TITLE in-addition

Office of the Attorney General

Chapter 154. Child Support, Subchapter C. Child Support Guidelines - Revised 2003 Tax Charts

Revision Notes:

On May 28, 2003, the President signed into law the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003, Pub. L. No. 108-27 (the "Act"). The Act accelerates the phase-in of certain marginal tax rate reductions for individuals that were enacted in the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001, Pub. L. No. 107-16. In addition, the Act increases the levels of taxable income subject to the 10% individual tax rate. These provisions of the Act are effective for the 2003 calendar tax year. Accordingly, these provisions of the Act require revisions to the federal income tax information shown in the 2003 Tax Charts previously promulgated by the Office of the Attorney General of Texas.

A line computing net resources for an individual earning the federal minimum wage for a 40 hour week was added to the Employed Persons Tax Chart, and lines showing the gross monthly income corresponding to net resources of $6,000.00 were added to the Employed Persons Tax Chart and to the Self-Employed Persons Tax Chart.

Pursuant to §154.061(b) of the Texas Family Code, the Office of the Attorney General of Texas, as the Title IV-D agency, has promulgated the following revised tax charts for use during the remainder of 2003 to assist courts in establishing the amount of a child support order. These tax charts are applicable to employed and self-employed persons in computing net monthly income.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

To use these tables, first compute the obligor's annual gross income. Then recompute to determine the obligor's average monthly gross income. These tables provide a method for calculating "monthly net income" for child support purposes, subtracting from monthly gross income the social security taxes and the federal income tax withholding for a single person claiming one personal exemption and the standard deduction.

Thereafter, in many cases the guidelines call for a number of additional steps to complete the necessary calculations. For example, §§154.061 - 154.070 provide for appropriate additions to "income" as that term is defined for federal income tax purposes, and for certain subtractions from monthly net income, in order to arrive at the net resources of the obligor available for child support purposes. If necessary, one may compute an obligee's net resources using similar steps.

This agency hereby certifies that the tax charts have been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority to publish.

Employed Persons Revised 2003 Tax Chart
Self-Employed Persons Revised 2003 Tax Chart

For information regarding this publication you may contact A.G. Younger, Agency Liaison at 512-463-2110.

TRD-200304425

Nancy S. Fuller

Assistant Attorney General

Office of the Attorney General

Filed: July 22, 2003


Texas Building and Procurement Commission

Invitation for Bid Notice

TBPC Project No. 01-009-7614

Project Name: Brown Heatley Building Masonry Veneer Restoration, 4900 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78751 for the Texas Building and Procurement Commission

Sealed Bids for this project will be received until 3:00 P.M., August 19, 2003, at the Bid Room, Room No. 180, 1711 San Jacinto, Austin, Texas 78701. See the Invitation for Bid (IFB) for other delivery choices.

Plans and specifications may be obtained from the O'Connell Robertson & Associates, Incl., 811 Barton Springs Road, Suite 900, Austin, Texas 78704, Phone: (512) 478-7286, Fax: (512) 478-7441 for a deposit of $100.00, refundable upon return of a complete, unmarked set(s).

A mandatory (must attend and sign in) Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 10:00 p.m. July 28, 2003 in Garage "H," Room 100, west of the Brown Heatley Building, which is located at 4900 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78751. The TBPC will reject Bids submitted by firms that did not attend the mandatory Pre-Bid Conference.

Only bids submitted on the official CONTRACTOR'S BID FORM found in the Project Manual will be accepted.

The IFB may be obtained by contacting TBPC Internal Procurement, Attention: Deborah Norwood (Fax: (512) 463-3360), deborah.norwood@tbpc.state.tx.us or through the Electronic State Business Daily at:

http://esbd.tbpc.state.tx.us/1380/bid_show.cfm?bidid=48761

No oral explanation in regard to the meaning of the Drawings and Specifications will be made and no oral instructions will be given before the award of the Contract. Discrepancies, omissions or doubts as to the meaning of Drawings and Specifications and all communications concerning the project shall be communicated in writing to the Deborah Norwood via fax at (512) 463-3360 or via e-mail at deborah.norwood@tbpc.state.tx.us for interpretation. Bidders should act promptly and allow sufficient time for a reply to reach them before the submission of their Bids. Any interpretation made will be in the form of an addendum to the Specifications, which will be forwarded to all known Bidders and its receipt by the Bidder shall be acknowledged on the Contractor's Bid Form or on the face of the Addendum and returned with the bid.

TRD-200304383

Cynthia de Roch

General Counsel

Texas Building and Procurement Commission

Filed: July 21, 2003


Coastal Coordination Council

Notice and Opportunity to Comment on Requests for Consistency Agreement/Concurrence Under the Texas Coastal Management Program

On January 10, 1997, the State of Texas received federal approval of the Coastal Management Program (CMP) (62 Federal Register pp. 1439-1440). Under federal law, federal agency activities and actions affecting the Texas coastal zone must be consistent with the CMP goals and policies identified in 31 TAC Chapter 501. As required by federal law, the public is given an opportunity to comment on the consistency of proposed activities in the coastal zone undertaken or authorized by federal agencies. Pursuant to 31 TAC §§506.25, 506.32, and 506.41, the public comment period for these activities extends 30 days from the date published on the Coastal Coordination Council web site. Requests for federal consistency review were deemed administratively complete for the following projects during the period of July 11, 2003, through July 17, 2003. The public comment period for these projects will close at 5:00 p.m. on August 22, 2003.

FEDERAL AGENCY ACTIONS:

Applicant: Department of the Navy; Location: The project is located adjacent to the Jewel Fulton Canal in Corpus Christi Bay, Nueces County, Texas. The project site can be located on the U.S.G.S. quadrangle map entitled: Port Ingleside, Texas. Approximate UTM Coordinates: Zone 14; Easting: 673900; Northing: 3081000. Project Description: The applicant requests authorization for 10-year maintenance dredging of the existing Electromagnetic Roll (EMR) facility and to expand the east side of the basin and a portion of the approach channel, located adjacent to the Jewel Fulton Canal in Corpus Christi Bay, Nueces County, Texas. Approximately 68,000 cubic yards of material would need to be removed from the existing facility to restore it to original design depths. The turning basin would be expanded approximately 100 feet to the east along its entire 500-foot length. A portion of the southeast corner of the basin and a portion of the approach channel measuring approximately 150 by 250 feet would be expanded and an approximate 75-square-foot area adjacent to the confluence of the approach channel and the Jewel Fulton Canal would also be dredged. All of these proposed expansion areas would be dredged to a design depth of -17 feet mean low tide with approximately 59,000 cubic yards of material to be removed. Both maintenance and new dredging would be done hydraulically and the material would be placed in the Good Hope Disposal Area, Cell "I." CCC Project No.: 03-0244-F1; Type of Application: U.S.A.C.E. permit application #20486(02) is being evaluated under §10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (33 U.S.C.A. §403).

Applicant: Heritage Hotels; Location: The project is located on Aransas Bay at 200 South Fulton Beach Road, Rockport, Aransas County, Texas. The project can be located on the U.S.G.S. quadrangle map entitled: Rockport, Texas. Approximate UTM Coordinates: Zone 14; Easting: 693359; Northing: 3105119. Project Description: The applicant proposes to dredge approximately 1.25 acres to construct a harbor that would accommodate 30 boat slips and two fishing piers. The applicant proposes to construct the harbor in six phases.

In Phase I, the applicant would construct a fishing pier with a walkway that is 4 feet wide and 55 feet long with a 10- by 20-foot terminal T-head structure and a 6- by 10-foot fish cleaning station adjacent to the T-head.

In Phase II, the applicant would construct a vinyl sheet pile breakwater that extends 175 feet east from the existing southeast corner bulkhead and continue another 268 feet in a northeasterly direction for a total breakwater length of approximately 443 feet.

In Phase III, the applicant would mechanically dredge an area that would cover approximately 1.25 acres and would remove approximately 6000 cubic yards of material from Aransas Bay. The material would be removed with a long reach track hoe and stockpiled on the deck of a barge. Any free water will drain from the deck of the barge. The loaded barge would be moved to the northwest corner of the project area and the dewatered material would be transferred to trucks, which would take the material to the placement area. The placement area is located west of the Lighthouse Inn across Fulton Beach Road.

In Phase IV, the applicant would construct a walkway and 28 boat slips 10 feet away from and parallel to the proposed breakwater. The walkway would be 5 feet wide and would be approximately 423 feet long. The walkway would have 14 finger piers that would be 3 feet wide and 26 feet long. The finger piers would be spaced approximately 30 feet apart and would have two pilings between the piers so that two boats could be docked between them. At the end of the walkway a 10- by 20-foot fishing pier would be constructed and a 10- by 20-foot platform would be constructed between the breakwater and walkway approximately 120 feet north of the southeast corner of the proposed breakwater.

In Phase V, the applicant proposes to construct a long fishing pier that would extend east from the southeast corner of the proposed breakwater. The pier would have a 4- by 130-foot walkway, a 10- by 20-foot terminal T-head, and two 6- by 10-foot fish cleaning stations.

In Phase VI, the applicant proposes to construct a second boat-docking facility with four slips. The dock would have a walkway that is 5 feet wide and 180 feet long with a 10- by 25-foot terminal L-head structure. Attached to the walkway would be two finger piers that are 3-feet wide and 26- feet long. Three rows of pilings would be driven near the finger piers to form four boat slips. CCC Project No.: 03-0245-F1; Type of Application: U.S.A.C.E. permit application #23014 is being evaluated under §10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (33 U.S.C.A. §403) and §404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C.A. §125-1387).

Applicant: Walter Oil & Gas Corporation; Location: The project is to be installed in and/or through Blocks A-218, Galveston Area and Blocks A-560 and A-561, High Island Area, Offshore Texas, OCS Federal Waters. Project Description: Walter Oil & Gas Corporation has submitted to Minerals Management Services an application for a Right-of-Way pipeline to be installed in and/through Blocks A-218, Galveston Area and Blocks A-560 and A-561, High Island Area, Offshore Texas, OCS Federal Waters. CCC Project No.: 03-248-F1; Type of Application: Pipeline ROW Application according to MMS Notice to Lessees No. 2002-G15, issued effective December 20, 2002, and in compliance with 15 CFR 930.

Pursuant to §306(d)(14) of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C.A. §§1451-1464), as amended, interested parties are invited to submit comments on whether a proposed action is or is not consistent with the Texas Coastal Management Program goals and policies and whether the action should be referred to the Coastal Coordination Council for review.

Further information on the applications listed above may be obtained from Ms. Diane P. Garcia, Council Secretary, Coastal Coordination Council, P.O. Box 12873, Austin, Texas 78711-2873, or diane.garcia@glo.state.tx.us. Comments should be sent to Ms. Garcia at the above address or by fax at (512) 475-0680.

TRD-200304443

Larry L. Laine

Chief Clerk/Deputy Land Commissioner, General Land Office

Coastal Coordination Council

Filed: July 23, 2003


Comptroller of Public Accounts

Notice of Coastal Protection Fee Suspension

The Comptroller of Public Accounts, administering agency for the collection of the Coastal Protection Fee, has received certification from the Commissioner of the General Land Office that the balance in the Coastal Protection Fund has exceeded the maximum amount allowed by law.

Pursuant to the Natural Resource Code, §40.155 and §40.156, the comptroller hereby provides notice of the suspension of the coastal protection fee effective September 1, 2003.

No fee shall be collected or required to be paid on crude oil transferred to or from a marine terminal on or after September 1, 2003, or until notice of the reinstatement of the fee is published in the Texas Register .

Inquiries should be directed to Bryant Lomax, Manager, Tax Policy Division, P.O. Box 13528, Austin, Texas, 78711.

TRD-200304340

Martin Cherry

Chief Deputy General Counsel

Comptroller of Public Accounts

Filed: July 17, 2003


Notice of Request for Proposals

Pursuant to Chapter 2254, Subchapter B, and Sections 403.011 and 403.020, Texas Government Code, the Comptroller of Public Accounts (Comptroller) announces the issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP #159a) from qualified, independent firms to provide pooled consulting services to Comptroller. The successful respondent(s) will assist Comptroller in conducting management and performance reviews of various functions of independent school districts throughout the state on an as-need, as-requested basis. Comptroller reserves the right, and anticipates that multiple qualified, independent consulting firms may be selected to participate in a pooled consulting contract as set forth in this RFP. The successful respondent(s) will be expected to begin performance of the contract or contracts, if any, upon assignment on or about September 1, 2003.

Contact: Parties interested in submitting a proposal should contact Clay Harris, Assistant General Counsel, Contracts, Comptroller of Public Accounts, 111 E. 17th St., ROOM G-24, Austin, Texas, 78774, telephone number: (512) 305-8673, to obtain a copy of the RFP. Comptroller will mail copies of the RFP only to those specifically requesting a copy. The RFP was made available for pick-up at the above-referenced address on Friday, August 1, 2003, between 10:00 a.m. and 5 p.m., Central Zone Time (CZT), and during normal business hours thereafter. Comptroller also made the complete RFP available electronically on the Texas Marketplace at: http://esbd.tbpc.state.tx.us after 10 a.m. (CZT) on Friday, August 1, 2003.

Mandatory Letters of Intent and Questions: All Mandatory Letters of Intent and questions regarding the RFP must be sent via facsimile to Mr. Harris at: (512) 475-0973, not later than 2:00 p.m. (CZT), on Friday, August 15, 2003. Official responses to questions received by the foregoing deadline will be posted electronically on the Texas Marketplace no later than August 18, 2003, or as soon thereafter as practical. Mandatory Letters of Intent received after the 2:00 p.m., August 15th deadline will not be considered. Respondents shall be solely responsible for confirming the timely receipt of Mandatory Letters of Intent to propose.

Closing Date: Proposals must be received in Assistant General Counsel's Office at the address specified above (ROOM G-24) no later than 2 p.m. (CZT), on Friday, August 22, 2003. Proposals received after this time and date will not be considered. Proposals will not be accepted from respondents that do not submit mandatory letters of intent by the August 15, 2003, deadline. Respondents shall be solely responsible for confirming the timely receipt of proposals.

Evaluation and Award Procedure: All proposals will be subject to evaluation by a committee based on the evaluation criteria and procedures set forth in the RFP. Comptroller will make the final decision regarding the award of a contract or contracts. Comptroller reserves the right to award one or more contracts under this RFP. Comptroller reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals submitted. Comptroller is under no legal or other obligation to execute any contracts on the basis of this notice or the distribution of any RFP. Comptroller shall not pay for any costs incurred by any entity in responding to this Notice or the RFP.

The anticipated schedule of events is as follows: Issuance of RFP - August 1, 2003, 10 a.m. CZT; All Mandatory Letters of Intent and Questions Due - August 15, 2003, 2 p.m. CZT; Official Responses to Questions Posted - August 18, 2003, or as soon thereafter as practical; Proposals Due - August 22, 2003, 2 p.m. CZT; Contract Execution - September 1, 2003, or as soon thereafter as practical; Commencement of Project Activities - September 1, 2003.

TRD-200304433

Pamela Smith

Deputy General Counsel for Contracts

Comptroller of Public Accounts

Filed: July 23, 2003


Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner

Notice of Rate Ceilings

The Consumer Credit Commissioner of Texas has ascertained the following rate ceilings by use of the formulas and methods described in §§303.003, 303.009, and 304.003, Texas Finance Code.

The weekly ceiling as prescribed by §303.003 and §303.009 for the period of July 28, 2003 - August 3, 2003 is 18% for Consumer 1 /Agricultural/Commercial 2 /credit thru $250,000.

The weekly ceiling as prescribed by §303.003 and §303.009 for the period of July 28, 2003 - August 3, 2003 is 18% for Commercial over $250,000.

The judgment ceiling as prescribed by §304.003 for the period of August 1, 2003 - August 31, 2003 is 5% for Consumer/Agricultural/Commercial/credit thru $250,000.

The judgment ceiling as prescribed by §304.003 for the period of August 1, 2003 - August 31, 2003 is 5% for Commercial over $250,000.

1 Credit for personal, family or household use.

2 Credit for business, commercial, investment or other similar purpose.

TRD-200304407

Leslie L. Pettijohn

Commissioner

Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner

Filed: July 22, 2003


Deep East Texas Council of Governments

Request for Proposals for Interoperable Communication

I. Overview

Overview: The Deep East Texas Council of Governments (DETCOG) is accepting proposals to retain a qualified firm/individual to provide professional consulting services for the development of a regional interoperable communications plan. The firm/individual should have no conflicts of interest with any vendor of communications equipment.

II. Obtaining Full RFP and Submission Information

The full RFP can be obtained at http://www.detcog.org or by contacting:

Van Bush, Director of Regional 9-1-1/Emergency Services

Phone: (409) 384-5704 x265

FAX: (409) 384-5390

Email: vbush@detcog.org

Submissions are due to DETCOG no later than 5 PM on August 22, 2003.

TRD-200304435

Walter Diggles

Executive Director

Deep East Texas Council of Governments

Filed: July 23, 2003


Texas Education Agency

Request for Applications Concerning Texas 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Program, Cycle 2

Eligible Applicants. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is requesting applications under Request for Applications (RFA) #701-03-021 from local educational agencies (LEA) including public school districts, open-enrollment charter schools and regional education service centers; community-based organizations (CBOs); and other public or private entities, non-profit or for profit, or a consortium of two or more agencies, organizations, or entities to establish or expand community learning centers. Eligible applicants include city or county governments, faith-based organizations, institutions of higher education, and for profit corporations. A shared services arrangement (SSA) or two or more LEAs is also eligible to apply.

Description. The purpose of the Texas 21st Century Community Learning Centers Cycle 2 grant program is to provide opportunities for communities to establish or expand activities in community learning centers that: (1) offer academic enrichment, including providing tutorial services to help children, particularly students who attend low performing schools, to meet state and local student academic achievement standards in core academic subjects, such as reading, mathematics, and science; (2) offer students a broad array of additional services, programs, and activities such as youth development activities, drug and violence prevention programs, counseling programs, art, music, and physical education and fitness programs, and technology education programs that are designed to reinforce and complement the regular academic program of participating students; and (3) offer families of students served by community learning centers opportunities for literacy and related educational development. Program services must be offered only when schools are not in session (before or after school, during holidays, or during summer recess). Centers can be located in elementary or secondary schools or other similarly accessible facilities. The program must be carried out in active collaboration with the schools the students attend. Applications must provide for partnerships between an LEA, a CBO, and other public or private organizations, if appropriate.

Dates of Project. Applicants should plan for a starting date of no earlier than March 1, 2004, and an ending date of no later than May 31, 2005. The initial grant period will be fifteen months.

Project Amount. A total of approximately $22,000,000 is available for funding approximately 130 single centers during the summer of 2004 and during the 2004-2005 school year. The grant request may not be less than $50,000 nor greater than $175,000 per center, not exceeding $875,000 for a total of five centers. Each community learning center may serve students on more than one campus, and a campus may be served through only one community learning center. Project funding in the second year and third years will be based on satisfactory progress of the first- and second-year objectives and activities, respectively, on appropriations by the U. S. Congress, the number of centers established, the number of students and campuses served by each center, and on the activities to be implemented during out-of- school time throughout the grant period. This project is funded 100% from federal funds.

Selection Criteria. Applications will be selected based on the independent reviewers' assessment of each applicant's ability to carry out all requirements contained in the RFA. Reviewers will evaluate applications based on the overall quality and validity of the proposed grant programs and the extent to which the applications address the primary objective(s) and intent of the project. Applications must address each statutory requirement as specified in the RFA to be considered for funding and must designate the specific campus(es) that meet the eligibility requirements of the grant in order to determine the students and families to be served in the 21st Century Community Learning Center. One application will be limited to not more than five community learning center(s).

The TEA will not award a grant to an applicant receiving an average score of below 70. The TEA reserves the right to select from the highest-ranking applications those that address all requirements in the RFA and that are most advantageous to the project.

The TEA is not obligated to approve an application, provide funds, or endorse any application submitted in response to this RFA. This RFA does not commit TEA to pay any costs before an application is approved. The issuance of this RFA does not obligate TEA to award a grant or pay any costs incurred in preparing a response.

Applicants’ Conference. Prospective applicants will be provided an opportunity to receive general and clarifying information from TEA about the scope of the Texas 21st Century Community Learning Centers, Cycle 2 grant program on September 3, 2003, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. on The Texas Educational Telecommunication Network (TETN) available at each regional education service center and some of the larger school districts. The entire conference will be videotaped. Pre-conference questions may be sent to gkidwell@tea.state.tx.us prior to August 25, 2003. Each person attending will be required to sign a register setting out the representative's name, the applicant organization represented, and its name, address, and telephone number. Prospective applicants who are not able to attend the Applicants' Conference may request a copy of the videotape at no charge from the Division of Chapter 37/Safe Schools of the TEA.

Requests for Additional Information. In order to assure that no prospective applicant may obtain a competitive advantage because of acquisition of information unknown to other prospective applicants, any additional information that is different from or in addition to information provided in the RFA or at the Applicant's Conference will be provided only in response to written inquiries. Copies of all such inquiries and the written answers thereto will be posted on TEA's Grants Administration website.

