TITLE in-addition

Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation

Notice of Requests for Proposals

Notice is hereby given of Requests for Proposals by TSAHC to multifamily developers for the rehabilitation or demolition/reconstruction of affordable multifamily housing complexes in Arlington, Corpus Christi and El Paso, financed by private activity bonds (to be issued by TSAHC) and low income housing tax credits (to be issued by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs). Proposals will be due at the TSAHC offices in Austin by 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 28, 2005. The Cities have set forth specific criteria for the multifamily housing complexes in the Requests for Proposals, which can be viewed on TSAHC's Web site (www.tsahc.org) in the Multifamily Bond Programs section. Any questions about the Requests for Proposals must be E-mailed or faxed to Katherine Closmann at kclosmann@tsahc.org or 512-477-3557. All questions and responses will be posted on TSAHC's web site.

TRD-200500488

David Long

President

Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation

Filed: February 2, 2005


Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Notice of Request for Proposals

The Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), Division for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) is requesting proposals for new grant awards to begin in Fiscal Year 2005 for HHSC Regions 1, 3, 6 and 11 for projects under the Regional Specialist Program. The Specialist, under the Regional Specialist Program projects, will function as a single point of contact within the service area for all state and local service providers and organizations as well as for persons who are deaf and hard of hearing for the purpose of facilitating services. Additionally, the Specialist will be the primary contact person involved in planning of services to persons who are deaf and hard of hearing at the regional level.

Note to Applicants: The estimated funding levels in this notice do not bind DHHS to make awards or to any specific number of awards or funding levels. Awards are contingent on available funding.

Eligible Applicants: Parties eligible to apply for grants under this program are public or private agencies and organizations, including for-profit agencies and organizations, and institutions of higher education. Preference will be given to the entities that maintain an office with staff that affords a point of contact on a continuing basis.

Contact: Parties interested in submitting a proposal should contact the Division for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, P.O. Box 12904, Austin, Texas 78711, 512-407-3250 (Voice) or 512-407-3251 (TTY) or by email at doug.dittfurth@dars.state.tx.us, to obtain a complete copy of the RFP. The RFP is also available for pick-up at 4900 North Lamar, Suite 2169, Austin, Texas 78751, during normal business hours. The RFP is not available through fax. The RFP may be available on the agency website at http://www.dars.state.tx.us/business/grants.shtml

Closing Date: Proposals must be received in the Consumer Procurement Services Office, 4800 North Lamar, Suite 360, Austin, Texas 78756 no later than 5 p.m. on March 11, 2005. Proposals received after this time and date will not be considered.

Award Procedure: All proposals will be subject to evaluation by a review team using a scoring method based on the evaluation criteria set forth in the RFP. The review team will determine which proposals best meet the established criteria and will make selection recommendations for each priority to the Assistant Commissioner. Any applicant may be asked to clarify any information in their proposal, which may involve either written or oral presentations of requested information. The initial grant awards could start as early as April 1, 2005.

DHHS reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals submitted. DHHS is under no legal or other obligation to execute a grant on the basis of this notice or the distribution of a RFP. Neither this notice nor the RFP commits DHHS to pay for any costs incurred prior to the award of a grant.

TRD-200500420

Sylvia F. Hardman

Deputy Commissioner for Legal Services

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Filed: January 31, 2005


Texas Building and Procurement Commission

Request for Proposal

RFP Number: #303-5-10673

Opening Date/Time: March 4, 2005 at 3:00 PM

Description: Lease requirement for approximately 15,059 sq. ft. of Office Space in the City of Huntsville, Walker County, Texas

Agency: Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ)

Purchaser/Contact: Kenneth Ming (512) 463-2743 or through the Electronic State Business Daily at:

http://esbd.tbpc.state.tx.us/1380/bid_show.cfm?bidid=57385

TRD-200500409

Mark Gentle

Legal Counsel

Texas Building and Procurement Commission

Filed: January 28, 2005


Request for Proposal

RFP Number: #303-5-10648

Opening Date/Time: April 1, 2005 at 3:00 PM

Description: Lease requirement for approximately 4,568 sq. ft. of Office Space in Lake Worth, Tarrant County, Texas

Agency: Department of Public Safety (DPS)

Purchaser/Contact: Kenneth Ming (512) 463-2743 or through the Electronic State Business Daily at:

http://esbd.tbpc.state.tx.us/1380/bid_show.cfm?bidid=57422

TRD-200500442

Mark Gentle

Legal Counsel

Texas Building and Procurement Commission

Filed: January 31, 2005


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. Requests for federal consistency review were deemed administratively complete for the following project(s) during the period of January 21, 2005 through January 27, 2005 . 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. The notice was published on the web site on February 2, 2005 . The public comment period for these projects will close at 5:00 p.m. on March 4, 2005 .

FEDERAL AGENCY ACTIONS:

Applicant: Robert and Kathy Van Landingham

Location: The project is located at 114 and 116 Perch Street in a canal subdivision in 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: 685965; Northing: 3106375.

Project Description: The applicant proposes to construct an approximately 120-foot-long bulkhead in a residential canal subdivision and to backfill a 3,000-square-foot area (with approximately 470 yds 3 ) of canal behind it. A 5-foot-long by 50-foot-long residential pier will be constructed adjacent and parallel to the bulkhead.

CCC Project No.: 05-0109-F1

Type of Application: U.S.A.C.E. permit application #23559 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. §1344).

Note: The consistency review for this project may be conducted by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality under §401 of the Clean Water Act.

Applicant: National Energy Group, Inc

Location: The project site is located in Sabine Lake, in Texas State Mineral Lease 102334, in State Tract (ST) Number 4, just west of the Texas-Louisiana border, in Orange County, Texas. Well No. 1 can be located on the U.S.G.S. quadrangle map entitled: West of Greens Bayou, Texas-Louisiana. Approximate UTM Coordinates in NAD 27 (meters): Zone 15; Easting: 422039; Northing: 3314331. The associated flow lines will traverse ST's 4 and 8 in Sabine Lake.

Project Description: The applicant proposes to install, operate, and maintain structures and equipment necessary for oil and gas drilling, production, and transportation activities for ST-4, Well No. 1. Such activities include installation of typical marine barges and keyways, shell and gravel pads, production structures with attendant facilities, and flowlines. Plans indicate that approximately 2667 cubic yards of crushed shell or gravel would be placed on the lake bottom to support the drilling structure. Flowlines will be installed by jetting and/or trenching and will be buried 3 feet below the mud line. Water depth at the proposed project location is approximately -7 feet. Upon cessation of drilling and gathering activities, the applicant will remove all structures and attendant features.

CCC Project No.: 05-0119-F1

Type of Application: U.S.A.C.E. permit application #23634 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. §1344).

Note: The consistency review for this project may be conducted by the Texas Railroad Commission under §401 of the Clean Water Act.

Applicant: Corpus Christi LNG, L.P. and Cheniere Corpus Christi Pipeline Company

Location: The proposed liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal site is located in Corpus Christi Bay and on a tract of land on the north shore of Corpus Christi Bay, adjacent to the La Quinta Turning Basin, in Nueces and San Patricio Counties, Texas. The site can be located on the U.S.G.S. quadrangle map entitled: "Gregory, Texas." Approximate UTM Coordinates in NAD 27 (meters): Zone 14; Easting: 670250; Northing: 3085500. The proposed 23-mile-long natural gas pipeline would extend from the LNG terminal site, cross under US Route 181, continue northwest, pass south of the community of Taft, cross Chiltipin Creek, and terminate north of Sinton, in San Patricio County, Texas. The proposed natural gas pipeline route can be located on the U.S.G.S. quadrangle map entitled: "Taft, Texas."

Project Description: The applicants propose to construct and operate a new LNG import, storage, and vaporization terminal and to construct and operate a new, approximately 23-mile long, 48-inch diameter, natural gas pipeline with two 30-inch-diameter lateral pipelines, totaling 1,350 feet in length, that would transfer the imported natural gas to markets throughout Texas and the U.S. via interconnections with existing intrastate and interstate pipeline systems.

The LNG terminal would be built west of an existing alumina plant, on mostly industrial land that was formerly used for bauxite ore storage and disposal of processed bauxite residue. The LNG terminal would include a new marine basin with berths for LNG transport ships and for tug and line-handling boats, and a ship maneuvering area. Construction of the LNG terminal would require about 772 acres, including about 458 acres onshore for dredged material placement areas (DMPA's) and about 78 acres of shallow bay habitat that would be dredged to construct the marine basin. The new marine basin would be about 1,300 feet by 3,170 feet at its widest point. Two LNG docks would be capable of unloading approximately 300 ships per year. Each LNG dock would be a pile-supported, one-level, reinforced concrete beam and slab structure approximately 90 feet wide by 116 feet long. Each of the two LNG ship berths would have four breasting and six mooring structures. Access bridges would be provided to connect the breasting dolphins to the docks and to the mooring dolphins. A separate berthing area would be constructed for tug and line-handling boats used for the maneuvering and berthing of LNG ships. Hydraulic and/or mechanical dredging of the marine basin to a maximum depth of -45.0 feet mean low tide (MLT), plus 2 feet of allowable overdepth, would remove approximately 4,650,000 cubic yards (yds3 ) of material composed of mostly virgin stiff clays with interbedded sand and silty layers. The northern banks of each berth and the western end of the tug berth area would be protected against erosion by articulated block mat revetment (1,550 Linear Feet x 24 LF, or 37,300 sq. ft.), steel sheet pile bulkhead (700 LF), and rock riprap breakwaters (3,100 LF x 29 FT3/LF, or 3,300 yds 3 ). New-work dredged material will be placed in DMPA1 and DMPA2, located at the terminal site and formerly used for the disposal of processed bauxite residue and related waste from refining activities at the adjacent alumina plant. DMPA 1, an 81-acre area comprised of Bed 22 (45 acres), Bed 24 (28 acres) and the "V-ditch" (8 acres), would first be filled and capped with approximately 10 percent of the dredged material, 500,000 to 1,200,000 cubic yds., which would be primarily dredged mechanically. The remaining 90 percent of the dredged material, 3,200,000 to 3,900,000 yds 3 , would be dredged hydraulically and placed in DMPA 2, a 385-acre area. The filling and capping of Beds 22 and 24 of DMPA1 would be part of a Texas Risk Reduction Program (TRRP) closure plan due to concentrations of arsenic in the groundwater at the Bed 22 area that exceed applicable risk-based standards. Maintenance dredging of the LNG berths would be conducted on an as-needed basis, most likely in conjunction with USACE dredging of the La Quinta Channel. Based on shoaling rates projected for the federal channel, 25,000 to 40,000 cubic yds./year of shoaling could be expected. Maintenance dredged material would be placed in DMPA2.

LNG would be pumped from ships through two 30-inch LNG transfer pipelines to three land-based LNG storage tanks at the terminal. The LNG transfer pipelines would range in length from approximately 4,300 to 6,200 feet. The transfer pipelines would be placed on aboveground structural pipe racks constructed of reinforced concrete columns and steel cross members. The LNG storage tanks would be designed to store a nominal volume of 160,000 cubic meters (1,006,400 barrels) of LNG at a temperature of -270°F. A low earthen dike would surround each LNG storage tank to form the required impounding area sized to contain 110 percent of the volume of the tank. Nine in-tank pumps (three in each LNG storage tank) would deliver LNG to the highpressure sendout pumps via the boil-off gas (BOG) condenser. LNG sendout pumps would deliver LNG from the BOG condenser to each LNG vaporizer. The terminal would use single-burner submerged combustion vaporizer (SCV) units, which would use vaporized LNG for fuel. The initial source of water to be used in the SCV would be trucked into the facility. Once in operation, the SCVs would generate excess water as part of the combustion process. Each SCV has a sodium carbonate injection system to neutralize the slightly acidic water, and would produce approximately 19 gallons/minute (gpm) of fresh water at full capacity. Given that there are 15 SCVs (one reserve unit), up to 285 gpm could be produced by the facility. The SCV water would be held in a holding basin (up to 20,000 gallons) that would be located approximately 300 feet northeast of the vaporizer area. The water from the SCVs would be held up to one hour prior to being pumped into the existing raw water lake. The applicants expect that Sherwin Alumina Company would be able to utilize the full amount of SCV water produced as a result of the terminal operations. However, when the raw water lake is full, excess water would be discharged off the project site via the LNG Plant stormwater drainage system. This ditch would empty into the La Quinta Road Drainage Ditch on the west side of La Quinta Road and eventually into Corpus Christi Bay. Discharges from the vaporization facility would have a temperature of approximately 60°F and would be treated with caustic soda to neutralize or mitigate the carbonic acid present in the SCV water and raise the pH to 6.0-8.0 prior to discharge. This water would contain dissolved sodium carbonate produced through this reaction, which would increase the total dissolved solids, thus increasing the measured salinity of the discharge water over that of the untreated water. The discharge would not contain any chlorides.

The Project would be served by utilities from the public electric power system via overhead power lines operating at 138 kV. These public supply lines would be extended to the Project site, where a new substation would be installed outside the facility fence line. Potable water would be supplied to the Project by connecting to an existing line at the intersection of SH 35 and SH 361. The current water system at this location at times is low on pressure and capacity; therefore, sufficient pumping and storage tanks would be added to the potable water system to maintain pressure and capacity. The existing La Quinta Road would provide primary access to the LNG storage and vaporization site during construction and operation. An existing dirt road would be improved to provide access to the proposed administration building. A new asphalt road would be constructed parallel to the LNG transfer pipe trestle, connecting the process area to the docks. Support facilities located within the terminal would include buildings for administration, warehousing and maintenance, electrical, customs, and security.

The proposed natural gas pipeline facilities would consist of approximately 23 miles of 48-inch-diameter highpressure pipeline, extending underground from the proposed LNG terminal to north of Sinton, Texas, with two new 30-inch-diameter lateral pipelines to connect with the Channel Pipeline Company and the Florida Gas Transmission Company meter stations. The lateral pipeline to the Channel Pipeline Company would be about 950 feet long, and would branch out from the main pipeline at MP 14.6. The lateral pipeline to the Florida Gas Transmission Company would be about 400 feet long, and would branch out from the main pipeline at MP 16.5. Most of the route would cross agricultural land, following existing easements such as roads and other pipelines. Five access roads would be constructed or improved in association with the pipeline. All of the roads would be 25 feet wide, and combined would total about 4.7 miles in length. Construction of the proposed pipeline and related facilities would disturb about 406 acres, including the construction rights-of-way for the 48-inch-diameter main pipeline and 30-inch-diameter lateral pipelines, additional temporary workspaces, contractor and pipe yards, metering stations/interconnects, pig launchers and receivers, and access roads. The proposed 48-inch-diameter pipeline would cross two perennial streams, Chiltipin Creek and Oliver Creek, and eight intermittent-flowing waterbodies. The applicants propose to cross a canal at MP 10.1 by boring underneath the waterbody. All other waterbodies, including Chiltipin Creek, Oliver Creek, three intermittent stream tributaries to Chiltipin Creek, an irrigation canal, and 3 drainage ditches, would be crossed by the open cut method that would involve trenching directly across the waterbody.

IMPACTS TO AQUATIC HABITATS: Construction of the LNG terminal would temporarily impact 0.69 acre of primarily shoalgrass (Halodule wrightii) seagrass beds, 0.42 acre of black mangrove (Avicennia germinans), 0.38 acre of smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora), 0.49 acre of tidal flats sparsely vegetated (<30%) with glasswort (Salicornia spp.) and saltwort (Batis maritima), and 0.22 acre of nonvegetated tidal flats, totaling 2.20 acres. These temporarily impacted areas would be disturbed during construction, but once construction was complete, the areas would be restored to preconstruction contours and allowed to revegetate naturally.

Construction and operation of the LNG terminal would permanently impact 5.35 acres of seagrass, 1.59 acres of mangroves, 2.38 acres of smooth cordgrass, 1.13 acres of vegetated tidal flats, and 0.23 acres of non-vegetated tidal flats, for a total of 10.68 acres. In addition to direct impacts on seagrass beds within the proposed dredged footprint, adjacent seagrass beds could potentially be affected by turbidity and sedimentation created by dredging activity. It is expected that any turbidity or sedimentation impacts would be limited to within several hundred feet of dredging operations. Minimizing suspension of sediments during dredging may reduce negative impacts to seagrasses.

