy of the comments should be served on each
of the applicants. The comments should specifically refer to Docket Number
18638. As a part of the comments, an interested person may request that a
public hearing be conducted. The comments, including any request for public
hearing, shall be filed by February 9, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will issue a notice of approval,
denial, or determine whether to conduct further proceedings concerning the
joint application. The commission shall have the authority given to a presiding
officer pursuant to P.U.C. Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may
identify issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish
a schedule for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence
by the applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this project or who wish to comment on the
joint application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701
North Congress Avenue, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may
call the Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512)
936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY)
may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer
to Docket Number 18638.
TRD-9800533
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 13, 1998
On January 12, 1997, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and Choctaw Communications,
L.L.C., collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application
for approval of an amendment to an existing interconnection agreement under
§252(i) of the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, Public Law Number
104-104, 110 Statute 56, (codified as amended in scattered sections of 15
and 47 United States Code) (FTA) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act, Texas
Utilities Code Annotated, §§11.001-63.063 (Vernon 1998) (PURA).
The joint application has been designated Docket Number 18642. The joint application
and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for public inspection
at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.
Pursuant to P.U.C. PROC. R. 22.341, the commission must act to approve
the amendment to the interconnection agreement within 35 days after it is
submitted by the parties.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the amendment
to the interconnection agreement. Any interested person may file written
comments on the joint application by filing 13 copies of the comments with
the commission's filing clerk. Additionally, a copy of the comments should
be served on each of the applicants. The comments should specifically refer
to Docket Number 18642. As a part of the comments, an interested person may
request that a public hearing be conducted. The comments, including any request
for public hearing, shall be filed by February 11, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will issue a notice of approval,
denial, or determine whether to conduct further proceedings concerning the
joint application. The commission shall have the authority given to a presiding
officer pursuant to P.U.C. Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may
identify issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish
a schedule for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence
by the applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this project or who wish to comment on the
joint application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701
North Congress Avenue, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may
call the Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512)
936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY)
may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer
to Docket Number 18642.
TRD-9800534
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 13, 1998
On January 8, 1998, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and Dobson Wireless,
Inc. collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for
approval of an amendment to an existing interconnection agreement under §252(i)
of the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, Public Law Number 104-104,
110 Statute 56, (codified as amended in scattered sections of 15 and 47 United
States Code) (FTA) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act, Texas Utilities
Code Annotated, §§11.001-63.063 (Vernon 1998) (PURA). The joint
application has been designated Docket Number 18630. The joint application
and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for public inspection
at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.
Pursuant to P.U.C. PROC. R. 22.341 and 22.342, the commission must act
to approve the interconnection agreement within 35 days after it is submitted
by the parties.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the amendment
to the interconnection agreement. Any interested person may file written comments
on the joint application by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's
filing clerk. Additionally, a copy of the comments should be served on each
of the applicants. The comments should specifically refer to Docket Number
18630. As a part of the comments, an interested person may request that a
public hearing be conducted. The comments, including any request for public
hearing, shall be filed by February 6, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will issue a notice of approval,
denial, or determine whether to conduct further proceedings concerning the
joint application. The commission shall have the authority given to a presiding
officer pursuant to P.U.C. Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may
identify issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish
a schedule for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence
by the applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this project or who wish to comment on the
joint application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas,
1701 North Congress Avenue, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You
may call the Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512)
936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY)
may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer
to Docket Number 18630.
TRD-9800530
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 13, 1998
On January 9, 1998, Max-Tel Communications, Inc., and GTE Southwest, Inc.,
collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval
of an interconnection agreement under the federal Telecommunications Act
of 1996, Public Law Number 104-104, 110 Statute 56, (codified as amended
in scattered sections of 15 and 47 United States Code) (FTA) and the Public
Utility Regulatory Act, Texas Utilities Code Annotated, §§ 11.001-63.063
(Vernon 1998) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number
18636. The joint application and the underlying interconnection agreement
are available for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin,
Texas.
The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection
agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA §252(e)(2)
the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates
against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that
implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent
with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under
FTA §252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements
of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance
with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements.
The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it
is submitted by the parties. The parties have requested expedited review
of this application.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection
agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application
by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally,
a copy of the comments should be served on each of the applicants. The comments
should specifically refer to Docket Number 18636. As a part of the comments,
an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The
comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by February
20, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will determine whether to
conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The commission
shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to P.U.C.
Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may identify issues raised by
the joint application and comments and establish a schedule for addressing
those issues, including the submission of evidence by the applicants, if
necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission may conduct a public
hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not entitled to participate
as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the
application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call
the Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket
Number 18636.
TRD-9800531
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 13, 1998
On January 7, 1998, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and CTJ Investments,
Inc., doing business asTexas Cellular Communications, collectively referred
to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval of an interconnection
agreement under the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, Public Law Number
104-104, 110 Statute 56, (codified as amended in scattered sections of 15
and 47 United States Code)(FTA) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act, Texas
Utilities Code Annotated §§11.001-63.063 (Vernon 1998) (PURA).
The joint application has been designated Docket Number 18625. The joint
application and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for
public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.
The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection
agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA §252(e)(2)
the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates
against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that
implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent
with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under
FTA §252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements
of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance
with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements.
The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it
is submitted by the parties. The parties have requested expedited review
of this application.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection
agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application
by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally,
a copy of the comments should be served on each of the applicants. The comments
should specifically refer to Docket Number 18625. As a part of the comments,
an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The
comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by February
19, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will determine whether to
conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The commission
shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to Public
Utility Commission Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may identify
issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish a schedule
for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence by the
applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the
application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the
Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket
Number 18625.
TRD-9800354
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 9, 1998
On January 8, 1998, Dial Tone USA, Inc., doing business as Dial Services,
Inc., and GTE Southwest, Inc., collectively referred to as applicants, filed
a joint application for approval of an interconnection agreement under the
federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, Public Law Number 104-104, 110 Statute
56, (codified as amended in scattered sections of 15 and 47 United States
Code)(FTA) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act, Texas Utilities Code Annotated
§§11.001-63.063 (Vernon 1998) (PURA). The joint application has
been designated Docket Number 18628. The joint application and the underlying
interconnection agreement are available for public inspection at the commission's
offices in Austin, Texas.
The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection
agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA §252(e)(2)
the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates
against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that
implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent
with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under
FTA §252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements
of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance
with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements.
The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it
is submitted by the parties. The parties have requested expedited review
of this application.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection
agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application
by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally,
a copy of the comments should be served on each of the applicants. The comments
should specifically refer to Docket Number 18628. As a part of the comments,
an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The
comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by February
20, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will determine whether to
conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The commission
shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to Public
Utility Commission Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may identify
issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish a schedule
for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence by the
applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the
application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the
Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket
Number 18628.
TRD-9800355
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 9, 1998
On December 31, 1997, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and American
PhoneCom, Inc., collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application
for approval of an interconnection agreement under the federal Telecommunications
Act of 1996, Public Law Number 104-104, 110 Statute 56, (codified as amended
in scattered sections of 15 and 47 United States Code)(FTA) and the Public
Utility Regulatory Act, Texas Utilities Code Annotated §§11.001-63.063)
(Vernon 1998) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number
18613. The joint application and the underlying interconnection agreement
are available for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin,
Texas.
The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection
agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA §252(e)(2)
the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates
against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that
implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent
with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under
FTA §252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements
of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance
with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements.
The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it
is submitted by the parties. The parties have requested expedited review
of this application.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection
agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application
by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally,
a copy of the comments should be served on each of the applicants. The comments
should specifically refer to Docket Number 18613. As a part of the comments,
an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The
comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by February
4, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will determine whether to
conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The commission
shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to Public
Utility Commission Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may identify
issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish a schedule
for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence by the
applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the
application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the
Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket
Number 18613.
TRD-9800306
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 8, 1998
On January 6, 1998, Sterling International Funding, Inc., and GTE Southwest,
Inc., collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for
approval of an interconnection agreement under the federal Telecommunications
Act of 1996, Public Law Number 104-104, 110 Statute 56, (codified as amended
in scattered sections of 15 and 47 United States Code)(FTA) and the Public
Utility Regulatory Act, Texas Utilities Code Annotated §§11.001-63.063)
(Vernon 1998) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number
18618. The joint application and the underlying interconnection agreement
are available for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin,
Texas.
The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection
agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA §252(e)(2)
the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates
against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that
implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent
with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under
FTA §252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements
of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance
with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements.
