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Chandler Treon

Chandler Treon is an Austin-based staff writer. He has a bachelor’s degree in English, a master’s degree in literature and a master’s degree in technical communication, all from Texas State University.

  • (Left to Right) Rackspace Technology U.S./Canada Public Sector Vice President and General Manager Jeff Martinez, Maj. Jodie B. Tullos with the Department of Public Safety (DPS), DPS CIO Jessica Ballew, and Rackspace Public-Sector Client Executive Tiffany Davis standing together in a row and smiling for a photo.
    News
    DPS Leaders: AI Success Starts With Trusted Data, Clear Use Cases
    What to Know:
    • The Kerr County flooding response showed how quickly communications, geospatial awareness and data-sharing tools become operational necessities during large emergencies.
    • DPS leaders emphasized scalable pilots, proof-of-technology projects and use cases that can deliver mission value before broader deployment.
    • The agency is looking for technology partners that understand public safety operations, bring tested ideas and can help turn fragmented information into actionable insight.
    Insider
    June 12, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • A row of servers in a data center.
    News
    Abbott Directs Utility Regulators to Address Data Center Costs
    What to Know:
    • PUCT and ERCOT must submit a joint memo by July 17 outlining actions taken under existing authority, statutory limits and recommended legislation.
    • PUCT must begin action by July 31 to reduce residential transmission costs.
    • Abbott’s proposed legislative priorities include water-efficient cooling, annual electricity and water reporting, changes to data center incentives and community protections such as setbacks and noise-reduction technology.
    Insider
    June 12, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Closeup of a person stepping over a pothole in a sidewalk.
    News
    Robots to Map Tyler Sidewalks for Accessibility Review
    What to Know:
    • Daxbot and Kimley-Horn will collect accessibility data beginning June 10 to support Tyler’s ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan.
    • The assessment will cover about 94.5 miles of sidewalks and trails, associated curb ramps, 122 signalized intersections and 59 transit stops.
    • Six to eight robots will operate during daylight hours seven days a week, with field collection expected to take about four weeks.
    Insider
    June 12, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Illustration of a website on a computer monitor surrounded by tools and accessibility-focused symbols.
    News
    DIR Launches System for State Website Modernization
    What to Know:
    • DIR launched 37 ready-to-use components for agency websites and portals.
    • The system supports House Bill 5195 modernization requirements.
    • The effort builds on templates, training and accessibility resources already in use.
    Insider
    June 11, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • News
    Ransomware Attack Hits Krum Public Library
    What to Know:
    • The library detected unusual network activity May 14 and later confirmed a ransomware attack.
    • Krum said the incident was limited to the library environment and did not affect the city’s broader network or other city operations.
    • Forensic investigators found that some library network files were accessed without authorization, but the city said Social Security numbers and personal financial account information were not affected.
    Insider
    June 11, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Texas Department of Transportation CIO Anh Selissen seated on a stage and speaking into a microphone while Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Deputy Comptroller Lisa Craven, Texas Department of Information Resources Chief of Staff and Chief Public Affairs Officer Brittney Booth Paylor, Texas Cyber Command Director of Public Affairs JW Galloway, all seated next to Selissen, listen on.
    News
    State Tech Leaders Preview Tighter Path for Technology Funding
    What to Know:
    • Texas agencies should expect a leaner budget cycle, with technology requests facing more scrutiny around cost, timing and business justification.
    • Cybersecurity and legacy modernization projects will need clear risk narratives, agency alignment and defensible pricing to compete for funding.
    • Vendors at the Texas Digital Government Summit were urged to work through agency leadership, avoid disconnected capitol advocacy and be cautious in how they frame AI savings.
    Insider
    June 09, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Aerial view of two people in business suits seated opposite each other across a table. One person has their hands clasped in front of them while the other is signing a contract.
    News
    DIR Launches Procurement Support Program for Texas Agencies
    What to Know:
    • DIR’s new PASS program gives state agencies hands-on procurement planning support before technology solicitations go to market.
    • Agencies remain responsible for issuing solicitations, making award decisions and managing resulting contracts.
    • Vendors may see more developed scopes, cost estimates and evaluation criteria from agencies that use DIR’s support.
    Insider
    June 09, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • cloud
    News
    NTT DATA Takes Over Texas Public Cloud Manager Role
    What to Know:
    • STS customers using AWS through the PCM program will receive 21 percent discounts in year 1 and 22 percent discounts in years 2 through 4.
    • The updated model eliminates previous procurement sourcing fees for Cooperative Contract and open-market purchases.
    • Public contract records list the NTT DATA Americas agreement through Aug. 31, 2030, with an expiration date of Aug. 31, 2034.
    June 05, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Texas Insurance Commissioner Amanda Crawford and state CIO Tony Sauerhoff standing sside-by-side and smiling for a photo while Crawford holds her Bob Bullock award. Behind them is a stage with a podium decorated with a banner for the Bob Bullock award.
    News
    Former State CIO Amanda Crawford Receives Bob Bullock Award
    The former state CIO and current Texas insurance commissioner was recognized for 27 years of public service, including her leadership of statewide technology, cybersecurity and digital government initiatives.
    Insider
    June 05, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Travis Williamson County Briefing.jfif
    News
    Travis, Williamson County IT Leaders Detail Budget Pressures and Vendor Expectations
    What to Know:
    • Budget pressure, foundational upgrades and cautious AI adoption are shaping near-term decisions.