Eight palustrine emergent wetlands were identified within the proposed construction impact area of the natural gas pipeline. The pipeline project would temporarily impact approximately 1.356 acres of wetlands. The entire pipeline right-of-way would be restored to pre-construction contours following construction.

COMPENSATORY MITIGATION PLAN: The applicant proposes to mitigate for the temporary and permanent loss of wetlands by creating and preserving wetlands at Shamrock Island. The island is located along the eastern shoreline of Corpus Christi Bay, approximately 2 miles west of Mustang Island. The island serves as an important rookery to a number of nesting bird species, in particular, the royal tern. The applicant's mitigation plan (Attachment 1) is to construct breakwaters to create sheltered areas of potential submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) (seagrass) habitat and to preserve existing SAV habitat, marsh, tidal flats, and uplands by reducing erosion of those areas. Additionally, the breakwaters would provide submerged hard substrate.

CCC Project No.: 05-0120-F1

Type of Application: U.S.A.C.E. permit application #23561 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. §1344).

Note: The consistency review for this project may be conducted by the Texas Railroad Commission under §401 of the Clean Water Act.

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 Gwen Spriggs, Council Administrative Coordinator, Coastal Coordination Council, P.O. Box 12873, Austin, Texas 78711-2873, or gwen.spriggs@glo.state.tx.us. Comments should be sent to Ms. Spriggs at the above address or by fax at (512) 475-0680.

TRD-200500443

Larry L. Laine

Chief Clerk/Deputy Land Commissioner, General Land Office

Coastal Coordination Council

Filed: February 1, 2005


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 Sections 303.003 and 303.009, Tex. Fin. Code.

The weekly ceiling as prescribed by Sections 303.003 and 303.009 for the period of 02/07/05 - 02/13/05 is 18% for Consumer 1 /Agricultural/Commercial2 /credit thru $250,000.

The weekly ceiling as prescribed by Sections 303.003 and 303.009 for the period of 02/07/05 - 02/13/05 is 18% for Commercial over $250,000.

1 Credit for personal, family or household use.

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

TRD-200500441

Leslie L. Pettijohn

Commissioner

Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner

Filed: January 31, 2005


Office of Court Administration

Invitation for Offers

REFERENCE #212-5-0237

CLASS #918-06

The purpose of this Invitation for Offers is to solicit offers to develop performance measures for two new public defender offices being established in Bexar and Hidalgo counties through grant funds provided by the Task Force on Indigent Defense (Task Force), to provide an evaluation of each program’s progress in meeting those measures, and to provide technical assistance to each program. The consultant will also provide technical assistance and consultation related to the delivery of indigent defense services and systems as requested by the Task Force.

The contract will begin upon the issuance of a purchase by OCA and terminate upon acceptance of deliverables, but shall in no event extend beyond August 31, 2008.

The deadline for submitting a response for this procurement is at 3:00 p.m. March 14, 2005. Responses submitted shall be valid for thirty (30) days.

To receive a copy of the Invitation for Offers, contact:

Mr. James Bethke Task Force on Indigent Defense 205 West 14th Street, Suite 700 Austin, TX 78701 Phone: 512/936-6994 FAX: 512/475-3450 E-mail: jim.bethke@courts.state.tx.us

Prospective offerors should submit questions by email to Jim Bethke. All questions and answers will be posted on the Task Force’s website at www.courts.state.tx.us/tfid. Potential bidders are responsible for checking the posting to review the questions and answers.

TRD-200500485

James Bethke

Director, Task Force on Indigent Defense

Office of Court Administration

Filed: February 2, 2005


Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities

Request for Proposal

The Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD) announces the availability of funds to establish one Accessible Housing project. This project will use either the EasyLiving Homecm or a similar program that addresses the expected outcomes and meets the intent of the Request for Proposal (RFP) to promote construction of first level accessible (visitable) homes, and fits the unique characteristics of Texas including the significant cultural and geographic differences. The project will also build a broad coalition of public and private organizations who will work together to increase the number of visitable new homes built throughout the state. TCDD expects the grantee to create a voluntary certification process that recognizes and certifies builders in the state who build first level accessible homes. The project will also include an advertising-marketing component as an incentive to builders who include these features in their new home construction.

Funding of up to $200,000 per year for up to three years is available for this project. TCDD reserves the right to evaluate project activities and to award funding for an additional two years (years four and five) if successful. Funds are awarded on an annual basis with continuation funding evaluated yearly. Non-federal matching funds of at least 10% of total project costs are required for projects in federally designated poverty areas. Non-federal matching funds of at least 25% of total project costs are required for projects in other areas.

Additional information concerning this request for proposal or more information about TCDD may be obtained through TCDD's web site at http://www.txddc.state.tx.us. All questions pertaining to this RFP should be directed to Sharon Pratscher, Planning Specialist at (512) 437-5412 (voice), (512) 437-5431 (TDD), or e-mail Sharon.Pratscher@tcdd.state.tx.us.

The application packet may be obtained on TCDD's web site or request a copy in writing by U.S. mail, fax or e-mail, from Barbara Booker at the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities, 6201 East Oltorf Street, Suite 600, Austin, Texas 78741-7509; fax number (512) 437-5434; e-mail address Barbara.Booker@tcdd.state.tx.us. Applications must be requested in writing unless downloaded from the Internet.

Deadline: Two hard copies, one with the original signatures, must be submitted. All proposals must be received by TCDD not later than 4:00 PM, Central Standard Time, April 8, 2005, or, if mailed, postmarked prior to midnight on the date specified above. Proposals may be delivered by hand or mailed to TCDD's physical office at 6201 East Oltorf, Suite 600, Austin, Texas 78741-7509. Faxed proposals cannot be accepted.

TCDD also requests that applicants send an electronic copy at the same time the hard copies are submitted. Electronic copies should be addressed to Barbara.Booker@tcdd.state.tx.us.

Proposals will not be accepted after the due date.

Grant Proposers' Workshops: The Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities will conduct at least one workshop to help potential applicants understand the grant application process. In addition, answers to frequently asked questions will be posted on the web site. For more information on the Grant Proposers' Workshops and the scheduled locations, see our web site at http://www.txddc.state.tx.us.

TRD-200500375

Roger Webb

Executive Director

Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities

Filed: January 26, 2005


Texas Education Agency

Request for Early Reading Diagnostic Instruments

Description. The Texas Education Agency is notifying publishers that early reading diagnostic instruments for Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2 may be submitted for review. Texas Education Code (TEC), §28.006, authorizes the commissioner of education to develop recommendations for school districts to administer early reading instruments to diagnose student reading skill and comprehension development.

Under TEC, §28.006(b), the commissioner of education shall adopt a list of early reading instruments that school districts may use to diagnose reading skill and comprehension development. Reading instruments placed on the list must be based on scientific research, evaluate individual student reading progress and be used to determine students at risk for dyslexia or other reading difficulties. The list of reading instruments adopted under TEC, §28.006(b), must also provide for diagnosing the reading development and comprehension of students participating in a program under TEC, Chapter 29, Subchapter B (relating to bilingual education and special language programs).

Program Requirements. Since the 1998 - 1999 school year, school districts have been required to administer early reading instruments. Results from the early reading instruments are used to inform instruction and place students at risk for reading difficulties, including dyslexia, in Accelerated Reading Instruction intervention programs. Results from these early reading instruments must be reported to the commissioner of education, the local school board and the parent and/or guardian of students tested. The list of early reading instruments will be made available so that school districts and charter schools may order instruments for the 2005 - 2006 school year. The 2003 - 2004 list of instruments adopted by the commissioner in 2003 will remain in effect through both the 2004 - 2005 and the 2005 - 2006 school years. Once an instrument is selected for the commissioner's list, it will remain on the list for three years unless the approved test is no longer available from the publisher, or the publisher decides to submit an updated version of the instrument. Under these circumstances, the instrument must be resubmitted for review.

Publishers of early reading instruments that were selected for the 2003 - 2004 Commissioner's List of Early Reading Instruments do not need to resubmit tests that are currently on the list unless they want a new version of that instrument to be considered by the review panel of reading experts; however, they will be required to resubmit tests in 2006.

Due to continued budgetary limitations, a $5 per student per year cost cap remains on each complete Test Option on the 2005 - 2006 Commissioner's List of Early Reading Instruments . For example, if Option G requires two instruments in order to assess all required domains at a grade level, then the combination of those two instruments will be state funded at no more than $5 per student. For the 2005 - 2006 school year, school districts and open-enrollment charter schools will purchase early reading instruments directly from the publisher/vendor unless the test is published by the Texas Education Agency. If the cost of the Test Option exceeds the $5 per student limit established, the state will reimburse the school district or open-enrollment charter school at the limit established. The school district or open-enrollment charter school is responsible for the remainder of the cost of the Test Option.

Selection Criteria. Publishers will be responsible for submitting tests that they wish to be reviewed for consideration for inclusion on the 2005 - 2006 Commissioner's List of Early Reading Instruments . All tests submitted for review must be based on scientific research and must submit evidence of reliability and validity for assessing key reading domains and for identifying children at risk of reading failure, including the identification of children with dyslexia. Submitted evidence must demonstrate that the test meets the state criteria for reliability and validity. Instruments will be evaluated in terms of validity, reliability, cost-effectiveness and ease of administration/implementation by the classroom teacher. Consideration will also be given to the number of domains covered by the test and the number of additional tests that would need to be purchased by schools in order to cover all required domains. Reading instruments (English and Spanish) submitted for review must address at least one of the following five domains: (1) phonological awareness; (2) graphophonemic knowledge; (3) word reading; (4) oral reading accuracy; and (5) comprehension of text, as appropriate for Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2. Tests submitted for use by Reading First schools may also assess vocabulary and fluency. As in previous years, it may be necessary to use a combination of instruments to form a Test Option to assess all required domains. The criteria used to select instruments for the 2005 - 2006 school year is available through the Division of Curriculum--Statewide Initiatives at the Texas Education Agency, (512) 463-9581.

Proposals must be submitted to Dr. Linda Limón, Director, Texas Reading Initiatives, 3-121D, Texas Education Agency, 1701 North Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701 by 5:00 p.m. (Central Time), Monday, March 7, 2005, to be considered for inclusion on the 2005 - 2006 Commissioner's List of Early Reading Instruments .

TRD-200500470

Cristina De La Fuente-Valadez

Director, Policy Coordination

Texas Education Agency

Filed: February 2, 2005


Request for Grade 3 Early Reading Diagnostic Instruments for List of Grade 3 Early Reading Instruments for the 2005 - 2006 School Year

Description. The Texas Education Agency is notifying publishers that early reading diagnostic instruments for the List of Grade 3 Early Reading Instruments may be submitted for review. P.L. 107-110, Title I, Part B, Subpart 1 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, CFDA #84.357, authorizes the commissioner of education to develop recommendations for school districts to administer early reading instruments to diagnose student reading skill and comprehension development.

Under P.L. 107-110, Title I, Part B, Subpart 1 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, CFDA #84.357, the Texas Education Agency shall adopt a list of Grade 3 early reading instruments that districts and charters may use to diagnose reading skill and comprehension development. Reading instruments placed on the list must be based on scientific research, evaluate individual student reading progress and be used to determine students at risk for dyslexia or other reading difficulties. The list of reading instruments must also provide for diagnosing the reading development and comprehension of students participating in a program under Texas Education Code, Chapter 29, Subchapter B (relating to bilingual education and special language programs).

Program Requirements. Since May 2003, some district/charter schools have been required to administer Grade 3 early reading instruments. The list of early reading instruments will be made available so that school districts and charter schools may order instruments for the 2005 - 2006 school year. Once an instrument is selected for the List of Grade 3 Early Reading Instruments , it will remain on the list for three years unless the publisher decides to submit an updated version of the instrument. For example, the 2004 - 2005 List of Grade 3 Early Reading Instruments will remain in effect through both the 2005 - 2006 and the 2006 - 2007 school years. The instrument must then be resubmitted to undergo the review process.

Selection Criteria. Publishers will be responsible for submitting tests that they wish to be reviewed for consideration for inclusion on the 2005 - 2006 List of Grade 3 Early Reading Instruments . All tests submitted for review must be based on scientific research and must meet the state criteria for reliability and validity.

Publishers of instruments currently on the 2004 - 2005 List of Grade 3 Early Reading Instruments need not reapply unless their instruments have been revised and they want the new edition of that instrument to be considered for inclusion on the 2005 - 2006 List of Grade 3 Early Reading Instruments . Other publishers will be responsible for submitting tests that they wish to be reviewed for consideration for inclusion on the 2005 - 2006 List of Grade 3 Early Reading Instruments . All tests submitted for review must be based on scientific research and must submit evidence of reliability and validity for assessing key reading domains and for identifying children at risk of reading difficulties, including dyslexia. Instruments will be evaluated in terms of validity, reliability, cost-effectiveness and ease of administration/implementation by the classroom teacher. Reading instruments (English and Spanish) submitted for review must address at least one of the following five domains: (1) phonological awareness; (2) graphophonemic knowledge; (3) word reading; (4) oral reading accuracy; and (5) comprehension of text, as appropriate for Grade 3. As in previous years, it may be necessary to use a combination of instruments to form a Test Option to assess all required domains.

Proposals must be submitted to Dr. Jana Bland, Director of Texas Reading First, Texas Education Agency, 1701 North Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701 by 5:00 p.m. (Central Time), Monday, March 7, 2005, to be considered for inclusion on the List of Grade 3 Early Reading Instruments .

TRD-200500469

Cristina De La Fuente-Valadez

Director, Policy Coordination

Texas Education Agency

Filed: February 2, 2005


Request for Reading Assessments for Progress Monitoring in Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 for the 2005 - 2006 School Year

Description. The Texas Education Agency is notifying publishers that reading progress monitoring assessments may be submitted for review for the List of Recommended Reading Assessments for Progress Monitoring in Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 . P.L. 107-110, Title I, Part B, Subpart 1 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, CFDA #84.357, authorizes the Texas Education Agency to develop a list of recommended assessments to measure growth and development of reading skills of students who are at risk of reading difficulties, including dyslexia, through immediate direct systematic instructional intervention to strengthen reading skills and comprehension throughout the school year.

The reading progress monitoring instruments that will be placed on the list must be based on scientific research, evaluate individual student reading progress and be used to identify students at risk for dyslexia or other reading difficulties. The recommended list of reading progress monitoring assessments must also provide evaluation of the reading skill and comprehension development of students participating in programs under Texas Education Code, Chapter 29, Subchapter B (relating to bilingual education and special language programs).

Program Requirements. The 2005 - 2006 List of Recommended Reading Assessments for Progress Monitoring in Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 will remain in effect through both the 2006 - 2007 and the 2007 - 2008 school years. Once an instrument is selected for the List of Recommended Reading Assessments for Progress Monitoring in Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 , it will remain on the list for three years unless the publisher decides to submit an updated version of the instrument. The instrument must then be resubmitted to undergo the review process.

Publishers of progress monitoring instruments that were selected for the 2004 - 2005 List of Recommended Reading Assessments for Progress Monitoring in Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 do not need to resubmit items that are currently on the list unless they want a new version of that instrument to be considered by the review panel of reading experts.

Selection Criteria. Publishers will be responsible for submitting tests that they wish to be reviewed for consideration for inclusion on the 2005 - 2006 List of Recommended Reading Assessments for Progress Monitoring in Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 . All tests submitted for review must be based on scientific research and must meet the state criteria for reliability and validity. Publishers of instruments currently on the 2004 - 2005 List of Recommended Reading Assessments for Progress Monitoring in Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 need not reapply unless their instruments have been revised and they want the new edition of that instrument to be considered for inclusion on the 2005 - 2006 list. Other publishers desiring to be included on the list will be evaluated in terms of validity, reliability, cost-effectiveness and ease of administration/implementation by the classroom teacher. Reading instruments (English and Spanish) submitted for review must address all of the following five core components of early reading instruction: (1) phonological/phonemic awareness; (2) phonics/word recognition; (3) fluency; (4) text comprehension, and (5) vocabulary, as appropriate for Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2 and Grade 3.