The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it
is submitted by the parties. The parties have requested expedited review
of this application.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection
agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application
by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally,
a copy of the comments should be served on each of the applicants. The comments
should specifically refer to Docket Number 18618. As a part of the comments,
an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The
comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by February
18, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will determine whether to
conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The commission
shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to P.U.C.
Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may identify issues raised by
the joint application and comments and establish a schedule for addressing
those issues, including the submission of evidence by the applicants, if
necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission may conduct a public
hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not entitled to participate
as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the
application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call
the Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket
Number 18618.
TRD-9800307
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 8, 1998
On January 6, 1998, State Discount Telephone and GTE Southwest, Inc., collectively
referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval of an
interconnection agreement under the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996,
Public Law Number 104-104, 110 Statute 56, (codified as amended in scattered
sections of 15 and 47 United States Code)(FTA) and the Public Utility Regulatory
Act, Texas Utilities Code Annotated §§11.001-63.063) (Vernon 1998)
(PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 18619. The
joint application and the underlying interconnection agreement are available
for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.
The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection
agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA §252(e)(2)
the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates
against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that
implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent
with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under
FTA §252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements
of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance
with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements.
The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it
is submitted by the parties. The parties have requested expedited review
of this application.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection
agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application
by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally,
a copy of the comments should be served on each of the applicants. The comments
should specifically refer to Docket Number 18619. As a part of the comments,
an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The
comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by February
18, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will determine whether to
conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The commission
shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to Public
Utility Commission Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may identify
issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish a schedule
for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence by the
applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the
application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the
Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket
Number 18619.
TRD-9800308
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 8, 1998
On January 6, 1998, US Cellular and GTE Southwest, Inc., collectively referred
to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval of an interconnection
agreement under the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, Public Law Number
104-104, 110 Statute 56, (codified as amended in scattered sections of 15
and 47 United States Code)(FTA) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act, Texas
Utilities Code Annotated §§11.001-63.063) (Vernon 1998) (PURA).
The joint application has been designated Docket Number 18620. The joint
application and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for
public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.
The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection
agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA §252(e)(2)
the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates
against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that
implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent
with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under
FTA §252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements
of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance
with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements.
The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it
is submitted by the parties. The parties have requested expedited review
of this application.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection
agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application
by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally,
a copy of the comments should be served on each of the applicants. The comments
should specifically refer to Docket Number 18620. As a part of the comments,
an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The
comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by February
18, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will determine whether to
conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The commission
shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to Public
Utility Commission Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may identify
issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish a schedule
for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence by the
applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the
application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the
Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket
Number 18620.
TRD-9800309
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 8, 1998
On January 6, 1998, Fast Connections, Inc., and GTE Southwest, Inc., collectively
referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval of an
interconnection agreement under the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996,
Public Law Number 104-104, 110 Statute 56, (codified as amended in scattered
sections of 15 and 47 United States Code)(FTA) and the Public Utility Regulatory
Act, Texas Utilities Code Annotated §§11.001-63.063) (Vernon 1998)
(PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 18621. The
joint application and the underlying interconnection agreement are available
for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.
The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection
agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA §252(e)(2)
the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates
against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that
implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent
with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under
FTA §252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements
of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance
with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements.
The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it
is submitted by the parties. The parties have requested expedited review
of this application.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection
agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application
by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally,
a copy of the comments should be served on each of the applicants. The comments
should specifically refer to Docket Number 18621. As a part of the comments,
an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The
comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by February
18, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will determine whether to
conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The commission
shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to Public
Utility Commission Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may identify
issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish a schedule
for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence by the
applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the
application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the
Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket
Number 18621.
TRD-9800310
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 8, 1998
On January 7, 1998, United Telephone Company of Texas, Inc., doing business
as Sprint, Central Telephone Company of Texas doing business as Sprint, and
State Discount Telephone, collectively referred to as applicants, filed a
joint application for approval of an interconnection agreement under the
federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, Public Law Number 104-104, 110 Statute
56, (codified as amended in scattered sections of 15 and 47 United States
Code)(FTA) and the Public Utility Regulatory Act, Texas Utilities Code Annotated
§§11.001-63.063) (Vernon 1998) (PURA). The joint application has
been designated Docket Number 18624. The joint application and the underlying
interconnection agreement are available for public inspection at the commission's
offices in Austin, Texas.
The FTA authorizes the commission to review and approve any interconnection
agreement adopted by negotiation of the parties. Pursuant to FTA §252(e)(2)
the commission may reject any agreement if it finds that the agreement discriminates
against a telecommunications carrier not a party to the agreement, or that
implementation of the agreement, or any portion thereof, is not consistent
with the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Additionally, under
FTA §252(e)(3), the commission may establish or enforce other requirements
of state law in its review of the agreement, including requiring compliance
with intrastate telecommunications service quality standards or requirements.
The commission must act to approve the agreement within 90 days after it
is submitted by the parties. The parties have requested expedited review
of this application.
The commission finds that additional public comment should be allowed before
the commission issues a final decision approving or rejecting the interconnection
agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application
by filing 13 copies of the comments with the commission's filing clerk. Additionally,
a copy of the comments should be served on each of the applicants. The comments
should specifically refer to Docket Number 18624. As a part of the comments,
an interested person may request that a public hearing be conducted. The
comments, including any request for public hearing, shall be filed by February
19, 1998, and shall include:
1) a detailed statement of the person's interests in the agreement, including
a description of how approval of the agreement may adversely affect those
interests;
2) specific allegations that the agreement, or some portion thereof:
a) discriminates against a telecommunications carrier that is not a party
to the agreement; or
b) is not consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity;
or
c) is not consistent with other requirements of state law; and
3) the specific facts upon which the allegations are based.
After reviewing any comments, the commission will determine whether to
conduct further proceedings concerning the joint application. The commission
shall have the authority given to a presiding officer pursuant to Public
Utility Commission Procedural Rule §22.202. The commission may identify
issues raised by the joint application and comments and establish a schedule
for addressing those issues, including the submission of evidence by the
applicants, if necessary, and briefing and oral argument. The commission
may conduct a public hearing. Interested persons who file comments are not
entitled to participate as intervenors in the public hearing.
Persons with questions about this docket or who wish to comment on the
application should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North
Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the
Public Utility Commission Office of Customer Protection at (512) 936-7120.
Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket
Number 18624.
TRD-9800311
Rhonda Dempsey
Rules Coordinator
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Filed: January 8, 1998
Correction of Errors
The Railroad Commission of Texas adopted amendments to 16 TAC §§15.101,
15.105, 15.115, 15.120, 15.125, 15.135, 15.140, 15.152, 15.160 and 15.165.
The rules appeared in the January 2, 1998, issue of the
Texas Register
, (232 TexReg 130).
Due to error in submission, on page 130, second paragraph, last sentence,
the word of was printed instead of the word or. The sentence should read:
“New §15.152 implements S.B. 925's restriction on the use of the
commission's name or seal on advertising that promotes the water heater rebate
program.”
The Texas Railroad Commission of Texas proposed amendments to 16 TAC §3.57
and §3.76. The rules appeared in the January 2, 1998, issue of the
Due to error in publishing, on page 34, third to the last paragraph of
the preamble, the second sentence states “Comments will be accepted
until 5:00 p.m. on the 13th day after publication in the
Texas Register
.” it should read “Comments will be accepted
until 5:00 p.m. on the 30th day after publication in the
Texas Register
.”
Job Vacancy Announcement - Executive Director, Texas Legislative Reference Library
Executive Director, Texas Legislative Reference Library
Background
The Legislative Reference Library is an agency of the State of Texas Legislature
with a budget in the range of $800,000-$1,000,000, a staff of 17 employees,
and a collection of over 100,000 volumes. The Library is governed by the
Legislative Library Board, composed of six legislators and chaired by the
Lt. Governor. Along with serving as chief executive, the Director is responsible
for implementing policies of the legislature and the Board, and for managing
the operations of the library.
General Duties
Under direction of the Legislative Library Board, the Executive director
plans, implements, administers, and evaluates the overall library programs
and services of the Legislative Reference Library; supervises a staff engaged
in providing services to members of the legislature, to legislative staff,
and to the general public; supervises the development, implementation and
assessment of comprehensive support for research by legislative staff; oversees
the preparation and release of legislative information to the public; and
coordinates services with the Legislative Council and other legislative agencies.
