ETCOG Announces Regional Award Recipients for Exemplary Contributions to East Texas

East Texas Council of Governments • March 26, 2024
A collage of photos of people standing next to each other holding awards.

ETCOG honored regional citizens who exemplify excellence in performance, innovation, and contributions to the community at its 105th Semi-Annual Board of Directors Meeting last week at the Jeffersonian Institute in Jefferson, Texas. The meeting was led by ETCOG’s Board Chairman, Harrison County Commissioner William Hatfield, which included celebrating seven regional award winners at the ceremony. Honoree information is as follows:

 

REGIONAL FIRST RESPONDER AWARD

ETCOG presented a Regional First Responder Award, recognizing a first responder who has rendered extraordinary service, putting their lives on the line for our safety while performing their duties. Sergeant Konrad Roberts, from the Longview Police Department, was recognized for his dedication to ensuring the safety of his community and fellow officers. His dedication and character go beyond his duty, as he actively mentors young officers, shoulders additional responsibilities, and continuously seeks opportunities to enhance his leadership skills. Beyond his role as a sergeant and police officer, Roberts is a devoted father and full-time student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. An excerpt from his award nomination proudly states, “Konrad Roberts deserves this award for not only the commitment he gives to the Longview community through serving and protecting, but for the countless hours he spends trying to improve himself so that he can be the best possible version of himself for the people of Longview.”

 

REGIONAL CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS

ETCOG's Regional Citizen of the Year award is designed to honor a citizen of East Texas who has contributed to the region's well-being. Dina Carroll of Jefferson and Paula Jimenez of Longview received the awards.

 

Dina Carroll, a lead volunteer helping run the Friends of Jefferson Animals rescue, has been awarded this prestigious award for her dedication to animal welfare. Carroll was nominated for this award by over 50 community members for her tireless efforts in rescuing, caring for, and finding homes for abandoned and abused animals. Through her leadership efforts, she raises awareness of the importance of spaying and neutering pets, advocates for responsible pet ownership, and educates the community on animal protection issues. Friends of Jefferson Animals is a non-profit run by three volunteers, including Carroll, who also works full-time and dedicates her free time to the agency along with her son Cooper.

 

Paula Jimenez is passionate about supporting communities and vital resources. Raised in adversity by a single mother among seven siblings, Jiminez is a testament to hard work and resilience. Despite facing many challenges, her spirit and drive propelled her to become a first-generation college graduate, earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and psychology. During her time as a private investigator, she provided free services advocating for justice through her involvement with “The Innocence Project,” working to reunite torn families. Within our communities, she has helped release 14 innocent citizens from incarceration and helped reunite 134 children back to their families. Beyond her professional endeavors, she supports victims of human trafficking and leads fundraising initiatives for numerous nonprofits, showcasing her leadership and dedication to serving others.

 

REGIONAL CORPORATE CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

The Regional Corporate Citizen of the Year award honors a corporate partner in East Texas who has contributed to the region's well-being. The ETCOG board conferred the award to The Genesis Group in Tyler, a software solution provider that has revolutionized public safety operations while remaining deeply committed to making a lasting impact in the region. In their 35 years of operation, they have supported public safety initiatives with software to promote emergency preparedness, ensuring the safety of public safety operators and enhancing overall community resilience. One notable initiative is the groundbreaking eBONDS software platform, offered at no cost to county governments, modernizing jail operations across the ETCOG region, reducing detention periods, and streamlining bail bonding processes. Through strategic partnerships and targeted philanthropic initiatives, The Genesis Group has supported local nonprofits dedicated to addressing issues such as children’s welfare, education, and food insecurity.