Unless otherwise noted, all inquiries for information must be made in writing to the Document Control Center, Room 6-108, Texas Education Agency, William B. Travis Bldg., 1701 N. Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701-1494. The RFA number must be identified in the written request for information.

Requesting the Application. A complete copy of RFA #701-03-021 may be obtained by writing the Document Control Center, Room 6-108, Texas Education Agency, William B. Travis Building, 1701 N. Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701; by calling (512) 463-9304; by faxing (512) 463-9811; or by e-mailing dcc@tea.state.tx.us. Please refer to the RFA number and title in your request. Provide your name, complete mailing address, and phone number including area code. The announcement letter and complete RFA and questions and answers will also be posted on the TEA website at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/grant/announcements/grants2.cgi for viewing and downloading.

Further Information. For clarifying information about the RFA, contact Geraldine Kidwell, Division Chapter 37/Safe Schools, TEA, (512) 463-9068.

Deadline for Receipt of Applications. Applications must be received in the Document Control Center of the TEA by 5:00 p.m. (Central Time), Thursday, October 30, 2003, to be considered for funding.

TRD-200304446

Cristina De La Fuente-Valadez

Manager, Policy Planning

Texas Education Agency

Filed: July 23, 2003


Request for Applications (RFA) Concerning State Engineering and Science Recruitment (SENSR) Fund, 2003-2004

Eligible Applicants. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is requesting applications under Request for Applications (RFA) # 701-03-024 from organizations that qualify for exemption from federal income tax under the Internal Revenue Code, 501 (c )(3), and that do not distribute net earnings to any private shareholder or other individual. The organization must serve groups of women or minority group members who, considering their percentages of the Texas population, are under-represented at institutions of higher education in programs of engineering and applied sciences.

Description. The purpose of this program is to allocate funds to eligible organizations to establish or operate educational programs. The programs will support the recruitment of women and members of ethnic minority groups to assist them in preparing for, or participating in, programs leading to an undergraduate degree in engineering or science from an institution of higher education. Funding shall also be used to disseminate information concerning career opportunities in engineering and science, as well as information about these programs that are funded under the requirements of the legislative authority noted previously.

Dates of Project. The State Engineering and Science Recruitment (SENSR) Fund project will be implemented during the 2003-2004 and 2004-2005 school years. Applicants should plan for a starting date of no earlier than January 1, 2004, and an ending date of no later than August 31, 2004, for the project's first year.

Project Amount. Funding will be provided for approximately 16 projects. Each project will receive a maximum of $25,000 for the 2003-2004 school year. For the 2003-2004 fiscal year, this project will distribute a total amount of approximately $394,920.00 subject to the availability of funds and approval of the commissioner of education. Project funding in the second year will be based on satisfactory progress of the first-year objectives and activities and on general budget approval.

Selection Criteria. Applications will be selected based on the independent reviewers’ assessment of each applicant’s ability to carry out all requirements contained in the RFA. Reviewers will evaluate applications based on the overall quality and validity of the proposed grant program and the extent to which the application addresses the primary objective(s) and intent of the project. Applications must address each requirement as specified in the RFA to be considered for funding. Preference shall be given to projects that stress the development of mathematical and scientific competence. Projects in the social sciences will not be considered. The TEA reserves the right to select from the highest ranking applications those that would serve the most participants who are women and under- represented minority group members in the objectives specified. Other project quality indicators are specified throughout the RFA. To be approved for funding, projects offered by eligible organizations must meet certain guidelines. Each project must: (1) use professional volunteers at each level of instruction; (2) require parental involvement; (3) coordinate with public school preparation for scientific and mathematics careers; (4) coordinate with post-secondary educational institutions; (5) involve organizations of women and minority group members; (6) provide demonstrated professional leadership in educational activities for women and minority group members; and (7) be compatible with state and federal laws governing education.

The TEA is not obligated to approve an application, provide funds, or endorse any application submitted in response to this RFA. This RFA does not commit TEA to pay any costs before an application is approved. The issuance of this RFA does not obligate TEA to award a grant or pay any costs incurred in preparing a response.

Requesting the Application. A complete copy of RFA # 701-03-024 may be obtained by writing the Document Control Center, Room 6-108, Texas Education Agency, William B. Travis Building, 1701 N. Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701; by calling (512) 463-9304; by faxing (512) 463-9811; or by emailing dcc@tea.state.tx.us. Please refer to the RFA number and title in your request. Provide your name, complete mailing address, and phone number including area code. The announcement letter and complete RFA will also be posted on the TEA website at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/grant/announcements/grants2.cgi for viewing and downloading.

Further Information. For clarifying information about the RFA, contact Gregory Travillion, Office of Education Services, Texas Education Agency, (512) 475-0228.

Deadline for Receipt of Applications. Applications must be received in the Document Control Center of the TEA by 5:00 p.m. (Central Time), Thursday, October 16, 2003 to be considered for funding.

TRD-200304445

Cristina De La Fuente-Valadez

Manager, Policy Planning

Texas Education Agency

Filed: July 23, 2003


Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Enforcement Orders

An agreed order was entered regarding Skinny's, Inc., Docket No. 2000-0295-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $94,500 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting David Speaker, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-2548, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding B&S Cattle Feeders, L.L.C., Docket No. 2000-0466- AGR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $11,875 in administrative penalties with $11,275 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting James Biggins, Staff Attorney at (210) 403-4017, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Ron Laney Oil Co., Inc., Docket No. 2000-1258-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $68,400 in administrative penalties with $67,800 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Robin Chapman, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-0497, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Rio Concho Aviation, Inc., Docket No. 2002-0518-PST- E on July 11, 2003 assessing $1,500 in administrative penalties with $300 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Rebecca Petty, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-3693, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Hall Grapevine Corporation dba Hall Johnson Chevron, Docket No. 2001-1081-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $12,000 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Lisa Lemanczyk, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-5915, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

A default order was entered regarding Jeff Lyon dba A-1 Metal Recyclers, Docket No. 2000- 0059-MLM-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $14,500 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Richard O'Connell, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-5528, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

A default order was entered regarding Western Environmental of Oklahoma, L.L.C., Docket No. 1999-0412-IHW-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $48,950 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Richard O'Connell, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-5528, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding City of Lamesa, Docket No. 2002-0728-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $2,000 in administrative penalties with $400 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Merrilee Gerberding, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-4490, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Pilkington's Big Tex Oil Distributors, Inc., Docket No. 2002-0441-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $4,500 in administrative penalties with $3,900 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting James Fleming, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-5806, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Hilcorp Energy Company, Docket No. 2002-0924-AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $750 in administrative penalties with $150 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Suzanne Walrath, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-2134, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Masters Resources, LLC, Docket No. 2002-1318-AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $3,000 in administrative penalties with $600 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Trina Grieco, Enforcement Coordinator at (713) 767-3607, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Hoang Van Nguyen dba Nick's Grocery, Docket No. 2002-0976-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $8,550 in administrative penalties with $7,950 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting John Barry, Enforcement Coordinator at (409) 898-3838, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Oiltanking Houston, L.P., Docket No. 2002-1362-AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $2,250 in administrative penalties with $450 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Gilbert Angelle, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-4489, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding City of Pelican Bay, Docket No. 2002-0462-PWS-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $2,188 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Cheryl Thompson, Enforcement Coordinator at (817) 588-5886, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Southwest Utilities, Inc. dba Piney Point Subdivision Water System, Docket No. 2002-1267-PWS-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $394 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Catherine Albrecht, Enforcement Coordinator at (713) 767-3672, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Spur Services, Inc. dba Spur Texaco, Docket No. 2001- 1186-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $3,500 in administrative penalties with $700 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Aniekeme Udoetok, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-0739, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Sterlin Stringer dba Stringer's Auto, Docket No. 2002- 1134-AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $950 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting John Barry, Enforcement Coordinator at (409) 899-8781, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding The Kippur Corporation, Docket No. 2003-0248-AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $850 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Jill Kelley, Enforcement Coordinator at (915) 834-4956, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Frisia Farms Dairy #1, L.L.C., Docket No. 2002-1082- AGR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $2,000 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Stacey Young, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-1899, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Glazer's Wholesale Drug Company, Inc., Docket No. 2002-1367-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $1,800 in administrative penalties with $360 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Rebecca Johnson, Enforcement Coordinator at (713) 422-8931, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 166, Docket No. 2003-0011-MWD-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $4,000 in administrative penalties with $800 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Sheila Smith, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-1670, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Jackson County Water Control & Improvement District No. 1, Docket No. 2002-1406-PWS-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $1,523 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Audra Baumgartner, Enforcement Coordinator at (361) 825-3131, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Tri-Union Development Corporation, Docket No. 2002- 1084-AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $650 in administrative penalties with $130 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Stacey Young, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-1899, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding City of Troy, Docket No. 2002-1323-MWD-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $5,775 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Michael Meyer, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-4492, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding City of Weslaco, Docket No. 2002-0664-MSW-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $12,500 in administrative penalties with $1,750 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Sandra Alaniz, Enforcement Coordinator at (956) 430-6044, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Red River County Water Control & Improvement District No. 1 - Langford Creek, Docket No. 2003-0001-WR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $525 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Brian Lehmkuhle, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-4482, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Hydro Conduit of Texas, LP dba Rinker Materials Moor- Tex, Docket No. 2002-1347-PWS-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $3,038 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Brian Lehmkuhle, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-4482, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Sebastian Cotton and Grain, Ltd., Docket No. 2003- 0105-AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $510 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Jaime Garza, Enforcement Coordinator at (956) 430-6030, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding King Fuels, Inc., Docket No. 2002-1325-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $1,000 in administrative penalties with $200 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Trina Grieco, Enforcement Coordinator at (713) 767-3607, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Lower Valley Water District, Docket No. 2002-1042- PWS-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $6,160 in administrative penalties with $1,232 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Subhash Jain, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-5867, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Clinton Lynn, Docket No. 2002-1251-MWD-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $950 in administrative penalties with $190 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Laurie Eaves, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-4495, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Nasim Shakeeb dba Clark Road Mobil, Docket No. 2002-1409-AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $575 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Carl Schnitz, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-1892, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Robert Bader and Cindy Bader, Docket No. 2002-0661- MLM-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $1,900 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Laurie Eaves, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-4495, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Diamond Shamrock Refining Company, L.P., Docket No. 2002-1233-AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $1,840 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Edward Moderow, Enforcement Coordinator at (361) 825-3288, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Drilling Specialities Company LLC dba DSC Drilling Specialties Company LLC, Docket No. 2002-0839-IWD-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $13,500 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Catherine Albrecht, Enforcement Coordinator at (713) 767-3672, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding EPGT Texas Pipeline, L.P., Docket No. 2002-1184-AIR- E on July 11, 2003 assessing $10,350 in administrative penalties with $2,070 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Sheila Smith, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-1670, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Flying J Inc, Docket No. 2002-1122-MWD-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $1,000 in administrative penalties with $200 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Gloria Stanford, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-1871, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Chemicals Incorporated, Docket No. 2002-1417-IWD-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $4,350 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Kimberly McGuire, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-4761, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Richard Alonso dba Alonso Inspections, Docket No. 2002-1159-AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $625 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Judy Fox, Enforcement Coordinator at (817) 588-5825, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Jewel Alt dba Alt Dairy Farm, Docket No. 2002-1364- AGR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $5,130 in administrative penalties with $1,026 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Merrilee Gerberding, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-4490, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Arnold Crushed Stone, Inc., Docket No. 2003-0021-AIR- E on July 11, 2003 assessing $1,800 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Miriam Hall, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-1044, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Syed H. Ali dba Blanco Groceries, Docket No. 2002- 1099-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $2,250 in administrative penalties with $450 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Malcolm Ferris, Enforcement Coordinator at (210) 403-4061, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Brinker Texas, LP dba Chili's Restaurant, Docket No. 2003-0130-EAQ-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $1,050 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Lawrence King, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 339-2929, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Cambs Marine Service, L.L.C., Docket No. 2002-0953- AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $7,350 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Suzanne Walrath, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-2134, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding United Petroleum Transports, Inc., Docket No. 2002- 1219-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $1,000 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Diana Grawitch, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-0939, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Skinny's, Inc., Docket No. 2003-0447-PST-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $66,500 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting David Speaker, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-2548, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Sid Richardson Gasoline, Ltd., Docket No. 2002-1291- AIR-E on July 11, 2003 assessing $3,750 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting David Speaker, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-2548, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

TRD-200304428

LaDonna Castañuela

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: July 22, 2003


Invitation to Comment-Draft July 2003 Update to the Water Quality Management Plan for the State of Texas

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ or commission) announces the availability of the draft July 2003 Update to the Water Quality Management Plan for the State of Texas (draft WQMP update).

The Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) is developed and promulgated in accordance with the requirements of the Federal Clean Water Act, §208. The draft 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 WQMP update may contain service area populations for listed wastewater treatment facilities and designated management agency information.

A copy of the draft July 2003 WQMP update may be found on the commission's Web site located at http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/permitting/waterperm/wqmp/index.html. A copy of the draft may also be viewed at the TCEQ Library, Building A, 12100 Park 35 Circle, Austin, Texas.

Written comments on the draft WQMP update may be submitted to Ms. Nancy Vignali, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Water Quality 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 2, 2003. For further information or questions, please contact Ms. Vignali at (512) 239-1303 or by e-mail at nvignali@TCEQ.state.tx.us.

TRD-200304415

Stephanie Bergeron

Director, Environmental Law Division

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: July 22, 2003


Notice of Amendment to the Air Quality Standard Permit for Hot Mix Asphalt Plants

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ or commission) is issuing an air quality standard permit for hot mix asphalt plants (HMAPs). The new air quality standard permit became effective July 10, 2003. This standard permit is applicable to those facilities and associated equipment which produce standard hot mix asphalt, asphalt mixes made with performance grade binders, asphalt mixes made with crumb rubber, and pre-coat aggregate; and for which throughput is limited to no more than 400 tons per hour.

Copies of the standard permit for HMAPs may be obtained from the TCEQ Web site at http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/permitting/airperm/nsr_permits/athrize.htm#stdpmt or by contacting the TCEQ, Office of Permitting, Remediation, and Registration, Air Permits Division at (512) 239-1240.

OVERVIEW OF AIR QUALITY STANDARD PERMIT

Based on the results of a protectiveness review, the commission is issuing a standard permit for HMAPs under Texas Health and Safety Code, §382.05195 and 30 TAC Chapter 116, Subchapter F, Standard Permits. The commission currently authorizes HMAPs under the conditions of 30 TAC Chapter 106, Permits by Rule, or under Chapter 116, Control of Air Pollution by Permits for New Construction or Modification. The general public often expresses concern with HMAP registration applications. These objections often include traffic safety, noise, appearance, and property values. These concerns are beyond the commission's jurisdiction to address. The general public also expresses concerns over nuisance dust, odor, ambient air quality, and potential negative health impacts. These issues are the focus of the HMAP protectiveness review and the proposed conditions of the standard permit.

The commission is including requirements to minimize dust emissions, property line distance limitations, and opacity and visible emission limitations based on computer dispersion modeling, impacts analysis, and plant observations performed to verify the protectiveness of the standard permit. The commission has concluded research which shows that the standard permit for HMAPs is protective of the public health and welfare and that facilities which operate under the conditions specified will comply with TCEQ regulations.

The standard permit is designed to authorize both temporary and permanent HMAPs. However, it is not intended to provide an authorization mechanism for all possible unit configurations or for unusual operating scenarios. Those facilities which cannot meet the standard permit conditions may apply for an air quality permit under §116.111, General Application.

PUBLIC NOTICE AND COMMENT PERIOD

In accordance with §116.603, the TCEQ published notice of the proposed standard permit in the January 10, 2003 issue of the Texas Register (28 TexReg 501). The notice was also published in the newspapers of the largest general circulation in the following metropolitan areas: Amarillo; Austin; Corpus Christi; Dallas; El Paso; Houston; Lower Rio Grande Valley; Lubbock; Permian Basin; San Antonio; and Tyler. The date for these publications was January 10, 2003. The comment period closed on February 13, 2003.

PUBLIC MEETINGS

A public meeting on the proposal was held on February 13, 2003 at 1:30 p.m., at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. The meeting was attended by 15 people and oral comments were taken from one attendee and written comments were received from three.

ANALYSIS OF COMMENTS

Written comments were received from Harris County Public Health and Human Services Pollution Control Division (HCPC); Koch Materials Company (KMC); the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC); the Texas Asphalt Pavement Association (TAPA); APAC- Texas, Inc. (AT); Reece Albert, Inc. (RA); and Colorado Materials, Inc. (CM).

Additionally oral comments were received from AT.

HCPC commented that in addition to providing notification 30 days in advance to the appropriate TCEQ regional office, the owner/operator of an HMAP relocating to a public works site should also give notification 30 days in advance to any local air pollution control agency having jurisdiction.

The commission agrees with the comment. Subsection (3)(B) of the standard permit has been changed to include a requirement to notify, "any local air pollution control agency having jurisdiction," no less than 30 days prior to locating on the site.

KMC requested that the limit for styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) polymers in subsection (1)(Q) be raised from 6% by weight of the asphalt mix to 10% by weight based on the availability of asphalt binder products currently on the market and information indicating that these products will not result in increased volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.

The commission agrees with this comment. The 6% by weight limitation was based solely on values represented in past permitting actions and the commission believes that the standard permit should reflect industry norms, provided that they are protective of public health and safety. The SBS polymer has a total volatile matter content of less than 0.7% by weight. The volatile matter is approximately 99% water. This material is not expected to produce any excess emissions when heated within the range allowed by this standard permit.

AGC, AT, RA, and CM requested that the waiver of the 45-day limit in subsection (1)(G) of the standard permit be deleted.

The commission agrees with this comment. This condition has been removed from the standard permit.

TAPA commented that plants using wet scrubbers as the control device need time to comply with the requirement to use a fabric filter and requested that a transition period be included for these plants to purchase and install filters.

The commission disagrees with this comment. Plants currently operating under another method of authorization (PBR or regular permit) with a wet scrubber as a control device may continue to operate under that authorization until the plant is moved or modified. For plants that require reauthorization due to a move or modification, authorization under a regular new source review permit is still available.

AGC, AT, RA, CM, and TAPA suggested the use of a memorandum that would allow use of additional mix additives as they become available.

Authorization of modification by memorandum is not supported by statute or regulation. Additional mix additives may be authorized under §§116.116(e), 116.117, and 116.118, as long as the emissions from the additional additives conform to the specific requirements in these sections.

AGC, AT, RA, CM, and TAPA requested that, for plants that comply with the requirements for daylight hours operation, the truck load-out be restricted to operation no earlier than one hour after sunrise and that the commission should allow mix production and silo filling prior to that time.

The commission agrees with this comment. Operation of emission units other than the truck load-out prior to one hour after sunrise should not result in adverse off-property impacts. Subsection (1)(T) of the standard permit has been changed to allow emission units other than the truck load-out a start time of one hour before sunrise. However, the commission believes that it is important to insure compliance with the start time of one hour after sunrise for the truck load-out and has added a record keeping requirement for the start and stop times of the truck load-out.

AGC, AT, RA, and CM commented that since HMAPs do not typically have the equipment for quality control testing of asphalt cement, it would be appropriate for the supplier to certify the volatility factor required by subsection (1)(W)(vi) of the standard permit.

The commission agrees with this comment. Subsection (1)(V)(vi) of the standard permit requires that a record of the volatility factor be kept and does not require owner/operators to conduct the testing prescribed in American Society for Testing & Materials method D2872. The staff's intent is for permit holders to obtain the volatility factor for each type of asphaltic cement used from the manufacturer.

TAPA requested that TCEQ provide guidelines for acceptable data in lieu of testing (DILOT) demonstrations that are allowed under subsection (2)(A) of the standard permit.

The DILOT guidelines are available from the TCEQ Field Operations Division.

AGC, AT, RA, and CM asked whether the requirement to sample under subsection (5)(A) of the standard permit applies each time the plant is moved and relocated and whether DILOT would be accepted.

The requirement to sample VOC emissions for crumb rubber is intended to be a one-time test for each facility. A separate test will not be required each time the facility is moved. However, the concentration of crumb rubber used in the asphalt mix at the time of the test becomes the maximum authorized by this standard permit. Any increase in the concentration of crumb rubber in the asphalt mix would require retesting. No DILOT reports will be accepted as a replacement for stack sampling on plants using crumb rubber asphalt mix.

TRD-200304432

Stephanie Bergeron

Director, Environmental Law Division

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: July 23, 2003


Notice of Amendments to the Air Quality Standard Permit for Concrete Batch Plants

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ or commission) is issuing amendments to the air quality standard permit for concrete batch plants (CBPs). The amendments to the air quality standard permit became effective July 10, 2003. The amendments to the standard permit for concrete batch plants are applicable to an owner or operator of a temporary concrete plant that has been previously registered with the commission for this standard permit and supplies concrete to a public works project which is located in or contiguous to the right-of-way. In lieu of the current registration requirement, these temporary facilities will be required to notify the appropriate regional office, in writing, at least 30 calendar days prior to locating at the site. Also, a technical clarification has been made referencing the checklist requirement that is applicable to both permanent and temporary CBPs. General requirements concerning distance limits, emission limits, control requirements, and recordkeeping have not changed.