Proposals must be submitted to Dr. Jana Bland, Director of Texas Reading First, Texas Education Agency, 1701 North Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701 by 5:00 p.m. (Central Time), Monday, March 7, 2005, to be considered for inclusion on the List of Recommended Reading Assessments for Progress Monitoring in Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 .

TRD-200500471

Cristina De La Fuente-Valadez

Director, Policy Coordination

Texas Education Agency

Filed: February 2, 2005


Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Enforcement Orders

A default order was entered regarding Frank Henderson dba Temple Tire Transport, Docket No. 2002-0421-MSW-E on January 28, 2005 assessing $11,000 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 Brownsville Navigation District, Docket No. 2002-0221-MWD-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $20,000 in administrative penalties.

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

An agreed order was entered regarding City of Malone, Docket No. 2003-1382-MWD-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $14,250 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Erika Fair, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-6673, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Go-Crete, Docket No. 2003-1395-PST-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $8,400 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Gitanjali Yadav, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-2029, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Mohammed Adil Aqil dba Two Way Quick Stop, Docket No. 2002-1154-PST-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $15,225 in administrative penalties with $14,625 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Benjamin DeLeon, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-6939, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

A default order was entered regarding Shanil-Tex, Inc. dba Alex's Mobil, Docket No. 2003-0856-PST-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $2,400 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Jim 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 Jeff Green, Docket No. 2003-0551-PST-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $1,800 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Sarah Utley, Staff Attorney at (210) 490-3096, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding City of Bonham, Docket No. 2003-0312-MLM-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $3,933 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Kent Heath, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-4575, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Martindale Water Supply Corporation, Docket No. 2003-1253-MLM-E on January 28, 2005 assessing $1,001 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Sarah Utley, Staff Attorney at (210) 490-3096, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding City of Detroit, Docket No. 2003-0332-MWD-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $8,250 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Carolyn Lind, Enforcement Coordinator at (903) 535-5145, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Texas Department of Transportation, Docket No. 2002-0492-PST-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $7,500 in administrative penalties with $1,500 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 Duke Energy Field Services, L.P., Docket No. 2003-1094-AIR-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $2,350 in administrative penalties with $470 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Judy Kluge, 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 Mohammad Ali Kheraj dba Value Food Store, Docket No. 2003-0375-PST-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $11,550 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Barbara Watson, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-2044, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

A default order was entered regarding Terry L. Babb, Sr. dba Twin Oaks Mobile Home Park, Docket No. 2003-1328-PWS-E on January 28, 2005 assessing $4,550 in administrative penalties.

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

An agreed order was entered regarding Tideport Petroleum, Inc., Docket No. 2003-0163-PST-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $1,250 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Benjamin DeLeon, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-6939, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding James Patrick Kral, Docket No. 2003-0480-OSI-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $750 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Sarah Utley, Staff Attorney at (210) 490-3096, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding SET Environmental, Inc., Docket No. 2003-1548-IWD-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $1,800 in administrative penalties with $360 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Christina McLaughlin, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-6589, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding North Texas Municipal Water District, Docket No. 2004-0137-AIR-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $1,395 in administrative penalties with $279 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 PWT Enterprises, Inc. dba King Kleen Car Wash, Docket No. 2004-0190-IWD-E on January 28, 2005 assessing $6,000 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 Murphy Oil USA, Inc., Docket No. 2004-0218-EAQ-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $750 in administrative penalties with $150 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Joseph Daley, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-3308, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Steve Eugene Fontenot, Sr., Docket No. 2004-0260-OSI-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $250 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Barbara Watson, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-2044, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Cliff Jackson Chambers, Docket No. 2004-0261-OSI-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $250 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Barbara Watson, Staff Attorney at (512) 239-2044, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Centex Dairy, L.L.C., Docket No. 2004-0339-AGR-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $810 in administrative penalties with $162 deferred.

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 C & I Oil Company, Inc, Docket No. 2004-0366-PST-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $500 in administrative penalties with $100 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Leila Pezeshki, Enforcement Coordinator at (210) 403-4080, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding William R. Coffey dba Moody Water System, Docket No. 2004-0368-PWS-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $5,700 in administrative penalties with $1,140 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Sherry Smith, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-0572, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Docket No. 2004-0393-AIR-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $3,300 in administrative penalties with $660 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 Sabre Communications Corporation, Docket No. 2004-0559-AIR-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $770 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Lori Thompson, Enforcement Coordinator at (903) 535-5116, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding City of San Saba, Docket No. 2004-0649-MSW-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $1,020 in administrative penalties with $204 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Harvey Wilson, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-0321, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding City of Meridian, Docket No. 2004-0666-PWS-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $735 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Cari Bing, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-1445, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding The George R. Brown Partnership, L.P., Docket No. 2004-0683-AIR-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $28,050 in administrative penalties.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Ronnie Kramer, Enforcement Coordinator at (806) 468-0512, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding Rio Grande Regional Hospital, Inc., Docket No. 2004-0737-PST-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $5,520 in administrative penalties with $1,104 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Mike 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 Douglas Utility Company, Docket No. 2004-0783-MWD-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $6,080 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 William C. Miller, Docket No. 2004-0851-OSI-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $250 in administrative penalties with $50 deferred.

Information concerning any aspect of this order may be obtained by contacting Brent Hurta, Enforcement Coordinator at (512) 239-6589, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.

An agreed order was entered regarding City of Pharr, Docket No. 2004-0819-MLM-E on January 18, 2005 assessing $3,600 in administrative penalties with $720 deferred.

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.

TRD-200500465

LaDonna Castañuela

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: February 2, 2005


Notice of District Petition

Notice mailed January 28, 2005.

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Internal Control No. 11122004-D03; The Lyman S. Reed Family Limited Partnership (Petitioner) filed a petition for creation of Galveston County Municipal Utility District No. 52 (District) with the TCEQ. The petition was filed pursuant to Article XVI, Section 59 of the Constitution of the State of Texas; Chapters 49 and 54 of the Texas Water Code; 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 293; and the procedural rules of the TCEQ. The petition states the following: (1) the Petitioner is the owner of a majority in value of the land to be included in the proposed District; (2) there are no lien holders on the property to be included in the proposed District; (3) the proposed District will contain approximately 277.49 acres located within Galveston County, Texas; and (4) the proposed District is within the corporate boundaries of the City of Texas City, Texas, and no portion of land within the proposed District is within the corporate limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction of any other city, town or village in Texas. By Resolution No. 04-98, effective August 4, 2004, the City of League City, Texas gave its consent to the creation of the proposed District. The petition further states that the proposed District will: (1) purchase, construct, acquire, maintain and operate a waterworks and sanitary sewer system for residential and commercial purposes; (2) construct, acquire, improve, extend, maintain and operate works, improvements, facilities, plants, equipment and appliances helpful or necessary to provide more adequate drainage for the property in the proposed District; and (3) control, abate and amend local storm waters or other harmful excesses of water, as more particularly described in an engineer's report filed simultaneously with the filing of the petition. According to the petition, the Petitioners have conducted a preliminary investigation to determine the cost of the project, and from the information available at the time, the cost of the project is estimated to be approximately $16,500,000.

INFORMATION SECTION

The TCEQ may grant a contested case hearing on a petition if a written hearing request is filed within 30 days after the newspaper publication of the notice. To request a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime phone number, and fax number, if any; (2) the name of the petitioner and the TCEQ Internal Control Number; (3) the statement "I/we request a contested case hearing;" (4) a brief description of how you would be affected by the petition in a way not common to the general public; and (5) the location of your property relative to the proposed district's boundaries. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the petition which would satisfy your concerns. Requests for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address provided below.

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

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

TRD-200500463

LaDonna Castañuela

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: February 2, 2005


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 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 March 11, 2005 . 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 March 11, 2005 . 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: Frank Chmielowski dba Panchos Country Store; DOCKET NUMBER: 2003- 1041-PST-E; TCEQ ID NUMBERS: 39301 and RN101432060; LOCATION: three miles north of Highway 107, Edinburgh, Hidalgo County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: convenience store with retail sales of gasoline; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b), by failing to demonstrate acceptable financial assurance for taking corrective action and for compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases arising from the operation of petroleum underground storage tanks; PENALTY: $3,150; STAFF ATTORNEY: Jeffrey Huhn, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-5111; REGIONAL OFFICE: Harlingen Regional Office, 1804 West Jefferson Avenue, Harlingen, Texas 78550-5247, (956) 425-6010.

(2) COMPANY: Leroy Kirbie, Jr.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2003-1574-OSI-E; TCEQ ID NUMBERS: OS8528 and RN103387023; LOCATION: 1340 Oakridge Road, Azle, Tarrant County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: on-site septic facility (OSSF) installer; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §30.5(a) and §285.50(e) and Texas Health and Safety Code (THSC), §366.071(c), by failing to possess a current site evaluator's license at the time he conducted preconstruction site evaluations, including visiting the site and performing a soil analysis, a site survey, or other activities necessary to determine the suitability of the site for an OSSF; and 30 TAC §30.5(b), by failing to possess a site evaluator's license prior to advertising or representing to the public that he could perform preconstruction OSSF site evaluation services; PENALTY: $500; STAFF ATTORNEY: Barbara Klein, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-1320; REGIONAL OFFICE: Dallas-Fort Worth Regional Office, 2309 Gravel Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76118-6951, (817) 588-5800.

(3) COMPANY: Shawn Horvath dba Aero Valley Water Service; DOCKET NUMBER: 2002- 0867-PWS-E; TCEQ ID NUMBERS: 0610243, 11401, and RN101198331; LOCATION: 950 Airport Road, Roanoke, Denton County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: public water supply system; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §290.109(c) and §290.122(c) and THSC, §341.033(d), by failing to collect and analyze at least one water sample per month for bacteriological analysis and to provide public notification for sampling deficiency; 30 TAC §290.121, by failing to develop and maintain a chemical and microbiological monitoring plan; 30 TAC §290.45(b)(1)(C)(ii) and THSC, §341.0315(c), by failing to provide a minimum total storage capacity of 200 gallons per connection; 30 TAC §290.45(b)(1)(C)(iii) and THSC, §341.0315(c), by failing to provide a minimum of two service pumps with a minimum pumping capacity of 2.0 gallons per minute per connection; 30 TAC §290.45(b)(1)(C)(iv) and THSC, §341.0315(c), by failing to provide a minimum pressure tank capacity of 20 gallons per minute per connection; 30 TAC §290.39(e), by failing to submit planning material; 30 TAC §290.42(e)(3), by failing to provide mechanical chlorination equipment so that continuous and effective disinfection can be secured under all conditions; 30 TAC §290.110(b)(4), by failing to maintain a minimum of 0.2 milligrams per liter free chlorine residual throughout the distribution system; 30 TAC §290.110(d)(3), by failing to possess a chlorine test kit which uses the diethyl-P-phenylenediamine method to determine the chlorine residual; 30 TAC §290.110(c)(5)(A), by failing to perform chlorine residual tests at least once every seven days; 30 TAC §290.46(h), by failing to maintain on hand a supply of calcium hypochlorite disinfectant; 30 TAC §290.41(c)(3)(O) and §290.43(e), by failing to enclose all facilities in an intruder-resistant fence; 30 TAC §290.44(d)(4), by failing to provide accurate metering devices at each service connection to provide water usage data; 30 TAC §290.46(m)(l)(B), by failing to adopt an adequate plumbing ordinance, regulations, or a service agreement with provisions for proper enforcement to ensure that neither cross connections nor unacceptable plumbing practices are permitted; 30 TAC §290.46(j), by failing to complete a customer service inspection certification prior to providing continuous water service to new construction, on any existing service when the water purveyor has reason to believe that cross- connection or other unacceptable plumbing practices exist, or after any material improvement, correction, or addition to the private plumbing facilities; 30 TAC §290.46(f), by failing to maintain operating records; 30 TAC §290.44(h), by failing to establish a cross-connection control program; 30 TAC §290.46(1), by failing to flush all dead-end mains monthly or more frequently to maintain water quality; 30 TAC §290.46(n)(2), by failing to prepare and maintain an accurate and up-to-date map of the distribution system; 30 TAC §290.46(t), by failing to post a legible sign of the system's ownership at the facility; 30 TAC §290.46(e)(1) and THSC, §341.033, by failing to have the system under the direct supervision of an adequately certified operator; 30 TAC §290.43(c)(1) - (4); by failing to design, fabricate, erect, test, and disinfect all facilities for potable water storage in strict accordance with current American Water Works Association standards; 30 TAC §290.43(d)(2), by failing to provide all pressure tanks with pressure release devices and to provide the pressure tanks with an easily readable pressure gauge; 30 TAC §290.46(m)(1)(A), by failing to inspect the ground storage tank annually; 30 TAC §290.46(m)(1)(B), by failing to inspect the pressure tanks annually; 30 TAC §290.41(c)(3)(K), by failing to seal the wellhead with the use of gaskets or sealing compound and to provide the well with a screened casing vent; 30 TAC §290.41(c)(3)(M), by failing to provide a suitable sampling tap on the well discharge line; 30 TAC §290.41(c)(3)(N), by failing to install a flow meter on the well pump discharge line; 30 TAC §290.42(i), by failing to provide American National Standards Institute/National Sanitation Foundation certification for all chemicals used in treatment of water supplied; 30 TAC §290.46(m), by failing to initiate a maintenance program to ensure the good working condition and appearance of the system's facilities and equipment; 30 TAC §290.43(d)(3) and THSC, §341.036, by failing to equip all air compressor injection lines for pressure tanks with a filter or other device to prevent compressor lubricants and other contaminants from entering the pressure tank; 30 TAC §290.41(c)(3)(B), by failing to provide a well casing 18 inches above the elevation of the finished floor of the pump house or natural ground surface; 30 TAC §290.46(r), by failing to operate a water distribution system to provide a minimum pressure of 35 pounds per square inch throughout the distribution system; and 30 TAC §290.109(c)(3)(A)(i) and §290.122(c), by failing to collect the appropriate number of repeat bacteriological samples and to provide public notification of the sampling deficiency; PENALTY: $19,400; STAFF ATTORNEY: David Speaker, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-2548; REGIONAL OFFICE: Dallas-Fort Worth Regional Office, 2309 Gravel Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76118-6951, (817) 588-5800.

TRD-200500468

Paul C. Sarahan

Director, Litigation Division

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: February 2, 2005


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 March 11, 2005 . 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 March 11, 2005 . 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: 2 M Vest, Inc. dba Mason Fast Stop; DOCKET NUMBER: 2003-0322-PST- E; TCEQ ID NUMBERS: 0075313 and RN102821535; LOCATION: 2950 South Mason Road, Katy, Fort Bend County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: convenience store with retail sales of gasoline; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b), by failing to demonstrate financial assurance for taking corrective action and for compensating third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by accidental releases from the operation of petroleum underground storage tanks (USTs); 30 TAC §334.8(c)(4)(B) and TWC, §26.346(a), by failing to submit a UST registration and self-certification form to the TCEQ; and 30 TAC §334.8(c)(5)(A)(i) and TWC, §26.3467(a), by failing to make available a valid, current TCEQ delivery certificate before delivery of a regulated substance into the UST system; PENALTY: $600; STAFF ATTORNEY: Rebecca Nash Petty, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-3693; REGIONAL OFFICE: Houston Regional Office, 5425 Polk Avenue, Suite H, Houston, Texas 77023-1486, (713) 767-3500.

(2) COMPANY: A. Schulman, Inc.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2003-0156-IWD-E; TCEQ ID NUMBERS: 003377-000 and RN101518533; LOCATION: Thomas Street east of Farm-to-Market Road 105, Orange, Orange County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: carbon black distribution plant with a wastewater treatment facility; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §305.125(1), TCEQ Permit Number 003377-000, Effluent Limitations and Monitoring Requirements Numbers 1 and 2, and TWC, §26.121(a), by failing to comply with the permitted effluent limits; PENALTY: $21,723; STAFF ATTORNEY: Gitanjali Yadav, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-2029; REGIONAL OFFICE: Beaumont Regional Office, 3870 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas 77703-1892, (409) 898-3838.