Examples of Work Performed
* Manages the day-to-day operations of the Library
* Supervises the gathering, organizing, analyzing, and preparation of material
in response to requests for information and for reports
* Develops and supervises the development of procedures for the implementation,
administration, and evaluation of programs
* Supervises preparation of daily statewide legislative clipping service
* Prepares the agency operating budget and regular financial reports
* Oversees gathering and organizing legislative research information from
other states
General Qualifications:
Experience and Education
A master's degree in Library and Information Systems accredited by the
American Library Association is strongly preferred. (Substantial experience
in library management may substitute for the master's degree.) Working knowledge
of legislative procedures and processes.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Ability to plan, organize, train, and manage the work of others; to deal
effectively with legislators, legislative committees, and the general public;
knowledge of current technologies available to libraries and their users;
familiarity with public policy issues that confront state legislatures.
Salary and Benefits
The salary is $55,000-$65,000 per year, depending on qualifications and
experience. The State of Texas provides a comprehensive benefits package,
including health insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, and a retirement
plan.
Applications
Interested persons should submit an application for employment to the attention
of Ms. Donna Rolland at the Texas Senate, Office of Human Resources, P.O.
Box 12068, Austin, TX 78711-2068. Inquiries may be submitted to Ms. Rolland
by e-mail (donna.rolland@senate.state.tx.us) or by phone at 512-463-7337.
Senate Human Resources will accept postmarked applications and resumes for
this position through 5:00 p.m., Monday, February 23, 1998.
The Texas Senate is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate
on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability
in employment or the provision of services.
The Texas Senate complies with the Immigration and Naturalization Service
to hire only U.S. Citizens and persons legally authorized to work in the
United States.
TRD-9800683
Donna J. Rolland
Director of Human Resources
Texas Senate
Filed: January 15, 1998
Request for Proposals
The South East Texas Regional Planning Commission announces a Request for
Proposal. The purpose of this Request for Proposals to obtain services to
develop materials and strategies necessary to implement a regional Vanpool
Program, provide technical expertise to implement a regional Vanpool Program,
and provide staff support necessary to manage a regional Vanpool Program
for the Jefferson Orange-Hardin Regional Transportation Study area (Jefferson,
Orange and Hardin Counties). The third party contractor(s) will provide a
combination of one or more of the following services:
A.
Provision of vans for the vanpool service
(through a lease program). Contractor will provide and deliver vehicles to
all qualified vanpool users, along with associated vehicle insurance, vehicle
maintenance and towing, body repair, and vehicle administrative services
and fleet management activities. Vehicle administrative activities include
issuing the vehicles to new vanpool groups; receiving back disabled vehicles
from groups; orienting new users to vehicles; vanpool driver switches; vehicle
licensing and provision of spare vehicles, etc.
B.
Promotional materials to be used in conjunction
with recruitment and public awareness campaigns.
C.
Vanpool recruiting and training. Contractor
will arrange for transportation fairs at target employers in an effort to
organize and establish vanpools among the employer's employees. Contractor
shall inform and instruct new participants to review with them third party
and SETRPC requirements with participants.
D.
Guaranteed Ride Home contract. Contractor
will arrange for a guaranteed ride home provision with a local taxi company(ies).
E.
GIS compatible (ArcInfo) ride matching
software, including training to SETRPC employees. Administrative support
to the SETRPC during program.
To obtain copies of the RFP instructions, please fax or mail a written
request to Bob Dickinson, Director, 9-1-1, Air Quality and Transportation
Programs, or Kara Woods, Air Quality Outreach Coordinator, at (409) 724-
6295. (Physical address: 3501 Turtle Creek Drive, Port Arthur, Texas 77642).
For further information regarding this notice contact Mr. Dickinson or Ms.
Woods at (409) 724-1911.
Closing Dates: Final proposals will be due by 12 noon CST on Wednesday,
February 25, 1998.
Proposals will be reviewed by a technical subcommittee based on Consultant
Selection Criteria included in the request for proposals package mailed to
interested parties.
TRD-9800555
Don Kelly
Executive Director
South East Texas Regional Planning Commission
Filed: January 14, 1998
Request for Proposals
The Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRST) seeks proposals from qualified
firms to conduct an independent actuarial audit to determine the reasonableness,
consistency and accuracy of TRST's current actuarial services. The beginning
date for the contract should be March 16, 1998. The contract will end on
or before August 31, 1998.
A copy of the complete request for proposal can be obtained on or after
January 23, 1998. A copy of the RFP may be picked up on or after this date
at the Teacher Retirement System offices at 1000 Red River, Austin, Texas
78701. The Teacher Retirement System will also mail copies to interested
parties. To request a copy of the RFP, contact Ronnie Jung, Chief Financial
Officer at (512) 370-0576.
The deadline for submitting proposals is 5:00 p.m. CDT on February 25,
1998.
All potential bidders must satisfy certain requirements in order to be
considered. The contract will be awarded based on an evaluation of the proposer's
ability to provide the requested services and carry out all requirements
contained in the RFP.
The Teacher Retirement System of Texas reserves the right to accept or
reject any or all proposals submitted. The Teacher Retirement System is under
no legal or other obligation to execute a contract on the basis of this notice
or the distribution of an RFP. Neither this notice nor the RFP commits the
Teacher Retirement System of Texas to pay for any cost incurred prior to
the execution of a contract.
TRD-9800508
Charles Dunlap
Executive DIrector
Teacher Retirement System of Texas
Filed: January 13, 1998
Notice of Intent
Pursuant to Title 43, Texas Administrative Code, §2.43, the Texas
Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is issuing this notice to advise the
public that a draft environmental impact statement will be prepared for a
proposed highway project in Harris, Fort Bend, and Waller Counties.
TxDOT, in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA),
will prepare a draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) for a proposed
expansion of the IH 10 West Katy Freeway, from the Houston Central Business
District (CDB), extending along the IH-10 Katy Freeway to the Brazos River
for approximately 65.98 kilometers (km) [41 miles (mi)]. The study area includes
major parallel arterials and the TxDOT [Union Pacific Railroad formerly known
as the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (MKT)] right-of-way (ROW) through Harris,
Fort Bend, and Waller Counties. Cities and towns affected in this region
includes Brookshire, Bunker Hill Village, Hidwig Village, Hilshire Village,
Houston, Hunters Creek Village, Katy, Piney Point Village, and Spring Valley.
Several strategies were identified to meet the existing and future travel
needs within the corridor. These strategies range from a No-Build and Transportation
Systems Management (TSM) approach to a major emphasis on high occupancy vehicles
(HOV) and transit, as well as, the single occupancy vehicle (SOV). Combinations
of these approaches were also evaluated. As a result of these evaluations,
a preferred alternative for meeting the corridor's transportation needs was
then selected. Strategies, approaches and alternatives will be discussed
in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). Other topics to be discussed
in the DEIS includes land use; traffic and transportation; economic development;
displacement and relocation; neighborhood quality and cohesion; access to
community facilities; safety and security; geology and soils; hazardous materials;
noise and vibration; visual and aesthetics; water resources; biological resources
and endangered and threatened species; wetlands; air quality; secondary and
cumulative impacts; and cultural resources.
Impacts caused by the construction and operation of the IH-10 Katy Freeway
Corridor will vary in accordance to the preferred alternative alignment.
Generally, impacts would include the following transportation impacts (construction
detours, construction traffic, mobility improvement and evacuation route
improvements), air and noise impacts from construction equipment and operation
of the roadway, water impacts from construction areas and roadway stormwater
runoff, impacts to waters of the United States, and impacts to residences
and businesses based on potential relocations.
In March 1995, the Houston District of TxDOT initiated a comprehensive
transportation study of the 40-mile corridor along the IH-10 West Katy Freeway
between downtown Houston and the Brazos River. This study, referred to as
the Katy Freeway Corridor Major Investment Study (MIS), followed guidelines
designed by the federal government for major investments in transportation,
as outlined in the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA)
of 1991. This study involved the development of key elements of an MIS encompassing
the Katy Freeway (IH-10 West), major arterials, and the adjacent parallel
Union Pacific right-of-way (ROW) which has been purchased by the State. The
Katy Freeway Corridor MIS was a cooperative effort between TxDOT and an interagency
committee with representatives from the Houston-Galveston Area Council (HGAC),
the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), the Metropolitan Transit Authority
(METRO), the FHWA, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), and the Texas
Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC). The purpose of this MIS
was to evaluate the transportation needs of the corridor and provide an opportunity
for TxDOT and participating agencies to identify the most reasonable, effective,
and efficient transportation option for addressing these needs. Goals and
objectives were developed with the assistance of over 150 community and business
representatives who participated in a round of public meetings held in July
of 1995.
As a result of the July 1995 public meetings, a set of 22 alternative
transportation improvement concepts were developed to address the problems
and needs of the corridor. These 22 concepts included transportation modes
such as highway, bus, and rail. The 22 initial concepts were then screened
based on the goals and objectives for the MIS study, resulting in eleven
corridor-wide conceptual alternatives. These eleven alternatives were presented
for review and comment at a second round of public meetings in November of
1995.