Copies of the standard permit for CBPs may be obtained from the TCEQ Web site at http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/permitting/airperm/nsr_permits/athrize.htm#stdpmt or by contacting the TCEQ, Office of Permitting, Remediation, and Registration, Air Permits Division at (512) 239-1240.

OVERVIEW OF AIR QUALITY STANDARD PERMIT AMENDMENTS

The commission is issuing amendments to the standard permit for CBPs under Texas Health and Safety Code, §382.05195 and 30 TAC Chapter 116, Subchapter F, Standard Permits. Facilities which are currently authorized under the concrete batch plant standard permit will not be required to re-register with the commission in order to use the new notification requirement. New facilities not authorized by the commission that want to locate on a public works site will first have to register in accordance with §116.611, Registration to Use a Standard Permit.

PUBLIC NOTICE AND COMMENT PERIOD

In accordance with §116.605, the TCEQ published notice of the proposed amended standard permit in the January 10, 2003 issue of the Texas Register (28 TexReg 500). The notice was also published in the newspapers of the largest general circulation in Austin, Houston, and Dallas on January 10, 2003. The comment period closed on February 13, 2003.

PUBLIC MEETING

A public meeting on the proposal was offered on February 13, 2003 at 10:00 a.m., at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. No one signed in to make oral comments or written comments and the meeting was canceled.

ANALYSIS OF COMMENTS

Written comments were received from the Harris County Public Health and Human Services Pollution Control Division (HCPC) and J.L. Steel, L.P (JLS).

HCPC commented that in addition to providing notification 30 days in advance to the appropriate TCEQ regional office, the owner/operator of a CBP relocating to a public works site should also give notification 30 days in advance to any local air pollution control agency having jurisdiction.

The commission agrees with the comment. Subsection (5)(E) of the standard permit has been changed to include a requirement to notify, "any local air pollution control agency having jurisdiction," no less than 30 days prior to locating on the site.

JLS supported the commission's intention to expedite the authorization process for concrete batch plants on public works projects.

The commission acknowledges the favorable comment.

TRD-200304431

Stephanie Bergeron

Director, Environmental Law Division

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: July 23, 2003


Notice of Opportunity to Comment on Default Orders of Administrative Enforcement Actions

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ or commission) staff is providing an opportunity for written public comment on the listed Default Orders (DOs). The commission staff proposes a DO when the staff has sent an executive director's preliminary report and petition (EDPRP) to an entity outlining the alleged violations; the proposed penalty; and the proposed technical requirements necessary to bring the entity back into compliance; and the entity fails to request a hearing on the matter within 20 days of its receipt of the EDPRP. Similar to the procedure followed with respect to Agreed Orders entered into by the executive director (ED) of the commission in accordance with Texas Water Code (TWC), §7.075, this notice of the proposed order and the opportunity to comment is published in the Texas Register no later than the 30th day before the date on which the public comment period closes, which in this case is September 1, 2003 . The commission will consider any written comments received and the commission may withdraw or withhold approval of a DO if a comment discloses facts or considerations that indicate a proposed DO is inappropriate, improper, inadequate, or inconsistent with the requirements of the statutes and rules within the commission's jurisdiction, or orders and permits issued in accordance with the commission's regulatory authority. Additional notice of changes to a proposed DO is not required to be published if those changes are made in response to written comments.

A copy of each proposed DO is available for public inspection at both the commission's central office, located at 12100 Park 35 Circle, Building A, 3rd Floor, Austin, Texas 78753, (512) 239-3400 and at the applicable regional office listed as follows. Comments about the DO should be sent to the attorney designated for the DO at the commission's central office at P.O. Box 13087, MC 175, Austin, Texas 78711-3087 and must be received by 5:00 p.m. on September 1, 2003 . Comments may also be sent by facsimile machine to the attorney at (512) 239-3434. The commission's attorneys are available to discuss the DOs and/or the comment procedure at the listed phone numbers; however, comments on the DOs should be submitted to the commission in writing .

(1) COMPANY: Barry Beavers dba Thomas Brothers; DOCKET NUMBER: 2001-1484-PST- E; TCEQ ID NUMBER: 10719; LOCATION: 290 Walnut Street, Colorado City, Mitchell County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: retail gasoline station; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §334.48(c), by failing to conduct inventory control for the three underground storage tanks (USTs); 30 TAC §334.10(b)(1)(B), by failing to maintain in a secure location and make available for review legible copies of all required records pertaining to the USTs; 30 TAC§334.51(b)(2)(A) - (C) and TWC, §26.3475, by failing to equip the fill pipe with a tight fitting adapter or similar device to provide a liquid tight seal during the transfer of regulated substances into the tank and failing to install spill containment and overflow prevention equipment for the UST system; 30 TAC §334.50(b)(1)(A) and (2), by failing to monitor piping in a manner designed to detect releases from any portion of the UST piping; 30 TAC §334.49(a) and TWC, §26.3475, by failing to install a corrosion protection system for the UST; 30 TAC §334.7(d)(3), by failing to update or change registration information within 30 days from the date on which the owner or operator first became aware of changes or status of the system; 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b), by failing to demonstrate financial assurance for taking corrective action and to compensate third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of the USTs; and 30 TAC §334.47(a)(2), by failing to permanently remove any existing UST system that was not brought into timely compliance with upgrade requirements no later than 60 days after the prescribed implementation date; PENALTY: $15,500; STAFF ATTORNEY: Shannon Strong, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-6201; REGIONAL OFFICE: Abilene Regional Office, 1977 Industrial Boulevard, Abilene, Texas 79602-7833, (915) 698-9674.

(2) COMPANY: Claudio Barrera dba Barrera Backhoe Service; DOCKET NUMBER: 2001- 0179-OSI-E; TCEQ ID NUMBER: none; LOCATION: six miles west of the intersection of Highway 281 South and Farm-to-Market Road 735, Ben Bolt, Jim Wells County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: on-site sewage facility (OSSF); RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §285.50(b) and (c), and Texas Health and Saftey Code (THSC), §366.071, by failing to have a valid registration with the TCEQ prior to commencing the installation, alteration, extension, or repair of an OSSF; and THSC, §366.051(c), by failing to obtain from the owner of the site proof of a permit and approved plan from the TCEQ prior to beginning the installation of the OSSF; PENALTY: $875; STAFF ATTORNEY: Darren Ream, Litigation Division, MC R-4, (817) 588-5878; REGIONAL OFFICE: Corpus Christi Regional Office, 6300 Ocean Drive, Suite 1200, Corpus Christi, Texas 78412-5503, (361) 825-3100.

(3) COMPANY: Jeffrey Stuart dba J's Kwik Mart; DOCKET NUMBER: 2002-0993-PST-E; TCEQ ID NUMBER: 2350; LOCATION: 201 Avenue E, Ozona, Crockett County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: convenience store with retail sales of gasoline; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §334.49(c)(4)(C) and TWC, §26.3475(d), by failing to inspect and test the USTs' corrosion protection system within three to six months after installation and once every three years thereafter; 30 TAC §334.49(c)(2)(C) and TWC, §26.3475(d), by failing to ensure that the rectifier and other system components were operating properly by inspecting the rectifier and components at least once every 60 days; 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b), by failing to demonstrate financial assurance for taking corrective action and to compensate third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of petroleum USTs; 30 TAC §334.50(a)(1) and (b)(1) and (2) and TWC, §26.3475(a) and (c)(1), by failing to have a release detection method capable of detecting a release from any portion of the UST system which contains regulated substances including the tanks, piping, and other ancillary equipment; 30 TAC §334.8(c)(5)(A)(iii), by failing to ensure that the facility's delivery certificate was posted and visible at all times; and 30 TAC §334.8(c)(5)(C), by failing to ensure that a legible tag, label, or marking was permanently applied upon or affixed to either the top of the fill tube or to a nonremovable point in the immediate area of the fill tube which corresponds to the UST identification number listed on the registration and self- certification form; PENALTY: $8,500; STAFF ATTORNEY: Alfred Okpohworho, Litigation Division, MC R-12, (713) 422-8918; REGIONAL OFFICE: San Angelo Regional Office, 622 South Oakes, Suite K, San Angelo, Texas 76903-7013, (915) 655-9479.

(4) COMPANY: Lowery Petroleum, Inc. dba Sunshine Exxon and dba Laurel Park Texaco; DOCKET NUMBER: 2001-1244-PST-E; TCEQ ID NUMBERS: 5008 and 34552; LOCATIONS: 813 North 77 Sunshine Strip and 1110 South 77 Sunshine Strip, Harlingen, Cameron County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: gasoline service station; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b), by failing to demonstrate the required financial responsibility for taking corrective action and to compensate third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of petroleum USTs; 30 TAC §334.10(b)(1)(A), by failing to develop and maintain all UST records; 30 TAC §334.49(c)(2) and TWC, §26.3475(d), by failing to operate and maintain the cathodic protection system to ensure that the rectifier and other system components are operating properly; 30 TAC §334.50(d)(2)(A) and TWC, §26.3475(c)(1), by failing to conduct weekly manual tank gauging for the petroleum substance tanks having a nominal capacity of 550 gallons or less when using it as the sole method of tank release detection; 30 TAC §334.8(c)(5)(C), by failing to permanently tag, label, or mark the UST system with an identification number that is identical to the UST identification number listed on the UST registration and self-certification form; 30 TAC §334.8(c)(4)(B) and TWC, §26.346(a), by failing to submit the required UST registration and self-certification form to the commission; 30 TAC §334.8(c)(5)(A)(iii), by failing to ensure that a valid, current TCEQ delivery certificate is posted at the facility; 30 TAC §334.22, by failing to pay all outstanding UST fees; 30 TAC §334.10(b)(1)(A), by failing to maintain all UST records; 30 TAC §334.49(a) and TWC, §26.3475(d), by failing to provide corrosion protection for the USTs associated with the UST system; 30 TAC §334.50(b)(2)(A)(ii)(III) and TWC, §26.3475(a), by failing to perform an annual performance test on the line leak detectors; 30 TAC §334.51(b)(2)(C) and TWC, §26.3475(a), by failing to equip each tank with overfill prevention equipment; and 30 TAC §334.8(c)(4)(B) and TWC, §26.346(a), by failing to complete a UST registration and self- certification form with all the applicable information requested on the agency's authorized form for all regulated UST systems; PENALTY: $67,200; STAFF ATTORNEY: Gitanjali Yadav, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-2029; REGIONAL OFFICE: Harlingen Regional Office, 1804 West Jefferson Avenue, Harlingen, Texas 78550-5247, (956) 425-6010.

(5) COMPANY: Melvin K. Musick; DOCKET NUMBER: 2001-0471-OSI-E; TCEQ ID NUMBER: none; LOCATION: Route 1, Box 400, May, Brown County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: on-site sewage; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §285.61(4) and (5) and THSC, §366.051(c) and §366.054, by failing to obtain the necessary permitting authority's authorization and failing to notify the permitting authority before beginning to install, construct, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF; 30 TAC §285.61(6) and §285.32(a), by failing to use proper materials in the installation and construction of the OSSF; 30 TAC §285.61(6) and §285.32(b)(1)(B) and (C)(ii), by failing to install tank and outlet flowlines of the proper capacity; and 30 TAC §§285.61(6), 285.32(a), and 285.33(b)(1)(E), by failing to install a two-way clean- out from the house to the tank and failing to utilize an approved material as a permeable soil barrier; PENALTY: $1,750; STAFF ATTORNEY: Darren Ream, Litigation Division, MC R-4, (817) 588- 5878; REGIONAL OFFICE: Abilene Regional Office, 1977 Industrial Boulevard, Abilene, Texas 79602-7833, (915) 698-9674.

(6) COMPANY: Patriot Petroleum, Inc. dba Eastex Exxon; DOCKET NUMBER: 2002-0736- PST-E; TCEQ ID NUMBER: 26493; LOCATION: 3980 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: retail gasoline station; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §334.50(b)(1)(A) and TWC, §26.3475(c)(1), by failing to provide proper release detection for USTs containing more than one inch of petroleum products; 30 TAC §334.50(d)(2)(A) and TWC, §26.3475, by failing to conduct manual tank gauging as the release detection method for a petroleum substance tank having a nominal capacity of 1,000 gallons or less; 30 TAC §334.7(d)(3) and TWC, §26.346(a), by failing to provide amended registration for any change or additional information regarding USTs within 30 days from the date of the occurrence of the change or addition, or within 30 days of the date on which the owner or operator first became aware of the change or addition; and 30 TAC §37.815(a)(1) and (b)(1), by failing to demonstrate the required financial responsibility for taking corrective action and to compensate third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of petroleum USTs; PENALTY: $15,000; STAFF ATTORNEY: Alfred Okpohworho, Litigation Division, MC R- 12, (713) 422-8918; REGIONAL OFFICE: Beaumont Regional Office, 3870 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas 77703-1892, (409) 898-3838.

TRD-200304417

Paul C. Sarahan

Director, Litigation Division

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: July 22, 2003


Notice of Opportunity to Comment on Settlement Agreements of Administrative Enforcement Actions

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ or commission) staff is providing an opportunity for written public comment on the listed Agreed Orders (AOs) in accordance with Texas Water Code (TWC), §7.075. Section 7.075 requires that before the commission may approve the AOs, the commission shall allow the public an opportunity to submit written comments on the proposed AOs. Section 7.075 requires that notice of the opportunity to comment must be published in the Texas Register no later than the 30th day before the date on which the public comment period closes, which in this case is September 1, 2003 . Section 7.075 also requires that the commission promptly consider any written comments received and that the commission may withdraw or withhold approval of an AO if a comment discloses facts or considerations that the consent is inappropriate, improper, inadequate, or inconsistent with the requirements of the statutes and rules within the commission's orders and permits issued in accordance with the commission's regulatory authority. Additional notice of changes to a proposed AO is not required to be published if those changes are made in response to written comments.

A copy of each proposed AO is available for public inspection at both the commission's central office, located at 12100 Park 35 Circle, Building A, 3rd Floor, Austin, Texas 78753, (512) 239-3400 and at the applicable regional office listed as follows. Comments about an AO should be sent to the attorney designated for the AO at the commission's central office at P.O. Box 13087, MC 175, Austin, Texas 78711-3087 and must be received by 5:00 p.m. on September 1, 2003 . Comments may also be sent by facsimile machine to the attorney at (512) 239-3434. The designated attorney is available to discuss the AO and/or the comment procedure at the listed phone number; however, §7.075 provides that comments on an AO should be submitted to the commission in writing .

(1) COMPANY: Century Trucking, Inc.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2002-0629-MLM-E; TCEQ ID NUMBER: 455100033; LOCATION: west side of South Fawn Drive, approximately 1/2 mile from the intersection of Wheeler Road and South Fawn, Lumberton, Hardin County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: dirt pit; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §111.201 and Texas Health and Safety Code (THSC), §382.085(b), by failing to comply with the rules of outdoor burning by burning tires and metal; and 30 TAC §330.5, by failing to properly dispose of solid waste; PENALTY: $3,750; STAFF ATTORNEY: Laurencia Fasoyiro, Litigation Division, MC R-12, (713) 422-8914; REGIONAL OFFICE: Beaumont Regional Office, 3870 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas 77703- 1892, (409) 898-3838.

(2) COMPANY: The Jackson Family Trust and William Wedge dba Cedar Creek Mobile Home Park; DOCKET NUMBER: 2001-1345-PWS-E; TCEQ ID NUMBER: 0610086; LOCATION: west side of Farm-to-Market (FM) Road 1281, 3.5 miles south of Interstate Highway (IH) 35E, Denton, Denton County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: public water system; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §290.46(n)(2), by failing to provide an up-to-date map of the distribution system; 30 TAC §290.42(i), by failing to provide American National Standards/National Sanitation Foundation (ANS/NSF) chlorine; 30 TAC §290.46(m)(1)(A), by failing to conduct ground storage tank inspections; 30 TAC §290.46(m)(1)(B), by failing to conduct an annual pressure tank inspection; 30 TAC §290.46(i), by failing to provide a customer service agreement or plumbing ordinance; 30 TAC §290.41(c)(3)(A), by failing to provide well completion data; 30 TAC §290.43(c)(3) and (4), by failing to provide an overflow and water level indicator on the ground storage tank; 30 TAC §290.43(c)(1), by failing to provide a vent on the ground storage tank; 30 TAC §290.43(c), by failing to provide an American Water Works Association ground storage tank; 30 TAC §290.43(d)(7), by failing to provide a pressure tank that is tight against leakage; 30 TAC §290.43(d)(3), by failing to provide an air-to-water volume indicator on the 1,050 gallon pressure tank; 30 TAC §290.46(r), by failing to maintain a minimum of 35 pounds per square inch throughout the distribution system; 30 TAC §290.45(b)(1)(B)(i) and THSC, §341.0315(c), by failing to provide a minimum of 0.6 gallons per minute per connection well production capacity; 30 TAC §290.42(e)(7), by failing to seal the hypochlorinator container; and 30 TAC §290.41(c)(3)(J), by failing to provide a concrete sealing block in good repair about the well; PENALTY: $7,813; STAFF ATTORNEY: Diana Grawitch, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-0939; REGIONAL OFFICE: Dallas-Fort Worth Regional Office, 2301 Gravel Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76118-6951, (817) 588-5800.

(3) COMPANY: West Texas Gas, Inc.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2001-1557-PST-E; TCEQ ID NUMBER: none; LOCATION: 14655 Hollyhock, Gardendale, Ector County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: gasoline distributing company; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §334.5(b)(1)(A), by failing to confirm a valid, current delivery certificate issued by the TCEQ covering the underground storage tank (UST) system prior to depositing a regulated substance into the UST system; PENALTY: $1,000; STAFF ATTORNEY: Diana Grawitch, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-0939; REGIONAL OFFICE: Midland Regional Office, 3300 North A Street, Building 4, Suite 107, Midland, Texas 79705-5404, (915) 570-1359.

TRD-200304416

Paul C. Sarahan

Director, Litigation Division

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: July 22, 2003


Notice of Water Quality Applications

The following notices were issued during the period of July 14, 2003 through July 22, 2003.

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.

A. K. INTERESTS-HUNTERWOOD, L.P. has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 11066-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 120,000 gallons per day. The facility is located at 5830 South Lake Houston Parkway approximately 1.5 miles south/southeast of the intersection of Farm-to-Market Road 526 and U.S. Highway 90 and approximately 10.5 miles northeast of the Harris County courthouse in downtown Houston. in Harris County, Texas.

AQUAUTILITY CONSTRUCTION, LP has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 14253-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 450,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 1,200 feet southwest of the intersection of County Road 405 and State Highway 288 in Brazoria County, Texas.

BC UTILITIES, INC. has applied for a renewal of TNRCC Permit No. 11145-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 100,000 gallons per day. The facility is located 14400 Highway 59 North, Humble, Texas 77396 in Harris County, Texas.

THE CITY OF BELLEVUE has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 11235-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 21,000 gallons per day. The facility is located due north of Bellevue, approximately 900 feet east of Farm- to-Market Road 1288 and 0.3 miles north of the intersection of U.S. Highway 287 and Farm-to- Market Road 1288 in Clay County, Texas.

EDINBURG CONSOLIDATED INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for a new permit, Proposed Permit No. 14398-001, to authorize the disposal of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 14,000 gallons per day via subsurface drip irrigation of 3.21 acres of public access pastureland. This permit will not authorize a discharge of pollutants into waters in the State. The facility and disposal site will be located approximately 1000 feet east of Farm-to-Market Road 2220 (Ware Road) and 0.5 mile south-southeast of the intersection of Farm-to-Market Road 1925 (Monte Cristo Road) and Farm-to-Market Road 2220 (Ware Road) in Hidalgo County, Texas.

THE FORT BEND COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 25 has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 12003-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 980,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 400 feet north of Old Richmond Road (Richmond-Gains Road) and approximately 2,900 feet east of Farm-to-Market Road 1464 in Fort Bend County, Texas.

FORT BEND COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 41 has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 12475--001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 86,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 1,500 feet northwest of the intersection of Voss Road and Old Richmond Road and approximatley 5,000 feet west-northwest of the intersection of State Highway 6 and Voss Road in Fort Bend County, Texas.

HAMSHIRE COMMUNITY WATER SUPPLY CORPORATION has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 12098-003, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 56,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 0.6 mile north-northeast of Hamshire High School; 6,300 feet southeast of Interstate Highway 10 crossing of South Fork of Taylor Bayou; and 7,600 feet east-southeast of Interstate Highway 10 at West Hamshire Road in Jefferson County, Texas.

HARRIS COUNTY FRESH WATER SUPPLY DISTRICT NO. 61 has applied for a renewal of TNRCC Permit No. 10876-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at an annual average flow not to exceed 1,600,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 3,500 feet south of Cypress-North Houston Road and 3,000 feet east of Huffmeister Road in Harris County, Texas.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 89 has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 13985-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 500,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 5,200 feet north of the intersection of Riley Fussell Road and Rayford Road in Montgomery County, Texas.