(3) COMPANY: AGA Enterprises, Inc.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2003-1188-PST-E; TCEQ ID NUMBERS: 54159 and RN102041571; LOCATION: 7120 Interstate Highway 10, Orange, Orange County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: convenience store with retail sales of gasoline; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §334.7(d)(3), by failing to amend, update, or change registration information; 30 TAC §334.50(b)(1)(A), (b)(2)(A), and (b)(2)(A)(i)(III), and TWC, §26.3475(c), by failing to monitor the UST system for releases at least once per month, by failing to conduct the annual performance and operation reliability test on the line leak detector, and by failing to monitor the UST piping for possible releases; 30 TAC §115.245(2) and Texas Health and Safety Code (THSC), §382.085(b), by failing to successfully complete the annual pressure decay test for the Stage II vapor recovery equipment installed at the station; 30 TAC §115.246(4) and (5) and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to maintain Stage II training records at the station; 30 TAC §334.8(c)(5)(A)(iii), by failing to ensure a valid delivery certificate is posted at the station and is visible at all times; 30 TAC §§115.222(3), 115.242(4), and 334.72(2)(A), and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to detect a gasoline leak in the plus line underneath the dispenser on pump number three; 30 TAC §115.244(3) and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to conduct monthly inspections of the Stage II vapor recovery system; 30 TAC §115.242(3)(J) and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to repair inoperative Stage I dry break on the unleaded tank; and 30 TAC §334.50(d)(1)(B)(ii), by failing to reconcile inventory control records at least once every month sufficiently accurate to detect a release which equals or exceeds the sum of 1.0% of the total substance flowthrough for the month plus 130 gallons; PENALTY: $13,000; STAFF ATTORNEY: Benjamin Joseph de Leon, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-6939; REGIONAL OFFICE: Beaumont Regional Office, 3870 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas 77703-1892, (409) 898-3838.

(4) COMPANY: BASF Fina Petrochemicals LP; DOCKET NUMBER: 2003-1317-AIR-E; TCEQ ID NUMBER: JE-0843-F; LOCATION: 2700 Highway 366, Port Arthur, Jefferson County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: petrochemical plant; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §101.211(a)(1)(E) and (b)(6), and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to include the expected and actual times of scheduled startup activities at the ethylene unit on the initial and final notifications for the startup period; 30 TAC §101.20(3) and §116.115(b)(2)(G) and (c), Permit Numbers 36644/PSD-TX-903/ 007, Special Condition 1, and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to comply with the permitted limit of 5.23 pounds per hour for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the ground flare; THSC, §382.085(a), by failing to prevent unauthorized releases of VOC and hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) emissions from the emergency bypass vent; 30 TAC §101.201(a)(1)(A) and (B), and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to report emissions events within 24 hours of discovery of the events and failing to determine if the emissions events were reportable and submit notification to the regional office within 24 hours after discovery; 30 TAC §101.20(3), §116.115(b)(2)(G) and (c), Permit Numbers 36644/PSD-TX-903/N 007, Special Condition 1, and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to comply with the permitted limits for nitrogen oxides (NOx ) and carbon monoxide (CO); 30 TAC §101.201(a)(2)(G) and (H), and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to include the types of compounds and estimated total quantities for those compounds on the notification for the emissions; 30 TAC §101.201(a)(2)(H) and (b)(4) and (8), and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to include authorized emissions limits for compounds listed on the initial notifications and failing to include the agency-established facility identification number, preconstruction authorization number or rule governing the facility involved in the emissions event, and the authorized emission limits on the final notifications for the emissions; 30 TAC §101.20(3), §116.115(c), and Permit Numbers 36644/PSD-TX-903/ 007, Special Condition 1, 23, and 23A, by failing to maintain the appropriate equipment so as to minimize fugitive VOC emissions from the cooling tower and failing to repair leaks within 45 calendar days of discovery and failing to comply with the permitted limits for VOC and benzene emissions; 30 TAC §101.201(b)(4), (7), and (8), and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to include the types of compounds and estimated total quantities for NO x and CO on the final report notifications and failing to include the facility identification number; 30 TAC §§101.20(3), 111.111(a)(4)(A), and 116.115(b)(2)(G) and (c), Permit Numbers 36644/PSD-TX-903/ 007, Special Condition 1, 13C, and 20, and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to maintain compliance with visible emission limitations for gas flares and failing to maintain compliance with opacity limitations; 30 TAC §101.201(c), and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to submit final reports within 14 days of an emissions event; 30 TAC §101.211(b) and (c), and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to submit the final maintenance notifications within 14 days of the emissions events; PENALTY: $1,944,600; STAFF ATTORNEY: Paul Sarahan, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-3423; REGIONAL OFFICE: Beaumont Regional Office, 3870 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas 77703-1892, (409) 898-3838.

(5) COMPANY: Deer Creek Ranch, Inc. dba Deer Creek Water Co.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2002-0773-PWS-E; TCEQ ID NUMBERS: 2270049 and RN100822527; LOCATION: east of Ranch-to-Market Road 3238 and 6.5 miles south of State Highway 71, Travis County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: public water system; RULES VIOLATED: 30 TAC §290.118 and THSC, §341.031(a), by failing to provide water that meets the commission's secondary constituent levels for iron, chloride, sulfate, and total dissolved solids; 30 TAC §290.46(f)(2), by failing to maintain documentation of annual tank inspections for the ground storage tank and pressure tank; 30 TAC §290.46(f)(3)(E)(iv), by failing to maintain copies of customer service inspections for at least ten years; 30 TAC §290.46(n)(2), by failing to provide an accurate and up-to-date map of the distribution system; 30 TAC §290.43(c)(3), by failing to modify the overflow pipe flap valve assembly on the ground storage tank to provide no more than a 1/16-inch gap; 30 TAC §290.110(d)(3)(C)(i), by failing to use an approved method for measuring the free chlorine residual; 30 TAC §290.43(e), by failing to provide an intruder-resistant fence; 30 TAC §290.45(b)(1)(C)(i), by failing to provide a minimum well capacity of 0.6 gallons per minute per service connection; 30 TAC §290.46(u), by failing to plug abandoned public water supply wells owned by the facility; and 30 TAC §290.46(e)(4)(A), by failing to operate the facility under the direct supervision of a competent water works operator holding a class D or higher operator's certificate; PENALTY: $13,110; STAFF ATTORNEY: Lindsay Andrus, Litigation Division, MC 175, (512) 239-4761; REGIONAL OFFICE: Austin Regional Office, 1921 Cedar Bend Drive, Suite 150, Austin, Texas 78758-5336, (512) 339-2929.

TRD-200500467

Paul C. Sarahan

Director, Litigation Division

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: February 2, 2005


Notice of Water Quality Applications

The following notices were issued during the period of January 25, 2005 through February 1, 2005.

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.

BECKER UTILITY CORPORATION has applied for a new permit, proposed Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0014565001, to authorize the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 420,000 gallons per day. The facility is located east of Talley Road approximately 3.8 miles north of Potranco Road (Farm-to-Market Road 1957) and approximately 3.1 miles south of Culebra Road (Farm-to-Market Road 471) in Northwest Bexar County, Bexar County, Texas.

BILL BRILEY has applied for a new permit, proposed Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0014547001, to authorize the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 12,000 gallons per day. The facility will be located on the east side of Highway 56 approximately 3 miles north of the intersection of Highway 56 and Highway 377 in Glen Rose in Somervell County, Texas.

CITY OF CLUTE has applied for a major amendment to TPDES Permit No. 10044-001 to remove effluent limitations and monitoring requirements for total copper and total zinc. The facility is located approximately 800 feet east of the intersection of Lake Jackson Road and State Highway 288 on the north side of the Missouri Pacific Railroad in the City of Clute in Brazoria County, Texas.

DUCK HAVEN, LTD. has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 14287-001, 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 3.5 miles southeast of the City of Wellborn along Farm-to-Market Road 2154 in Brazos County, Texas.

CITY OF GARLAND which operates the City of Garland Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4), has applied for a renewal of NPDES Permit No. TXS001001, which authorizes storm water point source discharges to surface water in the state from the City of Garland MS4. The permit will be renewed as TPDES Permit No. WQ0004682000. The MS4 is located within the corporate boundary of City of Garland, in Collin, Dallas, and Rockwall Counties, Texas

CITY OF HALLETTSVILLE has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 10013-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 800,000 gallons per day. The facility is located on the bank of the Lavaca River, approximately 1,000 feet downstream from the U.S. Highways 90-A and 77 bridge across the Lavaca River in the City of Hallettsville in Lavaca County, Texas.

HANSON PIPE & PRODUCTS, INC. which operates a facility that manufactures concrete products, has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. WQ0003361000, which authorizes the discharge of process wastewater, utility wastewater, hydrostatic test water, and storm water on an intermittent and flow variable basis via Outfall 001. The facility is located at the intersection of Coletoville Road No. 1 and U.S. Highway 59, approximately five miles southwest of the City of Victoria, Victoria County, Texas.

HARRIS COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 166 has applied for a minor amendment to the Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) permit to authorize an additional interim phase at a daily average flow not to exceed 500,000 gallons per day. The existing permit authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 675,000 gallons per day. The facility is located 16,300 West Little York Road, approximately 3,000 feet west of the intersection of State Highway 6 and West Little York Road in Harris County, Texas.

CITY OF KENDLETON has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 10996-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 80,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 1,500 feet east of the intersection of Farm-to-Market Road 2219 and U.S. Highway 59, and 1,000 feet south of U.S. Highway 59 in Fort Bend County, Texas.

CITY OF NATALIA has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 11806-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 260,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 1,200 feet southwest of the City of Natalia on the west side of 6th Street in Medina County, Texas.

QUAIL VALLEY UTILITY DISTRICT has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. WQ0011046001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at an annual average flow not to exceed 4,000,000 gallons per day. The facility is located at 2939 Blue Lakes Lane, approximately 600 feet south of the terminus of Nancy Belle Lane, at the confluence of Stafford Run and Oyster Creek in Missouri City in Fort Bend County, Texas.

SAN ANTONIO RIVER AUTHORITY has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 14042-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 150,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 0.35 miles south on Loop 1604 from the intersection of Interstate Highway 10 and Loop 1604, 600 feet west of Loop 1604 in Bexar County, Texas.

SAN ANTONIO WATER SYSTEM has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 10137-004, which authorizes intermittent discharges from Mitchell Lake. Mitchell Lake has been removed from the City of San Antonio wastewater treatment system, but because it was once used as a wastewater treatment pond, discharges from Mitchell Lake are regulated. The facility is located approximately one mile south of Loop 410 and east of Pleasanton Road, south of the City of San Antonio in Bexar County, Texas.

CITY OF SMILEY has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 10574-002, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 42,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 1,250 feet west of Farm-to-Market Road 108 and 4,200 feet northwest of the intersection of U.S. Highway 87 and Farm-to-Market Road 108 in Gonzales County, Texas.

SPENCER ROAD PUBLIC UTILITY DISTRICT has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 11472-001, 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 at 14310 Spencer Road (Farm-to-Market Road 529), approximately 2,000 feet west of the intersection of Jackrabbit Road and Spencer Road, approximately 1.1 miles east of the intersection of State Highway 6 and Spencer Road, adjacent to the east bank of Horsepen Creek in Harris County, Texas.

TRAVIS COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 4 has applied for a renewal of Permit No. 13206-001, which authorizes the disposal of treated domestic wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 720,000 gallons per day via irrigation of 298.7 acres of golf course. This permit will not authorize a discharge of pollutants into waters in the State. The facility and disposal site are located approximately 5.5 miles southeast of the intersection of State Highway 71 and Farm-to-Market Road 2244 and 0.5 mile south of Barton Creek in Travis County, Texas.

CITY OF TROY has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. 11263-001, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 309,000 gallons per day. The facility is located approximately 5,500 feet north of the center of the City of Troy and lying between Interstate Highway 35 and the Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Railroad in Bell County, Texas.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY has applied for a renewal of Permit No. 12080-001, which authorizes the disposal of treated domestic wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 690,000 gallons per day via spray irrigation of 189.75 acres of adjacent grassland. This permit will not authorize a discharge of pollutants into waters in the State. The facility and disposal site are located approximately 1,000 feet east of Military Highway and 0.5 mile southeast of the Headquarters Building at Camp Bullis in Bexar County, Texas.

V&M STAR, A PARTNERSHIP WITH GENERAL AND LIMITED PARTNERS, LP, which operates a tubular goods end finishing plant, has applied for a renewal of TPDES Permit No. WQ0003787000, which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 23,000 gallons per day via Outfall 001, and process wastewater as blowdown from the cooling tower at a daily average flow not to exceed 8,000 gallons per day via Outfall 002. The facility is located at 8603 Sheldon Road, approximately 1.5 miles south of the intersection of Sheldon Road and U.S. Highway 90 in the City of Channelview, Harris County, Texas.

TRD-200500464

LaDonna Castañuela

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: February 2, 2005


Notice of Water Rights Application

Notice mailed January 28, 2005.

APPLICATION NO. 2006A; The Greater Texoma Utility Authority (GTUA) has applied for an amendment to its Water Use Permit No. 4301 (Application No. 2006) to change the use of all of the water authorized therein to municipal and industrial; to authorize an interbasin transfer of the water for diversion and use within the service areas of GTUA's customers in the adjoining Sabine River and Trinity River Basins; and to authorize the use of the bed and banks of West Prong of Sister Grove Creek and Sister Grove Creek to convey water from Lake Texoma to and through Lake Lavon for subsequent diversion by the North Texas Municipal Water District. Public meetings will be held in the basin of origin (Red River Basin) and each receiving basin (Sabine River Basin and Trinity River Basin). More information on the application and how to participate in the permitting process is given below. The application was received on April 19, 2004. Additional fees and information were received on June 15, 2004 and June 21, 2004. The Executive Director reviewed the application and determined it to be administratively complete and it was filed with the Chief Clerk of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) on June 29, 2004. The Executive Director has not completed a technical review of the application.

The TCEQ will hold public meetings to receive comments on the application for an amendment filed by the applicant, GTUA. The public meetings will consist of two parts, an Informal Discussion Period and a Formal Comment Period. During the Informal Discussion Period, the public is encouraged to ask questions of the applicant and TCEQ staff concerning the application, but comments made during the informal period will not be considered by the Commissioners before reaching a decision on the application and no formal response will be made. During the Formal Comment Period, members of the public may state their comments into the official record. The Executive Director will summarize the formal comments and prepare a written response. The written response will be considered by the Commissioners in their decision-making process and upon request will be available to the public. Public Meetings are to be held: (1) Monday, March 28, 2005 at 7:00 p.m., Grayson County Courthouse, Commissioner's Courtroom, 100 W. Houston, 1st Floor, Sherman, Texas 75090; (2) Tuesday, March 29, 2005 at 7:00 p.m., University Drive Court Facility, Central Jury Room, 1800 N. Graves, 1st Floor, McKinney, Texas 75069; and (3) Thursday, March 31, 2005 at 7:00 p.m., Hunt County Courthouse, Commissioner's Courtroom, 2500 Lee Street, 2nd Floor, Greenville, Texas 75401.

Citizens are encouraged to submit written comments anytime during the meetings or by mail before the meetings to the Office of the Chief Clerk, TCEQ, MC 105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. If you need more information, please call the TCEQ Office of Public Assistance, toll free at 1-800-687-4040.

The full text of this notice issued on January 28, 2005 is available on the web at the following address: www.tceq.state.tx.us/comm_exec/cc/cc_db.html. When entering the permit number for the search, enter: WRPERM 4301

If you do not have access to the web and would like to obtain a full copy of the notice, please contact the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address indicated below or by calling (512) 239-3315.

The TCEQ may grant a contested case hearing on this application if a written hearing request is filed within 30 days from the date of newspaper publication of this notice.