 

REGIONAL STATESMANSHIP AWARD

Gladewater Councilwoman Brandy Flannagan has been awarded this year's Regional Statesmanship Award for her valuable and dedicated service to regional cooperation. Flannagan was nominated by several community members, including a fellow Gladwater councilperson, who shared, “Brandy has served the Gladewater City Council tirelessly for six years and has now committed to lending her talents to and running for the office of mayor. She has been instrumental in the long process of creating a budget surplus in our city, moving the balance from $13 in 2018 to an estimated $1 million-plus this year. She brings a wealth of fiscal knowledge to the table and uses that expertise to benefit all of the citizenry.” Flanagan’s impact transcends municipal boundaries, as evidenced by her role as a business advisor for many East Texas counties through the UT Tyler Longview Small Business Development Center. Her leadership has facilitated increased engagement from local businesses, fostering economic growth and access to resources in neighboring communities.


REGIONAL COMMITTEE SERVICE AWARD

Gregg County Sheriff Maxey Cerliano has served on the ETCOG Criminal Justice Advisory Committee for over 20 years. Through his exemplary service, he was chosen for the Regional Committee Service Award, recognizing an individual who has demonstrated a sustained, dedicated commitment to ETCOG efforts and activities. Sheriff Cerliano has been a dedicated committee member, lending his expertise, insights, and discernment to advancing regional grant recommendations and other needed services for our entire region. His tireless efforts have played a crucial role in shaping policies, initiatives, and programs to enhance public safety and promote fairness within our criminal justice system. His dedication to upholding the principles of justice, integrity, and professionalism has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and colleagues throughout East Texas.


“Sheriff Maxey’s commitment to Public Service and servants heart can be clearly seen in how he cares for the daily welfare of the law abiding citizens of Gregg County and East Texas.” Said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. “His contributions to the County and the region over the past 25 years go well beyond the scope of this award. We are fortunate to have him as our Sherriff and I am glad we could honor him in this way!”


REGIONAL SHINING STAR AWARD

This year, ETCOG initiated the Regional Shining Star Award to recognize persons who have provided exceptional support or invaluable partnership to the East Texas Council of Governments. Nancy Hoehn, serves as our region’s Public Transportation Coordinator representative with TxDOT. ETCOG first worked with Hoehn in her previous role as the Transportation Director of the Ark-Tex Council of Governments to bridge service gaps and coordinate partnerships between our regions. ETCOG’s Assistant Transportation Director, Katey Pilgram, shared at the awards presentation, “Her relationship with ETCOG expanded when she took on her current role with TxDOT as our Public Transportation Coordinator, which involves overseeing multiple agencies, including ETCOG’s transportation program. Regardless of her role and duties, there is one thing that has not changed: her passion to educate and inspire transit agencies and other local organizations to work together for the greater good of the residents we serve. She has been a constant resource for ETCOG and always encourages partnerships between agencies. This has been successful because, during her tenure with TxDOT, all of the transit agencies in East Texas have agreements in place with one another that have resulted in no area in East Texas being unserved.”


"It was our honor to host our regional awards ceremony, where we celebrated the remarkable contributions of individuals, elected officials, and organizations that have made a positive impact on our region, said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. "This event is a tribute to those who have shown exceptional dedication and leadership in their respective fields and made a significant difference in the lives of the people they serve."


Photos of the event are available on the ETCOG Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/EastTexasCOG.

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ETCOG Leaders Take on Statewide Roles at TARC Training