NORTH HAYS COUNTY UTILITY COMPANY has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for a new permit, Proposed Permit No. 14431-001, to authorize the disposal of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 486,000 gallons per day via subsurface drip irrigation of 118 acres of public access land. This permit will not authorize a discharge of pollutants into waters in the State. The disposal site will be located along the west side of County Road 131 (also known as Windy Hill Road) just east of Interstate Highway 35 in Hays County. Plants A and B will be located approximately 0.5 mile west of the intersection of Rolling Hill Road and County Road 131. Plant C will be located approximately 1 mile west of the intersection of Rolling Hill Road and County Road 131 in Hays County, Texas.

CITY OF OYSTER CREEK has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 11837-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 500,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 1.6 miles southeast of the intersection of State Highway 332 and Farm-to-Market Road 523, at the intersection of State Highway 332 and the U.S. Corps of Engineers Flood Control Levee on the west side of the levee in Brazoria County, Texas.

THE SPLENDORA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT has applied for a major amendment to TPDES Permit No. 11143-002 to authorize an increase in the discharge of treated domestic wastewater from a daily average flow not to exceed 20,000 gallons per day to a daily average flow not to exceed 40,000 gallons per day. The facility is located at 23411 Farm-to-Market Road 2090, on the west side of the earthen dam with the concrete spillway, approximately 3 miles northwest of the intersection of Interstate Highway 59 and Farm-to-Market Road 2090 in Montgomery County, Texas.

STAGECOACH PROPERTIES, INC. has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 10884- 001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 50,000 gallons per day. The facility is located 200 feet west of Farm-to-Market Road 2268, 300 feet south of Salado Creek, and 400 feet southeast of the crossing of Salado Creek by the Interstate Highway 35 east frontage road, in the community of Salado in Bell County, Texas.

TRINITY @ WINDFERN, LLC has applied for a major amendment to TPDES Permit No. 13509-001 to authorize an increase in the discharge of treated domestic wastewater from a daily average flow not to exceed 28,000 gallons per day to a daily average flow not to exceed 40,000 gallons per day. The facility is located at 9401 Windfern Road approximately 300 feet south of Zaka Road and approximately 3.0 miles north of the intersection of Windfern Road and U.S. Highway 290 in Harris County, Texas.

2920 VENTURE, LTD. has applied for a new permit, proposed Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. 14421-001, to authorize the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 600,000 gallons per day. The facility is located about 4000 feet west and 1500 feet north of the intersection of Farm-to-Market Road 2920 and Boudreaux Road in Harris County, Texas.

CITY OF WINFIELD has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 12146-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 84,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 400 feet north of Interstate Highway 30 access road and 1500 feet west of Farm-to-Market Road 1734 in the City of Winfield in Titus County, Texas.

THE WOODLOCH MOBILE HOME PARK (MHP), LLC has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 11673-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 30,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 0.75 miles south-southeast of the intersection of Hardy Road and Aldine Mail Road and approximately 1 mile north of the intersection of Hardy Road and Hopper Road in Harris County, Texas.

TRD-200304427

LaDonna Castañuela

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: July 22, 2003


Proposal for Decision

The State Office of Administrative Hearings issued a Proposal for Decision and Order to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality on July 17, 2003, in the matter of the Executive Director of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Petitioner v.Gerard Hungerford dba River Ranch Estates; SOAH Docket No. 582-03-0435; TCEQ Docket No. 2001-0651-PWS-E. The commission will consider the Administrative Law Judge's Proposal for Decision and Order regarding the enforcement action against Gerard Hungerford dba River Ranch Estates on a date and time to be determined by the Office of the Chief Clerk in Room 201S of Building E, 12100 N. 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 this publication. Written public comments should be submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, TCEQ, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Doug Kitts, Office of the Chief Clerk, (512) 239-3317.

TRD-200304426

LaDonna Castañuela

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: July 22, 2003


Texas Ethics Commission

List of Late Filers

Listed below are the names of filers from the Texas Ethics Commission who did not file reports, or failed to pay penalty fines for late reports in reference to the listed filing deadline. If you have any questions, you may contact Robbie Miller at (512) 463-5780 or (800) 325-8506.

Deadline: Personal Financial Statement due April 30, 2003

A.W. Davis, P.O. Drawer 36, Newton, Texas 75966-0036

Brian M. Boales, Bldg. #600 Ste. 600, 3175 Satellite Blvd., Duluth, Georgia 30096

Robert E. Parrish, 1315 Red Maple Dr., Carrollton, Texas 75007-1031

John M. Turner, 6009 Hillcrest, Dallas, Texas 75205

Robert Hawkins, Plumbers & Pipefitters Local #529, 1108 Lewis St., Bellmead, Texas 76705-2969

Anton E. Hackebeil, P.O. Box 220, Hondo, Texas 78861-0220

Ruben Espronceda, 243 Lorraine, San Antonio, Texas 78214

Carl R. McQueary, 500 E. Anderson Lane, Apt. 147, Austin, Texas 78752-1230

Valerie Freeman, 3311 Chaparral Dr., Dallas, Texas 75240

Micaela Alvarez, 6100 N. 28th St., McAllen, Texas 78504

Roy L. Stark, 408 E. Neches, Palestine, Texas 75801

Willard L. Jackson Jr., Metroplex Ind. Inc., 14425 Cornerstone Village Dr., Houston, Texas 77014

John P. Gable, 4849 Sun Valley, El Paso, Texas 79905

Randall H. Riley, 4000 Hambletonian Ct., Austin, Texas 78746

Tony G. Hedges, D.O., 104 East 21st St., Littlefield, Texas 79339

Jacqueline G. Humphrey, Hudgins/Humphrey, 1800 S. Washington St. #315, Amarillo, Texas 79102

William H. Bigelow, 502 Pinehaven, Houston, Texas 77024

Teri H. Mathis, 1010 Baker Rd., Rosenberg, Texas 77471

Barry D. Bedwell, 7502 Countryside, Amarillo, Texas 79119

Jim G. Bray Jr., 625 18th Street, Plano, Texas 75074

Benna Timperlake, 2001 Ocean Dr., Corpus Christi, Texas 78404-1868

Zena B. Pearcy, 615 Wilmes Dr., Austin, Texas 78752

Pamela M. Hodges, 414 Mountain Spring Dr., Boerne, Texas 78006

Bernie Francis, 2343 Highlands Creek Road, Carrollton, Texas 75007

Theresa M. Baer, 5904 Mountainclimb Dr., Austin, Texas 78731

Byron E. Miller, 1149 E. Commerce, Ste. 205, San Antonio, Texas 78205

Ruben E. Salinas, 1106 Hill Place Dr., Laredo, Texas 78045

Don B. Jones, 2000 Gulf Ave., Midland, Texas 79705

Connie L. Hughes, Rt. 1, Box 172, Idalou, Texas 79329

Joseph Muniz, 526 Lake Dr., Harlingen, Texas 78550

Marvellette C. Fentress Hunter, 1102 Pinemont Dr., Ste. B, Houston, Texas 77018

Ricardo, G. Cigarroa, M.D., 203 Sunset, Laredo, Texas 78041

Terdema L. Ussery II, 5100 Pinehurst, Frisco, Texas 75034

Mario H. Salinas, 2700 Kings Dr., Edinburg, Texas 78539

Linda M. Siy, JPS Health Center Northeast, 837 Brown Trail, Bedford, Texas 76022

Richard Ramirez, Goldman Sachs, 1100 Louisiana, Ste. 1100, Houston, Texas 77002

Paul J. Calapa, 294 Creekbend Dr, Brownsville, Texas 78521-4330

Vincent Cruz Jr., 611 9th St., Fort Worth, Texas 76104

Gerald E. Wilson, 15915 Katy Freeway, Ste. 500, Houston, Texas 77094

Raymond T. Meza, P.O. Box 2240, San Angelo, Texas 76902

Jay Pack, 4330 Armstrong Pkwy, Dallas, Texas 75205

Carl Ray Polk Jr., Rte. 10, Box 9645, Lufkin, Texas 75904

George M. Williams, Williams Partners, Inc., 12 Greenway Plaza, Ste. 1100, Houston, Texas 77046

Charles M. Rutledge, 3033 Cain Rd., College Station, Texas 77845

Patrick L. Brockett, University of Texas, Dept. MSIS, CBA 5.202, Austin, Texas 78712-1175

J. Paul Johnson, 4115 Shadow Haven Drive, Fresno, Texas 77545-7534

Ann Horn, 11425 Midbury Court, Austin, Texas 78748

Kenneth A. James, 1914 Riverglen Forest, Kingwood, Texas 77345

Linda Diane Steinbrueck, 1401 Darden Hill Rd., Driftwood, Texas 78619

Dan Gattis, P.O. Box 2856, Georgetown, Texas 78627

Martin Basaldua, P.O. Box 6752, Kingwood, Texas 77324

Frank J. Pagel, P.O. Drawer G, Tivoli, Texas 77990

Basilio R. Jimenez, 303 W. Division, Edna, Texas 77957

Troy Simmons, 503 North 6th, Longview, Texas 75601

Ralph David Kelly, 5485 Belt Line Road, Suite 300, Dallas, Texas 75254

Angela S. Myres, 11410 Wolfs Landing, Fairfax Station, Virginia 22039-2040

Clement Moreno, 20412 Haystack Cove, Spicewood, Texas 78669

Douglas N. Scott, 3404 High Vista Dr., Carrollton, Texas 75007

Thomas J. Ruiz, 404 Amalia Dr., Horizon City, Texas 79928

Charles J. Henry, 5622 Palisade Falls Tr., Kingwood, Texas 77345

Frank Acosta, 5421 Knoll Terrace, Kingwood, Texas 77339

Nora Cox Taylor, 15835 Foothill Farms Loop #1024, Pflugerville, Texas 78660

John H. Hofmann, P.O. Box 3505, San Angelo, Texas 76902

Kyriacos Zygourakis, Rice University, Dept of Chemical Eng, P.O. Box 1892, Houston, Texas 77251-1892

Peter Chukwuemeka Okose M.D., 1007 Cowards Creek Dr., Friendswood, Texas 77546-4409

Janice B. Howard, 8542 Hidden Hollow Ct., Missouri City, Texas 77459

Peggy N. Troy, LeBonheur Children's Hospital, 50 N. Dunlap, Memphis, Tennessee 38103

Sandra Gunter Holland, 529 Oakhaven Dr., Pleasanton, Texas 78064

Steve Cronin, P.O. Box 205, Shepherd, Texas 77371

Hector Farias, 705 S. Texas Blvd., Weslaco, Texas 78596

Bryan K. Brown, 2911 Lacewood Ct., Pearland, Texas 77584

Pauline E. Higgins, JP Morgan Chase & Co., 712 Main St., 26th Fl., Houston, Texas 77002-3223

Antoinette Fontenot-Humphrey, 6905 Thistle Hill Way, Austin, Texas 78754

Cliff Mountain, 2909 Meandering River, Austin, Texas 78746

TRD-200304343

Karen Lundquist

Executive Director

Texas Ethics commission

Filed: July 17, 2003


Texas Department of Health

Correction of Error

In the May 2, 2003, issue of the Texas Register, the Texas Department of Health adopted amendments to 25 TAC Chapter 40, Subchapter B, §§40.101-40.103, 40.105 and 40.106. Due to a Texas Register editing error, the first sentence of §40.105 on page 3728 is incorrect. The text of §40.105 should read:

§40.105. Program Limitations.

Recipients are not eligible to receive medical transportation services under the following circumstances:

(1) . . . .

TRD-200304437


Notice of Agreed Order with URI, Inc.

On July 3, 2003, the director of the Bureau of Radiation Control (bureau), Texas Department of Health, signed the Agreed Order between the bureau and URI, Inc. (licensee-L03653) of Kingsville. The Agreed Order of March 8, 2002, is extended to October 6, 2003, at which time the bureau will review the matter and determine whether to further extend the Agreed Order.

A copy of all relevant material is available, by appointment, for public inspection Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (except holidays). Contact Chrissie Toungate, Custodian of Records, Bureau of Radiation Control, Texas Department of Health, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3189, by calling (512) 834-6688, or by visiting the Exchange Building, 8407 Wall Street, Austin, Texas.

TRD-200304354

Susan K. Steeg

General Counsel

Texas Department of Health

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Emergency Cease and Desist Order on Texas Foot Consultants

Notice is hereby given that the Bureau of Radiation Control (bureau) ordered Texas Foot Consultants (registrant-R26964) of Houston to cease and desist performing Foot (DP) x-ray procedures with the X-Cel x-ray unit (Model Number MB-700; Serial Number 6222619), which is located at the registrant's Angleton facility, until the exposures at skin entrance are within regulatory limits. The order will remain in effect until the bureau authorizes the registrant to perform the procedure.

A copy of all relevant material is available, by appointment, for public inspection at the Bureau of Radiation Control, Texas Department of Health, Exchange Building, 8407 Wall Street, Austin, Texas, telephone (512) 834-6688, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (except holidays).

TRD-200304361

Susan K. Steeg

General Counsel

Texas Department of Health

Filed: July 21, 2003


Notice of Preliminary Report for Assessment of Administrative Penalties and Notice of Violation to Rafael Flores, Jr.

Notice is hereby given that the Bureau of Radiation Control (bureau), Texas Department of Health (department), issued a notice of violation and proposal to assess an administrative penalty to Rafael Flores, Jr. (Radiographer Identification Number 001052; Card Audit Number 13048) of Highlands. A total penalty of $1,000 is proposed to be assessed the radiographer for alleged violations of 25 Texas Administrative Code, §289.255.

A copy of all relevant material is available, by appointment, for public inspection at the Bureau of Radiation Control, Texas Department of Health, Exchange Building, 8407 Wall Street, Austin, Texas, telephone (512) 834-6688, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (except holidays).

TRD-200304360

Susan K. Steeg

General Counsel

Texas Department of Health

Filed: July 21, 2003


Notice of Preliminary Report for Assessment of Administrative Penalties and Notice of Violation to Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Notice is hereby given that the Bureau of Radiation Control (bureau), Texas Department of Health (department), issued a notice of violation and proposal to assess an administrative penalty to Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (registrant-M00630) of Lubbock. A total penalty of $15,000 is proposed to be assessed the registrant for alleged violations of 25 Texas Administrative Code, §289.230.

A copy of all relevant material is available, by appointment, for public inspection at the Bureau of Radiation Control, Texas Department of Health, Exchange Building, 8407 Wall Street, Austin, Texas, telephone (512) 834-6688, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (except holidays).

TRD-200304363

Susan K. Steeg

General Counsel

Texas Department of Health

Filed: July 21, 2003


Notice of Preliminary Report for Assessment of Administrative Penalties and Notice of Violation to Weslaco Radiology Center, Inc.

Notice is hereby given that the Bureau of Radiation Control (bureau), Texas Department of Health (department), issued a notice of violation and proposal to assess an administrative penalty to Weslaco Radiology Center, Inc. (registrant-M00290) of Edinburg. A total penalty of $10,000 is proposed to be assessed the registrant for alleged violations of 25 Texas Administrative Code, §289.230.

A copy of all relevant material is available, by appointment, for public inspection at the Bureau of Radiation Control, Texas Department of Health, Exchange Building, 8407 Wall Street, Austin, Texas, telephone (512) 834-6688, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (except holidays).

TRD-200304362

Susan K. Steeg

General Counsel

Texas Department of Health

Filed: July 21, 2003


Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Notice of Hearing on Proposed Medicaid Provider Payment Rates

Hearing. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing on August 18, 2003, to receive public comment on proposed payment rates for the Nursing Facility program operated by the Texas Department of Human Services (DHS). These payment rates are proposed to be effective September 1, 2003. The hearing will be held in compliance with Title 1 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §355.105(g), which requires a public hearing on proposed payment rates. The public hearing will be held on August 18, 2003, at 1:00 p.m. in the Public Hearing Room (First Floor, Building III) of the Riata Building at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727-6404, with entry required through Security at the entrance of 12545 Riata Vista Circle. Written comments regarding payment rates may be submitted in lieu of testimony until 5:00 p.m. the day of the hearing. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail to the attention of Tony Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101. Express mail can be sent, or written comments can be hand delivered, to Mr. Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, Riata Building III, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas, 78727-6404. Alternatively, written comments may be sent via facsimile to Mr. Arreola at (512) 685-3104. Interested parties may request to have mailed to them or may pick up a briefing package concerning the proposed payment rates by contacting Tony Arreola at (512) 685-3124 or at HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101.

Persons with disabilities who wish to attend the hearing and require auxiliary aids or services should contact Mr. Arreola, by August 8, 2003, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Proposal. As single state agency for the state Medicaid program, HHSC proposes new per diem payment rates for the nursing facility program operated by DHS. These proposed rates are based on the rates in effect for state fiscal year 2003, less a 3.5 percent reduction consistent with appropriations for state fiscal years 2004 and 2005; and House Bill 2292, 78th Legislature, which directs HHSC to provide a program offering incentives for increasing direct care staff and direct care wages and benefits if funds are available and directs HHSC to modify the rules governing the "incentives program." These payments are also proposed pursuant to §32.028(h) of the Human Resources Code which directs HHSC to ensure that the "rates paid for nursing home services provide for the rate component derived from reported liability insurance costs to be paid only to those homes that purchase liability insurance acceptable to the commission." To comply with this provision, the portion of the general and administrative rate component derived from reported liability insurance costs has been excluded from the rates in the chart below. The liability insurance rate component is $1.13 per diem. The funds from the liability insurance rate component excluded from these rates will be distributed to facilities that verify liability insurance coverage acceptable to HHSC.

Payment rates are proposed to be effective September 1, 2003, for the state fiscal years 2004 and 2005, as follows:

Rates by TILE (Texas Index for Level of Effort) class

Methodology and justification. The proposed rates in the chart above were determined in accordance with the rate setting methodology at 1 TAC, Chapter 355, Subchapter C (relating to Reimbursement Methodology for Nursing Facilities), §355.307 (relating to Reimbursement Setting Methodology), §355.308 (relating to Enhanced Direct Care Staff Rate), and in accordance with proposed revisions to be codified in these sections. These rates were subsequently adjusted in accordance with 1 TAC 355, Subchapter A (relating to Cost Determination Process), §355.101 and §355.109.

Participating facilities requesting to staff above the minimum staffing requirements included in the rates in the above chart may receive one of the following payment rates per day in addition to the above payment rates (within available funds):

Payment Rates Per Day

Additional levels will be made available on an as needed basis within appropriated funds.

Methodology and justification. The proposed rates in the chart above were determined in accordance with the rate setting methodology at 1 TAC, Chapter 355, Subchapter C (relating to Reimbursement Methodology for Nursing Facilities), §355.308 (relating to Enhanced Direct Care Staff Rate), and in accordance with proposed revisions to be codified in this section. These rates were subsequently adjusted in accordance with 1 TAC 355, Subchapter A (relating to Cost Determination Process), §355.101 and §355.109. Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 22, 2003.

TRD-200304412

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 22, 2003


Notice of Proposed Nursing Facility Payment Rate for the Pediatric Care Facility Special Reimbursement Class

Hearing. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing to receive public comment on a proposed facility-specific payment rate for the Truman W. Smith Children's Care Center, a nursing facility that is a member of the pediatric care facility special reimbursement class. The hearing will be held in compliance with Title 1 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §355.105(g), which requires public hearings on proposed payment rates for medical assistance programs. The public hearing will be held on August 18, 2003, at 1:00 p.m. in the Public Hearing Room (First Floor, Building III) of the Riata Building at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727-6404, with entry required through Security at the entrance of 12545 Riata Vista Circle. Written comments regarding payment rates may be submitted in lieu of testimony until 5:00 p.m. the day of the hearing. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail to the attention of Tony Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101. Express mail can be sent, or written comments can be hand delivered, to Mr. Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, Riata Building III, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas, 78727-6404. Alternatively, written comments may be sent via facsimile to Mr. Arreola at (512) 685-3104. Interested parties may request to have mailed to them or may pick up a briefing package concerning the proposed payment rates by contacting Tony Arreola at (512) 685-3124 or at HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101.

Persons with disabilities who wish to attend the hearing and require auxiliary aids or services should contact Mr. Arreola, by August 8, 2003, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Proposal. HHSC proposes a per-day payment rate for the nursing facility pediatric care facility special rate class for Truman W. Smith Children's Care Center in the amount of $158.34. This payment rate is proposed to be effective September 1, 2003.

Methodology and justification. The proposed rate was determined in accordance with the proposed rate setting methodology for the nursing facility pediatric care facility special rate class at 1 TAC, Chapter 355, Subchapter C (relating to Reimbursement Setting Methodology for Nursing Facilities), §355.307(c). This rate was subsequently adjusted in accordance with 1 TAC 355, Subchapter A (relating to Cost Determination Process), §355.101 and §355.109.

TRD-200304410

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 22, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

A rate hearing on Reimbursement for Service Coordination for Persons with Chronic Mental Illness (MH Service Coordination) and Reimbursement for Service Coordination for Persons with Mental Retardation or a Related Condition or Pervasive Developmental Disability (MR Service Coordination) will be held on August 18, 2003, at 2:00 p.m. in the Public Hearing Room of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission Riata Building III Located at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin Texas 78727.

Written comments may be submitted to the Health and Human Services Commission Medicaid Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756 or faxed to (512) 685-3104. Hand deliveries will be accepted at Riata Building III, 1st floor, Mail Code H-400, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. on August 18, 2003. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the reimbursement-briefing package by calling the Reimbursement and Analysis Section at (512) 685-3124.