INFORMATION SECTION

A public meeting is intended for the taking of public comment, and is not a contested case hearing.

The Executive Director can consider approval of an application unless a written request for a contested case hearing is filed. To request a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime phone number, and fax number, if any: (2) applicant's name and permit number; (3) the statement "[I/we] request a contested case hearing;" and (4) a brief and specific description of how you would be affected by the application in a way not common to the general public. You may also submit any proposed conditions to the requested application which would satisfy your concerns. Requests for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing to the TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address provided in the information section below.

If a hearing request is filed, the Executive Director will not issue the requested permit and may forward the application and hearing request to the TCEQ Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting.

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

TRD-200500462

LaDonna Castañuela

Chief Clerk

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: February 2, 2005


Proposed Enforcement Orders

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 (the Code), §7.075, which requires that the commission may not approve these AOs unless the public has been provided an opportunity to submit written comments. Section 7.075 requires that notice of the proposed orders and 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 March 14, 2005 . Section 7.075 also requires that the commission promptly consider any written comments received and that the commission may withhold approval of an AO if a comment discloses facts or considerations that indicate the proposed AO is inappropriate, improper, inadequate, or inconsistent with the requirements of the Code, the Texas Health and Safety Code (THSC), and/or the Texas Clean Air Act (the Act). Additional notice is not required if changes to an AO 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 C, 1st Floor, Austin, Texas 78753, (512) 239-1864 and at the applicable regional office listed as follows. Written comments about an AO should be sent to the enforcement coordinator designated for each AO at the commission's central office at P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087 and must be received by 5:00 p.m. on March 14, 2005 . Written comments may also be sent by facsimile machine to the enforcement coordinator at (512) 239-2550. The commission enforcement coordinators are available to discuss the AOs and/or the comment procedure at the listed phone numbers; however, §7.075 provides that comments on the AOs should be submitted to the commission in writing .

(1) COMPANY: Adan R. Ocampo dba Adam Auto Service; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-1599-PST-E; IDENTIFIER: Petroleum Storage Tank (PST) Identification Number 62180, Regulated Entity Identification Number (RN) 101573566; LOCATION: Euless, Tarrant County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: convenience store with retail sales of gasoline; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b), by failing to demonstrate acceptable financial assurance; PENALTY: $2,910; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Harvey Wilson, (512) 239-0321; REGIONAL OFFICE: 2301 Gravel Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76118-6951, (817) 588-5800.

(2) COMPANY: Cal Farley's Girlstown USA; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-1165-PST-E; IDENTIFIER: PST Registration Number 69624, RN102343191; LOCATION: Whiteface, Cochran County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: nonprofit home for girls; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §334.50(d)(1)(B)(ii) and the Code, §26.3475(c), by failing to reconcile inventory control records; and 30 TAC §290.51(a)(3) and the Code, §5.702, by failing to pay a public health service fee for Fiscal Year 2003; PENALTY: $2,000; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: David Van Soest, (512) 239-0468; REGIONAL OFFICE: 4630 50th Street, Suite 600, Lubbock, Texas 79414-3520, (806) 796-7092.

(3) COMPANY: Davis Iron Works Operations, Limited; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-0479-PST-E; IDENTIFIER: PST Identification Number 37848, RN102370046; LOCATION: Hewitt, McLennan County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: fleet refueling center; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §334.50(a)(1)(A), (b)(1)(A) and (2)(B)(i)(I), (d)(1)(B)(ii) and (iii)(I), and the Code, §26.3475(a) and (c)(1), by failing to provide release detection and by failing to have each separate suction line tested; PENALTY: $3,200; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Lori Thompson, (903) 535-5100; REGIONAL OFFICE: 6801 Sanger Avenue, Suite 2500, Waco, Texas 76710-7826, (254) 751-0335.

(4) COMPANY: Duke Energy Field Services, L.P.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2003-0176-AIR-E; IDENTIFIER: Air Account Number PE0051N, RN100226695; LOCATION: Fort Stockton, Pecos County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: natural gas compressor station; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §106.512(2)(C)(ii) and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to maintain records of the quarterly testing requirement for oxides of nitrogen and carbon monoxide; PENALTY: $1,040; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Tel Croston, (512) 239-5717; REGIONAL OFFICE: 3300 North A Street, Building 4, Suite 107, Midland, Texas 79705-5404, (915) 570-1359.

(5) COMPANY: Hobas Pipe USA, LP dba Hobas Pipe USA, Inc.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-1425-AIR-E; IDENTIFIER: Air Account Number HG1531T, Federal Operating Permit Number O-01015, RN102540812; LOCATION: Houston, Harris County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: plastic pipe manufacturing; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §122.146(2) and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to submit their annual compliance certification; 30 TAC §116.116(a)(1) and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to represent the particulate matter omissions resulting from the calcium carbonate unloading activities; and 30 TAC §§122.121, 122.503(a)(1), and 122.516(a)(2), and THSC, §382.054, by failing to submit a Title V site operating permit; PENALTY: $11,312; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Catherine Albrecht, (713) 767-3500; REGIONAL OFFICE: 5425 Polk Avenue, Suite H, Houston, Texas 77023-1486, (713) 767-3500.

(6) COMPANY: Kinder Morgan Production Company LP; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-0333-AIR-E; IDENTIFIER: Air Account Number SG0029C, RN102170966; LOCATION: Snyder, Scurry County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: natural gas processing; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §101.201(a)(1)(B) and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to report 63 reportable emission events; 30 TAC §116.115(b)(2)(F) and §122.143(4), Federal Operating Permit Number 514, Permit 48978 Emission Sources Maximum Allowable Emission Rate Table, and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to contain their emissions below the emission sources maximum allowable emission rates for permit number 48978; 30 TAC §122.145(2)(A) and (C), Operating Permit Number O-0220, and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to report deviations; 30 TAC §116.115(c), Operating Permit Number O-0220, Voluntary Emissions Reduction Permit Number 48798, and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to have pilot flare monitoring on flares and by failing to implement the diffusion fugitive monitoring program; and 30 TAC §106.512(2)(C)(iii), Operating Permit Number O-0220, and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to permit initial emission testing of compressor engineer 6A; PENALTY: $259,258; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Craig Fleming, (512) 239-5806; REGIONAL OFFICE: 1977 Industrial Boulevard, Abilene, Texas 79602-7833, (915) 698-9674.

(7) COMPANY: Kraft Food Global, Inc.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-1166-AIR-E; IDENTIFIER: Air Account Number HG0478P, RN100214931; LOCATION: Houston, Harris County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: coffee processing; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §101.359 and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to submit the 2002 annual compliance report; and 30 TAC §101.352(b) and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to hold a quantity of allowances in its compliance account; PENALTY: $1,664; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Kimberly Morales, (713) 767-3500; REGIONAL OFFICE: 5425 Polk Avenue, Suite H, Houston, Texas 77023-1486, (713) 767-3500.

(8) COMPANY: Lower Colorado River Authority; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-1494-EAQ-E; IDENTIFIER: Edwards Aquifer Protection Program Number 11-01121403, RN102769544; LOCATION: near Austin, Williamson County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: construction project; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §213.4(a)(1), (b)(2)(D), and (k), by failing to have approved modifications prior to commencing construction and by failing to comply with an approved Edwards Aquifer protection plan; PENALTY: $16,200; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Cari Bing, (512) 239-1445; REGIONAL OFFICE: 1921 Cedar Bend Drive, Suite 150, Austin, Texas 78758-5336, (512) 339-2929.

(9) COMPANY: Mex-Pak-U.S.A., Inc. dba Shop and Save Food Store; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-1174-PST-E; IDENTIFIER: PST Facility Identification Number 57107, RN101790319; LOCATION: Laredo, Webb County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: convenience store with retail sales of gasoline; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b), by failing to demonstrate acceptable financial assurance; PENALTY: $2,400; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Chris Friesenhahn, (210) 490-3096; REGIONAL OFFICE: 1804 West Jefferson Avenue, Harlingen, Texas 78550-5247, (956) 425-6010.

(10) COMPANY: Dwain Modisette dba Mobile Tractor Repair; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-1552-MSW-E; IDENTIFIER: RN104297957; LOCATION: Lufkin, Angelina County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: tractor repair; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §324.4 and THSC, §371.041, by failing to properly dispose of used oil; PENALTY: $150; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Mac Vilas, (512) 239-2557; REGIONAL OFFICE: 4630 50th Street, Suite 600, Lubbock, Texas 79414-3520, (806) 796-7092.

(11) COMPANY: Roger Beasley Imports, Inc. dba Mazda South; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-1913-PST-E; IDENTIFIER: PST Facility Identification Number 51500, RN100676451; LOCATION: Austin, Travis County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: retail sale of automobiles with repair and fueling; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b), by failing to demonstrate acceptable financial assurance; PENALTY: $1,050; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Howard Willoughby, (361) 825-3100; REGIONAL OFFICE: 1921 Cedar Bend Drive, Suite 150, Austin, Texas 78758-5336, (512) 339-2929.

(12) COMPANY: Tab Lonestar Holding Inc. dba Super Stop 14; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-1923-PST-E; IDENTIFIER: PST Facility Identification Number 40091, RN102383064; LOCATION: Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: convenience store with retail sales of gasoline; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §37.815(a) and (b), by failing to demonstrate acceptable financial assurance; PENALTY: $950; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Daniel Siringi, (409) 898-3838; REGIONAL OFFICE: 3870 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas 77703-1892, (409) 898-3838.

(13) COMPANY: City of Thrall; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-0263-MLM-E; IDENTIFIER: Public Water Supply (PWS) Number 2460015, RN101388171; LOCATION: Thrall, Williamson County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: public water supply; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §290.46(e)(3)(C), (f)(3)(A)(i), (i), (m)(1), (n)(2), and (v), by failing to obtain the services of a C groundwater licensed operator, by failing to document chlorine usage, by failing to adopt a plumbing ordinance or have service agreements, by failing to have annual tank inspection records, by failing to have a water system distribution map, and by failing to install the well's wiring in conduit; 30 TAC §288.20(a), by failing to have a drought contingency plan available; 30 TAC §290.44(h)(1)(A), by failing to have a backflow prevention device installed at the car wash; 30 TAC §290.110(d)(3), by failing to have a diethyl-p-phenylenediamine chlorine kit; and 30 TAC §290.43(c)(4), by failing to provide water level indicators for the storage tanks; PENALTY: $3,268; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Kent Heath, (512) 239-4575; REGIONAL OFFICE: 1921 Cedar Bend Drive, Suite 150, Austin, Texas 78758-5336, (512) 339-2929.

(14) COMPANY: Thomas Minaldi dba Timberlane Water System, Inc.; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-0542-PWS-E; IDENTIFIER: PWS Number 2020054, RN101182624; LOCATION: Hemphill, Sabine County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: surface water treatment; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §290.109(c)(1)(A) and §290.110(b)(4) and (c), by failing to adequately chlorinate the water, monitor chlorine residuals, and take bacteriological samples in the distribution system; 30 TAC §290.43(c)(2), by failing to provide the 20,000-gallon ground storage tank with a roof access opening; and 30 TAC §290.45(b)(1)(B)(i) and (iv), by failing to meet the agency's minimum water system capacity requirements; PENALTY: $998; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Joseph Daley, (512) 239-3308; REGIONAL OFFICE: 3870 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas 77703-1892, (409) 898-3838.

(15) COMPANY: Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corporation; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-0029-AIR-E; IDENTIFIER: Air Account Number WF0065A, RN100222728; LOCATION: El Campo, Wharton County, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: natural gas compressor station; RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §116.115(b)(2)(F) and (c), Permit Number 53758, and THSC, §382.085(b), by failing to demonstrate compliance with the applicable emission standards; PENALTY: $3,600; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Audra Ruble, (361) 825-3100; REGIONAL OFFICE: 5425 Polk Avenue, Suite H, Houston, Texas 77023-1486, (713) 767-3500.

(16) COMPANY: Valor Telecommunications of Texas, LP; DOCKET NUMBER: 2004-1668-PST-E; IDENTIFIER: PST Facility Identification Numbers 33489, 33496, 50145; RN101910990, RN101895522, RN101794477; LOCATION: Brownfield, Littlefield, and Lubbock; Terry, Lamb, and Lubbock Counties, Texas; TYPE OF FACILITY: telecommunication centers equipped with emergency generators with associated underground storage tanks (USTs); RULE VIOLATED: 30 TAC §334.8(c)(5)(A)(i) and (B)(ii), by failing to make available to a common carrier a valid, current delivery certificate and by failing to submit the UST registration and self-certification form; PENALTY: $3,700; ENFORCEMENT COORDINATOR: Ruben Soto, (512) 239-4571; REGIONAL OFFICE: 4630 50th Street, Suite 600, Lubbock, Texas 79414-3520, (806) 796-7092.

TRD-200500445

Paul C. Sarahan

Director, Litigation Division

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Filed: February 1, 2005


General Land Office

Notice of Approval of Coastal Boundary Survey

Pursuant to §33.136 of the Texas Natural Resources Code, notice is hereby given that Jerry Patterson, Commissioner of the General Land Office, approved a coastal boundary survey, submitted by Sidney Bouse, Licensed State Land surveyor, conducted November 12, 2004, locating the following shoreline boundary:

Survey in Brazoria County, a portion of the Texas Gulf Coast shoreline including portions of the Stephen F. Austin Survey 1/3 League, Abstract No. 28 and the John G. McNeel Survey, Abstract No. 335.

For a copy of this survey or more information on this matter, contact Ben Thomson, Director of the Survey Division, Texas General Land Office by phone at (512) 463-5212, e-mail ben.thomson@glo.state.tx.us, or fax (512) 463-5098.

TRD-200500419

Larry L. Laine

Chief Clerk, Deputy Land Commissioner

General Land Office

Filed: January 31, 2005


Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Notice of Intent to Amend Consulting Contract

The Health and Human Services Commission ("HHSC") currently contracts with International Biometric Group ("IBG") to provide independent evaluation and related services in the Front-End Authentication and Fraud Prevention System Pilot Project. This project seeks to (1) reduce the number of Medicaid fraud cases arising from authentication fraud and abuse; (2) reduce the total amount of Medicaid expenditures by generating substantial, measurable, and sustainable cost saving for taxpayers; (3) reduce the number of fraudulent participants in the Medicaid Program; and (4) comply with the requirements of House Bill 2292 relating to the implementation of this Pilot Project. Under the terms of the contract, IBG has acted as HHSC's Independent Evaluation Vendor for this Pilot Project.

The term of the original contract between HHSC and IBG commenced on January 27, 2004, and extends through March 31, 2005.

As required by the provisions of Texas Government Code, Chapter 2254, prior to amending its contract with IBG, HHSC extends this invitation to qualified and experienced consultants interested in providing the consulting services described in this notice. Unless a better offer (as determined by HHSC) is received from another vendor in response to this notice, HHSC intends to enter into negotiations with IBG to amend its consulting services contract, and to extend the term through November 30, 2005.

Scope of Work/Offer Specifications:

IBG acts as HHSC's Independent Evaluation Vendor for the Front-End Authentication and Fraud Precention System Pilot Project, which utilizes biometric identification technology to verify Medicaid recipients' identities.

As the Independent Evaluation Vendor for the Pilot Project, IBG (1) provides continuous evaluation and verification of operations and performance of the selected Pilot Project Vendors' solutions; (2) analyzes, evaluates, and provides routine reporting on Pilot Project activities and performance; (3) IBG alerts appropriate HHSC staff on any issues, deviations or potential problems with the Pilot Project; and (4) provides recommendations for corrective actions.

More detailed information regarding the Scope of Work Statement and specifications for submitting offers are available for review by potential interested consultants. Parties interested in reviewing the Scope of Work or submitting a competing offer should contact HHSC's sole point of contact regarding this notice, Ms. Sherry McCulley, Health and Human Services Commission, 909 West 45th Street, Austin, Texas 78751, Sherry.McCulley@hhsc.state.tx.us. Additional information will be placed on HHSC's website at http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/about_hhsc/BusOpp/BO_opportunities.html

Finding of Fact:

HHSC has submitted a request to the Governor's Office of Budget, Planning, and Policy for a finding of fact that the requested consulting services are necessary. Execution of a contract or an amendment to the current contract is contingent upon receipt of such a finding.

