Natalie Bettger

Key discussions included the election of a Vice Chair, where Jamie Moore was selected. Updates were provided on the status of various radar sites, including Mesquite, Midlothian (which experienced construction and a lost server), Fort Worth, Denton, and Johnson County. Information was shared regarding a flooding project in Johnson County, focusing on leveraging CASA data due to insufficient flash flood gauges and utilizing a resident survey to understand flooding information dispersal. Furthermore, radar network updates noted a lack of new developments due to a federal government shutdown and ongoing efforts to seek long-term grants. The funding subcommittee update indicated a request for member assistance in scheduling meetings with congressional representatives. Next steps involved brainstorming website features for the CASA app (specifically real-time hail and windspeed), ensuring diligent communication if a radar is down, setting up direct data feeds to ARC GIS systems for EOCs, and forming a group to explore funding through higher education institutions.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of the Statement of Work for CSU/Umass and updates on the radar network. All five radars are currently operational, though the Denton radar experienced a failed external hard drive due to a power outage during a March 4th storm; its backup computer and an external enclosure for heat protection have proven useful. The Midlothian radar required debugging for computing and sensitivity issues, with calibration planned for this year. The Fort Worth radar requires replacement of its aging air conditioning and computers. The Mesquite radar experienced a core part failure and a wasp infestation, both of which were resolved. The D-ROC experienced a temporary outage during the March 4th storm, leading to discussions about improving notification processes for radar outages. Performance of the QPE data was poor during a January 30th flooding event, possibly due to calibration issues. Issues with NWS Watch and Warning Polygons during the March 4th event, caused by an expired SSL certificate, also prompted review of notification needs. The NEXRAD data feed was successfully changed to a Tier 1 distributor. Updates were provided on recent training sessions and ongoing grant-related efforts, including a DOT Smart Grant. The Funding Subcommittee update indicated that while total funding was approved, clarification is needed on specific line items for budget allocation, with a strategy to involve appropriations oversight for radar replacement funds. Membership dues collection status was also reviewed.

Key discussions included the approval of the March 2025 meeting minutes and the proposed 2026 meeting dates. Updates were provided on the status of several Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere radar websites, noting issues like ongoing HVAC repairs in Johnson County and hardware degradation in Tarrant County. A report detailed the City of Fort Worth Transportation's progress on a SMART DOT grant for micro-weather studies using drones and ground-based vehicles, currently in Phase 1. Further, initiatives concerning national drone operation standards and flash flood studies, particularly concerning low water crossings and community notification methods, were presented. The Funding Subcommittee reported on efforts to identify federal funding and research state monies for CASA projects, suggesting potential collaboration with the future Center for Advanced Aviation Technology at TX A&M -- FW campus.

This Area Plan outlines the strategic direction for the North Central Texas Area Agency on Aging (NCTAAA) from October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2026. The plan aims to maximize the independence, well-being, and health of older North Central Texans, persons with disabilities, and their family caregivers. Key focus areas include promoting excellence in Older Americans Act (OAA) core programs, addressing the impacts of COVID-19, ensuring equity and access to services for populations with the greatest economic and social need, expanding access to home and community-based services, and enhancing caregiver support. The plan envisions allowing older adults to live with dignity, exercise meaningful choice, and participate fully in their communities.

The North Texas 2050 document outlines a preferred future for the region, addressing anticipated growth to nearly 12 million residents by 2050. The plan is guided by a vision statement, twelve principles, a physical development pattern across five policy areas, and an integrated investment framework focusing on regional ecosystem, community character, economy, housing, mobility, climate resilience, education, and health. It aims to foster sustainable economic vitality, diverse communities, innovation, responsible natural resource management, and an enhanced quality of life.