Persons requiring ADA accommodation should contact Tony Arreola by calling (512) 685-3124, at least 72 hours prior to the hearing. Persons requiring an interpreter for the deaf or hearing impaired should contact Tony Arreola through the Texas Relay Operator by calling 1-800-735-2988.

Reimbursement for Service Coordination for Persons with Chronic Mental Illness (MH Service Coordination)

The commission proposes that the following reimbursement per case amount will be effective September 1, 2003.

Reimbursement Per Case

Reimbursement for Service Coordination for Persons with Mental Retardation or a Related Condition or Pervasive Developmental Disability (MR Service Coordination)

The commission proposes that the following reimbursement per case amount will be effective September 1, 2003.

Mental Retardation

Unit of Service: Case Rate

Current Rate: $177.36

Proposed Rate: $171.15

The proposed rates are determined in accordance with 1 T.A.C. §355.706(c) relating to adjustments to reimbursement rates when federal or state funding is changed in ways that affect the available funding for programs.

TRD-200304344

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

A rate hearing on Reimbursement for Service Coordination for Persons with Chronic Mental Illness (MH Service Coordination) and Reimbursement for Service Coordination for Persons with Mental Retardation or a Related Condition or Pervasive Developmental Disability (MR Service Coordination) will be held on August 18, 2003, at 2:00 p.m. in the Public Hearing Room of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission Riata Building III Located at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin Texas 78727.

Written comments may be submitted to the Health and Human Services Commission Medicaid Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756 or faxed to (512) 685-3104. Hand deliveries will be accepted at Riata Building III, 1st floor, Mail Code H-400, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. on August 18, 2003. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the reimbursement-briefing package by calling the Reimbursement and Analysis Section at (512) 685-3124.

Persons requiring ADA accommodation should contact Tony Arreola by calling (512) 685-3124, at least 72 hours prior to the hearing. Persons requiring an interpreter for the deaf or hearing impaired should contact Tony Arreola through the Texas Relay Operator by calling 1-800-735-2988.

Reimbursement for Service Coordination for Persons with Chronic Mental Illness (MH Service Coordination)

The commission proposes that the following reimbursement per case amount will be effective September 1, 2003.

Reimbursement Per Case

Reimbursement for Service Coordination for Persons with Mental Retardation or a Related Condition or Pervasive Developmental Disability (MR Service Coordination)

The commission proposes that the following reimbursement per case amount will be effective September 1, 2003.

Mental Retardation

Unit of Service: Case Rate

Current Rate: $177.36

Proposed Rate: $171.15

The proposed rates are determined in accordance with 1 TAC §355.706(c) relating to adjustments to reimbursement rates when federal or state funding is changed in ways that affect the available funding for programs.

TRD-200304345

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

A rate hearing on Reimbursement for Institutions for Mental Diseases (IMD) will be held on Monday, August 18, 2003 at 4:45 p.m. in the Public Hearing Conference Room of the Riata Building III, 1st Floor. Enter the building at 12545 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, TX 78727 and obtain a pass from Security for the Public Hearing Conference Room.

Written comments regarding payment rates may be submitted in lieu of testimony until 5:00 p.m. on August 18, 2003. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail to the attention of Tony Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101. Express mail can be sent, or written comments can be hand delivered, to Mr. Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, Riata Building, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727-6404. Alternatively, written comments may be sent via facsimile to Mr. Arreola at (512) 685-3104. Interested parties may request to have mailed to them or may pick up a briefing package concerning the proposed payment rates by contacting Mr. Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101.

Persons with disabilities who wish to attend the hearing and require auxiliary aids or services should contact Tony Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101, telephone number (512) 685-3124, by August 15, 2003, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Reimbursement for Institutions for Mental Diseases (IMD)

The commission proposes that the following reimbursement amounts will be effective September 1, 2003 through August 31, 2004:

$406.34 per day

The proposed rates were determined in compliance with the rate setting methodology codified at 1 TAC Chapter 355, Subchapater F, §355.761

TRD-200304346

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

Payment rates for the state operated small facilities is proposed as follows:

Small Facilities

Current Rate: $205.99

Proposed Rate: $191.84

The proposed rates are determined in accordance with 1 TAC §355.706(c) relating to adjustments to reimbursement rates when federal or state funding is changed in ways that affect the available funding for programs.

A rate hearing will be held on August 18, 2003, at 4:00 p.m. in the Public Hearing Room of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission Riata Building III Located at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin Texas 78727.

Written comments may be submitted to the Health and Human Services Commission Medicaid Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756 or faxed to (512) 685-3104. Hand deliveries will be accepted at Riata Building III, 1st floor, Mail Code H-400, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. on August 18, 2003. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the reimbursement-briefing package by calling the Reimbursement and Analysis Section at (512) 685-3124.

Persons requiring ADA accommodations should contact Tony Arreola by calling (512) 685-3124, at least 72 hours prior to the hearing. Persons requiring an interpreter for the deaf or hearing impaired should contact Tony Arreola through the Texas Relay Operator by calling 1-800-735-2988.

TRD-200304347

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

Reimbursement Rates for Non-state Operated Intermediate Care Facilities for persons with Mental Retardation ((ICF/MR).

The Health and Human Services Commission will conduct a public hearing to receive comment on the new reimbursement rates for Non-state Operated Intermediate Care Facilities for persons with Mental Retardation (ICF/MR). The rates will be effective September 1, 2003. The hearing will be held in compliance with Title 1, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 355, Subchapter F, §355.702(h), which requires a public hearing on proposed reimbursement rates for medical assistance programs. Payment rates are proposed to be effective September 1, 2003, as follows:

Chart for Non-State Operated ICF/MRs

Methodology and justification: The proposed rates were determined in accordance with the rate setting methodology codified as 1 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 355, Subchapter F relating to Reimbursement Methodology for all medical assistance programs (ICF/MRs), §355.706.

The public hearing will be held on August 18, 2003, at 3:00 p.m. in the Public Hearing Room, Floor 1, Riata Building 3, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78756.

Written comments may be submitted to HHSC Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756, or faxed to (512) 685-3104. Hand deliveries will be accepted at Riata Building 3, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, August 18, 2003.

Persons requiring an interpreter for deaf or hearing impaired or other accommodation should contact Tony Arreola by calling (512) 685-3124 or the TDY phone number of Texas Relay, which is 1-800-735-2988, at least 72 hours prior to the hearing.

TRD-200304348

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

A rate hearing on Reimbursement for Home & Community-Based Services (HCS) will be held on August 18, 2003 at 2:30 p.m. in the Public Hearing Room of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission Riata Building III located at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727.

RECOMMENDED ACTION

The commission proposes that the following reimbursement amounts per service for the HCS program become effective September 1, 2003, as follows:

Home & Community-Based Services

Methodology and justification

The proposed rates were determined in compliance with the rate setting methodology codified at 1 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 355, Subchapter F, §355.706.

TRD-200304349

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation (TDMHMR), Non-state Operated Intermediate Care Facilities for Persons with Mental Retardation (ICF/MR)

Proposal. As single state agency for the state Medicaid program, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) proposes new rates for the Non-state Operated ICF/MR program operated by the TDMHMR. Payment rates effective for September 1, 2003 are proposed as follows:

Chart for Non-State Operated ICF/MRs

Public Hearing: A public hearing will be held on Monday, August 18, 2003 at 3:00 p.m., in compliance with Title I, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 355, Subchapter F §355.702(h), which requires a public hearing on proposed reimbursement rates for medical assistance programs. The hearing will be at the Public Hearing Room of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission Riata Building III located at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727.

Methodology and justification: The proposed rates were determined in compliance with the rate setting methodology codified at 1 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 355, Subchapter F, §355.706.

TRD-200304350

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

A rate hearing on Reimbursement for Medicaid Rehabilitative Services will be held on August 18, 2003 at 3:30 p.m. in the Public Hearing Room of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission Riata Building III located at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727.

Written comments may be submitted to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission Medicaid Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756 or faxed to (512) 685-3104. Hand deliveries will be accepted at Riata Building III, 1st Floor, Mail Code H-400, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. August 18, 2003. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the reimbursement-briefing package by calling the Rate Analysis Section at (512) 685-3124.

Persons requiring ADA accommodation should contact Tony Arreola by calling (512) 685-3124, at least 72 hours prior to the hearing. Persons requiring an interpreter for the deaf or hearing impaired should contact Tony Arreola through the Texas Relay Operator by calling 1-800-735-2988.

The Commission proposes that the following reimbursement amounts will remain effective beginning September 1, 2003, as follows:

Reimbursement for Medicaid Rehabilitative Services

The proposed rates were determined in compliance with 1 T.A.C. Chapter 355, Subchapter F, §355.706.

TRD-200304351

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing on August 14, 2003, to receive public comment on proposed payment rates for the period of September 1, 2003, through August 31, 2004, for the School Health and Related Services (SHARS) program. The public hearing will be held on August 14, 2003, at 2:30 p.m. in the HHSC Public Hearing Room, in Riata Building III, at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727-6404, with entry required through Security at the entrance of 12545 Riata Vista Circle. Written comments regarding the proposed payment rates may be submitted in lieu of testimony until 5:00 p.m. the day of the hearing. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail to the attention of Nancy Kimble, HHSC Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-410, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101. Overnight or special delivery mail may be sent, or written comments may be hand delivered, to Ms. Kimble, HHSC Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-410, Riata Building III, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas, 78727-6404. Alternatively, written comments may be sent via facsimile to Ms. Kimble at (512) 338-6544. Interested parties may request to have mailed to them or may pick up a briefing package concerning the proposed payment rates by contacting Ms. Kimble (telephone: 512-338-6496; FAX: 512-338-6544; or E-mail: nancy.kimble@hhsc.state.tx.us) on or after August 1, 2003.

Persons with disabilities who wish to attend the hearing and require auxiliary aids or services should contact Ms. Kimble, by August 12, 2003, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

TRD-200304352

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing on August 18, 2003, to receive public comment on proposed adjustments to Medicaid payment rates for most providers of acute care services, including rates for facilities providing inpatient and outpatient services, and rates for physicians and other medical practitioners. Proposed rates for acute care services are based on rates in effect for state fiscal year 2003, less a five percent reduction consistent with appropriations for the state fiscal year 2004-2005 biennium. The reduction will also apply to hospitals participating in selective contracting. The proposed rates are scheduled to be effective September 1, 2003. The public hearing will be held on August 18, 2003, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., in the HHSC Public Hearing Room at Riata Building III, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727-6404, with entry required through Security at the entrance of 12545 Riata Vista Circle. Written comments regarding the payment rate reductions may be submitted in lieu of testimony until 5:00 p.m. the day of the hearing. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail to the attention of Nancy Kimble, HHSC Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-410, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101. Overnight or special delivery mail may be sent, or written comments may be hand delivered, to Ms. Kimble, HHSC Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-410, Riata Building III, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727-6404. Alternatively, written comments may be sent via facsimile to Ms. Kimble at (512) 338-6544. Interested parties may request additional information concerning the payment rate reductions by contacting Ms. Kimble (telephone: 512-338-6496; FAX: 512-338-6544; or E-mail: nancy.kimble@hhsc.state.tx.us.).

Persons with disabilities who wish to attend the hearing and require auxiliary aids or services should contact Ms. Kimble, by August 8, 2003, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

TRD-200304353

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 18, 2003


Notice of Public Hearing

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing on August 18, 2003, to receive public comment on proposed payment rates for the following Medicaid and non-Medicaid programs: Community Based Alternatives - Home and Community Support Services and Assisted Living/Residential Care; Community Living Assistance and Support Services; Consolidated Waiver Program; Consumer-Managed Personal Assistance Services - Consumer Directed Services; Day Activity and Health Services; Deaf-Blind With Multiple Disabilities Waiver; Medically Dependent Children Program; Primary Home Care/Family Care; and Residential Care. The Texas Department of Human Services operates these programs. These payment rates are proposed to be effective September 1, 2003. The hearing will be held in compliance with Title 1 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §355.105(g) and Title 40 TAC §20.105(g), which require public hearings on proposed payment rates. The public hearing will be held on August 18, 2003, at 10:30 a.m. in the Public Hearing Room (First Floor, Building III) of the Riata Building at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727-6404, with entry required through Security at the entrance of 12545 Riata Vista Circle. Written comments regarding payment rates may be submitted in lieu of testimony until 5:00 p.m. the day of the hearing. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail to the attention of Tony Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101. Express mail can be sent, or written comments can be hand delivered, to Mr. Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, Riata Building III, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas, 78727-6404. Alternatively, written comments may be sent via facsimile to Mr. Arreola at (512) 685-3104. Interested parties may request to have mailed to them or may pick up a briefing package concerning the proposed payment rates by contacting Tony Arreola at (512) 685-3124 or at HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101.

Persons with disabilities who wish to attend the hearing and require auxiliary aids or services should contact Mr. Arreola, by August 8, 2003, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

TRD-200304411

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 22, 2003


Public Notice

The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) announces its intent to submit to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services TN 03-08, Amendment 643 to the Texas State Plan for Medical Assistance under Title XIX of the Social Security Act, effective April 1, 2003. This proposed amendment deletes cost sharing that was approved in Amendment 634. The cost-sharing process described in Amendment 634 was enjoined by a state district court in Travis County on December 16, 2002, the first business day following the effective date of Amendment 634. HHSC, therefore, has not implemented the cost sharing established under the amendment or generated the program cost savings that were anticipated from its successful implementation. In addition, the Texas Legislature is currently considering legislation that would codify certain Medicaid cost-sharing requirements. The attached amendment is proposed in order to accommodate new public policy as prescribed by the 78th Texas Legislature and to enable HHSC to consider all potential cost savings initiatives. The proposed amendment is not expected to result in an increase in federal or state matching funds.

To obtain copies of the proposed amendment, interested parties may contact Winnie Rutledge, by mail at Health and Human Services Commission, 1100 W. 49th Street, H-200, Austin, Texas 78756-3199 or by telephone (512) 338-6967.

TRD-200304382

Steve Aragón

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: July 21, 2003


Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Request for Offers for Consulting Services

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (hereinafter referred to as THECB) is soliciting offers from organizations (hereinafter referred to as Consultant) for consulting services to advise THECB on the Texas Association of Developing Colleges (hereinafter referred to as TADC) Centers for Teacher Education. The ultimate objectives of this Request for Offers (hereinafter referred to as RFO) are to 1) facilitate and coordinate a collaborative strategic planning process to involve TADC college administration in planning for collaborative distance education, upgrading of technology, curriculum development and redesign and improvement of ExCET preparation; 2) work in collaboration with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and TADC college administration to identify training needs of college faculty in the centers for teacher education in the areas related to distance education, curriculum development and improvement of ExCET preparation; 3) facilitate and coordinate college administration and faculty professional development workshops to meet areas of need for delivery of distance education, curriculum development and redesign and improvement of ExCET preparation; and 4) report progress in TADC teacher education enrollment, level of participation in the distance education program, successful student placements, and other evaluative measures.

This Request for Offer is being made pursuant to authority granted under Texas Government Code, Chapter 2254, subchapter B, section 2254.026 (relating to contracts with private consultants).

GENERAL BACKGROUND: The Texas Legislature established the Centers for Teacher Education Program during the 74th legislative session. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board was given the assignment of managing the program and has provided trusteed funds to support the programs at several historically Black Colleges. These institutions collectively form the Texas Association of Developing Colleges (TADC) and include Jarvis Christian College in Hawkins, Paul Quinn College in Dallas, Texas College in Tyler, Huston-Tillotson College in Austin, and Wiley College in Marshall. These colleges are private, general academic, minority-serving institutions and the funds appropriated are used for the purpose of supporting their centers for teacher education. The purpose of the Centers for Teacher Education at the participating colleges is to 1) recruit, train and place qualified minorities in the teaching profession; 2) integrate technology into the colleges' teacher preparation programs; and 3) provide or participate in at least one course per semester via distance education technologies. THECB retains a small percentage of the appropriations made for the teacher education centers for the costs of on-site monitoring and distribution of funds and, uses a portion of the amounts retained to obtain the services of a consultant to facilitate and coordinate the process of curriculum development and program redesign to improve teacher preparation at the participating institutions. The consultant assists with the administrative oversight of the various teacher education activities, coordinates the quarterly meetings that are held in Dallas, and works closely with THECB staff.

CONTRACT TERM: The contract resulting from this RFO, shall commence on the execution date and shall terminate on August 31, 2004 or upon the completion of Consultant's work described herein, whichever occurs first, unless terminated earlier pursuant to terms and conditions of the anticipated contract resulting from this RFO.

SCOPE OF WORK:

Overview: Consultant shall facilitate and coordinate a collaborative strategic planning process to involve TADC college administration in planning for collaborative distance education, upgrading of technology, curriculum development and redesign and improvement of ExCET preparation; work in collaboration with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and TADC college administration to identify training needs of college faculty in the centers for teacher education in the areas related to distance education, curriculum development and improvement of ExCET preparation; facilitate and coordinate college administration and faculty professional development workshops to meet areas of need for delivery of distance education, curriculum development and redesign and improvement of ExCET preparation; and report progress in TADC teacher education enrollment, level of participation in the distance education program, successful student placements and other evaluative measures. Consultant shall be solely responsible and accountable for managing and completing all activities, tasks, milestones and deliverables in accordance with the Scope of Work and the deliverables commitment of this RFO. Assignment of THECB staff to assist Consultant in its responsibility shall in no way release the Consultant from its responsibility for completing any work or delivering any products set forth in this RFO, its Statement of Work or resulting contract.

Phase I - Proposal

Consultant shall provide to THECB a proposal of services to be performed, a proposed plan of action to be taken to achieve the goals set forth in this agreement, and evaluation of the attainment of the goals and objectives set forth by the agreement. The proposal must include specific objectives and timelines for meeting each phase of the plan. The proposal must also include consultant's travel costs to TADC schools named in Section 1 or other sites within Texas, including travel costs of THECB staff to monitor compliance with this contract.

In response to this RFO, the Consultant must:

provide a detailed description of Consultant's suggested methodology, approach and alternatives to meeting Phase I objectives;

propose a detailed description of the tasks, activities, resources and time lines for performing Phase I objectives (the description should be sufficiently detailed to include in a Statement of Work for the contract);

provide a brief description of Consultant's qualifications to perform Phase I objectives;

describe Consultant's prior experience in performing Phase I type objectives, with an emphasis on prior experience with public sector contracts and describe how organizations responded to Consultant's recommendations; and

provide a list of references where Phase I type objectives were met, including for each reference: the name of the organization, the name, title, address and telephone number of a contact person and a brief description of the services performed.

Phase II - Progress Reports

Consultant shall submit to THECB a progress report providing information on 1) all records of evidence of expenditure of funds to assist the TADC school's efforts to improve student recruitment and retention; 2) evidence of professional development activities at the TADC schools to date; 3) report on the extent to which library, mathematics, science, technology laboratories and other facilities at the TADC schools have been enhanced; 4) evaluation of changes in curricula to better match TExES/ExCET competencies and outcomes at TADC schools; 5) evaluation of the effectiveness of technology integration to date at TADC schools; 6) summary of expenditures for personnel related to improved educator preparation at TADC schools; and 7) summary evidence that library holdings have been enhanced in the areas of certification at TADC schools.

In response to this RFO, the Consultant must:

provide a detailed description of Consultant's suggested methodology, approach and alternatives to meeting Phase II objectives;

propose a detailed description of the tasks, activities, resources and time lines for performing Phase II objectives (the description should be sufficiently detailed to include in a Statement of Work for the contract);

provide a brief description of Consultant's qualifications to perform the Phase II objectives;

describe Consultant's prior experience in performing Phase II type objectives with emphasis on prior experience with public sector contracts; and

provide a list of references where Phase II type objectives were met, including for each reference: the name of the organization, the name, title, address and telephone number of a contact person and a brief description of the services performed.

Phase III - Final Report

Consultant shall submit a final report to THECB evaluating the effectiveness of the funds for improving teaching education at the TADC schools and detailing their progress to date in achieving the following: 1) improving the TExES/ExCET pass rate for TADC first-time test-takers and retake pass rates; 2) increasing the number of students enrolled in the teacher preparation program at TADC schools; 3) increasing the graduation rate of teacher preparation candidates at TADC schools; 4) integrating existing technology into teacher preparation at TADC schools; and 5) summary evidence that courses are sent per semester via distance education technologies at TADC schools.

In response to this RFO, the Consultant must:

provide a detailed description of Consultant's suggested methodology, approach and alternatives to meeting Phase III objectives;

propose a detailed description of the tasks, activities, resources and time lines for performing Phase III objectives (the description should be sufficiently detailed to include in a Statement of Work for the contract);

provide a brief description of Consultant's qualifications to perform the Phase III objectives;

describe Consultant's prior experience in performing Phase III type objectives; and

provide a list of references where Phase III objectives were met, include for each reference: the name of the organization, the name, title, address and telephone number of a contact person and a brief description of the services performed.