Criteria for Selection:

HHSC intends to negotiate an amendment to its contract with IBG unless it receives a better offer for the desired services. HHSC will make its selection based on demonstrated competence, knowledge and qualifications, considering the reasonableness of the proposed fees for services.

How To Respond; Submittal Deadline:

All offers must be received no later than 5:00 pm, Central Time, on March 7, 2005. Submissions received after the deadline will not be considered. Offers must be submitted to HHSC's sole point of contact listed above.

Questions:

Questions concerning this invitation and all offers in response to this notice should be submitted in writing or by email and directed to HHSC's sole point of contact listed above.

HHSC reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals submitted. HHSC is under no legal or other obligation to execute any contracts on the basis of this notice. HHSC will not pay for any costs incurred by any entity in responding to this notice.

TRD-200500486

Carey E. Smith

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: February 2, 2005


Notice of Intent to Amend Consulting Contract

The Health and Human Services Commission ("HHSC") currently contracts with MTG Management Consultants, L.L.C. ("MTG") to provide project management and related services in the Front-End Authentication and Fraud Prevention System Pilot Project. This project seeks to (1) reduce the number of Medicaid fraud cases arising from authentication fraud and abuse; (2) reduce the total amount of Medicaid expenditures by generating substantial, measurable, and sustainable cost saving for taxpayers; (3) reduce the number of fraudulent participants in the Medicaid Program; and (4) comply with the requirements of House Bill 2292 relating to the implementation of this Pilot Project. Under the terms of the contract, MTG has acted as HHSC's Project Management Vendor for this Pilot Project.

The term of the original contract between HHSC and MTG commenced on November 3, 2003, and extends through March 31, 2005.

As required by the provisions of Texas Government Code, Chapter 2254, prior to amending its contract with MTG, HHSC extends this invitation to qualified and experienced consultants interested in providing the consulting services described in this notice. Unless a better offer (as determined by HHSC) is received from another vendor in response to this notice, HHSC intends to enter into negotiations with MTG to amend its consulting services contract, and to extend the term through November 30, 2005.

Scope of Work/Offer Specifications:

MTG acts as HHSC's Project Management Vendor for the Front-End Authentication and Fraud Precention System Pilot Project, which utilizes biometric identification technology to verify Medicaid recipients' identities.

As the Project Management Vendor for the Pilot Project, MTG provides continuous project management and oversight of the Pilot Program, including operational, quality assistance (QA) and general support. MTG provides oversight of Pilot Project Vendors' performance and progress towards project milestones and it coordinates, collects and transmits Pilot Vendor data.

More detailed information regarding the Scope of Work Statement and specifications for submitting offers are available for review by potential interested consultants. Parties interested in reviewing the Scope of Work or submitting a competing offer should contact HHSC's sole point of contact regarding this notice, Ms. Sherry McCulley, Health and Human Services Commission, 909 West 45th Street, Austin, Texas 78751, Sherry.McCulley@hhsc.state.tx.us. Additional information will be placed on HHSC's website at http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/about_hhsc/BusOpp/BO_opportunities.html

Finding of Fact:

HHSC has submitted a request to the Governor's Office of Budget, Planning, and Policy for a finding of fact that the requested consulting services are necessary. Execution of a contract or an amendment to the current contract is contingent upon receipt of such a finding.

Criteria for Selection:

HHSC intends to negotiate an amendment to its contract with MTG unless it receives a better offer for the desired services. HHSC will make its selection based on demonstrated competence, knowledge and qualifications, considering the reasonableness of the proposed fees for services.

How To Respond; Submittal Deadline:

All offers must be received no later than 5:00 pm, Central Time, on March 7, 2005. Submissions received after the deadline will not be considered. Offers must be submitted to HHSC's sole point of contact listed above.

Questions:

Questions concerning this invitation and all offers in response to this notice should be submitted in writing or by email and directed to HHSC's sole point of contact listed above.

HHSC reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals submitted. HHSC is under no legal or other obligation to execute any contracts on the basis of this notice. HHSC will not pay for any costs incurred by any entity in responding to this notice.

TRD-200500487

Carey E. Smith

General Counsel

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Filed: February 2, 2005


Department of State Health Services

Licensing Actions for Radioactive Materials

TRD-200500483

Cathy Campbell

Director, Legal Services

Department of State Health Services

Filed: February 2, 2005


Notice of Agreed Order with Central Testing Company, Inc.

On January 28, 2005, the Radiation Program Officer, Department of State Health Services (department), approved the settlement agreement between the department and Central Testing Company, Inc. (licensee-Reciprocity) of Sulphur, Louisiana. A total administrative penalty in the amount of $2,000 was assessed the licensee for violations of 25 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 289. Of the total administrative penalty, $1,000 will be probated for a period of one year, and will be forgiven if the registrant complies with additional settlement agreement requirements.

A copy of all relevant material is available, by appointment, for public inspection at the Department of State Health Services, 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-200500481

Cathy Campbell

Director, Legal Services

Department of State Health Services

Filed: February 2, 2005


Notice of Default Order Against Weslaco Radiology Center, Inc.

On January 31, 2005, the Radiation Program Officer, Department of State Health Services (department), signed a Default Order against Weslaco Radiology Center, Inc. (registrant - M00290) of McAllen. A total administrative penalty in the amount of $10,000 was assessed registrant for violations of 25 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 289.

A copy of all relevant material is available, by appointment, for public inspection at the Department of State Health Services, 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-200500482

Cathy Campbell

Director, Legal Services

Department of State Health Services

Filed: February 2, 2005


Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Notice of Availability and Request for Comments

PROPOSED SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT FOR NATURAL RESOURCE DAMAGES RELATED TO THE SULFURIC ACID RELEASE INTO THE TEXAS CITY SHIP CHANNEL, GALVESTON COUNTY, TEXAS

AGENCIES: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the Texas General Land Office (TGLO), (collectively, the Trustees).

ACTION: Notice of availability of a proposed Settlement Agreement for Natural Resource Damages related to the Martin Product Sales LLP ("Martin") sulfuric acid release and of a 30-day period for public comment on the Agreement beginning the date of publication of this notice.

SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that the Trustees propose a Settlement Agreement to compensate for natural resource injuries and ecological service losses attributable to the release of hazardous substances into the navigable waters of the Texas City Ship Channel in the Texas City Harbor in Galveston Bay, Galveston County, Texas ("Incident"). The proposed Agreement calls for the responsible party to provide $178,000 to the Trustees to be used for a restoration project or projects in the Galveston Bay system that will provide natural resource services equivalent to those injured or lost as a result of the Incident.

The opportunity for public review and comment on the proposed Settlement Agreement announced in this notice is required under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), 42 United States Code (U.S.C.) §9622(i) and parallel provisions in 43 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.) §11.32(c) of the Natural Resource Damage Assessment regulations.

ADDRESSES: A copy of this proposed Settlement Agreement may be obtained by contacting: Don Pitts, Trustee Program, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, Texas 78744, Phone: (512) 912-7151, e-mail: don.pitts@tpwd.state.tx.us.

DATES: Comments must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the publication of this notice to Don Pitts of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at the address listed in the previous paragraph. The Natural Resource Trustees will consider all written comments received during the comment period prior to finalizing the proposed Settlement Agreement.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On November 3, 2003, a barge owned and operated by Echo Towing and carrying concentrated sulfuric acid owned by Martin capsized at the Sterling Chemicals Terminal and began leaking concentrated sulfuric acid into the navigable waters of the Texas City Channel ("Channel") in Texas City Harbor in Galveston Bay, Galveston County, Texas. Information available to the Trustees, Martin and the United States Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") indicated that the barge was carrying approximately 235,000 gallons of concentrated sulfuric acid.

The United States Coast Guard, EPA, TCEQ, TGLO, TPWD, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service responded to the threat of a large release of sulfuric acid into the navigable waters of the Channel. The leaking barge was righted. However, on November 5, 2003, during attempts to stabilize the barge, the barge again rolled over on its side. During the response, the structural integrity of the barge continued to degrade showing signs of bulging and heating. Because sulfuric acid reacts violently with water, producing heat and hydrogen gas, the resulting potential for explosion posed an imminent and substantial endangerment to the public health, welfare and the environment which dictated that gradual offloading or regulated discharge attempts be abandoned. Consequently, the remaining sulfuric acid was released directly into the Channel.

TPWD, TCEQ, and TGLO are designated natural resource trustees under Section 107(f) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. §9607(f); Section 311 of the Federal Water Pollution and Control Act (FWPCA), 33 U.S.C. §1321; and other applicable federal or state laws, including Subpart G of the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (NCP), 40 C.F.R. §§300.600 - 300.615. The Trustees are authorized to act on behalf of the public under these authorities to assess and restore natural resources injured or lost as a result of discharges or releases of hazardous substances into the environment.

The Natural Resource Trustees have determined that resources subject to their trust authority under these Acts were exposed to sulfuric acid and low pH waters as a result of the release. The quantity and concentration of the material released was sufficient to result in the mortality of aquatic organisms. Consequently the Trustees are seeking the restoration of coastal aquatic resources and services lost as a result of the Incident.

Natural resources and associated services identified as lost, injured, and/or interrupted by the Incident were determined from the results of a Type A Assessment Model for Coastal and Marine Environments and include sub-tidal, unvegetated soft-bottom benthic habitats, benthic organisms and demersal and mid-water column fish and shellfish in the Channel.

The Trustees and Martin have reviewed all of the available data and restoration scaling completed by the Trustees, and agreed to settle natural resource liability for injuries that resulted from the incident. Martin has agreed to pay $178,000.00 to the Trustees for the construction of a restoration project or projects in the Galveston Bay system that will provide natural resource services equivalent to those injured or lost as a result of the Incident. The Trustees will prepare and notice a Restoration Plan prior to the implementation of restoration actions.

For further information contact: Don Pitts at (512) 912-7151, fax: (512) 912-7160, e-mail: don.pitts@tpwd.state.tx.us.

TRD-200500415

Gene McCarty

Chief of Staff

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Filed: January 28, 2005


Texas Board of Professional Engineers

Policy Advisory Stakeholder Request EAOR #11--Environmental Document Preparation

The Texas Board of Professional Engineers (Board) is given authority to issue advisory opinions under Subchapter M, Chapter 1001 of the Occupations Code (Texas Engineering Practice Act). The Board is required to issue an advisory opinion about interpretations of the Texas Engineering Practice Act in regard to a specific existing or hypothetical factual situation if requested by a person and to respond to that request within 180 days.

Pursuant to that requirement, the Board hereby notifies potential stakeholders that it has received an advisory opinion request regarding environmental document preparation. More specifically, the request asks for an opinion analyzing the engineering elements of, and the engineering supervision required for, environmental document preparation, particularly in relation to transportation projects. Examples of these documents include, but are not limited to, environmental assessments, environmental impact statements, environmental information reports, and other similar documents. Due to the nature of the request, we expect to have input from those agencies or companies that work on transportation projects (i.e. Texas Department of Transportation) and others that may have interest in this topic. The Board has developed a stakeholder process to gather information from professional engineers, and consultants and other interested parties. The policy advisory will be written with consideration given to stakeholder comments. This notice is intended to generate a list of possible stakeholders and to initiate public comment. The Board plans to schedule a stakeholder meeting near the end of February, or early in March 2005. Please let us know of any preferences you may have concerning the scheduling of the Stakeholder meeting. All comments and stakeholder information should be directed to:

Texas Board of Professional Engineers

1917 IH 35 South

Austin, Texas 78741

Attention: Policy Advisory Staff

Or by e-mail to: peboard@tbpe.state.tx.us

TRD-200500480

Dale Beebe Farrow, P.E.

Executive Director

Texas Board of Professional Engineers

Filed: February 2, 2005


Public Utility Commission of Texas

Notice of Application for Amendment to Certificated Service Area Boundary

Notice is given to the public of an application filed on January 27, 2005, with the Public Utility Commission of Texas, for an amendment to a certificated service area boundary.

Docket Style and Number: Application of Southwestern Bell Telephone, L.P., doing business as SBC Texas, to Amend Certificate of Convenience and Necessity to Modify the Service Area Boundaries of the Lampasas Exchange (SBC Texas) and the Burnet Exchange (Verizon). Docket Number 30703.

The Application: SBC Texas' request will realign the service area boundaries between its Lampasas Exchange and the Burnet Exchange of Verizon Southwest in order for SBC Texas to provide local exchange telephone service to a customer who is currently without local telephone service in an area for which Verizon does not have nearby facilities.

Persons wishing to comment on the action sought or intervene should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas by February 18, 2005, 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 30703.

TRD-200500448

Adriana A. Gonzales

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: February 1, 2005


Notice of Application for Certificate of Convenience and Necessity for a Proposed Transmission Line in Brazoria County, Texas

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (commission) an application on January 28, 2005, for a certificate of convenience and necessity for a proposed transmission line in Brazoria County, Texas

Docket Style and Number: Application of CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric, LLC for a Certificate of Convenience and Necessity for a Proposed Transmission Line within Brazoria County, Texas. Docket Number 30617.

The Application: The proposed project is designated as the 69 kV Service to Freeport LNG's Quintana (QNTANA) Substation. CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric, LLC (CNP) proposes to construct a new 69 kV double circuit transmission line in southeast Brazoria County, Texas to serve a new customer, Freeport LNG Development, L.P. This application includes facilities subject to the Coastal Management Program and must be consistent with the Coastal Management Program goals and policies.

Persons wishing to intervene or 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. The deadline for intervention in this proceeding is March 14, 2005. 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 30617.

TRD-200500450

Adriana A. Gonzales

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: February 1, 2005


Notice of Application for 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 January 28, 2005, for a service provider certificate of operating authority (SPCOA), pursuant to Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA) §§54.151 - 54.156. A summary of the application follows.

Docket Title and Number: Application of PNG Telecommunications, Inc. for a Service Provider Certificate of Operating Authority, Docket Number 30704 before the Public Utility Commission of Texas.

Applicant intends to provide plain old telephone service, ADSL, ISDN, HDSL, SDSL, RADSL, VDSL, T1-Private Line, Switch 56 KBPS, Frame Relay, Fractional T1, long distance and wireless services.

Applicant's requested SPCOA geographic area includes the entire State 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 February 16, 2005. 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 30704.

TRD-200500447

Adriana A. Gonzales

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: February 1, 2005


Notice of Application for 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 January 28, 2005, for a service provider certificate of operating authority (SPCOA), pursuant to Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA) §§54.151 - 54.156. A summary of the application follows.

Docket Title and Number: Application of Tel West Network Services Corporation for a Service Provider Certificate of Operating Authority, Docket Number 30705 before the Public Utility Commission of Texas.

Applicant intends to provide plain old telephone service, ADSL, ISDL, HDSL, SDSL, VDSL, Optical Services, T1-Private Line, Switch 56 KBPS, Frame Relay, Fractional T1, long distance and wireless services.

Applicant's requested SPCOA geographic area includes the area of Texas currently served by SBC Texas and Verizon SW.

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 February 16, 2005. 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 30705.

TRD-200500446

Adriana A. Gonzales

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: February 1, 2005


Notice of Application to Amend Certificated Service Area Boundaries

Notice is given to the public of the filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas of an application filed on January 18, 2005, for an amendment to certificated service area boundaries.

Docket Style and Number: Application of CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric, LLC (CenterPoint Energy) and Entergy Gulf States, Incorporated (EGSI) for a Certificate of Convenience and Necessity for Service Area Boundaries within Montgomery County, Texas. Docket Number 30692.

The Application: The proposed boundary amendment will add approximately 73.7 acres to the service territory of CenterPoint Energy and approximately 88.7 acres to the service territory of EGSI, resulting in a net loss of 15 acres to CenterPoint Energy. The transfer will not affect electric service to any existing customer because the proposed line would reflect the utility currently serving the area. CenterPoint Energy and EGSI are the only utilities that are affected by the proposed boundary change and both have agreed to the proposed amendment.

