Texas Department on Aging and Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs

The Texas Department on Aging previously published this notice in the August 17, Texas Register (26 TexReg 6139). This notice corrects the previously published version.

BACKGROUND AND RESEARCH FOCUS

The Texas Department on Aging (TDoA) and the Texas Department on Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) are soliciting proposals for a study of the housing needs of the 60+ population in Texas with a maximum funding level not to exceed $120,000.

Housing contributes significantly to the quality of life experienced by older persons. Well designed, suitably located, and affordable housing can help sustain the independence of older persons, and ease the burden of disabilities that often accompany aging. Although progress has been made in improving the housing conditions of older persons, national data reveal that certain groups of older households remain in need of assistance. Prominent among those in need are the population age 75+, women living alone, minorities, rural households, and renters.

Senate Bill 374 (76th Texas Legislature) requires TDoA and TDHCA to assess the need for housing for elderly individuals and for families in which an elderly individual is head of the household in different localities in Texas. Research focus should include:

habitation of substandard units;

excessive expenditures for housing compared to other groups;

identification of different housing options utilized by the older population, basic costs; associated with each option, and reasons people transition between the various options;

and other possible research questions as proposed by the selected applicant and mutually agreed to by TDoA, TDHCA, and the applicant.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

This Request for Proposals (RFP) invites applications from government, public, private, non-profit and for-profit entities.

AWARD INSTRUMENT AND RESPONSIBILITY

The award will be a contract for services. Responsibility for the planning, direction, and execution of the proposed project may be shared among collaborating organizations, but is ultimately the sole responsibility of the applicant.

PROJECT PERIOD

The total project period for applications submitted in response to this RFP may not exceed twelve months, and must be concluded by December 15, 2002.

SCOPE OF THE WORK

The selected proposal will develop a methodology and conduct a study of housing needs for the population age 60+, analyze state policy relating to housing, provide a written and an electronic version of the report summarizing the results, and provide data to TDoA and TDHCA in electronic format. The research should include analysis based on:

Age: 60+ population including the oldest of the 60+ population.

Geographical Designations: 11 TDHCA service regions (see Attachment L for definition of regions).

Residence: (urban, suburban, and rural): The definition for rural is specified by the Office of Management and Budget. "An area is rural if: 1. it is outside the boundaries of a Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA); or 2. it is within the boundaries of an MSA but has a population of not more than 20,000 and does not share boundaries with an urbanized area."

Race/Ethnicity: major racial and ethnic groups

Income Levels: as defined by TDHCA:

0-30% of median income is defined as extremely low income

30-50% of median income is defined as very low income

51-80% of median income is defined as low income.

The study may be based on estimation techniques utilizing national surveys and Texas State Data Center projections and/or primary data collection. If sampling is used, the sample size must be sufficient to ensure the 95 percent confidence level for results are no more than + 3 percent and support statistically reliable results for each of the variables listed above.

The selected applicant in consultation with TDoA and TDHCA staff will develop data collection instruments. The research organization must be able to administer interviews in English and Spanish. The data collection instrument will also collect social and demographic data that will allow for subgroup analysis on the variables specified above. The research organization will submit drafts of English and Spanish versions of the survey instrument to TDoA and TDHCA for review and approval prior to interviewing. TDoA and TDHCA staff will be allowed access to the data collection site/facilities during data collection to ensure appropriate quality of data. The selected applicant will code responses to open ended items included in survey instruments, and enter this data into an automated database for tabulation and analysis with other survey data. The data analysis will include frequency distributions, crosstabulations, and other data manipulations as directed by TDoA and TDHCA. The selected applicant will provide raw data as an ASCII fixed field length, comma delimited data file.

The selected applicant will provide an appropriate analysis of data and will prepare and submit a written report that will contain: an executive summary, a detailed statistical analysis of results, an analysis of state policy in the related areas, and an analysis of the social and demographic dimensions specified above. The written report will also include graphic presentation of data as appropriate. The selected applicant will describe the methodology and confidence level of results in an appendix to the report. The selected applicant will submit an initial draft of the report to TDoA and TDHCA for staff review, and finalize the report by incorporating revisions and additional analyses requested by TDoA and TDHCA.

DELIVERABLES

Final deliverables will be due no later than December 15, 2002. Deliverables will include:

detailed proposal including policy analysis and project design and methodology

data collection instruments

hard copy of frequency distributions

crosstabulations and other data manipulations

ASCII file containing raw data.

draft version of the written report

Final revised written report

The final report should address the background and scope of the problem for the aged population and an analysis of Texas state policy in each area. The final report is due no later than 5:00 p.m. December 15, 2002.

Provisions made to protect the health, well-being, dignity, or confidentiality of human subjects should be documented, if applicable. For example, university applicants are asked to provide a copy of approval from their Institutional Review Board or other committee to review the appropriateness of the course of activities performed pursuant to this agreement.

WORK MADE FOR HIRE

All work performed pursuant to this Agreement specifically including all Deliverables developed or prepared for the TDoA is the exclusive property of the State of Texas. All right, title, and interest in and to said property shall vest in the State of Texas and shall be deemed to be a work made for hire and made in the course of the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement. To the extent that title to any work may not, by operation of law, vest in the State of Texas or such work may not be considered a work made for hire, all rights, title, and interest therein are hereby irrevocably assigned to the State of Texas. The TDoA and/or the State of Texas shall have the right to obtain and to hold in its own name, copyrights, registrations, or such other protection as may be appropriate to the subject matter, and any extensions and renewals thereof. Contractor agrees to give the TDoA and/or the State of Texas and any person designated by the Department and/or the State of Texas, reasonable assistance required to assert the rights defined in this paragraph.

LICENSE AGREEMENT

TDOA shall grant to the awarded Contractor a non-exclusive, irrevocable, world-wide, royalty-free, license to use, reproduce, distribute, and display the materials created pursuant to this agreement, subject to the following terms and conditions. The license granted shall terminate on December 31, 2004, unless renewed by the parties in writing, terminated sooner in accordance with its terms, or if the Agreement of which this clause is a part, is terminated for cause. Each copy of the materials that the Contractor distributes shall indicate on the cover that the creation of the material was funded by the Texas Department on Aging. The first page on the inside of the material shall contain the following copyright notice: (c) 2001 Texas Department on Aging, State of Texas. The Contractor agrees that it will not charge a fee for the distribution of the materials, except to recover actual duplication and mailing costs. Contractor shall not create derivatives of or modify the content of the materials except with the express written consent of the TDOA. Failure to comply with the terms of this license agreement may result in immediate termination of the license agreement by TDOA. Upon termination of this license agreement, Contractor shall return the remaining materials to TDOA, or shall destroy or distribute them, in accordance with the instructions of the TDOA.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

(1) The dispute resolution process provided for in Chapter 2260 of the Government Code shall be used as further described herein, by the TDoA and the contractor to attempt to resolve any claim for breach of contract made by the contractor:

(A) A contractor's claim for breach of contract that the parties cannot resolve in the ordinary course of business shall be submitted to the negotiation process provided in Chapter 2260, subchapter B, of the Government Code. To initiate the process, the contractor shall submit written notice, as required by subchapter B, to Mary Sapp, Executive Director. Said notice shall specifically state that the provisions of Chapter 2260, subchapter B, are being invoked, A copy of the notice shall also be given to all other representatives of the TDoA and the contractor otherwise entitled to notice under the parties' contract. Compliance by the contractor with subchapter B is a condition precedent to the filing of a contested case proceeding under Chapter 2260, subchapter C, of the Government Code.

(B) The contested case process provided in Chapter 2260, subchapter C, of the Government Code is the contractor's sole and exclusive process for seeking a remedy for any and all alleged breaches of contract by the TDoA if the parties are unable to resolve their disputes under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.

(C) Compliance with the contested case process provided in subchapter C is a condition precedent to seeking consent to sue from the Legislature under Chapter 107 of the Civil Practices and Remedies Code. Neither the execution of this contract by the TDoA nor any other conduct of any representative of the TDoA relating to the contract shall be considered a waiver of sovereign immunity to suit.

(2) The submission, processing and resolution of the contractor's claim is governed by the published rules adopted by the Attorney General pursuant to Chapter 2260, as currently effective, hereafter enacted or subsequently amended.

(3) Neither the occurrence of an event nor the pendency of a claim constitutes grounds for the suspension of performance by the contractor, in whole or part.