Audit

Consultant understands that acceptance of state funds under this contract acts as acceptance of the authority of the State Auditor's Office, or any successor agency, to audit or investigate the expenditure of state funds under this contract. Consultant further agrees to cooperate fully with the State Auditor's Office or its successor, including providing all records requested. Consultant will ensure that this clause concerning authority to audit state funds received indirectly by subcontractors through the Consultant and the requirement to cooperate is included in any subcontract it awards.

Contract Deliverables

Consultant shall, in a good and satisfactory manner, carry out the tasks necessary to provide analysis, advice, recommendations, performances and Deliverables as called for in this RFO and in accordance with the Scope of Work. Such performances shall be rendered at schools named in Section 1 or other sites within Texas as hereinafter named by THECB or its designee, unless THECB, or its designee, shall otherwise specify in writing.

Substantive Outlines. As an interim deliverable, Consultant shall produce and present to THECB, for review and approval, a substantive outline for the work and content for: Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III. The substantive content of each outline shall include at a minimum a proposed final report format and a substantive discussion of the approach and methodology for the work to be performed. THECB and Consultant shall adjust or revise the scope of each outline to more clearly define the Scope of Work.

Draft Reports. As an interim deliverable, Consultant shall produce and present to THECB, for review and approval, an interim draft report for: Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III. This deliverable shall include: appendices with statistical data supporting findings, conclusions and recommendations. Consultant shall also include: charts, graphs, and other visual representations of core findings, conclusions and recommendations. The Consultant shall make such corrections to substance and content as identified by THECB. The Consultant shall make such adjustments and modifications to draft report as identified by THECB.

Final Reports. As a final contract Deliverable, Consultant shall produce a written report for: Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III. The specific organization and substantive content of each report shall be resolved throughout the project, with emphasis during the interim deliverable stages. Each report shall include the following topics and such other topics, which are specifically agreed upon between THECB and Consultant and the report must thoroughly resolve the particular issues unique to each deliverable:

Table of Contents

Executive Summary

Scope and Objectives

Summary of Significant observations and Conclusions

Overall Conclusions and Recommendations

Background

Detailed Scope and Objectives

Methodology

Assumptions

Detailed Findings and Observations

Analysis

Recommendations

Conclusion

Appendices

Status Reporting. During scheduled bi-weekly meetings, Consultant shall provide oral reports on Project progress and schedule, and a schedule of the next period's activities. Consultant shall document by written minutes of the meetings. Details of the period's activities shall include:

planned schedule versus actual schedule;

any problems encountered and status;

any failures to meet deadlines and proposed solutions; and

any deviations from the Scope of Work;

The Consultant shall disclose at the meeting the impact that any problems, failures or deviations have on the scheduled completion of tasks and work segments, the Phase, and the entire Project. Bi-weekly meetings may be by telephone conference call.

The Consultant shall submit to THECB a written report of schedule and/or content variances from the Scope of Work for each Phase, at the deliverable, task and activity levels, within five (5) working days from the time of their occurrence.

The Consultant shall submit monthly written reports to THECB that shall encompass:

the overall status of the Project, including unanticipated problems and delays and the impact on Project completion;

the prior month's accomplishments;

any outstanding problems and/or issues and proposed solutions; and

upcoming activities.

At a minimum, Consultant shall illustrate all upcoming activities using work plans specifically identifying tasks, personnel and begin and end dates.

Consultant and THECB shall develop a tentative schedule for periodic meetings with THECB. The meetings shall be for the purpose of providing information and additional guidance to Consultant in the performance of the Scope of Work. THECB may request interim advice from Consultant at such meetings. If appropriate, such meetings may coincide with regularly scheduled meetings to report status.

THECB shall have thirty (30) business days following delivery of the interim or final products, Deliverables or Services ("Acceptance Period"), to accept or reject any products, Deliverables or Services ("Deliverable") tendered by Consultant in performance under this RFO or resulting contract. Tendering to THECB a Deliverable for Acceptance constitutes a certification by the Consultant that the Deliverable fully meets all of the requirements in the RFO, Scope of Work and any resulting contract. In the event THECB elects to reject a Deliverable during the Acceptance Period, THECB shall notify Consultant in writing of such rejection. THECB shall assist Consultant in identifying the error, type of error or inadequacy of the Deliverable, to permit Consultant to understand the cause of the error or inadequacy and correct the error or inadequacy. Upon Consultant's resolution of any errors or inadequacies, identified during the Acceptance Period, the Deliverable shall be resubmitted to THECB for acceptance or rejection as stated above. Acceptance of the Deliverable(s) shall be in writing by an authorized representative of THECB ("Acceptance").

Time is of the essence in completing the Deliverables Phases I-III Deliverables. Completion for the Deliverables for Phases I-III is required no later than July 28, 2004. Consultant should provide proposed completion dates in the format below in order to meet the project completion date of August 31, 2004.

Phase I:

Substantive Outline: tendered to THECB on or before October 3, 2003;

Interim Draft Report: tendered to THECB on or before October 17, 2003;

Final Report: tendered to THECB on or before October 31, 2003;

Status Reports, according to the schedule;

In-person-report(s).

Phase II:

Substantive Outline: tendered to THECB on or before December 5, 2003;

Interim Draft Report: tendered to THECB on or before February 6, 2004;

Final Report: tendered to THECB on or before March 5, 2004;

Status Reports, according to the schedule;

In-person-report(s).

Phase III:

Substantive Outline: tendered to THECB on or before May 7, 2004;

Interim Draft Report: tendered to THECB on or before June 11, 2004;

Final Report: tendered to THECB on or before July 28, 2004

Status Reports, according to the schedule;

In-person-report(s).

As an additional Deliverable, Consultant shall make "in person" presentations of its findings, analysis, conclusions and recommendations on such dates, times, and places in Austin, Travis County, Texas as requested by THECB. Such presentations may include audiences internal or external to THECB. THECB anticipates that no more than two or three such presentations shall be required. These presentations may occur, within an 18-month time frame following the Acceptance of the final report(s).

OFFER PROCESS

Questions relating to the RFO. Consultant is expected to examine this Request for Offers (RFO) carefully, understand the terms and conditions for providing the pertinent services, and respond completely. Failure to respond completely may result in disqualification. Questions about this RFO shall be directed, in writing only, to the address provided below, on company letterhead or via e-mail. Verbal questions and explanations are not permitted. Electronic submissions by facsimile shall be accepted. THECB reserves the right to provide or not to provide additional clarification in response to Consultant's questions. To be eligible to receive Consultant questions and responses to this RFO, if any, the Consultant, must file a written letter of interest with THECB no later than 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 29, 2003. No inquiries or questions shall be answered after 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 29, 2003 to allow ample distribution time for any changes. Any questions or letters of interest regarding this RFO may be directed to:

Dr. Susan Hetzler, Program Director for Educator Preparation

Division of Universities and Health-Related Institutions

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

P. O. Box 12788

Austin TX 78711

Delivery of Offer. A signed original and five (5) copies of the offer must be received by THECB, no later than 5:00 p.m., Central Time, September 12, 2003. Any offer received after the specified time and date shall not be considered. Conditioned on THECB's receipt of the requisite finding of fact from the Governor's Budget and Planning Office pursuant to Texas Government Code section 2254.028, THECB anticipates entering into the resultant contract on or about September 19, 2003. The Consultant's offers shall be delivered to:

Dr. Susan Hetzler, Program Director for Educator Preparation

Division of Universities and Health-Related Institutions

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

1200 East Anderson Lane

Austin TX 78752

P.O. Box 12788, Austin TX 78711

THECB Reservation of Rights. THECB has sole discretion and the absolute right to reject any and all offers, terminate this Request for Offers or amend, delay or re-issue this Request for Offers. THECB reserves the right to remedy technical errors in the RFO process, waive any informalities and irregularities relating to any or all Offers submitted in response to this request and to negotiate modifications necessary to improve the quality or cost effectiveness of any Offer to THECB. THECB further reserves the right to accept one or more offers and contract for any grouping or individual Deliverables described in this RFO. The issuance of this Request for Offers does not constitute a commitment by THECB to award any contract. THECB intends any material provided in this Request for Offers only and solely as a means of identifying the scope of services and qualifications sought.

Expenses for Preparing Offer. THECB shall not pay any cost incurred by a prospective Consultant in the preparation of a response to this Request for Offers and such costs shall not be included in the budget of the prospective Consultant submitted pursuant to this Request for Offers. The State of Texas assumes no responsibility for expenses incurred in the preparation of responses to this Request for Offers. In the event that the prospective Consultant is engaged to provide the services contemplated by this Request for Offers, any expenses incurred by the prospective Consultant associated with the negotiation and execution of the contract for the engagement shall remain the obligation of the Consultant.

Non-responsive Offers. Failure to respond to all required portions of this RFO may result in the Consultant's response being deemed non-responsive. If a Consultant's response is deemed non-responsive by THECB, the response shall be disqualified. Offers must be signed by an officer or principal of the Consultant, however, they may be signed by an agent if accompanied by written evidence of authority.

Duration of Offer. All provisions in Consultant's Offer, including any estimated or projected costs, shall remain valid for ninety (90) days following the deadline date for submissions or if an Offer is selected, throughout the entire term of the Contract. Offers may be withdrawn in writing prior to the date and time set for receipt of Offers.

Negotiation with Consultant. Preliminary and final negotiations with top-ranked prospective Consultants may be held at the discretion of THECB. THECB may decide, at its sole option and in its sole discretion, to negotiate with one, several, or none of the prospective Consultants submitting Offers pursuant to this request. During the negotiation process, THECB and any prospective Consultant(s) with whom THECB chooses to negotiate, may adjust the scope of the services, alter the method of providing the services, and/or alter the costs of the services so long as the changes are mutually agreed upon and are in the best interest of THECB. Statements made by a prospective Consultant in the Offer packet or in other appropriate written form shall be binding unless specifically changed by the Consultant, in writing, during final negotiations. A contract award may be made by THECB without negotiations if THECB determines that such an award is in THECB's best interest.

Selection Criteria. THECB shall conduct an evaluation of all offers that conform to the requirements of this RFO. In selecting a consultant, THECB shall: (1) base its choice on demonstrated competence, knowledge, and qualifications and on the reasonableness of the proposed fee for the services; and (2) if other considerations are equal, give preference to a consultant whose principal place of business is in the State of Texas or who shall manage the consulting contract wholly from an office in the State of Texas. Conforming offers shall be reviewed by a Selection Committee consisting of THECB staff members.

Award/Contract Subject to Available Appropriations. This Request for Offers and any contract which may result from it are subject to appropriation of State funds and the Request for Offers and/or contract may be terminated at any time if such funds are not available.

Public Information. All offers are considered to be public information subsequent to an award of the contract. All information relating to Offers shall be subject to the Public Information Act, Texas Government Code Annotated, Chapter 552, after the award of the contract. All documents shall be presumed to be public unless a specific exception in that Act applies. Prospective Consultants are requested to avoid providing information which is proprietary, but if it is necessary to do so, offers must specify the specific information which the prospective Consultant considers to be exempted from disclosure under the Act and those pages or portions of pages which contain the protected information must be clearly marked. The specific exemption that the prospective Consultant believes protects that information must be cited. THECB shall assume that an Offer submitted to THECB contains no proprietary or confidential information if the prospective Consultant has not marked or otherwise identified such information in the offer at the time of its submission to THECB.

Negotiation of Contract Terms and Conditions. At any time after the offers are opened, THECB may negotiate contract terms and conditions with one or more of the Consultants. An award of a contract is expressly conditioned upon THECB and Consultant reaching an agreement on contract terms and conditions. THECB reserves the sole right, in its discretion, to determine if contract terms and conditions are acceptable. If the Consultant and THECB are unable to reach an agreement on the contract terms and conditions, THECB shall disqualify that Consultant, and then THECB shall negotiate contract terms and conditions with the next best Consultant.

Return of Offers After Selection Process. All offers become property of THECB upon receipt and shall not be returned.

Ethics Standards. No person shall participate or assume a responsibility in the implementation and execution of this RFO process including, but not limited to, the evaluation of offers and selections of Consultant's, when such participation constitutes a conflict of interest as defined by state law or executive order. After the RFO is published, THECB or any employee shall not furnish any technical information, or solicit offers and/or prices for its requirements or take any type of action which would or could be construed to give a direct or indirect advantage or disadvantage to any potential Consultant.

Restrictions on Communication. After the RFO has been issued, Consultant is prohibited from communicating with THECB staff regarding the RFO or offers, with the following exceptions:

Dr. Susan Hetzler, in writing;

The Committee, if interviews are conducted;

THECB reserves the right to contact any Consultant for clarification after responses are opened and/or to further negotiate with any Consultant if such is deemed desirable by THECB.

THECB shall not schedule meetings with representatives of any Consultant to discuss offers, and Consultant should not contact THECB employees to explain, clarify or discuss their Offers before an award has been made except as set out in this section. Violation of this provision may lead to disqualification from this process.

CONTENT OF OFFERS

All Offers must be typed, double spaced, on 8 1/2" x 11" paper, clearly legible, with all pages sequentially numbered and bound or stapled together. The name of the prospective Consultant must be typed at the top of each page. Do not attach covers, binders, pamphlets, or other items not specifically requested.

A Table of Contents must be included with respective page numbers opposite each topic. The Offer must contain the following completed items in the following sequence:

Transmittal Letter: A letter addressed to Dr. Susan Hetzler, Program Director for Educator Preparation, Division of Universities and Health-Related Institutions, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, PO Box 12788, Austin, TX 78711 that identifies the person or entity submitting the Offer and includes a commitment by that person or entity to provide the services required by THECB. The letter must specifically identify that this Offer is in reference to THECB Texas Association of Developing Colleges-Centers for Teacher Education RFO. The letter must include "full acceptance of the terms and conditions of the contract resulting from this Request for Offers." Any exceptions must be specifically noted in the letter. However, any exceptions may disqualify the Offer from further consideration at THECB's discretion. The letter must state, "The Offer enclosed is binding and valid at the discretion of THECB."

Executive Summary: The Offer must include a summary of the contents of the Offer, excluding cost information. Address services that are offered beyond those specifically requested as well as those offered within specified deliverables. Explain any missing or other requirements not met, realizing that failure to provide necessary information or offer required service deliverables may result in disqualification of the Offer.

Project Offer: The Offer must track and reference each section number in Section 3 Scope of Work. Consultant should provide a substantive description of how Consultant proposes to satisfy each item. If Consultant cannot satisfy a particular item or requirement, then Consultant must clearly identify the items or requirements it cannot satisfy. If Consultant believes it can best meet the needs of THECB by suggesting a modification to the Scope of Work, please suggest alternatives. If an alternative is proposed, please include a separate section identified as "Alternative Offer to Section X.X." THECB reserves the right to not consider alternative Offers. If a response requires Consultant to assume facts not presented in the RFO, Consultant must clearly identify such assumed facts. If a section requests specific information, please include the requested information.

Cost Offer: THECB is interested in awarding a fixed fee contract. Because THECB may enter into a contract for all or some of the deliverables, please identify each deliverable and the corresponding fee and include a proposed schedule of payments. Consultant is welcome to suggest alternative fee Offers, but if an alternative is offered, please clearly identify that the fee Offer is an alternative. The THECB reserves the right to not consider alternative Offers.

Qualifications: While THECB is interested in the experience and qualifications of Consultant's firm or company, THECB is particularly interested in the experience of the individual staff Consultant intends to apply to this engagement. Therefore, please include information relating to the firm's or company's experience and qualification and please attach detailed resumes for each staff that Consultant intends to apply to this engagement. The resumes should identify the specific experience, projects and assignments for each staff offered. Emphasis should be placed on similar projects within the public sector and/or higher education.

References: Prospective Consultants shall provide the names of at least three (3) different references meeting the following criteria:

The reference company or entity must have engaged the prospective Consultant for the same or similar services as those to be provided in accordance with the terms of this Request for Offers.

The services must have been provided by the prospective Consultant to the reference company or entity within the five (5) years preceding the issuance of this Request for Offers. The reference company or entity must not be affiliated with the prospective Consultant in any

ownership or joint venture arrangement.

References must include the company or entity name, address, contact name, and telephone number for each reference. THECB may not be used as a reference. The contact name must be the name of a senior representative of the reference company or entity who was directly responsible for interacting with the prospective Consultant throughout the performance of the engagement and who can address questions about the performance of the prospective Consultant from personal experience. References shall accompany the Offer.

For each such reference, the prospective Consultant shall provide a signed release from liability in the form of a letter addressed to the reference company or individual signed by Consultant for each reference provided in response to this requirement. The release from liability shall absolve the specified reference company or entity from liability for information provided to THECB concerning the prospective Consultant's performance of its engagement with the reference.

Financial Condition: As part of any Offer submission, the prospective Consultant must include information regarding financial condition, including income statements, balance sheets, and any other information which accurately shows the prospective Consultant's current financial condition. All offers shall include the Consultant's State of Texas vendor identification number or federal tax identification number. THECB reserves the right to request such additional financial information as it deems necessary to evaluate the prospective Consultant, and by submission of an Offer, the prospective Consultant agrees to provide same. The prospective Consultant must disclose if and when it has filed for bankruptcy within the last seven (7) years. For prospective Consultants conducting business as a corporation, partnership, limited liability partnership, or other form of artificial person, the prospective Consultant must disclose whether any of its principals, partners, or officers have filed for bankruptcy within the last seven (7) years.

Certifications/Affirmations/Disclosures: By signing the transmittal letter and submitting an Offer, Consultant makes and agrees to make the following certifications, affirmations and disclosures. If any explanation or qualification is required for any certification, affirmation or disclosure, you must include such explanation or qualification in your transmittal letter. A false statement or misleading statement in this section is a material breach of contract and shall void the submitted Offer or any resulting contracts. Please restate each of the following certifications, affirmations or disclosures in this section of your Offer.

The Consultant has not given, nor intends to give at any time hereafter, any economic opportunity, future employment, gift, loan, gratuity, special discount, trip, favor, or service to a public servant in connection with the submitted Offer.

The Consultant is not currently delinquent in the payment of any franchise tax owed the State of Texas.

Neither the Consultant nor the firm, corporation or partnership or institution represented by the Consultant or anyone acting for such firm, corporation or institution has violated the antitrust laws of this State, the Federal antitrust laws nor communicated directly or indirectly the Offer made to any competitor or any other person engaged in such line of business.

The Consultant has not received compensation for participation in the preparation of the specification for this Offer.

Pursuant to Texas Family Code, Section 231.006 (relating to delinquent child support), the Consultant certifies that the individual or business entity named in this Offer is not ineligible to receive a specified payment and acknowledge that this contract may be terminated and payment may be withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

An Offer must include the names and Social Security Numbers of each person with at least a 25% ownership of the business entity submitting this Offer.

Pursuant to Section 2155.004 Government Code (relating to issuance of warrants to persons indebted to the State or who owe delinquent taxes to the State) the Consultant certifies that the individual or business entity named in this Offer is not ineligible to receive the specified contract and acknowledges that this contract may be terminated and payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

Consultant acknowledges and agrees that, to the extent Consultant owes any debt or delinquent taxes to the State of Texas, in accordance with Section 403.055(h), Government Code, any payments Consultant is owed under this Agreement shall be applied by the Comptroller of Public Accounts toward any debt or delinquent taxes Consultant owes the State of Texas until the debt or delinquent taxes are paid in full.

Pursuant to Article 2.45 of the Texas Business Corporation Act, Consultant must certify that it is not delinquent in a tax owed to the State under Chapter 171 of the Texas Tax Code. Any Consultant who is delinquent may not be awarded a contract by the State.

With respect to all services, if any, purchased pursuant to this RFO, Consultant represents and warrants that it shall buy Texas products and materials for use in providing the services authorized herein when such products and materials are available at a comparable price and in a comparable period of time when compared to non-Texas products and materials.

Consultant certifies that if a Texas address is shown as the address of the vendor, Vendor qualifies as a Texas Resident Bidder as defined in Rule 1 TAC 111.2.

If the consultant is an individual not residing in Texas or a business entity not incorporated in or whose principal domicile is not in Texas, the consultant certifies that it either: (a) holds a permit issued by the Texas comptroller to collect or remit all state and local sales and use taxes that become due and owing as a result of the consultant's business in Texas; or (b) does not sell tangible personal property or services that are subject to the state and local sales and use tax.

If the Consultant is an individual who has previously been employed by THECB or any other Texas state agency at any time during the two years preceding their Offer, the Consultant must disclose the following:

the nature of the previous employment with THECB or any other state agency;

the date the employment was terminated;

the annual rate of compensation for the employment at the time of the Consultant's termination.

If a Consultant is subject to this disclosure and fails to make such a disclosure, the Offer shall be disqualified.