Persons wishing to comment on the action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas no later than February 18, 2005, 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 30692.

TRD-200500449

Adriana A. Gonzales

Rules Coordinator

Public Utility Commission of Texas

Filed: February 1, 2005


Texas Department of Transportation

Notice of Request for Proposal

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) announces a Request for Proposal (RFP) for intercity bus mobility projects funded through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) §5311(f) intercity bus program. It is anticipated that multiple projects will be selected. Project selection will be administered by the Public Transportation Division (PTN). Selected projects will be awarded in the form of grants, with payments made for allowable reimbursable expenses or for defined deliverables. The proposer will become a subrecipient of TxDOT.

Purpose : The RFP invites proposals for services to develop, promote, or support intercity bus mobility. The objectives for these proposals are to support the connection between nonurbanized areas and the larger regional or national system of intercity bus service, to support services to meet the intercity travel needs of residents in nonurbanized areas, or to support the infrastructure of the intercity bus network through planning, marketing assistance, and capital investment in facilities. In the process of meeting these objectives, projects are also to support and promote the coordination of public transportation services across geographies, jurisdictions, and program areas. Coordination between nonurbanized and urbanized areas and between client transportation services and other types of public transportation are particular objectives.

Eligible Projects : Eligible types of projects have been defined by TxDOT in accordance with FTA guidelines, other laws and regulations, and in consultation with members of the public transportation and the intercity bus industries. These include projects for facilities, vehicle capital, planning, marketing, and operating assistance.

Eligible Applicants : Proposers shall be required to enter into a grant agreement as a subrecipient of TxDOT. Eligible subrecipients include state agencies, local public bodies and agencies thereof, private-nonprofit organizations, operators of public transportation services, and private for-profit operators.

Availability of Funds : In accordance with the Transportation Code, Chapter 455, TxDOT currently provides funding for intercity bus mobility projects, funded through FTA §5311(f) intercity bus program. Upon full reauthorization of the Federal transit appropriations bill, the total amount available is expected to be $1.3 million dollars.

Work Package : All proposals must demonstrate how they address intercity bus mobility needs. To aid proposers in documenting these needs and developing proposals in response, TxDOT has prepared a work package of intercity bus inventory data, demographics, and thematic maps. The work package is available on the PTN website at http://www.dot.state.tx.us/ptn/geninfo.htm. The work package represents the best available data compiled with professional judgment. Data are derived from multiple sources, some of which are known to be incomplete and inaccurate. Part of the reason for publishing this work package is to provide the intercity bus industry with an opportunity to evaluate the accuracy of this compiled data, propose projects to improve or extend the inventories, and to note discrepancies and suggest corrections. Documentation of needs must be based on the TxDOT work package unless an alternative source of data can be demonstrated to be superior.

Review and Award Criteria : Proposals will be evaluated against a matrix of criteria and then prioritized. Subject to available funding, TxDOT is placing no preconditions on the number or on the types of projects to be selected for funding. During the evaluation phase of each proposal, TxDOT reserves the right to conduct formal negotiations pertaining to a proposer’s initial responses, specifications, and prices. There will be a $150,000 maximum award for each project. In multiple year projects, only the first year funding will be limited to $150,000. An approximate balance in funding awarded to the five types of projects, or an approximate geographic balance to selected projects, may be seen as appropriate, depending on the proposals that are received. TxDOT may consider these additional criteria when recommending prioritized projects to the Texas Transportation Commission.

Key Dates and Deadlines :

March 1, 2005 Written questions for the proposal are due at PTN.

March 15, 2005 Written responses to questions posted on PTN web site and mailed to all firms who submitted questions.

April 4, 2005 Deadline for receipt of proposals.

May 13, 2005 Target date for TxDOT to complete the evaluation, prioritization, and negotiation of proposals.

June 30, 2005 Presentation of project selection recommendations to the Texas Transportation Commission for its action.

August 1, 2005 Target date for all project grant agreements to be executed, with approved scopes of work and calendars of work.

To Obtain a Copy of the RFP : The RFP will be posted on the Public Transportation Division web site at http://www.dot.state.tx.us/ptn/geninfo.htm. Proposers with questions relating to the RFP should contact Susan Hausmann at shausman@dot.state.tx.us, or by phone at (512) 416-2833.

TRD-200500466

Bob Jackson

Deputy General Counsel

Texas Department Of Transportation

Filed: February 2, 2005


Record of Decision--Eastern Extension of the President George Bush Turnpike (PGBT)

The following Record of Decision for the Eastern Extension of the President George Bush Turnpike (PGBT) project was signed by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on January 24, 2005. The project is being developed jointly with the FHWA, Texas Department of Transportation and North Texas Tollway Authority.

A. Decision

Based on the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and Final Section 4(f) Evaluation, Alternative #EIS-1 is the selected alternative for the construction of Eastern Extension of the President George Bush Turnpike (PGBT).

The purpose and need for the Eastern Extension of the PGBT is to address the region’s rapid growth, transportation demand, and the needs for mobility, system linkages, economic development, and intermodal connections. The selected alternative, Alternative #EIS-1, best meets the purpose and need for the project. It would be most compatible with local comprehensive plans, have greater economic benefits, have less impact on planned community facilities, attract the largest predicted traffic volumes, impact the fewest noise receivers, and has the support of local government and communities. The selected alternative is a new location controlled access tollway from SH 78 to IH 30, a distance of approximately 10 miles. Improvements include a new six-lane tollway with a directional interchange at IH 30. In addition, there will be full access interchanges at SH 78, Northeast Parkway, and the proposed Merritt/Liberty Grove Connector, and partial or split diamond configuration interchanges at Miles Road, Merritt Road, SH 66, Main Street, Miller Road, and the proposed Entertainment District. To maintain local access and provide opportunities for economic development, potential frontage roads would be included between SH 78 and Northeast Parkway, Miles Road and Merritt Road, and Liberty Grove to the proposed Entertainment District.

B. Alternatives Considered

During the Major Investment Study (MIS), a No-Build, Transportation Systems Management/Congestion Management System Alternative, and six freeway/tollway options were studied. Based on the MIS and input from the agencies and public, two tollway alternatives and the No-Build Alternative were analyzed in the FEIS. Chapter 2.0- Alternatives Analysis of the FEIS describes the alternatives and Chapter 8.0- Preferred Alternative discusses the process used to identify the preferred alternative.

The No-Build alternative would be to not construct Eastern Extension of the PGBT. It would include implementation of programmed improvements, or projects that are listed in the regional plan and have funding dedicated for their construction. The No-Build Alternative serves as the baseline for comparison against the reasonable build alternatives. Because this alternative does not satisfy the purpose and need, it was eliminated from further consideration.

Alternative #EIS-1 begins at the intersection of SH 78 and Northeast Parkway and follows Northeast Parkway for approximately 0.5 miles in a southeasterly direction. It turns northeast to cross Old Miles Road and continues for approximately two miles to intersect with Merritt Road. It begins to curve in a southeast direction for approximately two miles to intersect with Liberty Grove. It then follows Liberty Grove south to the intersection of Liberty Grove and SH 66 and continues south on Kirby Road toward Lake Ray Hubbard. It then crosses Lake Ray Hubbard, extending toward the southern part of the peninsula, to intersect with IH 30 in the vicinity of Peninsula Way. The length is 9.9 miles.

Alternative #EIS-2 begins at the intersection of SH 78 and Northeast Parkway and follows Northeast Parkway for approximately 0.5 miles in a southeasterly direction. It turns northeast to intersect with Old Miles Road. It then extends southeast for approximately two miles, crossing Castle Road and Hickox Road, to intersect with Liberty Grove. It follows Liberty Grove south to the intersection of Liberty Grove and SH 66 and continues south, along the west side of Kirby Road toward Lake Ray Hubbard. The alignment crosses Lake Ray Hubbard, extending toward the southern part of the peninsula, to intersect with IH 30 in the vicinity of Zion Road. The length is 9.5 miles.

Three public meetings were held from September 2000 to March 2001 to gather public input on the alternatives being considered. In addition to the public meetings, project newsletters were published, project information was placed at public libraries and websites, and numerous public presentations were made. Also, the project’s Community Work Group met four times and Staff Work Group met 13 times. A public hearing was held on June 24, 2003. Details of the public and agency involvement process can be found in Chapter 6.0- Public and Agency Involvement.

During the evaluation of the alternatives, implicit community and agency values relative to social, economic, and environmental factors were clearly articulated in the decision-making process. Based on these values, the following determinations were made: 1) provide to the greatest extent possible opportunities and access for economic development and 2) minimize visual and noise impacts to the greatest extent possible. In response to the Draft EIS, 101 written statements from agencies, individuals, and organizations, 32 verbal statements, 12 resolutions, and two petitions were received. The majority of comments were related to the choice of an alignment. Of the comments received related to the alignment, 70 supported Alternative #EIS-1, four supported Alternative #EIS-2, six supported the project but no specific alternative, and two preferred the No-Build Alternative.

Because mitigation strategies and the net results would be the same, the differences between the two alternatives are small and are generally a function of the length of the alternatives. Alternative #EIS-1 would be most compatible with local comprehensive plans, have greater economic benefits, have less impact on planned community facilities, attract the largest predicted traffic volumes, impact the fewest noise receivers, and has the support of local government and communities. Most of the other environmental impacts for the two alternatives are comparable, although Alternative #EIS-1 is longer and therefore would require more land, and impact more floodplain and waters of the U.S. It would also displace more residents in the area, especially apartment tenants. Alternative #EIS-2 is the environmentally preferred alternative because it would impact less land, wetlands, biological resources, and would displace few residences. However, as stated in Section A., Alternative #EIS-1 was identified as best meeting the purpose and need for the project.

Based on the information contained in the DEIS, public and agency comments, and resolutions of support from local governments, the FEIS identified Alternative #EIS-1 as the preferred alternative for the Eastern Extension of the PGBT.

Alternative #EIS-1 would have a direct impact on the Coyle House Farmstead, a property eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). A mitigation plan has been executed to preserve the Coyle House Farmstead offsite (please see Section C). Although Alternative #EIS-2 avoids a direct taking of the Coyle House Farmstead, there are unique problems involved in the use of that alternative. Alternative #EIS-2 would foster new development pressure, indirectly eroding the integrity of the setting from which the Coyle House derives much of its local significance and ultimately resulting in the re-development of the farmstead.

The design concept and scope of the proposed action is consistent with the area’s financially constrained Metropolitan Transportation Plan, known as Mobility 2025- 2004 Update and the fiscal year 2004-2006 Transportation Improvement Program found to conform to the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) on April 8, 2004. Additionally, the project comes from an operational Congestion Management System that meets all requirements of 23 Code of Federal Regulations- Highways, Parts 450 and 500.

C. Section 4(f) Evaluation

The Section 4(f) evaluation is included in Chapter 5- Section 4(f) Evaluation of the FEIS. As discussed in Section B., Alternative #EIS-1 would have a direct impact on the Coyle House Farmstead. A Section 4(f) Statement was prepared and concluded there are no feasible and prudent alternatives to the use of land from the Coyle House Farmstead. Other alignment alternatives were investigated and found to have social, economic, and environmental impacts that reach extraordinary magnitudes. An alignment farther to west is severely constrained by the presence of Herfurth Park [a Section 4(f) and 6(f) resource], the Rowlett Central Business District, and dense residential and commercial areas; an alignment farther to the east would encounter major land use and environmental constraints, as well as Section 4(f) lands in Pecan Grove Park and Elgin B. Robertson Park. Therefore, there are no feasible and prudent alternatives to the use of the Coyle House Farmstead.

Alternative #EIS-1 includes all possible planning to minimize harm to the Coyle House Farmstead. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA), and the City of Rowlett have executed a Mitigation Agreement that mitigates the adverse effects to the Coyle property resulting from the proposed undertaking by removing it from its present location to a new site in Pecan Grove Park. This Mitigation Agreement is included in Appendix G of the FEIS. Alternative #EIS-1 is a feasible and prudent alternative with the least harm on the Coyle House Farmstead after considering mitigation.

Based upon these considerations, there are no feasible and prudent alternatives to the use of land from the Coyle House Farmstead. The proposed action includes all possible planning to minimize harm to the Coyle House Farmstead that would result from such use. The Final Section 4(f) Evaluation was approved in conjunction with the FEIS that was approved on October 25, 2004.

D. Measures to Minimize Harm

Design and construction of Eastern Extension of the PGBT will include all practicable measures to minimize harm to the environment. The following are measures to minimize harm and are contained in Chapter 8.0- Preferred Alternative of the FEIS.

Noise barriers were determined to be both feasible and reasonable in four residential locations for Alternative #EIS-1. Any subsequent project design changes may require a reevaluation of this proposal. The final decision to construct the proposed noise barriers will be made upon completion of the project design and the public involvement process.

Project engineers will ensure that Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and local floodplain regulations are followed through the design and construction phases of the project. NTTA will cooperate with local floodplain administrators and local approvals will be obtained to ensure that no flood issues are created by the proposed project. Additionally, all necessary permits will be obtained prior to placement of fill/structures or excavation within floodplain areas. During final design, a detailed hydraulic analysis will be performed. Project engineers will submit the hydraulic data to FEMA for its review and acceptance.

It is estimated that Alternative #EIS-1 would impact 27 separate waters of the U.S. for a total of over 50 acres. Many of these impacts will be temporary, which means after construction the areas would be returned to pre-construction contours and re-vegetated. However, many of the impacts to waters of the U.S. would be permanent. All impacts to waters of the U.S. would be permitted through the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), which may require mitigation for some or all of the impacts. Mitigation for these impacts is typically at a 1:1 ratio if there is land available on-site and in-kind. The specific acreage, location, and type of waters of the US. mitigation will be developed during the Section 404 permitting process with the USACE. Coordination with the USACE has been initiated and will be completed when the specific type and amount of impacts to waters of the U.S. are known. The larger stream crossings will be spanned, both for floodplain hydraulics and to reduce impacts to waters of the U.S.

Two areas have been identified for on-site, in-kind mitigation. The final mitigation plan may utilize one of these two areas or a combination of the two areas. At the proposed site near Muddy Creek, mitigation would likely consist of restoration and enhancement of the streams and ponds, widening of the existing wooded areas along the riparian corridors, and enhancement of the adjacent upland areas with native vegetation plantings. At the proposed site near the IH 30 interchange, mitigation would involve the restoration and future preservation of an existing concrete-lined stream channel, which would be returned to a more natural state through removal of the concrete, channel modifications, adjacent grading, and planting of native vegetation.

Prior to initiation of final design, NTTA will have further discussions with Dallas Water Utilities on obtaining a construction easement across Lake Ray Hubbard, water quality, and lake safety. Additionally, further discussions will be conducted with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) to resolve the policy issues of at-grade crossings of the DART-owned Union Pacific Railroad.

All filling and grading activities would comply with the Texas Pollution Discharge Elimination System General Permit Number TXR150000, under provisions of Section 402 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) and Chapter 26 of the Texas Water Code. Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be used to control sediments and suspended solids in stormwater discharges from roadway projects and right-of-ways. Existing vegetation will be preserved wherever possible. Both temporary and permanent erosion and sedimentation control measures would be used. Disturbed areas would be restored and stabilized as required by the permit. An environmental soil and groundwater management plan will be developed during the design stage and included in the construction plans.

The project would comply with Section 401 water quality certification as required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). A Tier II individual review would be required. The design and construction would include construction and post-construction BMPs to manage stormwater runoff and control sediments. Additionally, the project traverses Lake Ray Hubbard, which is within five miles upstream of a threatened or impaired water segment. Therefore, the project would be coordinated with TCEQ in accordance with a TxDOT-TCEQ Memorandum of Understanding for threatened or impaired stream segments designated under Section 303 (d) of the CWA.