ORGANIZATIONAL CAPABILITY

Applicants must have a minimum of five years experience performing gerontological research and policy analysis using rigorous research methods, published gerontological research in major peer-reviewed journals, and a record of funded gerontological research and policy analysis. Applicants must provide a description of the organization's research experience that is relevant to this project. Prior experience conducting research on housing issues, and collaboration with other experts is preferred. Applicants must include a brief description of the qualifications of expected collaborators, the available organizational resources, and the qualifications of staff members expected to work on this project. Failure to include a description of the principal investigators' research experience will result in disqualification. Failure to include sufficient information to substantiate five years experience in gerontological research will result in disqualification of the application. Failure to include a description of the organization, collaborators, and staff will result in disqualification.

PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

Proposals must comply with all rules and statutes relating to purchasing in the State of Texas. Late and/or unsigned proposals will not be considered under any circumstances. The person submitting the proposal must have the authority to bind the organization in a contract.

TDoA reserves the right to accept or reject all or any part of a proposal, waive minor technicalities, and award the proposal to best serve the interests of the agency.

APPLICATION FORMAT

Applications must respond to all aspects specified in the RFP. To facilitate application review and evaluation, applications shall follow the following format:

I. Cover Page (including name of applicant, project name, and date submitted)

II. Table of Contents

III. Executive Summary (limited to two double-spaced pages)

IV. Statement of the Problem (a discussion of the issues in general, the specific focus of the proposal, rationale for why the research is needed, and the expected outcomes)

V. Literature Review (a brief discussion of the literature and studies pertinent to the proposed research)

VI. Project Design and Workplan (a description of the methodological approach and tasks that will be required for the proposed study, including a timeline for completing tasks and deliverables)

VII. Organizational Capacity (description of the applicant's capacity to achieve the objectives identified in the proposal including supporting documentation such as examples of previous reports, survey instruments, etc.; a description of the organization, and the qualifications of collaborators and project staff)

VIII. Budget (a detailed budget and justification)

IX. Biographical Sketch (one page biographical sketch of the Principal Investigator)

The proposal narrative (Statement of the Problem, Literature Review, Project Design and Work Plan, and Organizational Capacity) should not exceed twenty double-spaced pages in 12 pt. type. Additional documentation may be appended. Applicants must provide an executive summary of not more than two pages describing how the requirements of the RFP will be met.

The maximum funding level will be $120,000, which includes both direct and indirect costs. Requests for indirect costs shall not exceed ten percent of the total budget requested.

APPLICATION SUBMISSION

An original, plus nine copies of the paper application should be sent directly to:

Jane Norwood, Office of Public Policy & Information, Texas Department on Aging, PO Box 12786, Austin, TX 78711

The application must be received by TDoA no later than October 1, 2001. An application will be considered "on time" if it is received on or before the closing date of October 1, 2001, or if it is postmarked on or before October 1, 2001. Applications must be mailed through the U.S. Postal Service or a commercial delivery service. No facsimiles will be accepted. Applications postmarked after the closing date, or postmarked before the closing date but not received in time for panel review, will be considered late applications.

PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

The HUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP) and all accompanying forms (Attachments A through K), and the Applicant Affirmation (Attachment M) must be completed and submitted with the proposal. Failure to provide these forms with the application will disqualify the proposal from consideration for the award in connection with this RFP.

REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS AND CRITERIA FOR SELECTION

Acceptable applications will be referred to a technical panel for evaluation and scoring. To assist in the preparation of the application, established criteria for review are provided below. The panel will consist of TDoA and TDHCA staff and possibly staff from other State agencies. The panel will be convened on October 2, 2001. Applicants will be mailed written notification of the final award decision on November 12, 2001. Failure to provide the required information with the application will automatically disqualify the proposal from consideration for the award in connection with this RFP.

Evaluation and grant award will be based on the following criteria (weighted values in parenthesis):

1. evidence of applicant's experience in developing and conducting gerontological research and policy analysis (include examples of previous reports, survey instruments, etc.,(20%);

2. evidence that the conceptual framework, design, methods, and analyses are adequately developed, and appropriate to the aims of the project (20%);

3. evidence of collaboration and well defined roles among key parties (20%);

4. submission of a realistic work plan and timeline (20%); and

5. a budget and justification that is appropriate for the scope and quality needed for successful completion of the project (20%).

TDoA and TDHCA are particularly interested in supporting collaborations between organizations that will design and conduct gerontological research. The collaborating organizations should identify an applicant organization with strong experience in research on aging issues.

VALIDATION OF OFFERS

Prior to award of the grant, TDoA and TDHCA must be assured that the selected applicant has the resources with the required experience to successfully perform under the contract, and that these resources will be available during the term of the contract. If during the evaluation process, TDoA and TDHCA are not assured of a selected applicant's ability to perform under the grant, TDoA and TDHCA have the option of requesting from the selected applicant any information which they deem necessary to aid in determining whether the selected applicant has the experience to perform the contract, or in determining whether the selected vendor's quote is unacceptable to TDoA and TDHCA.

TDoA and TDHCA reserve the right to negotiate with applicants as well as the right to refuse any and all responses resulting from this request for proposals to ensure that deliverables are high quality and meet stated requirements.

NOTIFICATION OF AWARD

All applicants will be notified by the TDoA and TDHCA contact person concerning the award of a contract. The selected applicant will receive a contract from TDoA. The selected applicant must meet all TDoA contractual requirements for execution of the contract.

RFP REVIEW AND AWARD SCHEDULE

RFP announcement - July 23, 2001

Applications due by 5:00 p.m. - October 1, 2001

Notification of Award - November 12, 2001

Final Deliverables Due - December 15, 2002

Questions regarding this RFP can be directed to Jane Norwood at (512) 424-6850.

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TRD-200104757

Gary Jessee

Aging Network Policy Coordinator

Texas Department on Aging

Filed: August 15, 2001

The Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD) announces the availability of funds for three grant projects. TCDD is established by and funded under state and federal law and is responsible to promote the development of support and services necessary for individuals with developmental disabilities to be fully included in their communities. The Council is responsible for developing a State Plan and approving grant projects to carry out objectives in the State Plan. The Council has a commitment to support projects that will be carried out by organizations that share the Council's vision and values. More information about the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities may be obtained at:http://www.txddc.state.tx.us/menus/fset_cncl_1.asp

Request for Proposal: Personal Attendants Pool Demonstration Project

This announces the availability of funds for projects to be initiated in three distinct communities demonstrating strategies that increase the number of personal attendants available in each of those communities. Up to $100,000 per year for up to three years for each demonstration project is available to be awarded by TCDD. Funding for these projects is subject to an independent review process established by the Council and to the availability of funds.

The number of people who require personal assistance services (PAS) has grown dramatically over the last two decades and is expected to increase. This dramatic growth in the number of people receiving support at home (and thereby avoiding institutionalization) is accompanied by a crisis in finding qualified, motivated personnel to perform personal assistance tasks. The current economy and low wages for personal attendants discourages potential workers from choosing this line of work, and there is no support system in place to assist those already working in the field.

TCDD intends to fund three different demonstration projects which utilize innovative means to increase both recruitment and retention of personal attendants. The projects may be independent of each other and may use different methodologies (see examples below), but will meet at least quarterly to share strategies and outcome information with a state level Coordinating Team, facilitated by the Texas Department of Human Services (TDHS). The Coordinating Team will coordinate efforts between groups, offer expertise in policy and procedure analysis and interpretation, and synthesize the reports from the local groups into one usable report upon project completion.

The first year of each project is expected to focus primarily on project development activities and building partnerships at a local and regional level. Active recruitment, training and/or placement of personal assistants are expected to begin in the second year. Each project's third year will include continued recruitment, training, and placement efforts and evaluation activities. The projects should also include activities necessary to ensure sustainability after the conclusion of TCDD's financial support. Each site will be expected to develop strategies that will be most effective and sustainable within that specific community. Each demonstration site will coordinate a Project Advisory Committee that includes individuals receiving attendant services and their families, representatives from local organizations, and local advocates. By project completion, each project will provide a detailed description of the targeted community, an evaluation of effectiveness of the chosen strategies, and recommendations for improvements.

Possible strategies/methodologies to be used include (but are not limited to):

* recruitment efforts targeting traditionally underemployed workers (i.e., older workers, participants in full time volunteer programs, people with disabilities, non-English speaking individuals, welfare-to-work participants),

* development of college courses offering field work credit for supervised personal assistance experiences,

* coordination of efforts to develop and promote a professional association for personal attendants at a local or regional level to increase retention of those currently employed in the field and to recruit and train new attendants.