Using the input from the second round of public meetings, the corridor-wide
conceptual alternatives were again screened to a short list of seven alternatives
to be carried forward for further analysis. Each alternative was evaluated
based on travel forecasts, environmental impacts, capital costs, and financial
feasibility. These alternatives are described as follows:
Alternative I: No-Build - This alternative includes improvements that
are already committed and expected to be in place by the year 2020, including
additional arterial enhancements, reversible HOV connection from IH-10 east
of Studemont into downtown, HOV direct connection between the Northwest Transit
Center and the IH-10 Katy Freeway at the IH-610 West Loop, and localized
intersection improvements. Transit service would be increased according to
METRO 2020 plans, including a new transit center between Shepherd and Durham
near the Katy Freeway. The capacity of the No-Build alternative is the same
as the current IH-10 Katy Freeway.
Alternative II: TSM/TDM - The TSM/TDM alternative is designed to improve
mobility in the corridor without major capital investment. The alternative
is designed to improve the operating flow in the corridor rather than increase
capacity. The TSM/TDM alternative includes the No-Build improvements plus
synchronized traffic signals, ramp meterings, park and pool facilities, geometric
improvements, motorist information systems, and other low-cost enhancements.
Transit service would be further increased, including an expanded and relocated
Kingsland Park & Ride lot and a new transit center at Memorial City Mall.
Alternative III-1: Moderate SOV, Moderate HOV - This alternative includes
all No-Build and TSM/TDM improvements. From downtown to IH-610 West Loop,
no SOV lanes are added; however, a two-lane, two-way HOV facility is added.
From IH-610 West Loop to Katy, one SOV lane in each direction is added to
provide a total of eight SOV lanes. The existing reversible HOV lane is upgraded
and extended to provide a two-lane, two-way HOV facility to Katy. From Katy
to Brookshire no additional SOV or HOV lanes are provided. From Brookshire
to the Brazos River, one SOV lane in each direction is added, for a total
of six SOV lanes. Transit service would benefit from increased speeds in
both directions with the HOV lane improvements. The West Belt Park &
Ride lot would be expanded and relocated.
Alternative IV-2: Major SOV, Moderate HOV-This alternative includes all
No-Build and TSM/TDM improvements. From downtown to IH-610 West Loop, no
SOV lanes are added but a two-lane, two-way HOV facility is added. From IH-610
West Loop to Katy, two SOV lanes in each direction are added to provided
a total of ten SOV lanes. The existing reversible HOV lane is upgraded and
extended to provide a two-lane, two-way HOV facility all the way to Katy.
From Katy to Brookshire no additional SOV or HOV lanes are provided. From
Brookshire to the Brazos River, one SOV lane in each direction is added,
for a total of six SOV lanes. Transit service would benefit from increased
speeds in both directions with the HOV lane improvements. The West Belt Park
& Ride lot would be expanded and relocated.
Alternative V-2: Moderate SOV, Special Use Lane-This alternative includes
all No-Build and TSM/TDM improvements. From downtown to IH-610 West Loop,
no SOV lanes are added but a two-lane, two-way HOV facility is added. From
IH-610 West Loop to Katy, one SOV lane in each direction is added to provide
a total of eight SOV lanes. The existing reversible HOV lane is upgraded
to provide a four-lane, two-way HOV/Special Use facility between IH-610 West
Loop and Highway 6. The special use lanes could be express lanes with an
option of a toll charged for use. A two-lane, two-way HOV facility would
be added between Highway 6 and Katy. From Brookshire to the Brazos River,
one SOV lane in each direction is added, for a total of six SOV lanes. Transit
service would benefit from increased speeds in both directions with the HOV
lane improvements. The West Belt Park & Ride lot would be expanded and
relocated.
Alternative V-3: Low SOV, Fixed-Guideway - This alternative includes all
No-Build and TSM improvements. From downtown to Brookshire, no SOV lanes
are added. From Brookshire to the Brazos River, one SOV lane in each direction
is added, for a total of six SOV lanes. A fixed-guideway system would be
constructed from downtown to Katy. The fixed-guideway would allow service
on three to four car trains on double tracks with grade separations at major
arterials. Service would operate approximately every ten minutes in both
directions during peak periods. The fixed-guideway system would provide connections
to buses at each of the eleven stations, including the Northwest Transit
Center for service to the Uptown/Post Oak and the terminus station at the
north end of downtown for service to downtown.
Alternative VI-1: Major SOV, Special Use Lane - This alternative includes
all No-Build and TSM improvements. From downtown to IH-610 West Loop, no
SOV lanes are added but a two-lane, two-way HOV facility is added. From IH-610
West Loop to Katy, two SOV lanes in each direction are added to provide a
total of ten SOV lanes. The existing reversible HOV lane is upgraded to provide
a four-lane, two-way HOV/Special Use facility between IH-610 West Loop and
Highway 6. The special use lanes could be express lanes with an option of
a toll charged for use. A two-lane, two-way HOV facility would be added between
Highway 6 and Katy. From Brookshire to the Brazos River, one SOV lane in
each direction is added, for a total of six SOV lanes. Transit service would
benefit from increased speeds in both directions with the HOV lane improvements.
The West Belt Park & Ride lot would be expanded and relocated.
A detailed evaluation of the seven alternatives was presented to the public
during a round of open house meetings in January of 1997 for input and feedback.
The meetings were held January 27, 28, 29, and 30, 1997 at the following
locations: Monday, January 27 at the City of Houston West End Multiservice
Center, 170 Heights Boulevard, Houston, Texas; Tuesday, January 28 at the
Brookshire Convention Center, 4027 Fifth Street, Brookshire, Texas; Wednesday,
January 29 at the Spring Branch Community Center, 1721 Pech, Houston, Texas;
and Thursday, January 30 at the Holiday Inn Select, 14703 Park Row, Houston,
Texas.
Based on the detailed analysis of the seven alternatives and public input
and feedback, it was determined that Alternative V-2: Moderate SOV, Special
Use Lane, was selected as the locally preferred (recommended) alternative.
In order to select the recommended alternative, the seven alternatives, including
the No-Build Alternative and the TSM/TDM Alternative, were evaluated for
their engineering feasibility, potential environmental and community impacts,
financial feasibility, and their ability to meet the goals and objectives
of the community.
The preferred alternative was then presented to the public during a final
round of public meetings in July of 1997. The public meetings were held July
8, 9, and 10, 1997, at the following locations: Tuesday, July 8 at West Memorial
Jr. High School Cafeteria, 22311 Provincial Boulevard, Houston, Texas; Wednesday,
July 9 at the Memorial Senior High School Cafetorium, Echo Lane at IH-10,
Houston, Texas; and the First Baptist Church Fellowship Center, 7401 Katy
Freeway at Post Oak Boulevard, Houston, Texas. Each meeting format was set
up as a combination open-house/public forum format. The first two hours of
each meeting was an open-house where information was available regarding
the locally preferred alternative and the decision-making process. Members
of the study team were present during the open-house to answer questions
and record comments. Immediately following the open-house, a short presentation
was given. The floor was then opened for public comments. Members of the
study team were also available after the public forum for additional questions
or comments.
A summary of the public input and feedback regarding the final rounds
of public meetings were presented to the Transportation Policy Committee,
for the MPO, for review and concurrence in October 1997.
Letters describing the proposed action and soliciting comments will be
sent to appropriate federal, state, and local agencies, and to private organizations
and citizens who have previously expressed or are known to have interest
in this proposal. Because public meetings were held during the MIS process
as described above, the MIS process itself will serve as the Public Scoping
meeting for the IH-10 Katy Freeway Corridor proposal. Public meetings will
be held at a later date to request public input on the proposed action and
the preferred alternative for development of DEIS. A public hearing will
also be held at a later date, with copies of the draft EIS available for
public and agency review and comment prior to the public hearing.
To ensure that the full range of issues related to this proposed action
are addressed and all significant issues identified, comments and suggestions
are invited from all interested parties. Comments or questions concerning
this proposed action and the EIS should be directed to the FHWA at the address
provided above.
Agency Contact: Comments or questions concerning this proposed action
and the DEIS should be directed to James Darden, P.E., Project Development
- Houston District, Texas Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 1386, Houston,
Texas 77251-1386, phone (713) 802-5241.
Issued in Austin, Texas on January 14, 1998.
Bob Jackson Acting General Counsel Texas Department of Transportation
TRD-9800572
Bob Jackson
Interim General Counsel
Texas Department of Transportation
Filed: January 14, 1998
The Texas Turnpike Authority Division of the Texas Department of Transportation
(the "Authority") requests proposals from law firms interested in representing
the Authority as its general counsel. This RFP is issued for the purpose
of identifying qualified law firms able to provide legal representation required
by the Authority and its Board of Directors (the "Board"). Selection of outside
counsel will be made by the Board of Directors.
