Government - page 5

First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Honorary Chair of the Governor’s Volunteer Awards, announced on February 14, 2024, the recipients of the 40th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards. These awards, presented in conjunction with OneStar Foundation, honor the exemplary service of individuals, groups, and organizations that have made a significant contribution to Texas communities through service and volunteering in the past year.

“It is with great excitement that I recognize 15 exceptional awardees of this year’s Governor’s Volunteer Awards, commemorating 40 years of honoring outstanding volunteers,” said First Lady Abbott. “These awardees-and those honored over the past four decades-are a testament to the true strength and selfless leadership embedded in the spirit of Texas.”

“We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the remarkable volunteer work of this year’s award recipients, all while celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Governor’s Volunteer Awards,” said OneStar President and CEO Chris Bugbee. “The recipients of this year’s awards embody the strength and resilience ingrained in the Texan spirit of service, inspiring future generations to create profound impacts within their communities.”

Orange County Disaster Rebuild has been awarded the esteemed Rebuild Texas Disaster Impact Award.

Established in May 2018, Orange County Disaster Rebuild (OCDR) is a formidable force in disaster response, addressing eight significant events, including Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Laura. Their impactful service transcends challenges, raising over $3.2 million in critical unmet needs assistance in Orange County, Texas. OCDR repaired over 300 homes, built 16 new homes, and replaced 11 destroyed mobile homes/RVs, allocating $420,000 for furniture and appliances. Engaging more than 2,500 out-of-area volunteers, they foster strong relationships with local, state, and federal entities, nonprofits, churches, businesses, and communities. OCDR’s robust community programs partnerships with local government, and commitment to securing funds and resources underscore their positive impact and stellar reputation.

The honor will be accepted by the OCDR Board of Directors and their Executive Director on April 17th, 2024, during the 40th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards Dinner at the Governor’s Mansion in Austin, TX.

The City of West Orange is proud to announce the installation of a generator through a State Hazard Mitigation Grant.

The generator will allow for continued operations of business during disasters or power outages.

Southeast Texas is set to receive a substantial financial boost for infrastructure improvements, with over $70 million earmarked for enhancing drainage systems. This allocation is part of a larger package totaling $122,100,689 in regional mitigation funds, as announced by the Texas General Land Office. Under the guidance of Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, the funds aim to significantly upgrade streets, drainage, and sewer systems across ten counties in the state.

In a major move towards bolstering local infrastructure, Jefferson and Orange Counties are slated to receive nearly $72.4 million. This generous funding will support a variety of critical projects designed to mitigate flooding and improve water management.

A significant portion of this investment, $31,091,100 million, will be directed towards the Orange County Drainage District. This funding will facilitate the construction of a detention pond at Tiger Creek, targeting the enhancement of drainage capabilities in the area’s northern reaches. The comprehensive project plan includes the creation of a detention pond, embankment excavation, site grading, and clearing, laying the groundwork for substantial improvements in local water management and flood prevention.