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Toledo Bend Bi-State Alliance
Minutes May 23, 2005
The meeting was called to order by Don Driscoll, Texas Co-Chairman.
The opening prayer was given by Joe Griffin of Pendleton Harbor Subdivision.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was lead by Don Driscoll.
There were no new members or visitors present.
Minutes of the April 25, 2005 meeting were approved as written.
Janna Lehman reported there are 17 Organizational Members and 23 Associate Members paid for this year. There is a balance of $1735.42. Janna thanked Don and Lynn Driscoll for having someone call several organizations regarding dues. Motion was made, seconded and passed to approve the Treasurer’s Report as given.
Old Business:
East Texas Region I Planning Committee: Bill Huegel, representative reported the Region I has completed a five year study on the Water Planning, and it will be discussed at a public meeting at 6 P.M. on July 13th in Nacogdoches at the library. This is one of three meetings being held. Public comments will be taken at that time and submitted to the Planners for consideration. East Texas Region I is recognized as water provider for the rest of the state because of the availability here. Typically only two people attend, so if you want to have any impact on the plan you should be there.
Committee Reports: Janna reported B.A.S.S. was contacted and they will support any legislation with which they are in agreement.
By-Laws’ Changes: Don reviewed changes presented in regard to dues. Discussion followed regarding a board of directors. Larry feels a change should be made to include a member from the general membership. He will send Janna some examples of the makeup and election of a board of directors used by other organizations. Changes to the By-Laws will be presented again at a following meeting.
Fund Raiser: Discussion followed regarding possibly trying to get a 4-wheel ATV to raffle. Larry shared his experience in obtaining a item for raffle and working to sell enough tickets to make a profit.
New Business:
TPWD Letters: Don Driscoll and Larry Kelly discussed and reviewed the information presented last month in regard to letters written by Todd Driscoll, TPWD District Fisheries Biologist and Howard Elder, Habitat Biologist to the Operations Manager of the SRA. Larry reported the LA-SRA Board voted to not support a drawdown as a means of controlling the giant salvinia. Bill Huegel commented that the introduction of the weevil seemed to be the best means, but there is a shortage of those organisms. Don noted a drawdown has only been effective in eradicating the salvinia when it is done for long periods of time, as in small ponds for a period of about 2 years.
B.A.S.S. Contacts: Janna was able to reach a conservation officer associated with the Texas B.A.S.S. Federation and found not every state has a lobbyist. Don found the president of the Federation is Dave Walton, who lives in Lufkin. Don spoke with him by phone and was told when they understand our issue, they may be able to support us. They could possibly supply six to ten thousand letters of support. Tim Cook is the liaison for the Federation and travels to Houston on business every Monday. Don suggested he and Larry try to set up a meeting with Mr. Cook on a Monday and present our information regarding the Lake Level Issue. Another contact name given him is Sparky Anderson with Texas Association of Bass Clubs.
Approval of New Members: None
Approval of Outstanding Bills: None
Next Meeting Date: Monday, June 27, 2005
Meeting Adjourned
Respectfully Submitted,
Betty Griffin, Secretary
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