Description: The Authority is a state agency granted powers under state
law to study, design, construct, operate, expand, enlarge, or extend a turnpike
project as part of the state highway system. Turnpike projects over which
the Authority exercises responsibility encompass any and all toll highways
and facilities, including bridges, tunnels, overpasses, underpasses, interchanges,
approaches and entrance plazas, buildings necessary to operate a facility,
and property rights, easements, and interests the authority acquires to construct
or operate a facility. The powers and duties exercised by the Authority and
the Board are impacted by numerous federal and state laws and regulations.
The Authority will engage outside counsel to advise the Authority and the
Board on the legal implications of all powers and duties exercised by the
Board and the Authority.
Outside counsel engaged by the Authority must demonstrate competence and
expertise in legal requirements related to developing and operating turnpike
projects, procurement of transportation infrastructure, construction and
consultant contracting, financing and other feasibility studies, property
acquisition, compliance with environmental requirements, state agency rulemaking
and other administrative law matters, agreements with similar authorities
and other governmental or private entities for the development of turnpike
projects, and debt financing of public works projects. Extensive prior experience
in providing legal services related to revenue bond financed transportation
infrastructure development is required. In addition, engaged counsel must
have thorough knowledge of the Administrative Procedure Act (Government Code,
Chapter 2001), the Open Meetings Act (Government Code, Chapter 551), and
the Public Information Act (Government Code, Chapter 552).
Legal services required of engaged counsel include drafting, reviewing,
and advising the Authority and the Board in the issuance, acceptance, and
management of contracts with public and private utilities, landowners, private
enterprise (including exclusive development agreements with private corporations),
toll collection equipment and electronic systems vendors, municipal, county,
state, and federal governments, general construction contractors and their
subcontractors, professional design consultants and consulting management
engineers, land surveyors, and title companies. Counsel will also be required
to draft, review and provide advice on all types of construction service
acquisition bid documents, provide advice on the proper levels of insurance
coverage for consultants, contractors, subcontractors, and vendors, and review
insurance policies and certificates of insurance to ensure compliance. Additionally,
engaged counsel will research, analyze, and provide advice concerning all
laws, rules, regulations, procedures, ordinances, and applications related
to environmental matters, including federal, state, and local requirements
concerning air, water, and noise pollution, and those related to obtaining
permits from federal, state, and local governments, and will assist in the
research, drafting, and issuance of environmental assessments, environmental
impact statements, and/or findings of no significant impact.
Outside counsel will also be required to draft, review, and provide advice
on the procurement of equipment, supplies, and materials and on the proposal
and adoption of administrative rules by the Authority and the Board, advise
and assist in preparing for and conducting public meetings and hearings,
advise and assist the Board and the Authority in responding to public information
requests, and provide advice and assistance relating to the bond issuance
process. The latter requirement does not include acting as bond counsel.
Engaged counsel will also perform legal services necessary to acquire for
the Authority right of way and easements not in the public domain, including
evaluating and negotiating agreements with right of way appraisers and negotiators,
reviewing and verifying the products of land surveyors, plats and legal descriptions,
participating in negotiations of value with landowners, reviewing title commitments
and policies, preparing and conducting eminent domain proceedings in appropriate
administrative and judicial forums, drafting acquisition deeds and easements,
recording all necessary right of way documents, and preparing and negotiating
rights of entry to right of way tracts. Outside counsel is finally required
to conduct all litigation necessary to advance or defend legal actions pertaining
to activities of the Authority and the Board.
Responses: Responses to the RFP may be submitted by an individual law
firm, attorney, or joint venture between two or more law firms and/or attorneys.
Responses to the RFP should include at least the following information.
(1) A description of the firm's qualifications for performing the legal
services, including the firm's prior experience in each of the above described
areas, with particular emphasis on revenue bond financed transportation infrastructure
development projects and experience in administrative law matters affecting
a state agency, the names, experience, education, and expertise of the attorneys
who will be assigned to work on such matters, the availability of the lead
attorney and other firm personnel who will be assigned to work on these matters,
and appropriate information regarding efforts made by the firm to encourage
and develop the participation of minorities and women in the provision of
legal services.
(2) Information relative to the capabilities and resources of the firm's
Texas offices, including a summary of physical resources that would be assigned
to the Authority, and an organizational chart indicating the relevant areas
of responsibility of each attorney assigned to work on these matters.
(3) The submission of fee information (either in the form of hourly rates
for each attorney and paralegal who will be assigned to perform services
in relation to these matters, comprehensive flat fees, or other fee arrangements
directly related to the achievement of specific goals and cost controls)
and billable expenses.
(4) An abstract of the firm's cost control procedures and how it charges
for its services.
(5) A comprehensive description of the procedures used by the firm to
supervise the provision of legal services in a timely and cost effective
manner.
(6) Disclosures of conflicts of interest (identifying each and every matter
in which the firm has, within the past calendar year, represented any entity
or individual with an interest adverse to the Authority or the Texas Department
of Transportation, or to the State of Texas or any of its boards, agencies,
commissions, universities, or elected or appointed officials).
(7) Confirmation of willingness to comply with the rules, policies, directives,
and guidelines of the Authority, the Board, and the Attorney General of the
State of Texas.
Format and Person to Contact: Eight copies of the proposal are requested.
The proposal should be typed, preferably double spaced, on 8 1/2 x 11 inch
paper with all pages sequentially numbered, and either stapled or bound together.
They should be sent by mail or delivered in person, marked "Response to Request
for Proposal" and addressed to Peter Davis, P.E., Director, Texas Turnpike
Authority Division, Texas Department of Transportation, 125 East 11th Street,
Austin, Texas 78701-2483 (telephone (512) 936-0903 for questions).
Deadline for Submission of Response: All proposals must be received by
the Texas Turnpike Authority Division at the previously stated address no
later than 5:00 p.m., Thursday, February 12, 1998.
TRD-9800573
Bob Jackson
Interim General Counsel
Texas Department of Transportation
Filed: January 14, 1998
The Atlanta District of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
intends to enter a contract with a professional engineer, pursuant to Government
Code, Chapter 2254, Subchapter A, and 43 TAC §;9.30-9.43, to provide
the following services. To be considered, a prime provider and any subproviders
proposed on the team must be precertified by the deadline date for receiving
the letter of interest for each of the advertised work category(s), unless
the work category is a non-listed work category. To qualify for contract
award a selected prime engineer must perform a minimum of 30% of the actual
contract work. Please be advised, a prime provider or subprovider currently
employing former TxDOT employees, needs to be aware of the revolving door
laws, including Government Code, Chapter 572 and Section 52, Article IX of
the General Appropriations Bill. To be considered, the proposed team must
demonstrate that they have a professional engineer registered in Texas who
will sign and/or seal the work to be performed on the contract.
Contract Number 19-845P5004: The precertified work categories and the
percent of work per category are: 4.2.1 Major Roadway Design (80%); 5.1.1
Minor Bridge Design (2.0%); 8.1.1 Signing, Pavement Marking and Channelization
(1.0%); 10.1.1 Hydrologic Studies (5.0%); 10.2.1 Basic Hydraulic Design (5.0%);
10.5.1 Bridge Scour Evaluations and Analysis (1.0%); 14.3.1 Transportation
Foundation Studies (1.0%); 15.2.1 Design Survey (5%). The work to be performed
shall consist of the preparation of plans, specifications and estimate (PS&E)
documents to reconstruct SH 300 from 0.2 Mile South of US 271 in Gilmer to
3.0 Miles North of FM 726. The project will consist of reconstructing an
existing two lane roadway to a four lane divided roadway with a flush median.
Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Goal: The goal for HUB participation
in the work to be performed under this contract is 15% of the contract amount.
Long List Criteria: TxDOT will consider the following criteria in its
review of all interested providers.
1. Past Performance Scores: Must have two good references (three preferred)
which can be verified from other entities on similar type work.
2. Project Requirements (Team Capability Experience): 4.2.1 Major Roadway
Design; 5.1.1 Minor Bridge Design; 8.1.1 Signing, Pavement Marking and Channelization;
10.1.1 Hydrologic Studies; 10.2.1 Basic Hydraulic Design; 10.5.1 Bridge Scour
Evaluations and Analysis; 14.3.1 Transportation Foundation Studies; 15.2.1
Design Survey.
Minimum Requirement: The team must have worked on one similar type project
(three preferred) within the past five years.