TRD-200304390

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Filed: July 21, 2003


Texas Department of Human Services

Notice of Public Hearing

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing on August 18, 2003, to receive public comment on proposed payment rates for the following Medicaid and non-Medicaid programs: Community Based Alternatives - Home and Community Support Services and Assisted Living/Residential Care; Community Living Assistance and Support Services; Consolidated Waiver Program; Consumer-Managed Personal Assistance Services - Consumer Directed Services; Day Activity and Health Services; Deaf-Blind With Multiple Disabilities Waiver; Medically Dependent Children Program; Primary Home Care/Family Care; and Residential Care. The Texas Department of Human Services operates these programs. These payment rates are proposed to be effective September 1, 2003. The hearing will be held in compliance with Title 1 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §355.105(g) and Title 40 TAC §20.105(g), which require public hearings on proposed payment rates. The public hearing will be held on August 18, 2003, at 10:30 a.m. in the Public Hearing Room (First Floor, Building III) of the Riata Building at 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas 78727-6404, with entry required through Security at the entrance of 12545 Riata Vista Circle. Written comments regarding payment rates may be submitted in lieu of testimony until 5:00 p.m. the day of the hearing. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail to the attention of Tony Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101. Express mail can be sent, or written comments can be hand delivered, to Mr. Arreola, HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, Riata Building III, 12555 Riata Vista Circle, Austin, Texas, 78727-6404. Alternatively, written comments may be sent via facsimile to Mr. Arreola at (512) 685-3104. Interested parties may request to have mailed to them or may pick up a briefing package concerning the proposed payment rates by contacting Tony Arreola at (512) 685-3124 or at HHSC Rate Analysis, MC H-400, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3101.

Persons with disabilities who wish to attend the hearing and require auxiliary aids or services should contact Mr. Arreola, by August 8, 2003, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

TRD-200304429

Paul Leche

General Counsel, Legal Services

Texas Department of Human Services

Filed: July 23, 2003


Texas Department of Insurance

Third Party Administrator Applications

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 WHP Health Initiatives, Inc. DBA Walgreens Health Initiatives, a foreign third party administrator. The home office is Deerfield, Illinois.

Application for admission to Texas of Ancillary Care Management, Inc., a foreign third party administrator. The home office is Wilmington, Delaware.

Any objections must be filed within 20 days after this notice was filed with the Secretary of State, addressed to the attention of Matt Ray, MC 107-1A, 333 Guadalupe, Austin, Texas 78701.

TRD-200304449

Gene C. Jarmon

General Counsel and Chief Clerk

Texas Department of Insurance

Filed: July 23, 2003


Texas Lottery Commission

Instant Game Number 376 "10 Times the Money"

1.0 Name and Style of Game.

A. The name of Instant Game No. 376 is "10 TIMES THE MONEY". The play style in Game 1 is "key number/symbol match". The play style in Game 2 is "match three". The play style in Game 3 is "row, column, diagonal". The play style in Game 4 is "key number/symbol match". The play style in Game 5 is "key number/symbol match".

1.1 Price of Instant Ticket.

A. Tickets for Instant Game No. 376 shall be $10.00 per ticket.

1.2 Definitions in Instant Game No. 376.

A. Display Printing - That area of the instant game ticket outside of the area where the Overprint and Play Symbols appear.

B. Latex Overprint - The removable scratch-off covering over the Play Symbols on the front of the ticket.

C. Play Symbol - One of the symbols which appears under the Latex Overprint on the front of the ticket. Each Play Symbol is printed in Symbol font in black ink in positive. The possible play symbols are: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, $1.00, $2.00, $5.00, $10.00, $15.00, $20.00, $50.00, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $10,000, $25,000, $100,000, $250,000, 10X SYMBOL.

D. Play Symbol Caption - the small printed material appearing below each Play Symbol which explains the Play Symbol. One and only one of these Play Symbol Captions appears under each Play Symbol and each is printed in caption font in black ink in positive. The Play Symbol Caption which corresponds with and verifies each Play Symbol is as follows:

Figure 1: GAME NO. 376 - 1.2D

E. Retailer Validation Code - Three small letters found under the removable scratch-off covering in the play area, which retailers use to verify and validate instant winners. The possible validation codes are:

Figure 2: GAME NO. 376 - 1.2E

Low-tier winning tickets use the required codes listed in Figure 2:16. Non-winning tickets and high-tier tickets use a non-required combination of the required codes listed in Figure 2:16 with the exception of ∅, which will only appear on low-tier winners and will always have a slash through it.

F. Serial Number - A unique 13 (thirteen) digit number appearing under the latex scratch-off covering on the front of the ticket. There is a four (4) digit security number which will be boxed and placed randomly within the Serial Number. The remaining nine (9) digits of the Serial Number are the Validation Number. The Serial Number is positioned beneath the bottom row of play data in the scratched-off play area. The format will be: 0000000000000.

G. Low-Tier Prize - A prize of $10.00, $15.00, $20.00.

H. Mid-Tier Prize - A prize of $50.00, $100, $250, $500.

I. High-Tier Prize - A prize of $1,000, $10,000, $250,000.

J. Bar Code - A 22 (twenty-two) character interleaved two (2) of five (5) bar code which will include a three (3) digit game ID, the seven (7) digit pack number, the three (3) digit ticket number and the nine (9) digit Validation Number. The bar code appears on the back of the ticket.

K. Pack-Ticket Number - A thirteen (13) digit number consisting of the three (3) digit game number (376), a seven (7) digit pack number, and a three (3) digit ticket number. Ticket numbers start with 000 and end with 074 within each pack. The format will be: 376-0000001-000.

L. Pack - A pack of "10 TIMES THE MONEY" Instant Game tickets contain 75 tickets, which are packed in plastic shrink-wrapping and fanfolded in pages of one (1). The packs will alternate. One will show the front of ticket 000 and back of 074 while the other fold will show the back of ticket 000 and front of 074.

M. Non-Winning Ticket - A ticket which is not programmed to be a winning ticket or a ticket that does not meet all of the requirements of these Game Procedures, the State Lottery Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 466), and applicable rules adopted by the Texas Lottery pursuant to the State Lottery Act and referenced in 16 TAC, Chapter 401.

N. Ticket or Instant Game Ticket, or Instant Ticket - A Texas Lottery "10 TIMES THE MONEY" Instant Game No. 376 ticket.

2.0 Determination of Prize Winners. The determination of prize winners is subject to the general ticket validation requirements set forth in Texas Lottery Rule 401.302, Instant Game Rules, these Game Procedures, and the requirements set out on the back of each instant ticket. A prize winner in the "10 TIMES THE MONEY" Instant Game is determined once the latex on the ticket is scratched off to expose 54 (fifty-four) play symbols. In Game 1, if the player matches the Winning Number to any of the Your Numbers, the player will win the prize shown for that matching number. If the player gets a 10X symbol, the player will win 10 times the prize shown below the 10X symbol. In Game 1, Your Numbers is defined as the numbers appearing above the prize amounts in the play area. Game 2, if the player matches three identical amounts, the player will win that amount. If the player matches 2 identical amounts and also gets a 10X symbol, the player will win 10 times the matched amount. In Game 3, if the player gets three identical amounts in a row, column or diagonal, the player will win that amount. If the player gets 2 identical amounts and a 10X symbol in a row, column or diagonal, the player will win 10 times that amount. In Game 4, if the player matches the Winning Number to any of the Your Numbers, the player will win the prize shown. If the player gets a 10X symbol the player will win 10 times the prize shown under the 10X symbol. In Game 4, Your Numbers is defined as the numbers appearing above the prize amounts in the play area. In Game 5, if the player matches the Winning Number to any of the Your Numbers, the player will win the prize shown. If the player gets a 10X symbol the player will win 10 times the prize shown under the 10X symbol. In Game 5, Your Numbers is defined as the numbers appearing above the prize amounts in the play area. No portion of the display printing nor any extraneous matter whatsoever shall be usable or playable as a part of the Instant Game.

2.1 Instant Ticket Validation Requirements.

A. To be a valid Instant Game ticket, all of the following requirements must be met:

1. Exactly 54 (fifty-four) Play Symbols must appear under the latex overprint on the front portion of the ticket;

2. Each of the Play Symbols must have a Play Symbol Caption underneath, and each Play Symbol must agree with its Play Symbol Caption;

3. Each of the Play Symbols must be present in its entirety and be fully legible;

4. Each of the Play Symbols must be printed in black ink;

5. The ticket shall be intact;

6. The Serial Number, Retailer Validation Code and Pack-Ticket Number must be present in their entirety and be fully legible;

7. The Serial Number must correspond, using the Texas Lottery's codes, to the Play Symbols on the ticket;

8. The ticket must not have a hole punched through it, be mutilated, altered, unreadable, reconstituted or tampered with in any manner;

9. The ticket must not be counterfeit in whole or in part;

10. The ticket must have been issued by the Texas Lottery in an authorized manner;

11. The ticket must not have been stolen, nor appear on any list of omitted tickets or non-activated tickets on file at the Texas Lottery;

12. The Play Symbols, Serial Number, Retailer Validation Code and Pack-Ticket Number must be right side up and not reversed in any manner;

13. The ticket must be complete and not miscut, and have exactly 54 (fifty-four) Play Symbols under the latex overprint on the front portion of the ticket, exactly one Serial Number, exactly one Retailer Validation Code, and exactly one Pack-Ticket Number on the ticket;

14. The Serial Number of an apparent winning ticket shall correspond with the Texas Lottery's Serial Numbers for winning tickets, and a ticket with that Serial Number shall not have been paid previously;

15. The ticket must not be blank or partially blank, misregistered, defective or printed or produced in error;

16. Each of the 54 (fifty-four) Play Symbols must be exactly one of those described in Section 1.2.C of these Game Procedures.

17. Each of the 54 (fifty-four) Play Symbols on the ticket must be printed in the Symbol font and must correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery; the ticket Serial Numbers must be printed in the Serial font and must correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery; and the Pack-Ticket Number must be printed in the Pack-Ticket Number font and must correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery;

18. The display printing on the ticket must be regular in every respect and correspond precisely to the artwork on file at the Texas Lottery; and

19. The ticket must have been received by the Texas Lottery by applicable deadlines.

B. The ticket must pass all additional validation tests provided for in these Game Procedures, the Texas Lottery's Rules governing the award of prizes of the amount to be validated, and any confidential validation and security tests of the Texas Lottery.

C. Any Instant Game ticket not passing all of the validation requirements is void and ineligible for any prize and shall not be paid. However, the Executive Director may, solely at the Executive Director's discretion, refund the retail sales price of the ticket. In the event a defective ticket is purchased, the only responsibility or liability of the Texas Lottery shall be to replace the defective ticket with another unplayed ticket in that Instant Game (or a ticket of equivalent sales price from any other current Instant Lottery game) or refund the retail sales price of the ticket, solely at the Executive Director's discretion.

2.2 Programmed Game Parameters.

A. Consecutive non-winning tickets will not have identical play data, spot for spot.

B. Although not all prize symbols can be won in each game, all prize symbols may be used in non-winning locations.

C. Game 1 & 4: No duplicate Your Numbers play symbol in a Game.

D. Game 1 & 4: No duplicate non-winning prize symbol in a Game.

E. Game 1 & 4: The "10X" symbol will only appear in winning Games according to the prize structure.

F. Game 2: No more than 2 pairs of like play symbols in this Game.

G. Game 2: No four or more like play symbols in this Game.

H. Game 2: The "10X" symbol will appear according to the prize structure and will only appear once in this Game.

I. Game 2: When the "10X" symbol appears in a winning Game, there will be no more than two like play symbols in this Game.

J. Game 3: No occurrence of three amounts in a row, column or diagonal except on intended winning Games.

K. Game 3: The "10X" symbol will only appear in winning Games according to the prize structure.

L. Game 5: No duplicate Winning Numbers in a Game.

M. Game 5: No duplicate Your Numbers play symbols in a Game.

N. Game 5: No duplicate non-winning prize symbol in a Game.

O. Game 5: The "10X" symbol will only appear in winning Games according to the prize structure.

2.3 Procedure for Claiming Prizes.

A. To claim an "10 TIMES THE MONEY" Instant Game prize of $10.00, $15.00, $20.00, $50.00, $100, $250, or $500, a claimant shall sign the back of the ticket in the space designated on the ticket and present the winning ticket to any Texas Lottery Retailer. The Texas Lottery Retailer shall verify the claim and, if valid, and upon presentation of proper identification, make payment of the amount due the claimant and physically void the ticket; provided that the Texas Lottery Retailer may, but is not, in some cases, required to pay a $50.00, $100, $250, or $500 ticket. In the event the Texas Lottery Retailer cannot verify the claim, the Texas Lottery Retailer shall provide the claimant with a claim form and instruct the claimant on how to file a claim with the Texas Lottery. If the claim is validated by the Texas Lottery, a check shall be forwarded to the claimant in the amount due. In the event the claim is not validated, the claim shall be denied and the claimant shall be notified promptly. A claimant may also claim any of the above prizes under the procedure described in Section 2.3.B and 2.3.C of these Game Procedures.

B. To claim an "10 TIMES THE MONEY" Instant Game prize of $1,000, $10,000, or $250,000, the claimant must sign the winning ticket and present it at one of the Texas Lottery's Claim Centers. If the claim is validated by the Texas Lottery, payment will be made to the bearer of the validated winning ticket for that prize upon presentation of proper identification. When paying a prize of $600 or more, the Texas Lottery shall file the appropriate income reporting form with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and shall withhold federal income tax at a rate set by the IRS if required. In the event that the claim is not validated by the Texas Lottery, the claim shall be denied and the claimant shall be notified promptly.

C. As an alternative method of claiming an "10 TIMES THE MONEY" Instant Game prize, the claimant must sign the winning ticket, thoroughly complete a claim form, and mail both to: Texas Lottery Commission, Post Office Box 16600, Austin, Texas 78761-6600. The risk of sending a ticket remains with the claimant. In the event that the claim is not validated by the Texas Lottery, the claim shall be denied and the claimant shall be notified promptly.

D. Prior to payment by the Texas Lottery of any prize, the Texas Lottery shall deduct a sufficient amount from the winnings of a person who has been finally determined to be:

1. delinquent in the payment of a tax or other money collected by the Comptroller, the Texas Workforce Commission, or Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission;

2. delinquent in making child support payments administered or collected by the Attorney General; or

3. delinquent in reimbursing the Texas Department of Human Services for a benefit granted in error under the food stamp program or the program of financial assistance under Chapter 31, Human Resource Code;

4. in default on a loan made under Chapter 52, Education Code; or

5. in default on a loan guaranteed under Chapter 57, Education Code

E. If a person is indebted or owes delinquent taxes to the State, other than those specified in the preceding paragraph, the winnings of a person shall be withheld until the debt or taxes are paid.

2.4 Allowance for Delay of Payment. The Texas Lottery may delay payment of the prize pending a final determination by the Executive Director, under any of the following circumstances:

A. if a dispute occurs, or it appears likely that a dispute may occur, regarding the prize;

B. if there is any question regarding the identity of the claimant;

C. if there is any question regarding the validity of the ticket presented for payment; or

D. if the claim is subject to any deduction from the payment otherwise due, as described in Section 2.3.D of these Game Procedures. No liability for interest for any delay shall accrue to the benefit of the claimant pending payment of the claim.

2.5 Payment of Prizes to Persons Under 18. If a person under the age of 18 years is entitled to a cash prize of less than $600 from the "10 TIMES THE MONEY" Instant Game, the Texas Lottery shall deliver to an adult member of the minor's family or the minor's guardian a check or warrant in the amount of the prize payable to the order of the minor.

2.6 If a person under the age of 18 years is entitled to a cash prize of more than $600 from the "10 TIMES THE MONEY" Instant Game, the Texas Lottery shall deposit the amount of the prize in a custodial bank account, with an adult member of the minor's family or the minor's guardian serving as custodian for the minor.

2.7 Instant Ticket Claim Period. All Instant Game prizes must be claimed within 180 days following the end of the Instant Game. Any prize not claimed within that period, and in the manner specified in these Game Procedures and on the back of each ticket, shall be forfeited.

3.0 Instant Ticket Ownership.

A. Until such time as a signature is placed upon the back portion of an Instant Game ticket in the space designated therefor, a ticket shall be owned by the physical possessor of said ticket. When a signature is placed on the back of the ticket in the space designated therefor, the player whose signature appears in that area shall be the owner of the ticket and shall be entitled to any prize attributable thereto. Notwithstanding any name or names submitted on a claim form, the Executive Director shall make payment to the player whose signature appears on the back of the ticket in the space designated therefore. If more than one name appears on the back of the ticket, the Executive Director will require that one of those players whose name appears thereon be designated by such players to receive payment.

B. The Texas Lottery shall not be responsible for lost or stolen Instant Game tickets and shall not be required to pay on a lost or stolen Instant Game ticket.

4.0 Number and Value of Instant Prizes. There will be approximately 4,083,075 tickets in the Instant Game No. 376. The approximate number and value of prizes in the game are as follows:

Figure 3: GAME NO. 376 - 4.0

A. The actual number of tickets in the game may be increased or decreased at the sole discretion of the Texas Lottery.

5.0 End of the Instant Game. The Executive Director may, at any time, announce a closing date (end date) for the Instant Game No. 376 without advance notice, at which point no further tickets in that game may be sold.

6.0 Governing Law. In purchasing an Instant Game ticket, the player agrees to comply with, and abide by, these Game Procedures for Instant Game No. 376, the State Lottery Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 466), applicable rules adopted by the Texas Lottery pursuant to the State Lottery Act and referenced in 16 TAC, Chapter 401, and all final decisions of the Executive Director.

TRD-200304338

Kimberly L. Kiplin

General Counsel

Texas Lottery Commission

Filed: July 17, 2003


Manufactured Housing Division

Notice of Administrative Hearing

Wednesday, August 20, 2003, 1:00 p.m.

State Office of Administrative Hearings, William P. Clements Building, 300 West 15th Street, 4th Floor, Austin, Texas

AGENDA

Administrative Hearing before an administrative law judge of the State Office of Administrative Hearings in the matter of the complaint of the Manufactured Housing Division of the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs vs. CRG Holding, LLC dba Cavco Home Center to hear alleged violations of §6B(d) and §6B(e) (currently found at §1201.256(d) of the Occupations Code), §7(j)(3) (currently found at §1201.551(a)(3) of the Occupations Code), §8(b) (currently found at §1201.455(a) of the Occupations Code), §8(d) (currently found at §1201.451 of the Occupations Code), §14(m) (currently found at §1201.361 of the Occupations Code), and §18(b) (currently found at §1201.603(a) of the Occupations Code) of the Act and §80.50(e) and §80.123(b) of the Rules by not having the consumer sign or deliver the Wind Zone notice to consumer at the time consumers agreed to purchase the home, by selling a used manufactured home without giving a written warranty that the home was habitable, by selling/negotiating to sell a home which was not situated on a licensed sales location, by selling a used manufactured home without the appropriate, timely transfer of a good and marketable title, and by selling a used manufactured home without giving the home owner a written warranty that the installation of the home was done in accordance with all standards, rules, regulations, administrative orders, and requirements of the Division.

SOAH 332-03-3863. Department MHD2003001083-DT.

Contact: Jim R. Hicks, P.O. Box 12489, Austin, Texas 78711-2489, (512) 475-3578, jhicks@tdhca.state.tx.us

TRD-200304403

Timothy K. Irvine

Executive Director

Manufactured Housing Division

Filed: July 22, 2003


Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles

Correction of Error

In the July 18, 2003, issue of the Texas Register, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles proposed amendments to 37 TAC §141.60 and §141.61. The telephone number published at the end of the notice on page 5647 is incorrect. The correct telephone number for more information is (512) 406-5458.

TRD-200304442


Public Utility Commission of Texas

Notice of Application for Certificate of Convenience and Necessity in Crane and Upton Counties, Texas

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas of an application filed on July 2, 2003, for a certificate of convenience and necessity (CCN) in Crane and Upton counties, Texas.

Docket Style and Number: Joint Application of LCRA Transmission Services Corporation and AEP Texas North Company for a CCN to add a Second 138-kV Circuit to an Existing Transmission Line in Crane and Upton Counties. Docket Number 27762.

The Application: LCRA Transmission Services Corporation (the Corporation) and AEP Texas North Company (AEP Texas North) filed an application for a CCN to construct a second 138-kV circuit on an existing transmission line stretching from the Corporation's North McCamey Switching Station to a cut-in point approximately 25 miles north of the North McCamey Switching Station. The Corporation proposes to own this circuit while AEP Texas North will operate and maintain the facilities under a multi-year agreement.

This project stretches from approximately one mile north of the City of McCamey to approximately two miles east of the City of Crane. The proposed route originates at the existing North McCamey Switching Station and extends northwest, crossing to the west side of US 385 approximately 4.0 miles northwest of the intersection of US 385 and US 67 in McCamey. The route continues into Crane County where it then crosses back to the east side of US 385 and back into Upton County. Then the route angles north around King Mountain and continues a northerly course just east of the boundary line separating Crane and Upton counties, crossing State Highway 329 approximately 2.3 miles east of its intersection with US 385 in Crane before terminating at the cut-in point.

The costs for this proposed transmission facilities project is estimated at $6,137,363.

Persons wishing to comment on the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas by August 18, 2003, by mail at P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711- 3326, or by phone at (512) 936-7120 or toll-free at 1-888-782-8477. 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. All comments should reference Docket Number 27762.

TRD-200304330

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 17, 2003


Notice of Application for Certificate of Convenience and Necessity in Crane, Crockett, and Upton Counties, Texas

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas of an application filed on July 2, 2003, for a certificate of convenience and necessity (CCN) in Crane, Crockett, and Upton counties, Texas.