By East Texas Council of Governments • October 8, 2026
ETCOG leaders recently joined Councils of Governments staff from across Texas for the Texas Association of Regional Councils’ (TARC) biannual staff training. Along with strong learning and collaboration opportunities, we were proud to have our Board Chairman and several staff come away from the event with big wins. The week ended with a proud moment for East Texas as ETCOG Board Chairman and Whitehouse Mayor James Wansley was sworn in as TARC President-Elect for 2026–2027. His new role places an East Texas voice in TARC’s leadership and reflects his longstanding commitment to public service and regional cooperation. That leadership presence continued throughout the training. ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland agreed to continue serving as Chair of TARC’s Community and Economic Development Committee, helping guide conversations about the priorities that shape strong communities and create economic opportunity. ETCOG Director of Operations Wendi Horst also began a new chapter of service as TARC’s Chief Financial Officer. During the training, she presented on TARC finances to the Finance and Personnel Association, the Budget and Bylaws Committee, and the TARC Board of Directors, helping keep the organization focused on responsible financial stewardship. ETCOG Assistant Executive Director Brandy Brannon was appointed Vice-Chair of TARC’s Finance and Personnel Association. Her appointment recognizes the knowledge and leadership she brings to supporting the people and operations behind Texas’ regional councils. The trip also marked the launch of a new effort to strengthen how COGs communicate with their communities. ETCOG Director of Communications Lindsay Vanderbilt helped form TARC’s new Communications Work Group and was appointed as its Chair. The group will bring communications professionals together to exchange ideas, share tools, and improve public outreach. From new appointments to continued service, ETCOG’s participation at TARC demonstrated the value of showing up, sharing expertise, and working alongside peers from around the state. These leadership roles give East Texas a strong voice while creating opportunities to bring new ideas and partnerships home to the communities ETCOG serves.
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ETCOG Announces Camp County Judge AJ Mason as Chairman and Welcomes New Board Officers, Executive Committee Member Terms

By East Texas Council of Governments • October 8, 2026
ETCOG is pleased to announce its new Chairman, Camp County Judge AJ Mason; the new Board and Executive Committee Officers serving for FY 2027; and Executive Committee members beginning a new two-year term. The ETCOG Board of Directors appoints the Executive Committee, which meets monthly and is responsible for establishing the policies, programs, and services on behalf of the Board for our 14-county region. Board Officers Chairman – Camp County Judge AJ Mason 1st Vice-Chairman – Smith County Commissioner Ralph Carraway, Sr. 2nd Vice Chairman – City of Carthage City Commissioner Tate Barber 3rd Vice Chairman – Rains County Commissioner Jeremy Cook Secretary/Treasurer – City of Longview Mayor Kristen Ishihara “Working with elected officials from across East Texas is a privilege I greatly enjoy while serving on the ETCOG Executive Committee,” said Judge Mason. “Due to the efforts of ETCOG leadership and staff, we look forward to a record year in FY 2027. Serving East Texans in communities in all 14 counties is our focus. Senior meal programs, childcare, employers and job seekers, rural transportation, public safety and peace officer training, 911 emergency systems and economic development are only a few of the areas benefiting our East Texas communities due to the efforts of this outstanding organization.” Executive Committee Members Returning for New Terms The following Executive Committee members have been appointed to new two-year terms:  Gregg County – Judge Bill Stoudt Gregg County Cities – City of Longview Mayor Kristen Ishihara Panola County – City of Carthage City Commissioner Tate Barber Smith County – Commissioner Ralph Caraway, Sr. Smith County Cities – Whitehouse Mayor James Wansley New Executive Committee Members ETCOG is proud to welcome the following new Executive Committee members for a two-year term: Marion County – City of Jefferson Councilman Charles (Bubba) Haggard Upshur County – Judge-Elect Brandon Dodd (Effective 1/1/2027) "I am grateful for the volunteer service rendered by all of our elected officials and particularly want to thank and congratulate our returning Chairman, Judge AJ Mason, and the rest of our ETCOG Officers and Board members for their selfless dedication and service to our region," said ETCOG's Executive Director, David Cleveland. These new officers and board member terms were approved at our September 24th Board of Directors meeting, where the FY 2027 Budget and Planning Guide totaling $90.6 M was also approved. The budget is the largest in agency history and represents a balanced budget, with revenue sources matching projected expenditures for all funds. To learn more about the FY 2027 budget and program goals, visit www.etcog.org/financials .
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TxCDBG Funding Opportunity: 2027–2028 Community Development Fund

By East Texas Council of Governments • October 6, 2026
Eligible communities must submit applications by November 19, 2026.

ETCOG Board of Directors to Consider $90.6M Budget for Fiscal Year 2027

September 22, 2026
110th Semi-Annual Board of Directors Meeting to be Held September 24th
Aerial view of several white RVs parked in neat rows beside a road and sidewalk.