3. Special (Similar) Project Related Experience of Project Manager and
Team Members: Minimum Requirement: Project Manager must have managed one
similar type project (three preferred) within the past five years.
4.2.1 Major Roadway Design; 5.1.1 Minor Bridge Design; 8.1.1 Signing,
Pavement Marking and Channelization; 10.1.1 Hydrologic Studies; 10.2.1 Basic
Hydraulic Design; 10.5.1 Bridge Scour Evaluations and Analysis; 14.3.1 Transportation
Foundation Studies; 15.2.1 Design Survey.
Minimum Requirement: Team members must have worked on one similar type
project (three preferred) within the past five years.
4. Evidence of Compliance with Assigned HUB Goal: This criteria is either
a commitment or not and has no other preferred status. Therefore, a provider
gets three points for meeting the assigned goal or zero points for not meeting
the assigned goal.
Deadline: A letter of interest notifying TxDOT of the provider's intent
to submit a proposal will be accepted by fax at (903) 799-1214, or by hand
delivery to TxDOT, Atlanta District, Attention: Dennis M. Beckham, P. E.,
701 East Main Street, Atlanta, Texas, or by mail addressed to P.O. Box 1210,
Atlanta, Texas 75551-1210. Letters of interest will be received until 5:00
p.m. on Friday, February 6, 1998.
Letter of Interest Requirements: The letter of interest is limited in
length to three 8 1/2 x 11 pages (10 or 12 point font size, single sided
with no attachments or appendices), and must include the contract number
19-845P5004; an organizational chart containing the names, addresses, telephone
and fax numbers of the prime provider and any subproviders proposed for the
team and their contract responsibilities by work category; certification
that the proposed team individuals are currently employed by either the prime
provider or a subprovider; the prime provider's project manager and key personnel
proposed for the contract; team capabilities; special project related experience;
evidence of compliance with the assigned HUB goal through the prime provider
or subprovider identified on the team, or a written commitment to make a
good faith effort to meet the assigned goal; project related experience performed
since precertification; and other pertinent information addressed in the
notice, including references for related projects.
Agency Contact: Requests for additional information regarding this notice
of invitation should be addressed to Dennis M. Beckham, P. E., at (903) 799-1201
or fax (903) 799-1214.
Notice of Invitation: The Atlanta District of the Texas Department of
Transportation (TxDOT) intends to enter into one contract with a professional
architect, pursuant to Texas Government Code, Chapter 2254, Subchapter A,
and 43 TAC §;9.30-9.43, to provide the following services. To be considered,
a prime provider and any subproviders proposed on the team must be precertified
by the deadline date for receiving the letter of interest for the advertised
work categories unless the work category is a non-listed work category. To
qualify for contract award a selected prime architect must perform a minimum
of 30% of the actual contract work. Please be advised, a prime provider or
subprovider currently employing former TxDOT employees, needs to be aware
of the revolving door laws, including Government Code, Chapter 572 and Section
52, Article IX, of the General Appropriations Bill. To be considered, the
proposed team must demonstrate that they have a professional engineer, architect,
landscape architect, or surveyor registered in Texas who will sign and/or
seal the work to be performed on the contract.
Contract Number 19-845P8001: The precertified work categories and the
percent of work per category are: 2.13.1 Hazardous Material Assessment (5.0%)
and 16.1.1 Architecture - Buildings (95%). The provider shall develop preliminary
plans, detailed plans, specifications and estimates (P.S.&E), and perform
an environmental assessment for the interior and exterior renovation of the
Union/Missouri Pacific Train Depot located on FM249 (Main Street) in the
City of Atlanta, Cass County, Texas. The provider shall also conduct a public
meeting, prepare proposals for bidding and provide construction inspection/observation.
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE): The goal for DBE or HUB participation
in the work to be performed under this contract, is zero percent of the contract
amount.
Long List Criteria: TxDOT will consider the following criteria in its
review of all submissions.
1. Past Performance: Minimum requirements: Two references from other entities
on contracts for similar type of work. Preferred requirements: A positive
evaluation. (Note: Only less than positive evaluations obtained from the
references shall negatively effect the prime provider's evaluation.)
2. Project Requirements (Team Capability Experience)
2.13.1 Hazardous Material Assessment: Minimum requirements: The necessary
equipment and expertise to perform ASTM 1528 Transaction Screen and ASTM
1527 Phase I Site Assessments and one employee with one year of experience
in hazardous materials assessment. Preferred requirements: The necessary
equipment and expertise to perform ASTM 1528 Transaction Screen and ASTM
1527 Phase I Site Assessments and one employee with three or more years experience
in hazardous materials assessment.
16.1.1 Architecture - Buildings: Minimum requirements: One employee assigned
to this project who will do a prominent amount of the work and is a registered
architect having two years experience including one year of full-time experience
in historic building preservation projects. Preferred requirements: One employee
assigned to this project who will do a prominent amount of the work and is
a registered architect having five years experience including three years
of full-time experience in historic building preservation projects.
3. Special (Similar) Project Related Experience of Project Manager and
Team Members: 2.13.1 Hazardous Material Assessment: Minimum requirements:
The responsible employee has completed one hazardous assessment of similar
complexity. Preferred requirements: The responsible employee has completed
at least three or more hazardous assessments of similar complexity.
16.1.1 Architecture - Buildings: Minimum requirements: The architect has
completed at least one project of similar complexity and has some knowledge
of historical building renovation and reconstruction techniques. Preferred
requirements: The architect has completed at least three projects of similar
complexity and has extensive knowledge of historic building renovation and
reconstruction techniques.
4. Evidence of Compliance with Assigned DBE/HUB Goal - Not Applicable.
Deadline: A letter of interest notifying TxDOT of the provider's intent
to submit a proposal will be accepted by fax at (903) 799-1313, or by hand
delivery to TxDOT, Atlanta District, Planning Section, Attention: Susan M.
McClain, P.E., 701 East Main Street, Atlanta, or by mail addressed to P.O.
Box 1210, Atlanta, Texas, 75551. Letters of Interest will be received until
5:00 p.m. on February 13, 1998.
Letter of Interest Requirements: The letter of interest is limited in
length to three 8 1/2 x 11 pages (10 or 12 point font size, single sided
with no attachments or appendices), and must include the contract number
19-845P8001; an organizational chart containing the names, addresses, telephone
numbers and fax numbers of the prime provider and any subprovider proposed
for the team and their contract responsibilities by work category; certification
that the proposed team individuals are currently employed by either the prime
provider or a subprovider; the prime provider's project manager and key personnel
proposed for the contract; team capabilities; special project related experience;
evidence of compliance with the assigned DBE goal through the prime provider
or subprovider identified on the team, or a written commitment to make a
good faith effort to meet the assigned goal; project related experience performed
since precertification; and other pertinent information addressed in the
notice, including references for related projects.
Agency Contact: Requests for additional information regarding this notice
of invitation should be addressed to Susan M. McClain, P.E., at (903) 799-1311
or fax (903) 799-1313.
TRD-9800571
Bob Jackson
Deputy General Counsel
Texas Department of Transportation
Filed: January 14, 1998
The Multimodal Operations Office (MMO) of the Texas Department of Transportation
(TxDOT) intends to enter into a contract with a professional engineer pursuant
to Government Code, Chapter 2254, Subchapter A, and 43 TAC §;9.30-9.43,
to provide the following services. To be considered, a prime provider and
any subproviders proposed on a team must be precertified by the deadline
date for receiving the Letter of Interest in each of the advertised work
categories, unless the work category is a non-listed work category. To qualify
for a contract award, a prime provider must perform a minimum of 30% of the
actual contract work. A prime provider or subprovider currently employing
former TxDOT employees needs to be aware of the revolving door laws, including
Government Code, Chapter 572 and Section 52, Article IX, of the General Appropriations
Act.
Contract Number 71-845P5001 - The work to be performed shall consist of
a major investment study (MIS) of transportation alternatives in the Georgetown
- Round Rock - Austin - San Marcos - New Braunfels - San Antonio corridor
(the Corridor), to include the feasibility of commuter/regional rail passenger
service. The purpose of the study is to identify, evaluate, and recommend,
if feasible, a locally preferred transportation system that offers a near
future alternative to the automobile for intercity travel in the Corridor.
The two precertified work categories required and the estimated percentage
of total contract work each represents are: 1.3.1 Subarea/Corridor Planning
(50%); and 1.6.1 Major Investment Study (20%). In addition, two required
non-listed work categories and the estimated percentage of work are: N.L.1.
Public Involvement/Public Information (10%); and N.L.2. Ridership Forecasting
(20%).
Prime providers or subproviders must provide evidence in the Letter of
Interest that clearly shows that the specified requirements are met.
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Goal: The goal for DBE participation
in the work to be performed under this contract is 15% of the contract amount.
