John Vorderkunz

The meeting included reports on the CERT sub-committee regarding funding uncertainty and updates on SERI-funded projects, including the opening of the FY 2027 application period. Staff presented regional priorities regarding the THIRA/SPR update and provided a progress update on the ENS migration project. The committee discussed the impact of the State Homeland Security Grant Program funding lapse, including staffing adjustments and a stop-work order. A decision was reached to implement a unit-based funding structure for the emergency notification system to cover software costs. Additionally, the committee addressed potential future challenges regarding artificial intelligence in public service and upcoming regional needs surveys.

The Board approved the tax return for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and reviewed and approved the budget for fiscal year 2025-2026. Additionally, the Board authorized the appointment of new members to the Building Maintenance Committee and approved the initiation of a bid process for a new roof for the HOTCOG building. Reports were also presented by the president and staff.

The board meeting featured the dedication ceremony for the Robert Hawkins Workforce Center. The board also approved the 2025-2030 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). Additionally, the meeting included presentations of financial and staff reports by the organization's leadership.

The meeting included the selection of The Roofing Company for the HOTCOG building project. The board discussed the need for new memberships for Limestone and Freestone counties, with nominations expected for the next session. The board also approved an amendment to the FY 2024-2025 budget and received the financial, staff, and president's reports.

The meeting focused on reviewing the results from a January workshop where needs were prioritized. Discussion centered on the draft interim plan, which primarily consists of Tech Memo #1 and Tech Memo #2, along with an executive summary. The committee requested specific modifications to the draft plan, including updating the Target Audience to 'general public,' removing 'HOTMHMR' due to its replacement by 'HOTBHN,' and correcting several entity names on the RCC Representative List, specifically for McLennan Rural, Waco Transit, and Meals on Wheels -- Waco. Participants were asked to submit final comments by February 23, 2026. The committee approved the draft plan with noted corrections. The final Interim Plan is scheduled for submission to TxDOT by February 27, 2026. Tuesday update meetings will pause until feedback is received from TxDOT, with an anticipated resumption in April. The next RCC meeting is scheduled for March 26, 2026.