ETCOG Seeks Comments on 5-Year Regional Public Transportation Coordinated Plan

By East Texas Council of Governments • September 15, 2026
Public comments will be accepted through October 11, 2026.
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ETCOG Director Helps Build Understanding Through Friendship with International Peace Program

By East Texas Council of Governments • September 1, 2026
This summer, ETCOG Director of Aging Programs Adrian Cornejo welcomed an extraordinary experience into his home through his volunteer work with Creating Friendships for Peace (CFP). For one month, Adrian hosted two students from Cyprus, Michael and Derin, who came to East Texas through the CFP program. During their stay, the students shared a room in Adrian’s home, experienced daily life in the region, shadowed Adrian at ETCOG, and attended an ETCOG Executive Committee meeting. Creating Friendships for Peace brings young people from communities affected by longstanding divisions together for cultural exchange, dialogue, and relationship-building. Cyprus has been divided for decades between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, with a history of conflict and mistrust that can shape how young people see those from the other side of the island. Adrian said the experience gave him a deeply personal view of how division can affect young people and how meaningful it can be when they have the opportunity to connect outside of those divisions. “What I witnessed through these young men was difficult to process,” Adrian said. “Each of their societies has, in different ways, instilled distrust, division, and even hatred toward people on the ‘other side.’ Perhaps the most heartbreaking part is hearing that this begins when they are children.” Through his involvement with CFP, Adrian also hosted two young men from Israel for a few days, one Jewish Israeli and one Arab Israeli, who similarly came from communities shaped by complex social and political divisions. “This is not a political story,” Adrian said. “It is a personal reflection on what has been one of the most emotional and humbling experiences of my life. Hearing the students’ experiences made me realize just how much we take for granted here in the United States,” he said. “We have the freedom to think, to question, and to decide for ourselves what we believe and how we treat others.” For Michael and Derin, their time in East Texas offered an opportunity to see a different community, to witness regional collaboration in action as our elected officials voted on ETCOG business, and to build friendships beyond the boundaries and assumptions they may encounter at home. “I think words are too little to describe the last four weeks,” said Michael. “This month we became a family. I was talking with Derin, and I told him it feels like we are packing to go to vacation, not home.” “I want to thank Mr. Adrian for hosting us and being part of our destiny in this trip,” said Darin. “You are very hard working and care about us. I am very grateful for you taking us to San Antonio trip, for your work, and giving us opportunities to meet wonderful people…I wish to mature up and become a person like you one day who helps everyone like you do.” Adrian said the friendships formed through CFP demonstrate that meaningful change often starts on a personal level. “Peace doesn’t begin with governments or political agreements,” Adrian said. “Sometimes, it begins with a conversation, a friendship, and the willingness to see another person as a human being rather than as a representative of ‘the other side.’” He added that he is grateful for the friendships and perspectives the students brought into his life. “I will carry their stories, their friendship, and what I learned from them with me for a very long time,” Adrian said. ETCOG is proud to recognize Adrian’s commitment to service and his willingness to share both his home and workplace with students participating in this important exchange for peace.