Long List Evaluation Criteria: The Consultant Selection Team (CST) will
consider the following criteria in its review of all interested providers.
1. Past Performance References
Minimum requirements - Provide at least two references from other entities
for which an MIS, subarea/corridor plan, or feasibility study(s) that considered
a rail passenger service alternative was conducted.
Preferred requirements - Provide a reference from other entities for which
an MIS, subarea/corridor plan, or feasibility study that emphasized a "new
start" rail passenger service alternative within a multi-jurisdictional region
was conducted. (A "new start" is defined as the study or installation of
rail passenger service in a corridor, city or region not previously served).
2. Project Requirements (Team Capabilities)
a. Subarea/Corridor Planning (Work Category 1.3.1)
Minimum requirements - In addition to meeting the standard Work Category
1.3.1 precertification criteria, also provide evidence that key team members
possess relevant training, experience, proficiency or past study completion
in railroad (freight and/or passenger) planning, operations, administration,
research and testing, finance, maintenance-of-way; rail-highway crossings,
management, transportation, or engineering, for and/or within the railroad/transit
industry.
Preferred requirements - Provide evidence that the team's project manager
possesses exceptional railroad training, experience, proficiency, or past
study completion as specified above.
b. Major Investment Studies (Work Category 1.6.1)
Minimum requirements - In addition to meeting the standard Work Category
1.6.1 precertification criteria, also provide evidence that key team members
possess knowledge, skills, and abilities relating to the performance of a
major investment study that includes non-highway alternatives.
Preferred requirements - Provide evidence that key team members possess
exceptional knowledge, skills, and abilities relating to the performance
of a major investment study that emphasizes rail passenger alternatives.
c. Public Involvement/Public Information ( Non-Listed Work Category N.L.
1)
This category may include a broad range of meeting and media-based activities
to ensure that elected officials, businesses, communities, and the general
public are included in a transportation planning and design process.
Minimum requirements - Provide evidence that key team members possess
knowledge, skills, and abilities required in understanding and explaining
public policy issues related to transportation, transportation alternatives,
land use, or other relevant areas resulting from a study or project; knowledge
and understanding of applicable federal, state, and local laws or regulations;
knowledge of media placement/awareness; and knowledge of events planning
for public meetings/public hearings.
Preferred requirements - Provide evidence that key team members possess
exceptional knowledge, skills, and abilities listed in the preceding paragraph,
and, additionally, have specific knowledge, skills, and abilities regarding
the Corridor.
d. Ridership Forecasting (Non-Listed Work Category N.L. 2)
This category includes the forecasting of the number and the characteristics
of travelers that might be expected to use rail passenger service in the
Corridor. Ridership forecasting will be done in an integrated process with
estimated operating revenues, costs, and levels of service (revenues, costs,
and service levels may be generated by respondents other than the ridership
forecaster).
Minimum requirements - Provide evidence that a key team member possesses
proficiency in quantitative methods and knowledge (including academic training),
skills, and abilities regarding the process required for estimating ridership
demand for public transportation projects (including modeling, survey preparation,
application, analysis, etc.).
Preferred requirements - Provide evidence that a key team member possesses
exceptional knowledge, skills, and abilities required in ridership forecasting
for commuter/regional rail passenger new starts in intercity corridors.
3. Similar Project Related Experience of Project Manager and Team Members
a. Subarea/Corridor Planning (Work Category 1.3.1)
Minimum requirements - Employ a key team member with experience in a corridor-level
study of transportation alternatives covering multiple jurisdictions (including
at least two cities with populations over 100,000 each).
Preferred requirements - Employ a project manager with experience in conducting
one or more corridor-level studies covering multiple jurisdictions where
the preferred alternative is commuter/regional passenger rail within a corridor
of joint freight/passenger train operations.
b. Major Investment Studies (Work Category 1.6.1)
Minimum requirements - Employ a key team member with experience in preparing
an MIS covering multiple jurisdictions.
Preferred requirements - Employ a key team member with experience in preparing
an MIS covering multiple jurisdictions, and in leading a team that, in at
least one example, relied heavily on previous, existing studies of transportation
alternatives, and compiled the results of those studies along with original
analysis in preparing an MIS.
c. Public Involvement/Public Information ( Non-Listed Work Category N.L.
1)
Minimum requirements -Employ a key team member who is a public involvement/public
information specialist with experience in analyzing a corridor/subarea population
and in subsequently preparing a public involvement program that contributed
to local acceptance of a transportation project.
Preferred requirements - Employ a key team member who is a public involvement/public
information specialist with experience in preparing a public involvement
program that contributed to local acceptance of a new start commuter/regional
passenger railroad system.
d. Ridership Forecasting (Non-Listed Work Category N.L. 2)
Minimum requirements - Employ a key team member with specialized knowledge
and experience in preparing a ridership forecast for a commuter/regional
passenger railroad study.
Preferred requirements - Employ a key team member with specialized knowledge
and extensive experience who has led the preparation of at least one ridership
forecast for a new start commuter/regional passenger railroad system that
was actually put into service.
4. Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Goal
A provider or subprovider will earn three points for meeting the assigned
15% DBE goal or zero points for not meeting it.
Deadline: A completed Letter of Interest notifying TxDOT of the provider's
intent to submit a proposal will be accepted by fax at (512) 416-2348 or
by hand delivery/overnight mail to TxDOT, Multimodal Operations Office, Attention:
Ed Kasparik, 200 East Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas 78704, or by regular
mail addressed to TxDOT, Multimodal Operations Office, Attention: Ed Kasparik,
125 East 11th Street, Austin, Texas 78701-2483. Letters of Interest will
be received until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 1998.
Letter of Interest requirements: The Letter of Interest is limited in
length to eight pages, plus one page per reference, (8 1/2 x 11 inch size,
12 point font, single-sided, with no attachments or appendices), and must
contain the contract number 71-845P5001; an organizational chart containing
the names, addresses, telephone, fax numbers and E-mail addresses of the
prime provider and any subproviders proposed for the team and their contract
responsibilities by work category; certification that the proposed team individuals
are currently employed by either the prime provider or a subprovider; the
prime provider's project manager and key personnel proposed for the contract;
team capabilities; similar project-related experience; evidence of compliance
with the assigned DBE goal through the prime provider or subprovider identified
on the team, or a written commitment to make a good faith effort to meet
the assigned goal; project related experience performed since precertification;
and other pertinent information addressed in the notice, including references
for related projects.
Agency Contact: Requests for additional information regarding this notice
of invitation should be addressed to Ed Kasparik at (512) 416-2341, fax (512)
416-2348, or E-mail ekaspari@mailgw.dot.state.tx.us or Kelly Kirkland at
(512) 416-2347, fax (512) 416-2348, or E-mail kkirkla@mailgw.dot.state.tx.us.
TRD-9800570
Bob Jackson
Deputy General Counsel
Texas Department of Transportation
Filed: January 14, 1998
Corrections of Error
The Texas Water Development Board proposed new 31 TAC §§358.1-358.4.
The rules appeared in the December 26, 1997, issue of the
Texas Register
, (22 TexReg 12698).
The signature line appears on page 12702 and incorrectly identifies the
agency as the Texas Department of Insurance instead of the Texas Water Development
Board.
Request for Proposals
TEXAS CHILD CARE TRAINING CENTER PILOT PROGRAMS
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) invites proposals to provide academic
and practicum training and mentoring to certain recipients of public assistance
(herein referred to as TANF clients) who are transitioning from welfare to
work in the child care field. The child care training center pilot programs
are established in Subsection 302.003, Texas Labor Code.
A. DEFINITIONS
TANF Benefits:
Temporary Assistance to Needy
Family Benefits
Trainee:
TANF client who is selected to and
receives training under the child care training center pilot programs.
Training Center:
a child care facility licensed
under Texas Human Resources Code, Chapter 42, which provides both academic
coursework and practicum hours. The training center must directly provide
either the academic or practicum hours, and may subcontract the other function.
Urban:
Territories, persons and housing units
in places of 2,500 or more persons incorporated as cities, villages, boroughs,
and towns.
Rural:
A municipality in a non-metropolitan
county as defined by the United States Census Bureau in its most recent census
(Texas Health and Safety Code). The most recent census data defines these
areas as "territories, persons and housing units in places of less than 2,500
persons incorporated as cities, villages, boroughs and towns."
B. AUTHORIZATION OF FUNDING
The funds for the TWC Child Care Training Center Pilot Programs are authorized
under the Federal FY 1998 Appropriations Act for the federal Department of
Health and Human Services, Child Care Development Fund (CCDF). Funds are
subject to the requirements of the Child Care and Development Block Grant
Act (CCDBG). The TWC is the lead agency in Texas for the CCDF.