* formation of partnerships with public and/or private workforce agencies or home health organizations to train and place personal assistants, and

* utilization of marketing strategies for recruitment efforts in a local or regional area.

The Council intends for one of the three chosen projects to utilize a field work strategy and at least one project to address the needs of a rural area.

Expected Project Outcomes:

* The numbers of qualified personal attendants will be increased (reflecting higher recruitment and/or improved retention) in three targeted communities.

* Three communities will have in place effective and sustainable programs addressing the need to train and place personal attendants.

* Consumer satisfaction regarding quality of personal assistant care will increase.

* TDHS will have information regarding effective and ineffective strategies as they relate to communities with identified characteristics, to be utilized in future efforts.

* TDHS will have information regarding barriers experienced in increasing the numbers of personal assistants.

Proposal Components:

* The Project Objectives section must outline activities, including evaluation methodology, to ensure the following measures of success:

- a demonstrable increase in the numbers of qualified personal assistants due to improved recruitment and/or increased retention in employment.

- development of resources and means of sustainability that will be developed to support the program after TCDD funding is terminated.

- a final report that describes the demographics of the specified communities, evaluates the effectiveness of the strategies chosen for that community and explores any barriers experienced in project implementation.

* The proposal Narrative must describe the characteristics of the geographical region chosen, the strategy selected for use, and the reasoning behind that selection. The Narrative should also address any issues relating to cultural sensitivity.

* Any identified partners should supply Letters of Intent indicating their commitment to work with the grantee on the project.

* The grantee should describe the means of establishing and supporting a Project Advisory Committee of 8-12 people, including primary stakeholders, in the Project Objectives section, and indicate the responsibilities and activities of that committee in the project Narrative.

* Letters of support may be included with the proposal.

Eligibility:

Eligible applicants can be organizations that are public agencies, private nonprofit agencies, private for profit organizations or other qualified entities. Applicants shall be the organization that will provide the administrative functions for the grant and which will receive, disburse, and account for grant funds. Successful applicants may not have received funds from the Council in the last five years for projects other than stipend support.

Terms:

* Funding for each budget period for each project may not exceed $100,000 annually, for 3 years.

* Grant funds to be used for this Request for Proposals (RFP) were awarded to the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities. A nonfederal match of 25% is required. The nonfederal match may consist of "in-kind" value and/or nonfederal cash contributions. Project activities located in counties that are designated federal poverty areas require a minimum of 10% matching resources. An increasing match in subsequent years is requested and will be negotiated with TCDD.

* Applicants must disclose any conflicts of interest between themselves and Council members, employees and their immediate families.

* All printed material is to be in accessible formats including Braille, large print, and Spanish. Any video products must have open captioning. Video products, teleconferencing and distance learning activities are to be fully accessible to all.

* Funds awarded may not be used for direct services and supports.

* TCDD reserves the right not to fund any proposal under the announcement.

* TCDD will retain all rights to all products created through this funding.

Continuation Funding: Projects may be eligible for continuation funding as specified in the original Request for Proposals. Continuation funding will not be automatic, but will be based on a review of the project's accomplishments, progress towards stated goals and objectives, financial management of funds, compliance with reporting requirements, review of most recent program audit, review of findings of TCDD's onsite reviews, and development of alternative funding.

Deadlines: Proposals for all of the projects are due by 4:00 p.m. November 27th, 2001. Proposals will be accepted by mail or in person at the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities, 4900 North Lamar Blvd., Office No. 4435, 4th Floor, Austin, Texas 78751.

Application Packets: For the full request for proposals, application forms and instructions, please submit a written, fax, or e-mail request to: Carl Risinger, Grants Management Director, Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities, 4900 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX, 78751-2399, (512) 424-4084 or fax (512) 424-4097, e-mail TXDDS@txddc.state.tx.us. This information also may be obtained through TCDD's website at http://www.txdds.state.tx.us/. The completed application packet must be mailed or hand delivered. Application packets cannot be faxed.

TRD-200104759

Roger A. Webb

Executive Director

Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities

Filed: August 15, 2001

The Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD) announces the availability of funds for three grant projects. TCDD is established by and funded under state and federal law and is responsible to promote the development of support and services necessary for individuals with developmental disabilities to be fully included in their communities. The Council is responsible for developing a State Plan and approving grant projects to carry out objectives in the State Plan. The Council has a commitment to support projects that will be carried out by organizations that share the Council's vision and values.

Request For Proposal: Higher Education Video

This announces the availability of funds to produce a video that appeals to high school students and presents the stories of students with disabilities who are currently enrolled in colleges or universities in Texas. Because a large number of people with disabilities do not receive the support necessary to seek and achieve success at the post secondary level, the Council wishes to challenge students, their families, and educators to consider higher education as a viable option for students with disabilities. Funding is available for the creation of an 8-12 minute video, produced in Spanish and English and with open captioning, that will accomplish this objective. A one time grant for up to $75,000 is available beginning December 1, 2001.

Expected Project Outcomes:

* This video will demonstrate the wide range of post-secondary possibilities for students with disabilities who have graduated or soon will be graduating from secondary school. The video is intended to be an upbeat, interesting video designed to hold the attention of and inspire high school students and their families. Through the stories of students with disabilities who are attending universities, it will address issues involved in obtaining any needed supports to participate in all aspects of university life and identify a few key issues relating to people with disabilities seeking higher education.

* The final product will be available with open captioning and in both Spanish and English. The video should be produced in Beta SP and CD ROM formats. The funding includes production of 500 VHS copies and 500 CD copies with appropriate jackets and cases. The final product will be digitized for use on web sites.

Proposal Components:

* A comprehensive and detailed Narrative describing the initial concept, number of stories to be presented, and means through which the script will be developed should be included in the proposal.

The Narrative should reflect a deep level of understanding of the issues involved for people with severe disabilities attending universities. It should demonstrate both the applicants' intent and the ability of the applicant organization to produce a script written in "people first" language and should model a respect for diversity. TCDD recommends including people who have a personal knowledge of the issues in the development of the proposal

* The Narrative and Part II, The Project Objectives section, should specifically address the proposed timeline, degree of travel expected, variety of recruitment strategies and the selection process to be used to acquire subjects for the video should be developed.

* The Narrative and Budget Details sections should describe in detail any necessary subcontracting of activities to complete the project.

The quality of subcontracted work will be the sole responsibility of the grantee. The DD Council must approve the selection of all subcontractors.

* The Narrative should include a description of activities to establish and support a Project Advisory Committee of 8-10 members, as approved by the DD Council, in the Narrative and Project Objectives. The Budget Detail should also include sufficient funds for travel and any supports/accommodations that may be needed by committee members with disabilities. The primary role of the Project Advisory Committee will be to provide input to project staff regarding concept development, subject selection, and script content. The PAC shall be responsible for reviewing and commenting on project activities and providing advice and consultation about optimal strategies for accomplishing project goals and objectives.

The DD Council will have final approval concerning concept, subject choice, and script.

* A sample of past video work shall be provided with the proposal. The sample should show an ability to produce a video in a style that youth will find inspiring. If the applicant plans to contract with another organization for production work, a sample of the intended production company(ies) work should be provided. Only one copy is necessary.

Applicant Capabilities:

* In the Narrative and Qualifications of Organization Sections, applicants should demonstrate the ability to assume responsibility for all creative and production activities, including, but not limited to, coordination of concept and script development, talent recruitment and direction, taping, and editing. The applicant should show a thorough understanding of the production process as well as of disability and education related issues. Applicants should demonstrate experience (by either the applicant or the named sub-contractor) in the production of high quality, inspiring, video products and ability to coordinate all aspects of production within a set budget and timeline.

* Applicants should show evidence of thorough knowledge of issues surrounding people with disabilities who are seeking higher education in the Proposal Narrative.

Project Evaluation:

* Applicants should discuss a proposed process to evaluate the quality of the final product in the proposal Narrative and in the Project Objectives activities, as appropriate.

Terms:

* A nonfederal match, consisting of "in-kind" value and/or nonfederal cash contributions, of 25% is required. Projects located in counties designated as federal poverty areas require a minimum of 10% matching resources. An increasing match in subsequent years is requested and will be negotiated with TCDD.

* Applicants must disclose any conflicts of interest between themselves and Council members, employees and their immediate families.

* All printed material is to be in accessible formats including Braille, large print, and Spanish. Any video products must have open captioning. Video products, teleconferencing and distance learning activities are to be fully accessible to all.

* TCDD reserves the right not to fund any proposal under the announcement.

* TCDD will retain all rights to all products created through this funding.