Docket Style and Number: Joint Application of LCRA Transmission Services Corporation and AEP Texas North Company for a CCN to add a Second 138-kV Circuit to an Existing Transmission Line in Crane, Crockett, and Upton Counties. Docket Number 27764.

The Application: LCRA Transmission Services Corporation (the Corporation) and AEP Texas North Company (AEP Texas North) provide this notice of intent to secure a CCN to construct a second 138-kV circuit approximately 10 miles in length on an existing transmission line stretching from the Corporation's North McCamey Switching Station to the AEP Texas North Rio Pecos Substation. The Corporation proposes to own this circuit while AEP Texas North will operate and maintain the facilities under a multi-year agreement.

This project originates at the North McCamey Switching Station, located approximately one mile north of the City of McCamey and extends approximately 9.67 miles southwest to the Rio Pecos Substation. The proposed route crosses County Road 475 approximately 0.1 mile north of its intersection with US 385, continuing in a southwesterly direction. The route then crosses US 385 approximately 1.2 miles north of the intersection of US 385 and US 67 in McCamey, and continues its southwesterly path to terminate at the Rio Pecos Substation.

The costs for this proposed transmission facilities project is estimated at $4,438,050.

Persons wishing to comment on the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas by August 18, 2003, by mail at P. O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711- 3326, or by phone at (512) 936-7120 or toll-free at 1-888-782-8477. 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. All comments should reference Docket Number 27764.

TRD-200304331

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 17, 2003


Notice of Application for Relinquishment of a Service Provider Certificate of Operating Authority

On July 17, 2003, C2C Fiber, Inc. 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 60193. Applicant intends to relinquish its certificate.

The Application: Application of C2C Fiber, Inc. for an Amendment to its Service Provider Certificate of Operating Authority, Docket Number 28143.

Persons wishing to comment on the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas by mail at P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas, 78711-3326, or by phone at (512) 936-7120 or toll free at 1-888-782-8477 no later than August 6, 2003. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136 or toll free at 1-800-735-2989. All comments should reference Docket Number 28143.

TRD-200304388

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 21, 2003


Notice of Application for Waiver of Denial of Request for NXX Code

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) an application on July 21, 2003, for waiver of denial by North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) of applicant's request for NXX codes.

Docket Title and Number: Application of Fort Bend Telephone Company (FBTC) for Waiver of Denial by NANPA of NXX Code Request in the Katy Rate Center. Docket Number 28159.

The Application: A customer of FBTC, the Katy Independent School District (KISD), has requested that FBTC provide ten (10) 1000 number blocks for use with Primary Rate Interface circuits installed recently. FBTC stated that its existing telephone resources cannot satisfy its customer's specific need for blocks of 1000 sequential numbers available within the Katy Central Office and it is unable to use numbers from another switch to satisfy the customer's request. The NANPA denied FBTC's request based on practices designed to prohibit acquisition of unneeded numbering resources. FBTC asks that the Commission waive the NANPA's denial of FBTC's NXX assignment request and direct NANPA to provide FBTC the ten (10) thousands-blocks in the Katy rate center as requested.

Persons wishing 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 by phone at (512) 936-7120 or toll free at 1-888-782-8477 no later than August 11, 2003. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136 or toll-free at 1-800-735-2989. All comments should reference Docket Number 28159.

TRD-200304436

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 23, 2003


Notice of Application to Change Rates for Wholesale Transmission Service

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) of an application on July 3, 2003, for approval to change rates for wholesale transmission service.

Docket Title and Number: Application of City of Garland to Change Rates for Wholesale Transmission Service, Docket Number 28090.

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 by phone at (512) 936-7120 or toll free at 1-888-782-8477 no later than August 4, 2003. Hearing and speech- impaired individuals with text telephone (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136 or toll free at 1-800-735-2989. All comments should reference Docket Number 28090.

TRD-200304419

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 22, 2003


Notice of Application to Relinquish a Service Provider Certificate of Operating Authority

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas of an application on July 14, 2003, to relinquish 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 MidState Telecommunications to Relinquish its Service Provider Certificate of Operating Authority, Docket Number 28011 before the Public Utility Commission of 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 by phone at (512) 936-7120 or toll free at 1-888-782-8477 no later than August 6, 2003. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephone (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136 or toll free at 1-800-735-2989. All comments should reference Docket Number 28011.

TRD-200304323

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 16, 2003


Public Notice of Amendment to Interconnection Agreement

On July 15, 2003, Southwestern Bell Telephone, LP doing business as SBC Texas and Netspan Corporation doing business as Foremost Telecommunications, 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28131. 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 three 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 28131. 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 August 15, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28131.

TRD-200304325

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 16, 2003


Public Notice of Amendment to Interconnection Agreement

On July 16, 2003, Southwestern Bell Telephone, LP doing business as SBC Texas and Starlight Phone, Incorporated, 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28133. 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 three 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 28133. 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 August 18, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28133.

TRD-200304334

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 17, 2003


Public Notice of Amendment to Interconnection Agreement

On July 16, 2003, Southwestern Bell Telephone, LP doing business as SBC Texas and Spruce Communications, LP, 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28134. 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 three 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 28134. 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 August 18, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28134.

TRD-200304335

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 17, 2003


Public Notice of Amendment to Interconnection Agreement

On July 16, 2003, Southwestern Bell Telephone, LP doing business as SBC Texas and Pathway Com-Tel, Incorporate, 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28135. 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 three 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 28135. 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 August 18, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28135.

TRD-200304336

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 17, 2003


Public Notice of Amendment to Interconnection Agreement

On July 16, 2003, Southwestern Bell Telephone, LP doing business as Texas and Nextel of Texas, Incorporated, 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28136. 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 three 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 28136. 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 August 18, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28136.

TRD-200304337

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 17, 2003


Public Notice of Amendment to Interconnection Agreement

On July 17, 2003, Teleport Communications Houston, Inc. and Southwestern Bell Telephone, LP doing business as SBC Texas, 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28145. 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 three 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 28145. 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 August 19, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28145.

TRD-200304420

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 22, 2003


Public Notice of Amendment to Interconnection Agreement

On July 17, 2003, AT&T Communications of Texas, LP and Southwestern Bell Telephone, LP doing business as SBC Texas, 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28146. 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 three 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 28146. 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 August 19, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28146.

TRD-200304421

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 22, 2003


Public Notice of Amendment to Interconnection Agreement

On July 17, 2003, TCG Dallas and Southwestern Bell Telephone, LP doing business as SBC Texas, 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28147. 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 three 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 28147. 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 August 19, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28147.

TRD-200304422

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 22, 2003


Public Notice of Interconnection Agreement

On July 15, 2003, Southwestern Bell Telephone, LP doing business as SBC Texas and IntraLinc, collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval of 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28124. 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 interconnection agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application by filing three 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 28124. 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 August 15, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28124.

TRD-200304324

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 16, 2003


Public Notice of Interconnection Agreement

On July 21, 2003, Metro Teleconnect Companies, Inc. and Valor Telecommunications of Texas, LP, collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval of 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28161. 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 interconnection agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application by filing three 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 28161. 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 August 21, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28161.

TRD-200304423

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 22, 2003


Public Notice of Interconnection Agreement

On July 21, 2003, Advantage Communications, Inc. and Kerrville Telephone Company, collectively referred to as applicants, filed a joint application for approval of 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 2003) (PURA). The joint application has been designated Docket Number 28162. 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 interconnection agreement. Any interested person may file written comments on the joint application by filing three 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 28162. 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 August 21, 2003, 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 action, 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, or by phone 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 28162.

TRD-200304424

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 22, 2003


Public Notice of Workshop on Amendments to Customer Protection Rules for Retail Electric Service, §§25.471, 25.472, 25.477, 25.478, 25.485, 25.491, and 25.492

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) will hold a workshop regarding amendments to §25.471, relating to General Provisions of Customer Protection Rules; §25.472, relating to Privacy of Customer Information; §25.477, relating to Refusal of Electric Service; §25.478, relating to Credit Requirements and Deposits; §25.485, relating to Customer Access and Complaint Handling; §25.491, relating to Record Retention and Reporting Requirements; and §25.492, relating to Non-Compliance with Rules or Orders; Enforcement by the Commission on Wednesday, August 13, 2003, at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners' Hearing Room, located on the 7th floor of the William B. Travis Building, 1701 North Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701. Project Number 27084, PUC Rulemaking to Revise Customer Protection Rules, has been established for this proceeding.

The commission requests that interested parties submit recommendations on amendments to the rule language that accomplishes the following goals: ensure that the rules provide adequate and appropriate protections for retail customers, while not requiring retail electric providers (REPs) to incur unnecessary compliance costs.

Responses may be filed by submitting 16 copies to the commission's Filing Clerk, Public Utility Commission of Texas, 1701 North Congress Avenue, P.O. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326, by August 6, 2003. All responses should reference Project Number 27084. Parties are also asked to send a copy of filed documents to the project electronic mailing list at CUSTRULE@puc.state.tx.us.

Prior to the workshop the commission will make available in Central Records under Project Number 27084 an agenda for the format of the workshop. Copies of the agenda will also be available on the commission's website at www.puc.state.tx.us.

Questions concerning the workshop or this notice should be referred to Carrie Collier, Analyst-Retail Market Oversight, Electric Division, at (512) 936-7163. Hearing and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136.

TRD-200304389

Rhonda G. Dempsey

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: July 21, 2003


Office of Rural Community Affairs

Request for Proposals for Medically Underserved Community-State Matching Incentive Program

The Office of Rural Community Affairs (ORCA) is issuing a Request for Proposals ("RFP") for the Medically Underserved Community-State Matching Incentive Program. The purpose of this RFP is to provide the applicant with the information necessary to apply for matching state grant funds under the provisions of this program.

The purpose of this program is to increase the number of physicians providing primary care in medically underserved communities, particularly rural.

USE OF FUNDS: The funds can be used to establish a medical office and ancillary facilities for diagnosing and treating patients. The optimum use of funds would be for the purchase of equipment and furnishings that would establish a new practice site. The site will continue to serve the primary care needs of the community beyond the grant period, and the physician will agree to practice for a minimum of two years.

AMOUNT OF AWARDS: The funding available for support of this program during FY 2004 is $250,000. Approximately 10 projects will be funded. Under the requirements of this program the state grants funds of up to $25,000 to match the contributions by community groups to cover start-up costs for new physicians.

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS: An eligible community must be in an underserved area as determined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services or the Texas Department of Health. The community must make a commitment of $15,000 - $25,000 in contributions toward the project and contract with a physician eligible to participate in this program.

Eligible physicians include those in family/general practice, general pediatrics, general internal medicine, or general obstetrics/gynecology. The physician must be licensed to practice in the State of Texas, have completed an accredited residency program, and have contracted with the community to provide full-time primary care for at least two years. A physician who completed residency within the last ten years will be given priority consideration.

EVALUATION AND SELECTION: ORCA will prioritize the eligible communities to assure that the neediest are provided grants. The prioritization process will quantify indicators of need that may include, but are not limited to, the following: no practicing primary care physicians; only one primary care physician and a population of at least 2,000; no federally or state-funded primary care clinic; no practicing physician assistants or nurse practitioners; the participating physician will be the only physician practicing in one of the primary care specialties; a large minority population, if the participating physician is a member of the same minority group; designation by the United States Department of Health and Human Services as a primary care Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for at least the last five years; a population-to-primary care provider ratio in the top 25% of all counties in the state; poverty rates above the state average; and median family incomes at least 25% below the state average.

DEADLINE: Applications are available September 1, 2003. Completed applications are due by May 31, 2004. Announcement of the selected applicants will be made by July 31, 2004.

CONTRACT PERIOD: The budget period for applications funded under this RFP will be September 1, 2004 - August 31, 2005.

CONTACT PERSON: To obtain the application, please contact: David Darnell, Program Administrator, Office of Rural Community Affairs, P.O. Box 12877, Austin, Texas 78711, (512) 936-6701, e-mail: ddarnell@orca.state.tx.us.

TRD-200304342

Robt. J. "Sam" Tessen

Executive Director

Office of Rural Community Affairs

Filed: July 17, 2003


Request for Proposals for Rural Health Network Grant

The Office of Rural Community Affairs (Office) is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Rural Health Network Grant. This RFP serves as the program guide for this grant program.

PROGRAM PURPOSE

The purpose of the Network Grant Program is to support collaborative efforts among rural healthcare organizations and other community entities in improving access to or quality of essential healthcare and emergency medical services that meet local needs.

AWARD AMOUNT

Funds for the Network Grant is made available through the Rural Medicare Hospital Flexibility (Flex) Program. The Office will award up to $40,000 per network that has been selected for funding, but will pay for actual costs of the project up to this cap. The grant requires a 20% match of the total funds requested, which may be cash or in-kind and which may be contributed by any member of the network. If an applicant can show hardship in meeting the match, the Office may reduce or waive the matching requirement.

USE OF FUNDS

Generally, funds should be used to support staff and contractual or professional services for the development and benefit of the network. Up to $5,000 of the total grant awarded may be used for capital investment. Funds may not be used to purchase, construct, or renovate facilities, or purchase vehicles. Funds may not be used to provide direct patient care.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

All Critical Access Hospitals (CAH) in Texas are eligible to apply for funding. If not a CAH, the applicant must be a public or private, nonprofit organization located in a non-metropolitan statistical area (non-MSA), as defined by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), or in a county with a population density less than 225 persons per square mile and in city with a population of 10,000 or less. For this RFP, "rural" refers to OMB's non-MSA designation and "urban" refers to the MSA designation.

The applicant must be a member of a rural health network. For this grant program, a rural health network is defined as an organizational arrangement among healthcare organizations, providers, and other community entities that uses the shared resources of its members and specifies the goals, objectives, responsibilities, and methods by which various collaborative functions will be achieved and sustained. A network must consist of at least three separately owned, legal entities; at least one member of the network must be a designated CAH.

Horizontal networks (all members are the same type of organization) and vertical networks (members are different types of organizations) are eligible. Network members can be public, private, nonprofit, for-profit, rural, or urban-based or affiliated entities. However, for-profit and urban-based or affiliated entities are not eligible to receive funding as the applicant organization. Only CAHs and rural, nonprofit organizations are eligible to receive funding. The applicant is responsible for managing the direction of the funded project; controlling the planning, administrative, and financial management processes; and hiring staff, if needed.

Networks may cross county boundaries or other political jurisdictions. The proposed project or program of each network, however, must involve a rural rational service area. Network members must enter into a memorandum of agreement or other collaborative agreement.

APPLICATION DEADLINE Applications must be received by the Office by close of business day (5:00 P.M., CST) August 15, 2003 to be considered for funding

PROGRAM CONTACT

To obtain the RFP and application, please contact:

Quang Ngo

CAH/Flex Program Coordinator

Office of Rural Community Affairs

1700 North Congress, Suite 220

E-mail: qngo@orca.state.tx.us

Or visit our website: www.orca.state.tx.us

TRD-200304341

Robt. J. "Sam" Tessen

Executive Director

Office of Rural Community Affairs

Filed: July 17, 2003


Office of the Secretary of State

Notice of Availability of the Texas State Plan

On August 1, 2003, the Secretary of State made available for public inspection the Preliminary State Plan for the State of Texas. The State Plan outlines how Texas will comply with the requirements of the federal Help America Vote Act of 2002, and how it will use grants from the federal government to achieve this goal. The Preliminary State Plan was developed with the guidance of the HAVA Advisory Committee, comprised of voter advocates, election officials and other interested stakeholders. The HAVA advisory committee met three times to discuss the plan and take public testimony. Interested individuals or groups may access a copy of the Preliminary State Plan on the Texas Secretary of State's website at www.sos.state.tx.us or by contacting Shameika Center in the Elections Division of the Office of the Secretary of State at (800) 252-8683. A 30-day comment period is provided, which will expire on August 31, 2003. Any comments must be submitted, in writing, to the Elections Division no later than August 31, 2003. Comments can be submitted to Shameika Center at scenter@sos.state.tx.us or by fax to (512) 475-2811.

TRD-200304441

Geoffrey S. Connor

Assistant Secretary of State

Office of the Secretary of State

Filed: July 23, 2003


Preliminary Texas State Plan (.pdf format)

TRD-200304440

Geoffrey S. Connor

Assistant Secretary of State

Office of the Secretary of State

Filed: July 23, 2003


Texas Department of Transportation

Notice of Award

In accordance with Government Code, Chapter 2254, Subchapter B, the Texas Department of Transportation publishes this notice of a consultant contract award for providing scope development and contract negotiation counsel to TxDOT's Information Systems Division. The request for proposal for Information Systems Division Outsourcing Contract Support was published in the Texas Register on April 18, 2003 (28 TexReg 3397).

The consultant will work with TxDOT's Information Systems Division to develop a detailed statement of work that defines TxDOT mainframe and production UNIX operating requirements. Further, the consultant will provide advice and guidance during contract negotiations with Northup Grumman, the operator of the West Texas Disaster Recovery and Operations Center. The work provided under this contract will provide information for the next phase of the Mainframe Location Project, which ultimately will determine whether the best interests of the state will be served by outsourcing the mainframe and production UNIX elements.

The selected consultant for these services is Allied Consultants, Inc., West Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701. The total value of the contract is $85,800.00. The contract work period started on July 25, 2003, and will continue until October 31, 2003.

TRD-200304405

Bob Jackson

Deputy General Counsel

Texas Department of Transportation

Filed: July 22, 2003


Notice of Intent--US 290 Expansion

Pursuant to 43 TAC §2.43, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is issuing this notice to advise the public that an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will be prepared for a proposed project for improvements in the US 290 corridor in Harris County, Texas. The EIS is authorized pursuant to the Texas Transportation Commission Minute Order No. 104908 issued January 26, 1995.

TxDOT, in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), is considering improvements in the US 290 corridor from IH 610 to FM 2920, a distance of approximately 38 miles (including the Hempstead Highway corridor and the connections to the IH 610 West Loop). The project is in Harris County, Texas, primarily within the city limits of Houston, although the corridor also extends into Jersey Village and the smaller communities of Cypress, Hockley, and Waller. A Major Investment Study (MIS) for the project was completed in 2003. The MIS evaluated modal and configuration alternatives for improvements within the study corridor and recommended a locally preferred multi-modal configuration to meet the corridor's transportation needs, while minimizing impacts to the surrounding environment.

The alternatives studied in the EIS will be variations of the multi-modal configurations suggested in the US 290 Corridor Major Investment Study. The proposed alternative includes general-purpose lanes, managed lanes (possibly toll), and a reserve for advanced high-capacity transit (light rail/bus rapid transit). The EIS will evaluate alternative alignments for potential impacts from construction and operation of the proposed roadway including, but not limited to, the following: transportation impacts (construction detours, construction traffic, mobility improvement and evacuation improvement), air, and noise impacts from construction equipment and operation of the facilities, water quality impacts from construction area and roadway storm water runoff, impacts to waters of the United States including wetlands from right-of-way encroachment, impacts to historic and archeological resources, impacts to floodplains, and impacts and/or potential displacements to residents and businesses.

To ensure that the full range of issues relating to this proposed action are addressed, a series of public scoping meetings will be held from 6 to 9 p.m., as follows:

August 25, 2003 at Jersey Village High School (7600 Solomon, Houston, Texas 77040)

August 26, 2003 at Wainwright Elementary School (5330 Milwee, Houston, Texas 77092)

August 27, 2003 at Ault Elementary School (21010 Maple Village Drive, Cypress, Texas 77429).

The purpose of the public scoping meetings will be to request comments and identify issues to be considered during evaluation of alignment alternatives and preparation of the EIS. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend these meetings. During the open house meetings, displays showing the project area and other project information will be presented and staff will be available to answer questions. In addition, a public hearing will be held in the future. Public notice will be given of the time and place of future public meetings and the public hearing. The Draft EIS will be available for public and agency review and comment prior to the public hearing.

Persons who have special communication or accommodation needs, and who plan to attend the public meeting are asked to call (713) 802-5071 at least two business days prior to the meeting so that accommodations may be made.

Appropriate federal, state and local agencies, and private organizations and citizens who have previously expressed or are known to have interest in this proposal will be sent letters describing the proposed action and soliciting comments.

To ensure that the full range of issues related to this proposed action are addressed and all significant issues identified, comments and suggestions are invited from all interested parties. Comments or questions concerning this proposed action and the EIS should be directed to TxDOT at the following address:

Agency Contact: Dianna Noble, P.E., Texas Department of Transportation, Environmental Affairs Division, 118 East Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas 78704; phone (512) 416-2734.

TRD-200304404

Bob Jackson

Deputy General Counsel

Texas Department of Transportation

Filed: July 22, 2003


Public Notice--Aviation

Pursuant to Transportation Code, §21.111, and Title 43, Texas Administrative Code, §30.209, the Texas Department of Transportation conducts public hearings to receive comments from interested parties concerning proposed approval of various aviation projects.

For information regarding actions and times for aviation public hearings, please go to the following web site:

http://www.dot.state.tx.us

Click on Aviation, click on Aviation Public Hearing. Or, contact Karon Wiedemann, Aviation Division, 150 East Riverside, Austin, Texas 78704, (512) 416-4520 or 1-800-68-PILOT.

TRD-200304406

Bob Jackson

Deputy General Counsel

Texas Department of Transportation

Filed: July 22, 2003