Mitigation of impacts to waters of the U.S. along Alternative #EIS-1 will be addressed during the Section 404 permitting process. Accordingly, a great deal of the impacted wooded areas, which comprise a total of 53 acres, will also be mitigated through the Section 404 process. However, those wooded areas that are not mitigated through the Section 404 permit process will be mitigated consistent with NTTA and TxDOT policy, which typically calls for replacement at a 1:1 ratio. There will be room to replant over 100 acres of upland trees and shrubs within the project right-of-way near the proposed mainlane toll plaza and at the IH 30 interchange. These areas should afford adequate mitigation for those wooded areas that are not mitigated through the Section 404 process. Trees and shrubs to be planted will likely consist of bare-root seedlings, except where larger trees are desired for non-ecological reasons.

Coordination with USFWS and TPWD will continue to ensure that adequate measures are adopted to reduce or eliminate the potential for effects to listed species. While clearing from March through August cannot be excluded in entirety from potential construction schedules, any areas to be cleared between March and August would be surveyed by qualified biologists for signs of nesting activity in an effort to reduce the possibility of impacts to species covered under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

As previously mentioned, the Coyle House and its outbuildings will be relocated. A Mitigation Agreement has been executed to mitigate the adverse effects resulting from the proposed undertaking. Documentation in the form of photographs, written data, and a site plan will be prepared. The house will be properly moved to a publicly accessible site within Pecan Grove Park.

Archeological resources with potential for listing in the NRHP would be affected. As yet, no formal eligibility determinations have been made for these sites. Some of the archeological sites identified in the original reconnaissance were recommended for further investigation at a future date. TxDOT made a commitment with Texas Historical Commission (THC) to complete all archeological responsibilities required under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act when access to the properties in the right-of-way is acquired. TxDOT has made a commitment with the THC to complete all archeological responsibilities under Section 106, when full access to the right-of-way is acquired.

The results of the database searches, historical aerial photograph review, and field survey of hazardous materials indicated there are two regulated material sites that could be impacted by right-of-way acquisition and/or construction of the project. However, given the level of detail of existing maps of the sites, it is not possible to discern which, if any, sites will be directly impacted at this time. These sites consist of landfills associated with municipal disposition of waste and leaking petroleum storage tanks associated with small petroleum fuel and oil facilities. The location(s) and type(s) of possible contamination connected with the landfills is unknown. As part of the right-of-way acquisition process, further testing will be conducted through a Phase II site assessment and if required, appropriate mitigation/monitoring and waste relocation plans will be implemented.

The visual analysis indicated that the project would introduce new visual elements within suburban and rural settings but the alignment has been depressed in several areas to help minimize visual impacts. All lighting sources would be indirect, diffused, or covered by shielded fixtures, and would be installed to reduce glare and the consequent interference with boundary streets and adjacent properties. However, visual impacts could occur at four areas- three residential areas and recreational users on Lake Ray Hubbard. Screening vegetation is proposed at the three residential areas. This mitigation could be part of the Section 404 mitigation for wooded areas. Because the proposed tollway would be on a bridge over Lake Ray Hubbard, visual screening is not possible; however, the design of the bridge as well as the landscaping would conform to NTTA’s current System-Wide Design Guidelines, or as amended . Final mitigation treatments for visual impacts will be developed during final design through discussions with affected cities.

E. Monitoring or Enforcement

All commitments and conditions of approval stated in the FEIS (Chapter 8.0- Preferred Alternative) will be monitored by the NTTA, TxDOT, and other appropriate State, Federal, and local agencies to ensure compliance.

F. Comments on the FEIS

Comments from 11 individuals were received on the FEIS during the comment period. The comments were related to noise, visual impacts, specific property impacts, property value, access, secondary and cumulative effects, and agency review. Responses to comments are provided in Appendix A.

G. Conclusion

Based on the analysis and evaluation contained in the project’s FEIS and Final Section 4(f) Evaluation and after careful consideration of all the social, economic, and environmental factors and input from the public involvement process, it is my decision to adopt Alternative #EIS-1 as the proposed action for the project.

Signed on January 24, 2005 by Salvador Deocampo, P.E., District Engineer, Texas Division, Federal Highway Administration

Appendix A : Table, Comments, and Response to Comments

TRD-200500421

Bob Jackson

Deputy General Counsel

Texas Department of Transportation

Filed: January 31, 2005


Texas Water Development Board

Applications Received

Pursuant to the Texas Water Code, Section 6.195, the Texas Water Development Board provides notice of the following applications received by the Board:

City of Alpine, 100 North 13th Street, Alpine, Texas, 79830, received December 29, 2004, application for financial assistance in the amount of $4,860,000 from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund-Disadvantaged Community Program.

City of Alvord, P. O. Box 63, Alvord, Texas, 76225-0063, received December 17, 2004, application for financial assistance in the amount of $360,000 from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund.

City of Aransas Pass, 600 West Cleveland, P.O. Box 2000, Aransas Pass, Texas, 78335-2000, received January 21, 2005, application for financial assistance in the amount of $1,115,000 from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund.

City of Clarksville, P.O. Box 1209, Gladewater, Texas, 75647-1209, received September 21, 2004, application for financial assistance in the amount of $1,530,000 from the Texas Water Development Funds.

City of Bovina, 205 North Street, Bovina, Texas, 79009, received November 16, 2004, application for financial assistance in the amount of $1,750,000 from the Texas Water Development Funds.

Lumberton Municipal Utility District, P. O. Box 8065, 55 West Chance, Lumberton, Texas, 77657, received December 31, 2004, application for financial assistance in the amount of $8,765,000 from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund.

City of Manvel, P.O. Box 187, 6615 FM 1128, Manvel, Texas, 77578, received February 17, 2004, application for financial assistance in the amount of $2,000,000 from the Texas Water Development Funds.

Lower Colorado River Authority, P.O. Box 220 Austin, Texas, 78767-0220, received November 18, 2004, application for financial assistance in an amount not to exceed $30,000 from the Research and Planning Fund.

Colorado River Municipal Water District, 400 East 24th Street, Big Spring, Texas, 79721-0869, received November 18, 2004, application for financial assistance in an amount not to exceed $150,000 from the Research and Planning Fund.

City of Fort Worth, P.O. Box 870, Fort Worth, Texas, 76101-0870, received November 18, 2004, application for financial assistance in an amount not to exceed $213,611 from the Research and Planning Fund.

Chisholm Trail Special Utility District, P.O. Box 249, Florence, Texas, 76527, received November 18, 2004, application for financial assistance in an amount not to exceed $62,000 from the Research and Planning Fund.

TRD-200500484

Jonathan Steinberg

Deputy Counsel

Texas Water Development Board

Filed: February 2, 2005


Texas Workers' Compensation Commission

Invitation to Apply to the Medical Advisory Committee (MAC)

The Texas Workers' Compensation Commission seeks to have a diverse representation on the MAC and invites qualified individuals from all regions of Texas to apply for openings on the MAC in accordance with the eligibility requirements of the Procedures and Standards for the Medical Advisory Committee . The Medical Review Division is currently accepting applications for the following Medical Advisory Committee representative vacancies:

Primary

* Public Health Care Facility

Alternate

* Public Health Care Facility

* Dentist

* Pharmacist

* Podiatrist

* Employer

* Employee

* General Public Representative 1

* General Public Representative 2

Commissioners for the Texas Workers' Compensation Commission appoint the Medical Advisory Committee members who are composed of 18 primary and 18 alternate members representing health care providers, employees, employers, insurance carriers, and the general public. Primary members are required to attend all Medical Advisory Committee meetings, subcommittee meetings, and work group meetings to which they are appointed. The alternate member may attend all meetings, however during a primary member's absence, the alternate member must attend meetings to which the primary member is appointed. Requirements and responsibilities of members are established in the Procedures and Standards for the Medical Advisory Committee as adopted by the Commission.

The Medical Advisory Committee meetings must be held at least quarterly each fiscal year during regular Commission working hours. Members are not reimbursed for travel, per diem, or other expenses associated with Committee activities and meetings. Voluntary service on the Medical Advisory Committee is greatly appreciated by the TWCC Commissioners and the TWCC Staff.

The purpose and task of the Medical Advisory Committee, which includes advising the Commission's Medical Review Division on the development and administration of medical policies, rules and guidelines, are outlined in the Texas Workers' Compensation Act, §413.005.

Applications and other relevant Medical Advisory Committee information may be viewed and downloaded from the Commission's website at http://www/twcc.state.tx.us. Click on 'Commission Meetings', then 'Medical Advisory Committee'. Applications may also be obtained by calling Jane McChesney, MAC Coordinator, at 512-804-4855 or Ruth Richardson, Manager of Monitoring, Analysis and Education, Medical Review Division at 512-804-4850 .

The qualifications as well as the terms of appointment for all positions are listed in the Procedures and Standards for the Medical Advisory Committee. These Procedures and Standards are as follows:

LEGAL AUTHORITY The Medical Advisory Committee for the Texas Workers' Compensation Commission, Medical Review Division is established under the Texas Workers' Compensation Act, (the Act) §413.005.

PURPOSE AND ROLE The purpose of the Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) is to bring together representatives of health care specialties and representatives of labor, business, insurance and the general public to advise the Medical Review Division in developing and administering the medical policies, fee guidelines, and the utilization guidelines established under §413.011 of the Act.

COMPOSITION Membership. The composition of the committee is governed by the Act, as it may be amended. Members of the committee are appointed by the Commissioners and must be knowledgeable and qualified regarding work-related injuries and diseases.

Members of the committee shall represent specific health care provider groups and other groups or interests as required by the Act, as it may be amended. As of September 1, 2001, these members include a public health care facility, a private health care facility, a doctor of medicine, a doctor of osteopathic medicine, a chiropractor, a dentist, a physical therapist, a podiatrist, an occupational therapist, a medical equipment supplier, a registered nurse, and an acupuncturist. Appointees must have at least six (6) years of professional experience in the medical profession they are representing and engage in an active practice in their field.

The Commissioners shall also appoint the other members of the committee as required by the Act, as it may be amended. An insurance carrier representative may be employed by: an insurance company; a certified self-insurer for workers' compensation insurance; or a governmental entity that self-insures, either individually or collectively. An insurance carrier member may be a medical director for the carrier but may not be a utilization review agent or a third party administrator for the carrier.

A health care provider member, or a business the member is associated with, may not derive more than 40% of its revenues from workers compensation patients. This fact must be certified in their application to the MAC.

The representative of employers, representative of employees, and representatives of the general public shall not hold a license in the health care field and may not derive their income directly from the provision of health care services.

The Commissioners may appoint one alternate representative for each primary member appointed to the MAC, each of whom shall meet the qualifications of an appointed member.

Terms of Appointment: Members serve at the pleasure of the Commissioners, and individuals are required to submit the appropriate application form and documents for the position. The term of appointment for any primary or alternate member will be two years, except for unusual circumstances (such as a resignation, abandonment or removal from the position prior to the termination date) or unless otherwise directed by the Commissioners. A member may serve a maximum of two terms as a primary, alternate or a combination of primary and alternate member. Terms of appointment will terminate August 31 of the second year following appointment to the position, except for those positions that were initially created with a three-year term. For those members who are appointed to serve a part of a term that lasts six (6) months or less, this partial appointment will not count as a full term.

Abandonment will be deemed to occur if any primary member is absent from more than two (2) consecutive meetings without an excuse accepted by the Medical Review Division Director. Abandonment will be deemed to occur if any alternate member is absent from more than two (2) consecutive meetings which the alternate is required to attend because of the primary member's absence without an excuse accepted by the Medical Review Division Director.

The Commission will stagger the August 31st end dates of the terms of appointment between odd and even numbered years to provide sufficient continuity on the MAC.

In the case of a vacancy, the Commissioners will appoint an individual who meets the qualifications for the position to fill the vacancy. The Commissioners may re-appoint the same individual to fill either a primary or alternate position as long as the term limit is not exceeded. Due to the absence of other qualified, acceptable candidates, the Commissioners may grant an exception to its membership criteria, which are not required by statute.

RESPONSIBILITY OF MAC MEMBERS Primary Members. Make recommendations on medical issues as required by the Medical Review Division.

Attend the MAC meetings, subcommittee meetings, and work group meetings to which they are appointed.

Ensure attendance by the alternate member at meetings when the primary member cannot attend.

Provide other assistance requested by the Medical Review Division in the development of guidelines and medical policies.

Alternate Members. Attend the MAC meetings, subcommittee meetings, and work group meetings to which the primary member is appointed during the primary member's absence.

Maintain knowledge of MAC proceedings.

Make recommendations on medical issues as requested by the Medical Review Division when the primary member is absent at a MAC meeting.

Provide other assistance requested by the Medical Review Division in the development of guidelines and medical policies when the primary member is absent from a MAC meeting.

Committee Officers. The TWCC Commissioners designate the chairman of the MAC. The MAC will elect a vice chairman. A member shall be nominated and elected as vice chairman when he/she receives a majority of the votes from the membership in attendance at a meeting at which nine (9) or more primary or alternate members are present.

Responsibilities of the Chairman: Preside at MAC meetings and ensure the orderly and efficient consideration of matters requested by the Medical Review Division; prior to meetings, confer with the Medical Review Division Director, and when appropriate, the TWCC Executive Director to receive information and coordinate:

a. Preparation of a suitable agenda.

b. Planning MAC activities.

c. Establishing meeting dates and calling meetings.

d. Establishing subcommittees.

e. Recommending MAC members to serve on subcommittees.

If requested by the Commission, appear before the Commissioners to report on MAC meetings.

COMMITTEE SUPPORT STAFF The Director of Medical Review will provide coordination and reasonable support for all MAC activities. In addition, the Director will serve as a liaison between the MAC and the Medical Review Division staff of TWCC, and other Commission staff if necessary.

The Medical Review Director will coordinate and provide direction for the following activities of the MAC and its subcommittees and work groups:

Preparing agenda and support materials for each meeting.

Preparing and distributing information and materials for MAC use.

Maintaining MAC records.

Preparing minutes of meetings.

Arranging meetings and meeting sites.

Maintaining tracking reports of actions taken and issues addressed by the MAC.

Maintaining attendance records.

SUBCOMMITTEES The chairman shall appoint the members of a subcommittee from the membership of the MAC. If other expertise is needed to support subcommittees, the Commissioners or the Director of Medical Review may appoint appropriate individuals.

WORK GROUPS When deemed necessary by the Director of Medical Review or the Commissioners, work groups will be formed by the Director. At least one member of the work group must also be a member of the MAC.

WORK PRODUCT No member of the MAC, a subcommittee, or a work group may claim or is entitled to an intellectual property right in work performed by the MAC, a subcommittee, or a work group.

MEETINGS Frequency of Meetings. Regular meetings of the MAC shall be held at least quarterly each fiscal year during regular Commission working hours.

CONDUCT AS A MAC MEMBER Special trust has been placed in members of the Medical Advisory Committee. Members act and serve on behalf of the disciplines and segments of the community they represent and provide valuable advice to the Medical Review Division and the Commission. Members, including alternate members, shall observe the following conduct code and will be required to sign a statement attesting to that intent.

Comportment Requirements for MAC Members:

Learn their duties and perform them in a responsible manner;

Conduct themselves at all times in a manner that promotes cooperation and effective discussion of issues among MAC members;

Accurately represent their affiliations and notify the MAC chairman and Medical Review Director of changes in their affiliation status;

Not use their memberships on the MAC: a. in advertising to promote themselves or their business. b. to gain financial advantage either for themselves or for those they represent; however, members may list MAC membership in their resumes;

Provide accurate information to the Medical Review Division and the Commission;

Consider the goals and standards of the workers' compensation system as a whole in advising the Commission;

Explain, in concise and understandable terms, their positions and/or recommendations together with any supporting facts and the sources of those facts;

Strive to attend all meetings and provide as much advance notice to the Texas Workers' Compensation Commission staff, attn: Medical Review Director, as soon as possible if they will not be able to attend a meeting; and

Conduct themselves in accordance with the MAC Procedures and Standards, the standards of conduct required by their profession, and the guidance provided by the Commissioners, Medical Review Division or other TWCC staff.

TRD-200500458

Susan Cory

General Counsel

Texas Workers' Compensation Commission

Filed: February 1, 2005