* TCDD staff will approve a Project Advisory Committee of 8-10 key stakeholders, including self-advocates and representatives from other advocate organizations.

* The product will be distributed by an independent agent using other funding.

* TCDD must approve subjects, script, and subcontractors.

Note:

Organizations/individuals who have strengths in either video production or knowledge of the content, but not both, are encouraged to collaborate.

Deadlines: Proposals for all of the projects are due by 4:00 p.m. November. 27th, 2001. Proposals will be accepted by mail or in person at the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities, 4900 North Lamar Blvd., Office No. 4435, 4th Floor, Austin, Texas 78751.

Application Packets: For the full request for proposals, application forms and instructions, please submit a written, fax, or e-mail request to: Carl Risinger, Grants Management Director, Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities, 4900 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX, 78751-2399, (512) 424-4084 or fax (512) 424-4097, e-mail TXDDS@txddc.state.tx.us. This information also may be obtained through TCDD's website at http://www.txdds.state.tx.us/. The completed application packet must be mailed or hand delivered. Application packets cannot be faxed.

TRD-200104760

Roger A. Webb

Executive Director

Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities

Filed: August 15, 2001

The Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD) announces the availability of funds for three grant projects. TCDD is established by and funded under state and federal law and is responsible to promote the development of support and services necessary for individuals with developmental disabilities to be fully included in their communities. The Council is responsible for developing a State Plan and approving grant projects to carry out objectives in the State Plan. The Council has a commitment to support projects that will be carried out by organizations that share the Council's vision and values.

Request for Proposal: Youth Leadership Training This announces the availability of funds to be awarded on behalf of the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities for a new project providing leadership training for youth with disabilities. The program will provide youth with disabilities the opportunity to come together to gain information, develop specific skills, and establish personal goals and plans in an experientially based program.

Funds of up to $100,000 for the first budget period (November 15, 2001 - August 31, 2002), and up to $100,000 for years two and three (September 1 - August 31) are available. The grantee is expected to hold Youth Leadership Forums in the summers of 2002, 2003, and 2004. Funding for this project is subject to an independent review process established by the Council and to the availability of funds.

The program will be based on the California Governor's Committee for People with Disabilities Youth Leadership Forum (YLF), with adaptations as necessary to ensure outcomes in line with TCDD's mission and goal. The Forum should follow these guidelines:

1. Students with every kind of disability (as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act) are invited to participate. At least 1/3 of the participants should be people with developmental disabilities.

2. Every student participant (delegate) must have a disability and have potential to be a leader.

3. To the extent possible, delegates should include an equal number of male and female participants.

4. Every guest presenter who meets with the delegates must be actively involved in and have a knowledge of disability issues. The overall training curriculum should reflect the variety of disabilities.

5. It should be a goal that more than 50% of the staff (volunteers and paid staff) be people with disabilities.

6. Delegates and staff should reflect the diversity existing in Texas.

7. All staff must understand and support the concept of "self-determination" in encouraging the student delegates to establish their own personal and vocational goals.

8. The primary training components of the Forum should be based on the written curriculum of the California model.

More information about the California Model may be obtained at: http://www.dol.gov/dol/odep/public/pubs/ylf.htm

More information about the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities may be obtained at: http://www.txddc.state.tx.us/menus/fset_cncl_1.asp

Expected Project Outcomes:

* A Youth Leadership Forum, utilizing best practices and based on the model developed by the California Governor's Committee for People with Disabilities, will be developed during the first year of the project. The first forum will occur in summer of 2002.

* One 4-5 day forum, targeting 20-30 high school aged students (between the ages of 14 and 21) with disabilities, will be conducted each of the 3 years.

* Each Forum will demonstrate adequate representation across cultures, economic strata, and disabilities among delegates.

* Effective and cost efficient living accommodations, travel arrangements, and necessary support services will be coordinated to ensure full inclusion and participation in all aspects of the program.

* The grantee will develop funding partners to assist with forum implementation and to ensure sustainability after the grant has ended.

Proposal Components:

* The Narrative should describe proposed events and activities around leadership and career planning for youth with disabilities to be conducted in a 4-5 day training forum. The proposal should include social, artistic, athletic, and recreational activities focused on improving team building and problem solving skills and on empowering youth. Part II, Project Objectives, should describe in detail the activities necessary to implement the forum.

* The Narrative should address the management of logistical issues, such as accessible transportation and meeting and sleeping accommodations, meals, timely communication with participants, and supports and/or accommodations necessary for full participation. The Project Objectives and Budget Detail should include details of these activities.

* The Narrative should describe methods for recruitment, selection, and support for full participation of 20-30 high-school aged students with varying disabilities from around Texas. Participants should have demonstrated leadership potential in their schools and/or communities.

Non-traditional recruitment strategies should be considered to ensure that participation is not limited solely to youth who are currently in high school.

The Project Objectives should indicate the timeline for these activities.

* The Narrative should describe the means of identifying and interacting with collaborating agencies, organizations and private sponsors to assist in recruiting and supporting students participating in the forum (TCDD has begun work with some such agencies; the grantee should be prepared to work with these partners as well as others they may bring into the project). Letters of intent from any agencies described as partners should be included. The Project Objectives should indicate the schedule and goals of any meetings to be held or collaborative work to be done.

* The Narrative, Project Objectives, and Budget Detail sections should reflect a well-organized use of volunteers throughout the process in order to ensure completion of all activities within the allotted funding amounts.

* The Narrative must provide details of any sub-contracting that might be necessary for technical assistance. The financial details should be included in Budget Detail.

Applicant Capabilities:

* The Narrative and Qualifications sections of the proposal should demonstrate an understanding of, commitment to, and modeling of skills necessary for effective leadership and leadership training for youth with disabilities. This should include evidence of familiarity with models of experiential education and leadership training, including the model developed by California Governor's Committee for People with Disabilities. Additional information concerning this model is available from the California Governor's Committee for Employment of Disabled Persons and The Office of Disability Employment Policy (formerly the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities).

* The Narrative section should demonstrate knowledge of issues regarding advocacy, especially surrounding issues involving people with disabilities.

* The Narrative should show the ability to make creative adaptations to a proven model as necessary to meet anticipated needs and to utilize strengths and opportunities as they are identified.

* The Narrative should describe the ability to contract with vendors for accessible transportation, meeting and guest room accommodations, and other supports as necessary to ensure that all participant needs will be met with dignity and without exception. Details regarding any necessary subcontracts should be covered in the Budget Justification.

* The Narrative should indicate the ability to attract and contract with appropriate presenters.

* The Project Objectives and Budget Details should show the intention to work closely with the identified DD Council liaison and other interested partners, and to identify and collaborate with new partners.

Project Evaluation:

The grantee will be expected to develop and engage in ongoing evaluation activities. The evaluation of project effectiveness will be based on customer satisfaction and the level of responsiveness to needs and strengths as they are identified. Customers will include all partners involved in the project as well as youth participants. Evaluation activities should be included in the Project Objectives, and further detail regarding these may be described in the Narrative.

Terms

* A nonfederal match, consisting of "in-kind" value and/or nonfederal cash contributions, of 25% is required. Projects located in counties designated as federal poverty areas require a minimum of 10% matching resources. An increasing match in subsequent years is requested and will be negotiated with TCDD.

* Applicants must disclose any conflicts of interest between themselves and Council members, employees and their immediate families.

* All printed material is to be in accessible formats including Braille, large print, and Spanish. Any video products must have open captioning. Video products, teleconferencing and distance learning activities are to be fully accessible to all.

* TCDD reserves the right not to fund any proposal under the announcement.

* TCDD will retain all rights to all products created through this funding.

* TCDD staff will approve a Project Advisory Committee of 8-10 key stakeholders, including self-advocates and representatives from other advocate organizations.

* It is expected that additional funding partners will be developed to ensure sustainability after the grant has ended.

Continuation Funding: Projects may be eligible for continuation funding as specified in the original Request for Proposals. Continuation funding will not be automatic, but will be based on a review of the project's accomplishments, progress towards stated goals and objectives, financial management of funds, compliance with reporting requirements, review of most recent program audit, review of findings of TCDD's onsite reviews, and development of alternative funding.

Deadlines: Proposals for all of the projects are due by 4:00 p.m. October 24, 2001. Proposals will be accepted by mail or in person at the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities, 4900 North Lamar Blvd., Office No. 4435, 4th Floor, Austin, Texas 78751.