C. TRAINING CENTER PILOT PROGRAMS OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the training center pilot programs are to:
(1) Conduct a comparative study of child care training models offered in
four geographic locations in Texas. The study, prepared by TWC, will be presented
to the 76th Legislature, and will include recommendations for a possible
statewide child care training program for TANF clients.
(2) Provide high quality training in basic skills, child care, child care
vendor entrepreneurship, and early childhood development to TANF clients
that will:
a. assist selected individuals in making successful transitions into the
workforce as child care aides, teachers, directors, and owners of child care-related
businesses; and
b. increase the number of qualified individuals entering the child care
work force.
(3) Encourage creative community partnerships that support TANF clients
transitioning from welfare to work in the child care field.
D. PROJECT DESIGN FEATURES
The TWC will select four pilot sites to provide academic and practicum
training, as well as mentoring, to TANF clients. At least one site must be
located in an urban area, and one site in a rural area.
The TWC will set the parameters for the training center pilot programs
in terms of training center qualifications and responsibilities, and these
will be included in the application packet. Training centers are required
to propose their own training models based TWC criteria and their community
needs and resources.
E. ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS
Detailed eligibility requirements will be included in the application packet.
Applicants must, at a minimum, meet the following criteria to be considered
eligible:
(1) Must be or subcontract with a child care facility licensed under Chapter
42 of the Human Resources Code;
(2) Must offer training and certification in basic skills, child care,
early childhood education, and vender entrepreneurial training;
(3) Must have a history of the delivery of high-quality care and an excellent
history of compliance with the minimum licensing or registration standards
as defined by the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services;
(4) Must be physically located in the area to be served; and
(5) Show a history of collaboration with entities engaged in the provision
of direct child care services and training of child care staff
F. AVAILABLE FUNDING
Proposals for the child care training center pilot programs may request
up to $25,000. Program funds will be reimbursed on a cost reimbursement basis
subject to successful performance during the course of the contract period.
G. FUNDING RESTRICTIONS
Expenditures will be reimbursed on "cost reimbursement" basis subject to
measurable and successful performance of the project. Project funds have
a 5% administrative cost cap. Ninety-five percent of the funds must be used
for direct project activities. Prior permission must be secured from TWC
before any part of the project can be subcontracted and/or changes can be
made in activities to be performed, project personnel, and/or budgeted expenditures
as authorized in the contract.
H. LENGTH OF CONTRACT
The contract period is for twelve months and begins as soon as negotiations
can be mutually completed and a contract can be executed. Contractees must
be able and willing to extend the training program an additional 12 months
should TWC extend the program another 12 months. Additional funding will
be provided should TWC extend the child care training center pilot programs
an additional 12 months.
I. SELECTION CRITERIA
Applications will be reviewed for eligibility by TWC. Eligibility will
be determined by successful completion of all required proposal documentation
and meeting eligibility requirements. Eligible applicants will be evaluated
and graded by TWC. Evaluation criteria and their weights are: the applicant's
project design, and the quality of and ability to offer accredited training;
the applicant's experience in delivering child care and child care training;
geographic diversity; the types, numbers, and quality of community partnerships
formed to provide funding and other services; employment market conditions;
and reasonable budget.
J. SELECTION, NOTIFICATION, AND NEGOTIATION PROCESS
Applicants will be reviewed and graded on a competitive basis by TWC. Detailed
evaluation criteria will be included in the application packet. Incomplete
applications are subject to rejection and disqualification by TWC. Grading
criteria will be included in the application packet. Applications will be
reviewed and ranked according to scores, their apparent ability to complete
the project timely and successfully, and reviewed for past contracting performance
with TWC. Top contenders will be required to attend a bidder's conference
in Austin, and to prepare and submit written questions to TWC prior to the
conference. Failure to attend the requested bidder's conference could disqualify
a potential applicant. A tentative selection will be determined immediately
after the conference is completed. A designated person from the selected
entity must be readily available to respond to inquiries, prepare proposed
amendments, and negotiate with TWC concerning budget and/or proposed programmatic
revisions. If a designated person is not readily available to promptly respond
to requested revisions, the applicant will be removed from consideration
for a contract. TWC is not liable for any bidder costs associated with the
RFP process.
K. DUE DATE AND AGENCY CONTACT
The due date for hand delivered consideration of a training center pilot
program proposal is 4:00 p.m., March 2, 1998. Application packets must be
postmarked by the US Post Office on March 2, 1998 to be considered eligible.
For further information and to order Application Packets, contact the Child
Care/Work and Family Clearinghouse, Room 416T, 1117 Trinity, Austin, Texas
78778-001, (512) 936-3239=Office, (512) 936-3223=Fax.
L. TWC's OBLIGATIONS
TWC reserves the right to vary all provisions of this Request for Proposal
prior to the execution of a contract when TWC deems such variances and/or
amendments are in the best interest of the State of Texas. TWC reserves the
right to reject any and all proposals .
TWC's obligations under this RFP are contingent upon the actual receipt
by the Agency of funds from the US Department of Health and Human Services.
If adequate funds are not available to make payment under the terms of this
grant, TWC will terminate this RFP or resulting contract and will not be
liable for failure to make payments.
TRD-9800569
J. Randel (Jerry) Hill
General Counsel
Texas Workforce Commission
Filed: January 14, 1998
Correction of Error
The Texas Council on Workforce and Economic Competitiveness submitted an
Open Meeting Notice, the notice appeared in the January 2, 1998, issue of
the
Texas Register
(23 TexReg 243).
The date was incorrectly published. It should read “Tuesday, January
13, 1998,” not “Saturday, January 13, 1998.”
The federal Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) permits the Governor to
redesignate Service Delivery Areas (SDAs) once every two years. The Texas
Council on Workforce and Economic Competitiveness (TCWEC or Council), receives
redesignation petitions and recommends approval to the Governor. Federal
law requires the Governor to approve the request by March 1, 1998, to take
effect on July 1, 1998, the beginning of the next JTPA fiscal year. The public
must have a comment period prior to the Governor approving the request.
On January 13, TCWEC's Executive Committee recommended that the Governor
approve a request to merge the Balance of Tarrant County SDA and Fort Worth
Consortium SDA into a single JTPA SDA. All affected persons and organizations
have an opportunity to comment on the proposed redesignation. The Governor
directed TCWEC to publish this redesignation request and manage the public
comment process which seeks local input on redesignation. After considering
all comments, the Governor will make the final decision.
Request for Public Comments. Comments on this redesignation may be submitted
to Will Reece, Director, Texas Council on Workforce and Economic Competitiveness,
P.O. Box 2241, Austin, Texas 78768. All comments should be received by the
Council no later than February 21, 1998. A copy of the request for redesignation
presented to the Council and to the Governor is also available from the Council
office at 512-936-8100.
TRD-9800548
Alexa Ray
Program Administrator
Texas Council on Workforce and Econ
omic Competitiveness
Filed: January 14,1998
Office of the Attorney General
Brazos Valley Workforce Development Board
Coastal Coordination Council
Comptroller of Public Accounts
Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner
Texas Education Agency
General Services Commission
Harris County Flood Control District
Texas Department of Health
Licensing Action for Radioactive Materials
Notice of Emergency Cease and Desist Order
Texas Health Care Information Council
Health and Human Services Commission
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
Request for Proposals for Inspection Services
Texas Department of Human Services
Texas Department of Insurance
Third Party Administrator Application
Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation
Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission
Notice of an Application
Notice of Applications for Waste Disposal/Discharge Permits
Notice of Award
Notice of Receipt of Application and Declaration of Administrative Completeness
Provisionally-Issued Temporary Permits to Appropriate State Water
Request for Proposal-Texas Community Waste Reduction Outreach Project
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Texas State Board of Pharmacy
Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services
Request for Proposal-Level of Care Services Support System
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Notice of Application for Approval of Recovery of Costs and Lost Revenue Pursuant to Public Utility Commission Substantive Rule 23.49(c)(12)
Notice of Application for Rate Group Reclassification
Notice of Application for Service Provider Certificate of Operating Authority
Notice of Intent to File Pursuant to P.U.C. Substantive Rule 23.27
Notice of Petition for Rulemaking
Notice of Workshop on Customer Survey and Assessment of Interchange
Notice of Workshop on PUC Customer Satisfaction Assessment
Public Notices of Amendment to Interconnection Agreement
Public Notices of Interconnection Agreement
Railroad Commission of Texas
Texas State Senate
South East Texas Regional Planning Commission
Teacher Retirement System of Texas
Texas Department of Transportation
Notice of Invitation
Texas Water Development Board
Texas Workforce Commission
Texas Council on Workforce and Economic Competitiveness
Proposal for Redesignation