SOLD OUT
November 13, 2024
The Cresent Hotel, Fort Worth
8:30 AM - 2:00 PM
For questions about this event, email christopher@ntc-dfw.org for more information.
Schedule
9:00 AM
Infrastructure
Topic: Water Funding
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Texas needs to invest more than $150 billion in water infrastructure over the next 50 years to meet the needs of our rapidly growing and existing aging infrastructure. Join us as we discuss how the state can create a dedicated revenue source for these projects.
Panelists:
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Texas Water Foundation - Sarah Rountree Schlessinger
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Texas Water Development Board – Brooke Paup
9:50 AM
Education
Topic: Workforce Pipeline
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Join us for a panel discussion on strengthening the region's workforce pipeline through strategic PK-12 funding and the growth of higher education. Panelists will explore how state investments in education can create opportunities that align with North Texas' economic needs.
Panelists:
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Moderator: Jacob Sanchez (Fort Worth Report)
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Denton ISD - Dr. Jamie Wilson
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Tarrant To and Through (T3) - Natalie Young-Williams
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University of Texas Arlington – Andrew Hippisley
10:50 AM
Business Competitiveness
Topic: Research & Development Tax Credit
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From the frozen margarita machine to the semiconductor, hear from the coalition to renew Texas’s R&D Tax Credit, Texans for Innovation, about the importance of the program and the plan to renew it.
Panelists:
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Moderator: North Texas Commission - Patrick Brophey
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Texas Taxpayer and Research Association - Jennifer Rabb
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Texas Association of Manufacturing - Tony Bennett
11:35 AM
12:00 PM
Lunch Service
Remarks from Fort Worth, Mayor, Mattie Parker
12:05 PM
Lunch Panel
Topic: Local Control
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Join us for a discussion that will focus on the strengths and challenges local officials face in responding to housing needs, fostering growth, and navigating state mandates.
Panelists:
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Moderator: Jason Whitley (WFAA)
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Dallas County - Judge Clay Jenkins
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Denton County - Judge Andy Eads
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Tarrant County – Commissioner Manny Ramirez
1:00 PM
Health & Well-Being
Topic: Access to Mental Health
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This panel will examine the critical need for additional state mental health hospitals in North Texas to address growing demand and improve access to essential services. They will discuss the current gaps in mental health infrastructure, potential state investments, and strategies to ensure comprehensive care for the region’s residents.
Panelists:
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Moderator: Phil Prazan (NBC5)
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MHMR of Tarrant County – Susan Garnett
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JPS Behavioral Health – Zelia Baugh
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Tarrant County Public Health – Dr. Gary Kesling
2:00 PM
Closing Remarks, Chris Wallace, President & CEO at North Texas Commission