Application Packets: For the full request for proposals, application forms and instructions, please submit a written, fax, or e-mail request to: Carl Risinger, Grants Management Director, Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities, 4900 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX, 78751-2399, (512) 424-4084 or fax (512) 424-4097, e-mail TXDDS@txddc.state.tx.us . This information also may be obtained through TCDD's website at http://www.txdds.state.tx.us/. The completed application packet must be mailed or hand delivered. Application packets cannot be faxed.

TRD-200104761

Roger A. Webb

Executive Director

Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities

Filed: August 15, 2001

Request for Grant Applications for Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Programs

The Criminal Justice Division (CJD) of the Governor's Office is soliciting applications for projects to provide residential substance abuse treatment to adults incarcerated or confined in detention and/or correctional facilities.

Purpose: The purpose of the projects is to develop and implement residential substance abuse treatment programs in facilities where offenders are incarcerated for a period of time sufficient to permit effective treatment. The substance abuse project must: (1) ensure that each offender participates in the program for not less than six nor more than 12 months, unless he or she drops out or is terminated; (2) provide treatment in residential facilities that are set apart from the general correctional population or are in a dedicated housing unit for the exclusive use of program participants; (3) focus on the substance abuse problems of the offender; (4) develop the offender's cognitive, behavioral, social, vocational, and other skills to resolve the substance abuse and related problems; and (5) require urinalysis or other reliable methods of drug and alcohol testing.

Available Funding: Federal funding is authorized for these projects under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, Section 1001, as amended (42 U.S.C. 3796ff). Grantees must provide matching funds of at least 25 percent of total project expenditures. This requirement must be met in cash.

Standards: Grantees must comply with the applicable grant management standards adopted under Texas Administrative Code Section 3.19.

Prohibitions: Grantees may not use grant funds to pay for non-residential treatment provided through the aftercare component of the program. Grant funds may also not be used to pay for indirect costs.

Eligible Applicants: (1) state agencies; (2) counties operating residential detention and/or correctional facilities; and (3) community supervision and corrections departments (CSCDs) operating community corrections facilities, as defined in Section 509.001, Government Code.

Applicants who receive grants may provide services directly in correctional facilities that they operate or they may contract with qualified service providers who meet all licensing and certification requirements.

Project Period: Grant-funded projects must have a grant period of January 1, 2002 to December 31, 2002.

Application Process: Interested parties should request an application kit for Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Programs from the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division, P.O. Box 12428, Austin, TX 78711, telephone (512) 463-1919. Application kits may also be obtained through the Office of the Governor's web site address located at http://www.governor.state.tx.us/cjd/cjdmain.htm.

Preferences: Preference will be given to applicants who provide aftercare services to program participants. Aftercare services should coordinate service provisions between the correctional treatment program and other human service and rehabilitation programs, such as education and job training, halfway houses, and self-help rehabilitation.

Closing Date for Receipt of Applications: All original applications, plus an additional copy, must be submitted directly to the Criminal Justice Division and must be received or postmarked by October 12, 2001.

Selection Process: Completed applications will be reviewed for eligibility and cost effectiveness by CJD and rated competitively by a committee selected by the director of CJD. CJD reserves the right to renew grants for up to two additional years without the selected applications entering a competitive selection process. The Executive Director of CJD will make all final funding decisions.

Contact Person: If additional information is needed contact CJD at (512) 463-1919.

TRD-200104752

David Zimmerman

Assistant General Counsel

Office of the Governor

Filed: August 15, 2001

Application for admission to the State of Texas by NATIONAL LAND TITLE INSURANCE COMPANY, a foreign title company. The home office is in Barrington, Illinois.

Application for admission to the State of Texas by ROCHE SURETY & CASUALTY COMPANY, INC., a foreign fire and casualty company. The home office is in Tampa, Florida.

Application to add the assumed name of PILLAR INSURANCE COMPANY for SERVICE INSURANCE COMPANY, a foreign fire and casualty company. The home office is in Bradenton, Florida.

Any objections must be filed with the Texas Department of Insurance, addressed to the attention of Godwin Ohaechesi, 333 Guadalupe Street, M/C 305-2C, Austin, Texas 78701.

TRD-200104746

Lynda H. Nesenholtz

General Counsel and Chief Clerk

Texas Department of Insurance

Filed: August 15, 2001

The following third party administrator (TPA) applications have been filed with the Texas Department of Insurance and are under consideration.

Application for admission to Texas of EOS Claims Services, Inc., a foreign third party administrator. The home office is Rancho Cordova, California.

Application for admission to Texas of Adminitron, Inc., a foreign third party administrator. The home office is Brentwood, Tennessee.

Application for admission to Texas of Healthcare Resources Group, LLC., a foreign third party administrator. The home office is South Bend, Indiana.

Application for incorporation in Texas of TSA-Texas Surgical Associates, LLP, a domestic third party administrator. The home office is Houston, Texas.

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-200104744

Lynda H. Nesenholtz

General Counsel and Chief Clerk

Texas Department of Insurance

Filed: August 15, 2001

The following third party administrator (TPA) applications have been filed with the Texas Department of Insurance and are under consideration.

Application for incorporation in Texas of Interculture Network, a domestic third party administrator. The home office is Houston, Texas.

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-200104745

Lynda H. Nesenholtz

General Counsel and Chief Clerk

Texas Department of Insurance

Filed: August 15, 2001

Invitation to Comment

The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC or commission) announces the availability of the draft "July 2001 Update to the Water Quality Management Plan for the State of Texas" (draft 2001 WQMP).

The WQMP is developed and promulgated pursuant to the requirements of the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA), §208. The draft July 2001 WQMP update includes projected effluent limits of indicated domestic dischargers useful for water quality management planning in future permit actions. Once the commission certifies a WQMP update, the update is submitted to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for approval. For some Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) permits, the EPA's approval of a corresponding WQMP update is a necessary precondition to TPDES permit issuance by the commission. The draft July 2001 WQMP update also contains service area populations for listed wastewater treatment facilities, and documentation of Designated Management Agency resolutions.

A copy of the draft July 2001 WQMP update may be found on the commission's web page located at http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/water/quality/wqmp . A copy of the draft may also be viewed at the TNRCC Library located at TNRCC, Building A, 12100 Park 35 Circle, North Interstate 35, Austin, Texas.

Written comments on the draft July 2001 WQMP shall be submitted to Ms. Suzanne Vargas, Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, Water Permits & Resource Management Division, MC 150, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Comments may also be faxed to (512) 239-4420, but must be followed up with the submission and receipt of the written comments within three working days of when they were faxed. Written comments must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on September 24, 2001 . For further information or questions, please contact Ms. Vargas at (512) 239-4619 or by e-mail at svargas@tnrcc.state.tx.us .

TRD-200104710

Ramon Dasch

Acting Director, Environmental Law Division

Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission

Filed: August 15, 2001

The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC or commission), under Texas Water Code (TWC), §26.040, proposes to issue a general permit (proposed General Permit No. WQG200000) covering the disposal of wastewater by irrigation and evaporation from livestock manure operations under TWC, §26.040. The proposed general permit covers the entire State of Texas.

The executive director has prepared a draft general permit that sets the limitations and design requirements for disposal of wastewater from livestock manure compost operations via irrigation and evaporation. The proposed permit would not authorize discharges into water in the state. The executive director has reviewed this action for consistency with the goals and policies of the Texas Coastal Management Program (CMP) according to Coastal Coordination Council regulations, and has determined that the action is consistent with applicable CMP goals and policies.

A copy of the draft general permit and fact sheet are available for viewing and copying at the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, Office of the Chief Clerk, Building F, located at 12100 Park 35 Circle, Austin; the TNRCC's Region 4 Office, 1101 East Arkansas Lane, Arlington, Texas; the Region 4 Special Project Office, 222 East College, Stephenville, Texas; the Region 9 Office, 6801 Sanger Avenue, Waco, Texas; and at http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/permitting/waterperm/wwperm/index.html .

The public comment period for this proposed general permit has been extended to September 24, 2001 as a result of requests received at public meetings held in Stephenville and Waco, Texas on August 6 and 7, 2001, respectively. Notices of these public meetings were published on July 2, 2001 in the Stephenville Empire-Tribune , the Waco Tribune , and the Houston Chronicle . Comments received before and during these public meetings are considered to be part of the record and will be included in a response to comments.

Written public comments may be submitted to the attention of Clyde E. Bohmfalk, Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, Office of Environmental Policy, Analysis, and Assessment, MC 205, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087 or faxed to (512) 239-6195. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. on September 24, 2001.