ETCOG Receives $175,000 Grant to Continue Veterans Transportation Through GoBus

By East Texas Council of Governments • August 31, 2026
The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) has received a $175,000 grant from the Texas Veterans Commission to continue transportation services for veterans through its rural transit district, GoBus. The funding is part of more than $3.3 million in Texas Veterans Commission grants awarded this month to 13 veteran-service organizations across East Texas. Statewide, the commission awarded $40.8 million to organizations helping veterans and their families access critical services. For many veterans in rural East Texas, reliable transportation can be a barrier to medical appointments, employment, education, grocery stores, social service programs, and other essential destinations. The grant will help GoBus continue providing transportation options that support veterans’ independence and connection to the services they need. “We are grateful to the Texas Veterans Commission for investing in transportation access for veterans in our region,” said ETCOG’s Transportation Director, Vince Huerta. “Through GoBus, we can help reduce the transportation barriers that too often stand between veterans and essential health care, employment opportunities and community resources. With this grant, we are proud to offer free trips for veterans and active service members, their spouses and dependents.” GoBus provides public transportation across East Texas, helping residents in rural communities travel safely and affordably where transportation options may otherwise be limited. Every single vehicle in our fleet is ADA compliant and ready to serve passengers with mobility challenges, disabilities, or special needs. The Texas Veterans Commission’s Fund for Veterans’ Assistance supports organizations that provide direct assistance to veterans, their families and surviving spouses. Grant funding helps address service gaps in areas such as transportation, housing, financial assistance, legal services, and other supportive programs. Veterans who need transportation assistance are encouraged to contact GoBus to learn about available services, eligibility requirements, and how to schedule a trip. For more information about GoBus, visit www.gobustransit.com or call 903-215-8870.
City of Lubbock announcement card for Mike Murray as new city manager, with his portrait and blue text panel

ETCOG Supports City of Lindale in Successful City Manager Recruitment

By East Texas Council of Governments • August 4, 2026
ETCOG was honored to support the City of Lindale in its recent search for a new City Manager, providing professional executive recruitment services that helped guide the city through an important leadership transition. The search resulted in the selection of Mike Murray, an experienced local government professional with decades of municipal leadership experience in city administration, economic development, infrastructure planning, budgeting, and public service. For ETCOG, this partnership reflects the organization’s continued commitment to supporting member governments across East Texas, especially smaller communities that may not have full-service human resources, recruitment, or communications teams in-house. “Working alongside our member governments in these moments is incredibly meaningful,” said Brandy Brannon, ETCOG Assistant Executive Director. “Many elected officials serve in volunteer roles while also balancing full-time careers and other responsibilities. When a city is searching for a key leadership position, such as a City Manager, we know how much time and coordination that process requires. Being able to step in, manage the details, and provide qualified candidates through a professional screening process is a tremendous way we can support them.”  Through our Executive Recruitment Services, ETCOG assists cities with multiple stages of the hiring process, including job description development, position marketing, applicant screening, resume review, interview coordination, candidate review, and technical assistance. Our team brings experience in recruitment, human resources, public relations, and marketing, allowing the organization to provide comprehensive support for member governments with limited funding and staff capacity. “Our role is to be a trusted facilitator,” Brannon said. “We are not there to make the decision for a city. We are there to help make the process easier, stronger, and more manageable so local leaders can make an informed choice with confidence.” Congratulations to the City of Lindale, Mayor Gavin Rasco, the Lindale City Council, city staff, and Mike Murray on this important milestone! We look forward to seeing Lindale continue to grow and thrive under its new leadership. For more information about this offering, visit www.etcog.org/executive-recruitment .

Discover More About ETCOG Through Our 101 Workshop Series

By ETCOG • August 4, 2026
Whether you're a board member, elected official, community partner, or simply curious about how regional collaboration works—these sessions are for you! ETCOG 101 is a great chance to learn how we serve as the bridge between federal, state, and local governments. From job training and transportation to emergency communications and aging services, we’re here to support what makes East Texas strong.  Upcoming Workshops Workforce Solutions East Texas 101 Learn how Workforce Solutions East Texas connects job seekers, employers, students, and families with workforce development services, child care assistance, training opportunities, and business solutions. ETCOG 101 Get a broad overview of the East Texas Council of Governments, our mission, the programs we administer, and the impact our organization has across the 14-county region. GoBus 101 Discover how GoBus provides safe, reliable transportation for thousands of East Texans each year. Learn about the services available, who is eligible to ride, and why public transportation is a vital resource for many people in our communities. Every day, our team works to improve the quality of life for East Texans by delivering trusted solutions. These workshops are a great way to connect with our staff and gain a better understanding of the services available throughout East Texas. View upcoming dates and register at: https://www.etcog.org/etcog-101-workshops
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