After the comment period, the executive director will consider all the public comments, including those received before and during the public meetings, and prepare a response. The response to comments will be mailed to everyone who submitted comments or who asked to be on the mailing list for this general permit. The general permit will then be set for the commissioners' consideration at a scheduled commission meeting.

Additional information can be obtained about this general permit or the permitting process, by calling the TNRCC, Office of Public Assistance, 1-800-687-4040; or by calling Clyde E. Bohmfalk, Policy and Standards Section, at (512) 239-1315. General information about the TNRCC can be found at the commission's web site at www.tnrcc.state.tx.us .

TRD-200104677

Ramon Dasch

Acting Division Director, Environmental Law Division

Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission

Filed: August 14, 2001

TNRCC Internal Control No. 05302001-D01; Plan Development, L.P. (Petitioner) filed a petition for creation of Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District Number 131 with the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC). The petition was filed pursuant to Article XVI, Section 59 of the Texas Constitution; Chapters 49 and 54 of the Texas Water Code; 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 293; and the procedural rules of the TNRCC. The petition states that: (1) the petitioner is the owner of a majority in value of the land to be included in the proposed District; (2) the petition states that there is only one lienholder on the property to be included in the proposed district; (3) the proposed District will contain approximately 276.491 acres located within Fort Bend County, Texas; and (4) the proposed District is not within the corporate limits or the extraterritorial jurisdiction of any city. According to the petition, a preliminary investigation has been made to determine the cost of the project, and it is estimated by the petitioners, from the information available at this time, that the cost of said project will be approximately $11,100,000.

The TNRCC may grant a contested case hearing on this petition if a written hearing request is filed within 30 days after the newspaper publication of this notice. To request a contested case 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 petitioner and the TNRCC Internal Control Number; (3) the statement "I/we request a contested case hearing"; (4) a brief description of how you would be affected by the petition in a way not common to the general public; and (5) the location of your property relative to the proposed district's boundaries. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the petition which would satisfy your concerns. Requests for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address provided in the information section below.

The Executive Director may approve the petition unless a written request for a contested case hearing is filed within 30 days after the newspaper publication of this notice. If a hearing request is filed, the Executive Director will not approve the petition and will forward the petition and hearing request to the TNRCC Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. If a contested case hearing is held, it will be a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in state district court.

Written hearing requests should be submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, MC 105, TNRCC, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. For information concerning the hearing process, please contact the Public Interest Counsel, MC 103, the same address. For additional information, individual members of the general public may contact the Office of Public Assistance, at 1-800-687-4040. General information regarding the TNRCC can be found at our web site at www.tnrcc.state.tx.us.

TRD-200104707

LaDonna Castañuela

Chief Clerk

Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission

Filed: August 14, 2001

The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) will conduct a public hearing to receive testimony concerning revisions to 30 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Chapter 39, concerning Public Notice, new §39.402, Applicability for Air Permit Amendments, under the requirements of Texas Health and Safety Code, §382.017 and Texas Government Code, Subchapter B, Chapter 2001.

Proposed new §39.402 would implement the provisions of House Bill 2518, enacted by the 77th Texas Legislature, 2001, concerning public notice requirements for applications for amendments to air quality permits. The proposal would establish criteria to govern whether an application for amendment is subject to public notice. Specifically, the proposed rule will establish emission rates for total emissions increases from all facilities authorized under the amended permit greater than significant for public notice for agricultural facilities, or greater than de minimis for public notice for all other facilities.

A public hearing on this proposal will be held in Austin on September 20, 2001 at 10:00 a.m. at the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission in Building F, Room 2210, located at 12100 Park 35 Circle. The hearing will be structured for the receipt of oral or written comments by interested persons. Individuals may present oral statements when called upon in order of registration. There will be no open discussion during the hearing; however, an agency staff member will be available to discuss the proposal 30 minutes prior to the hearing and will answer questions before and after the hearing.

Persons with disabilities who have special communication or other accommodation needs who are planning to attend the hearing should contact the Office of Environmental Policy, Analysis, and Assessment at (512) 239-4900. Requests should be made as far in advance as possible.

Comments may be submitted to Lola Brown, MC 205, Office of Environmental Policy, Analysis, and Assessment, Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087, or by fax to (512) 239-4808. All comments should reference Rule Log Number 2001- 028A-039-AD. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m., September 24, 2001. For further information, please contact Ray Henry Austin, Policy and Regulations Division, (512) 239-6814.

TRD-200104642

Ramon Dasch

Acting Director, Environmental Law Division

Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission

Filed: August 10, 2001

In accordance with the requirements of Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001, Subchapter B, the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC or commission) will conduct a public hearing to receive testimony concerning the proposed amendments to 30 TAC Chapter 80, Contested Case Hearings.

These rules would require the executive director to be a party in commission proceedings where the executive director bears the burden of proof. This rulemaking would allow the executive director to participate in contested case hearings concerning permitting matters as a party if certain conditions are met.

These rules would also specify the factors the executive director must consider in determining, case-by-case, whether to participate in a contested case hearing as a party. Factors that the commission must consider in developing these rules include the technical, legal, and financial capacity of the parties; whether the parties have previously participated in a hearing; the complexity of the pertinent issues; and the available resources of commission staff.

Further, these rules would expressly prohibit the executive director from rehabilitating the testimony of witnesses, unless the witness is an agency employee who is testifying for the sole purpose of completing the administrative record. Finally, these rules would prohibit the executive director from helping an applicant meet its burden of proof unless the applicant fits a category under amended §80.108(e) that would make it eligible for such assistance.

A public hearing on this proposal will be held in Austin on September 18, 2001 at 10:00 a.m., in Building F, Room 2210 at the commission's central office located at 12100 Park 35 Circle. The hearing will be structured for the receipt of oral or written comments by interested persons. Individuals may present oral statements when called upon in order of registration. There will be no open discussion during the hearing; however, an agency staff member will be available to discuss the proposal 30 minutes prior to the hearing and will answer questions before and after the hearing.

Comments may be submitted to Angela Slupe, Office of Environmental Policy, Analysis, and Assessment, MC 205, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087 or faxed to (512) 239-4808. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m., September 24, and should reference Rule Log Number 2001-027-080-AD. This proposal is available on the commission's web site at http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/rules/propadopt.html . For further information, please contact Kathy Ramirez, Policy and Regulations Division at (512) 239-6757.

Persons with disabilities who have special communication or other accommodation needs who are planning to attend the hearing should contact the Office of Environmental Policy, Analysis, and Assessment at (512) 239-4900. Requests should be made as far in advance as possible.

TRD-200104566

Ramon Dasch

Acting Director, Environmental Law Division

Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission

Filed: August 9, 2001

The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings to receive testimony concerning amendments to 30 TAC Chapter 114, Subchapter A and Subchapter C, concerning Control of Air Pollution from Motor Vehicles, and a revision to the state implementation plan (SIP) under the requirements of Texas Health and Safety Code, §382.017; Texas Government Code, Subchapter B, Chapter 2001; and 40 Code of Federal Regulations, §51.102, of the United States Environmental Protection Agency regulations concerning SIPs. Both subchapters will be submitted as a revision to the SIP.

The proposed amendments would revise rules related to the implementation of the state's Motor Vehicle Emission Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) program. The proposed rulemaking requires all vehicle emissions test stations in the Dallas/Fort Worth, extended Dallas/Fort Worth, and Houston/Galveston program areas, with the exception of low volume stations, to offer both acceleration simulation mode (ASM-2) testing and on-board diagnostics (OBD) testing to the public; defines the term low volume emissions test station; requires all vehicle emissions test stations in the El Paso program area to offer both two-speed idle (TSI) testing and OBD testing to the public; adjusts the administrative portion of the test fees remitted to the state; increases fees for the El Paso area should the county opt into the low- income vehicle repair assistance, retrofit, and accelerated vehicle retirement program; requires a test-on- resale component; incorporates the TSI and ASM-2 specifications into one equipment specification document with an amended date; provides for new equipment requirements and specifications regarding OBD equipment; deletes the section related to waivers and extensions; and creates a new section to establish an early participation incentive program.

The proposed SIP revisions clarify the new program elements such as applicability changes; state resources for the program; the new program performance standard; emissions testing network type; emissions testing; affected vehicle populations; strategies for quality control and quality assurance; data collection, analysis, and reporting; public information strategies; on-road vehicle emissions testing; and the implementation schedule. The proposed SIP excludes the Beaumont/Port Arthur ozone nonattainment area from the I/M program requirements.

Public hearings on the proposal will be held at the following times and locations: September 13, 2001, at 2:00 p.m. and at 7:00 p.m., Houston City Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, 901 Bagby, Houston; September 14, 2001, at 2:00 p.m. and at 7:00 p.m., North Central Texas Council of Governments, Transportation Board Room, 3rd Floor, 616 Six Flags Drive, Arlington; and September 14, 2001, at 7:00 p.m., City of El Paso Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, 2 Civic Center Plaza, El Paso.

The hearings are structured for the receipt of oral or written comments by interested persons. Individuals may present oral statements when called upon in order of registration. Open discussion will not occur during the hearings; however, an agency staff member will be available to discuss the proposal 30 minutes prior to the hearings, and answer questions before and after the hearings.

Persons with disabilities who have special communication or other accommodation needs who are planning to attend the hearing should contact the agency at (512) 239-4900. Requests should be made as far in advance as possible.

Comments may be submitted to Joyce Spencer, Office of Environmental Policy, Analysis, and Assessment, MC 205, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087; or by fax at (512) 239-4808. All comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. on September 14, 2001, although oral and written comments submitted at the September 14, 2001 hearings will be accepted. All comments should reference Rule Log No. 2001-035-114-AI. For further information, please contact Jill Burditt at (512) 239-0560. Copies of the proposed rules and SIP revisions can be obtained from the commission's web site at www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/sips/cover.html, or by calling Ms. Spencer at (512) 239-5017.

TRD-200104638

Ramon Dasch

Acting Division Director, Environmental Law Division

Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission

Filed: August 10, 2001

In accordance with the requirements of Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001, Subchapter B, the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (commission) will conduct a public hearing to receive testimony concerning the proposed amendments to 30 TAC Chapter 305, Consolidated Permits; Chapter 331, Underground Injection Control; and Chapter 281, Application Processing.

The proposed rules would address the requirements of Senate Bill 324, 77th Legislature, 2001, by proposing amendments to Chapters 281, 305, and 331. The proposed amendments to Chapters 281 and 331 would apply to underground injection control (UIC) applications submitted or pending on or after May 26, 2001, and before September 1, 2002. The proposed amendments to Chapter 305 would apply to all UIC applications submitted on or after May 26, 2001. The proposed amendments to Chapter 281 would establish a procedure for the preparation of comprehensive summaries of a UIC permit applicant's compliance history, including the compliance history of any corporation or business entity managed, owned, or closely related to the applicant. The proposed amendments to Chapter 305 would provide for the fee amount collected for injection well permit applications and would require that all applications for hazardous and nonhazardous injection well permits be processed for the benefit of the state and the preservation of its natural resources. The proposed amendments to Chapter 331 would expand the applicability of certain requirements relating to the commission's consideration of compliance history in the determination whether the use or installation of an injection well is in the public's interest. Additionally, the proposed amendments to Chapter 331 would require the commission to deny a UIC permit if the commission determines that an applicant's compliance history is unacceptable.

A public hearing on this proposal will be held in Austin on September 13, 2001 at 2:00 p.m., in Building F, Room 2210 at the commission's central office located at 12100 Park 35 Circle. The hearing will be structured for the receipt of oral or written comments by interested persons. Individuals may present oral statements when called upon in order of registration. There will be no open discussion during the hearing; however, an agency staff member will be available to discuss the proposal 30 minutes prior to the hearing and will answer questions before and after the hearing.

Comments may be submitted to Angela Slupe, Office of Environmental Policy, Analysis, and Assessment, MC 205, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087 or faxed to (512) 239-4808. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m., September 24, 2001, and should reference Rule Log Number 2001-049-305-WT. This proposal is available on the commission's web site at http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/oprd/rules/propadopt.html . For further information, please contact Michael Bame, Policy and Regulations Division at (512) 239-5658.

Persons with disabilities who have special communication or other accommodation needs who are planning to attend the hearing should contact the Office of Environmental Policy, Analysis, and Assessment at (512) 239-4900. Requests should be made as far in advance as possible.

TRD-200104581

Ramon Dasch

Acting Director, Environmental Law Division

Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission

Filed: August 9, 2001

The following notices were issued during the period of August 7, 2001 - August 10, 2001.

The following require the applicants to publish notice in the newspaper. The public comment period, requests for public meetings, or requests for a contested case hearing may be submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, Mail Code 105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin Texas 78711-3087, WITHIN 30 DAYS OF THE DATE OF NEWSPAPER PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

BOLES CHILDREN'S HOME, INC. has applied for a renewal of Permit No. 13220-001, which authorizes the disposal of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 16,100 gallons per day via surface irrigation of 4.25 acres of nonpublic access grasses. This permit will not authorize a discharge of pollutants into waters in the State. The facility and disposal site are located approximately 2000 feet southeast of State Highway 34 and Farm-to-Market Road 2101 in Hunt County, Texas.

DRIFTWOOD EQUITIES, LTD. has applied for a new permit, Proposed Permit No. 14235-001, to authorize the disposal of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 10,000 gallons per day via subsurface (low pressure dosed) irrigation of 3.5 acres of public access rangeland. This permit will not authorize a discharge of pollutants into waters in the State. The facility and disposal site are located approximately 300 feet northwest of the intersection of Farm-to-Market Road 1826 and Farm-to-Market Road 967 and 1400 feet north of Camp Ben McCulloch in Hays County, Texas.

TOWN OF LINDSAY has applied for a renewal of TNRCC Permit No. 10923-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 66,000 gallons per day. The plant site is located at 100 Sycamore Street, approximately 600 feet east of the Farm-to-Market Road 3108 bridge over Elm Fork Trinity River, southeast of the Town of Lindsay in Cooke County, Texas.

NORTH ALAMO WATER SUPPLY CORPORATION has applied for a renewal of Permit No. 13747-003, which authorizes the disposal of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 122,000 gallons per day via surface irrigation of 34 acres of land. The facility and disposal site are located approximately 6000 feet southwest of the intersection of Farm-to-Market Road 490 and Farm-to-Market Road 493, southwest of the City of Hargill in Hidalgo County, Texas.

TOWN OF PONDER has applied for a renewal of NPDES Permit No. TX0072010, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 45,000 gallons per day. The plant site is located approximately 0.3 of a mile south of the Town of Ponder, 1,000 feet southeast of the intersection of Farm-to-Market Road 2449 and Farm-to-Market Road 156 and 1,200 feet east of Farm-to-Market Road 156, and approximately 9.5 miles southwest of the City of Denton central business district in Denton County, Texas.

ROCHE VITAMINS, INC. has applied for a renewal of an existing wastewater permit. The applicant has an existing National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit No. TX0064912 and an existing Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) Permit No. 02216. The draft permit authorizes the discharge of process wastewater, utility wastewater, water treatment waste, domestic wastewater and stormwater runoff at a daily average flow not to exceed 190,000 gallons per day via Outfall 001. The applicant operates a facility that manufactures beta-carotene. The plant site is located immediately south of Oyster Creek and north of Farm-to-Market Road 332 near the City of Freeport, Brazoria County, Texas.

CITY OF SAN SABA has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 10687-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 310,000 gallons per day. The facility is located 2,000 feet north of U.S. Highway 190 and 6,000 feet east of State Highway 16 in the City of San Saba in San Saba County, Texas.

CITY OF WHITEHOUSE has applied for a renewal of TNRCC Permit No. 11222-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 680,000 gallons per day. The facility is located on the east side of State Highway 110 approximately 900 feet north and 3300 feet east of the intersection of State Highway 110 and County Road 2175 and approximately 1.7 miles southeast of the City of Whitehouse in Smith County, Texas.

TRD-200104706

LaDonna Castañuela

Chief Clerk

Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission

Filed: August 14, 2001

The State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) issued a Proposal for Decision and Order to the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) on August 6, 2001, Executive Director of the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, Petitioner v. Micor Energy, L.L.C., Respondent; SOAH Docket Number 582-01-2644; TNRCC Docket Number 1999-1238-PST-E. In the matter to be considered by the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission on a date and time to be determined by the Chief Clerk's Office in Room 201S of Building E, 12118 North Interstate 35, Austin, Texas. This posting is Notice of Opportunity to Comment on the Proposal for Decision and Order. The comment period will end 30 days from date of publication. Written public comments should be submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105 TNRCC P.O. Box 13087, Austin Texas 78711-3087. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Doug Kitts, Chief Clerk's Office, (512) 239-3317.

TRD-200104705

Douglas A. Kitts

Agenda Coordinator

Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission

Filed: August 14, 2001

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) of an application on August 6, 2001, for a service provider certificate of operating authority (SPCOA), pursuant to §§54.151 - 54.156 of the Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA). A summary of the application follows.

Docket Title and Number: Application of Paging Professionals of Oklahoma, Inc., doing business as ProTel Communications, for a Service Provider Certificate of Operating Authority, Docket Number 24479 before the Public Utility Commission of Texas.

Applicant intends to provide plain old telephone services.

Applicant's requested SPCOA geographic area includes the area served by Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and Verizon Southwest, Inc. throughout the state of Texas.

Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326, or call the commission's Customer Protection Division at (512) 936-7120 no later than August 29, 2001. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephone (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136.

TRD-200104557

Rhonda Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: August 9, 2001

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) of an application on August 3, 2001, for waiver of denial by the North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) of applicant's request for a second NXX code.

Docket Title and Number: Application of K2C TelCom for Waiver of Denial by NANPA of Request for a Second NXX and Request for Expedited Action. Docket Number 24470.

The Application: On August 3, 2001, K2C TelCom (K2C), filed with the commission a request that the commission find good cause to waive the NANPA's denial of K2C's request for a second NXX code. The Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Numbering Resource Optimization Order (NRO Order) amended the FCC's rules to provide that a carrier may challenge the NANPA's decision to withhold numbering resources to the appropriate state regulatory commission. The applicant stated that a second NXX is necessary in order to offer Optional 2-Way Extended Area Service (EAS) from Boerne to the San Antonio area which requires a second NXX, in addition to the NXX assigned for basic local service. Applicant asserted that it will not be able to achieve proposed growth utilization rates in its first six months, and therefore, cannot compete on an equal basis with the incumbent local exchange company (LEC) in Boerne, Texas.

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 Customer Protection Division at (512) 936-7120 or toll free at 1-888-782-8477. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136. The deadline for comment is September 5, 2001. All comments should reference Docket Number 24470.

TRD-200104708

Rhonda Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: August 15, 2001

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) of an application filed on August 7, 2001, to amend a certificate of convenience and necessity for a service area boundary change pursuant to the Public Utility Commission Substantive Rule §26.101(b)(4). A summary of the application follows.

Docket Style and Number: Application of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company to Amend Certificate of Convenience for a Service Area Boundary Change. Docket Number 24490.

The Application: The proposed revision will transfer a portion of the Angleton exchange to the Clute/Jackson exchange. The proposed amendment will provide for a more economical plant facility design for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company to serve customers in the affected area. Pursuant to P.U.C. Substantive Rule §26.101(b)(4), the presiding officer must enter a final order in this docket within one year of the filing of the application.

Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326, or call the commission's Customer Protection Division at (512) 936-7120 or (888) 782-8477. Hearing and speech- impaired individuals with text telephone (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136 or use Relay Texas (toll-free) 1-800-735-2989.

TRD-200104593

Rhonda Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: August 9, 2001

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) on August 6, 2001, of an application of Garland Power & Light (GPL), to amend certificated service area boundaries within Dallas County.

Docket Style and Number: Application of Garland Power & Light to Amend Certificated Service Area Boundaries within Dallas County, Texas-Docket Number 24478.

The Public Utility of Commission of Texas (commission) has jurisdiction over this matter pursuant to §§14.001, 37.051, 37.053, 37.054 and 37.056 of the Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA) and P.U.C. Substantive Rule §25.101. Pursuant to P.U.C. Substantive Rule §25.101(c)(5)(B), the presiding officer must enter a final order in this docket within 45 days of the filing of the application, if the Applicant's request is deemed a minor boundary change. A summary of the application follows:

The Application: GPL stated the proposed service area boundary change is necessary to provide three-phase service to the new Firewheel Golf Course Clubhouse that is under construction in Garland, Texas. Presently, TXU Electric (TXU) is serving the area with a single- phase primary. The new Firewheel Golf Course Clubhouse will require a three-phase 208/120. GPL has a three-phase primary directly across the road from the new facility. GPL stated all parties have agreed to the proposed amendment to allow GPL to serve the new Firewheel Golf Course Clubhouse.

Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326, or call the commission's Customer Protection Division at (512) 936-7120 or (888) 782-8477. Hearing and speech- impaired individuals with text telephone (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136 or use Relay Texas (toll-free) 1-800-735-2989.

TRD-200104595

Rhonda Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: August 9, 2001

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) of an Application of Lower River Colorado Authority (LCRA) to Amend Certificated Service Area Boundaries within Travis County, Texas filed on August 7, 2001. The Public Utility of Commission of Texas has jurisdiction over this matter pursuant to §§14.001, 37.051, 37.053, 37.054 and 37.056 of the Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA) and P.U.C. Substantive Rule §25.101. Pursuant to P.U.C. Substantive Rule §25.101(c)(5)(B), the presiding officer must enter a final order in this docket within 45 days of the filing of the application, if the Applicant's request is deemed a minor boundary change. A summary of the application follows:

Docket Style and Number: Application of Lower Colorado River Authority to Amend Certificated Service Area Boundaries within Travis County, Texas- Docket Number 24489.

The Application: On August 7, 2001, Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) filed an application to transfer retail service area to the University of Texas Pickle Research Campus to Austin Energy within Travis County. The Pickle Research Campus is within the certificated service area in Austin Energy's certificated service area, but pursuant to the final order in Docket Number 5284, issued on March 27, 1984, the LCRA's Certificate of Convenience and Necessity (CCN) was amended to include the transmission facilities then referred to as Balcones Research Project. This transfer would complete LCRA's phaseout of retail service. LCRA submitted a letter of support from the University of Texas with its application and stated both parties are in agreement to this transfer.

Persons who wish to comment upon the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326, or call the commission's Customer Protection Division at (512) 936-7120 or (888) 782-8477. Hearing and speech- impaired individuals with text telephone (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136 or use Relay Texas (toll-free) 1-800-735-2989.

TRD-200104592

Rhonda Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: August 9, 2001

On August 7, 2001, CO Space Services Texas, L.P. filed an application with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) to relinquish its service provider certificate of operating authority (SPCOA) granted in SPCOA Certificate Number 60340. Applicant intends to relinquish its certificate.

The Application: Application of CO Space Services Texas, L.P. to Relinquish its Service Provider Certificate of Operating Authority, Docket Number 24486.

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 Public Utility Commission of Texas, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326 no later than August 29, 2001. You may contact the commission's Customer Protection Division 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 24486.

TRD-200104590

Rhonda Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: August 9, 2001

On August 7, 2001, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and QuantumShift Communications, Inc., collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval of 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, Chapters 52 and 60 (Vernon 1998 & Supplement 2001) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 24484. The joint application and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.

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 ten 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 24484. 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 September 5, 2001, 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 commission's Customer Protection Division at (512) 936-7120 or toll free at 1-888-782-8477. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket Number 24484.

TRD-200104588

Rhonda Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: August 9, 2001

On August 7, 2001, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and E.T. Telephone, Inc., collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval of 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, Chapters 52 and 60 (Vernon 1998 & Supplement 2001) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 24485. The joint application and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.

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 ten 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 24485. 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 September 5, 2001, 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 commission's Customer Protection Division at (512) 936-7120 or toll free at 1-888-782-8477. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket Number 24485.

TRD-200104589

Rhonda Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: August 9, 2001

On August 9, 2001, Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and HinoTel, Inc., collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval of amendment to an existing interconnection agreement under Section 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, Chapters 52 and 60 (Vernon 1998 & Supplement 2001) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 24494. The joint application and the underlying interconnection agreement are available for public inspection at the commission's offices in Austin, Texas.

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 ten 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 24494. 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 September 6, 2001, 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 commission's Customer Protection Division at (512) 936-7120 or toll free at 1-888-782-8477. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136. All correspondence should refer to Docket Number 24494.

TRD-200104678

Rhonda Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: August 14, 2001

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission), of a long run incremental cost (LRIC) study pursuant to P.U.C. Substantive Rule §26.214

Docket Title and Number. United Telephone Company of Texas doing business as Sprint for Approval of LRIC Study for Selective Call Acceptance Pursuant to P.U.C. Substantive Rule §26.214 on or about August 13, 2001, Docket Number 24487.

Any party that demonstrates a justiciable interest may file with the administrative law judge, written comments or recommendations concerning the LRIC study referencing Docket Number 24487. Written comments or recommendations should be filed no later than 45 days after the date of a sufficient study and should be filed at the Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North Congress Avenue, P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326. You may call the commission's Customer Protection Division at (512) 936-7120. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136.

TRD-200104591

Rhonda Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: August 9, 2001