    • Williamson County is managing major efforts including Workday, a new dispatch and records management system, fiber expansion and a second 911 center.
    • Both IT leaders told vendors to be prepared for cooperative purchasing, security review and formal intake processes.
    Insider
    June 05, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • new_new_DIR Logo 1.png
    News
    DIR Creates New Agency CIO Role to Lead IT and AI Programs
    What to Know:
    • The new role reports to Tony Sauerhoff, who recently took on the role of CIO and DIR executive director.
    • The position will oversee DIR’s IT and AI divisions, including enterprise technology strategy, AI governance and architecture standards.
    Insider
    June 04, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • The Texas Capitol building on a sunny day.
    News
    Ernie Lampman Takes Public Sector Account Director Role at Ivanti
    What to Know:
    • Lampman brings experience in public-sector and federal technology sales.
    • His focus is helping agencies address patching and security challenges through automation and proactive risk reduction.
    June 04, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • shutterstock-Texas-Traffic
    News
    Profiles in Government: Travis and Williamson Counties
    Travis County Director of IT Ralph Warren and Williamson County CIO Richard Semple will speak about their organizations’ strategic IT priorities, current initiatives and long-term goals at an upcoming Industry Insider — Texas member briefing. Here’s a look at the two counties and their IT plans.
    Insider
    June 02, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • The Texas Department of Transportation logo superimposed over a busy highway at sunrise or sunset with a cityscape in the background.
    News
    TxDOT’s 2027-2031 Plan Keeps Focus on Automation, Requests STS Opt-Out
    What to Know:
    • Tech is embedded across TxDOT’s operations, from automation to data tools.
    • TxDOT is seeking an option to work outside DIR’s Shared Technology Services for cloud procurement, citing added tickets, timelines and administrative overhead.
    • AI training, governance and data literacy are emerging workforce priorities.
    Insider
    June 02, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • An automated license plate reader mounted on a pole against a partly cloudy blue sky.
    News
    Harris County Renews License Plate Reader Contract After Privacy Questions
    What to Know:
    • The agreement runs through June 5, 2027, and is valued at $868,975.
    • Residents raised concerns about vehicle tracking, privacy controls and potential access by outside agencies.
    • County officials said the system captures vehicle images but does not run registered owner information.
    Insider
    June 02, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Childcare.jpeg
    News
    TWC Launches Employer Childcare Resource Page
    What to Know:
    • The new webpage was created in response to legislation passed by the 89th Texas Legislature.
    • The page is meant to help employers assess workers’ childcare needs and review options.
    • The page also highlights Employer Child Care Solutions, a TWC program offering technical assistance to employers with workers in Texas.
    Insider
    May 29, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Closeup of the ends of a bundle of fiber-optic cables and an Ethernet plug.
    News
    LCRA Approves $64M for Broadband, Cybersecurity and Digital Services
    What to Know:
    • The largest Fiscal Year 2027 line items are $16.8 million for radio migration and $16.1 million for rural broadband expansion.
    • Recommended spending also includes digital services, cybersecurity and operational technology projects.
    • Future work through 2031 includes radio, LTE, cybersecurity and digital services upgrades.
    Insider
    May 29, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • The Texas Department of Transportation logo superimposed over a busy highway at sunrise or sunset with a cityscape in the background.
    News
    TxDOT Names William Walsh Procurement Director as Wood Retires
    What to Know:
    • Wood is retiring after more than 28 years with the agency, including service as director of procurement.
    • Walsh brings 25 years of state government experience to the agency.
    Insider
    May 29, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Lines of code overlayed on a row of servers in a data center.
    News
    DIR Website Modernization Effort Spurs Agency Follow-Through
    What to Know:
    • DIR reported 27 agencies have requested more information about website templates developed for the state’s modernization effort.
    • DIR will use agency technology review responses for a November report on modernization progress.
    • The agency is supporting the modernization effort through web scanning, training and agency office hours.
    Insider
    May 28, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • The Dallas skyline at sunset.
    News
    Dallas Weighs AI, IT Consolidation in $5.4B FY 2027 Budget Work
    What to Know:
    • City staff identified a projected $37.7 million general fund gap and said a balanced recommendation is expected Aug. 11.
    • Dallas is reviewing 311 operations to determine how much work should be handled by live agents versus automated tools.
    • Budget materials list public safety technology costs tied to Axon and Verkada.
    Insider
    May 28, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Flock Safety license plate reader
    News
    Bandera Cancels Flock Safety Camera Program After Public Debate
    What to Know:
    • Public opposition centered on privacy, surveillance, cybersecurity and the potential cost of replacing damaged equipment.
    • Councilmembers questioned whether the project had changed from the original grant application, including the number of cameras to be installed.
    • City officials said the paid invoice had not yet been reimbursed through the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority grant.
    Insider
    May 26, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Two people collaborating on a desktop computer. One is seated in front of the computer and the other is standing beside them.
    News
    TxDOT CIO Says Agency Is Building Out AI Team
    What to Know:
    • TxDOT is seeking technical, training and business-focused roles to support AI work across the agency.
    • The positions span AI development, data architecture, training, communications, project management and business analysis.
    • The hiring push follows TxDOT’s broader shift from AI planning to implementation.
    Insider
    May 26, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Closeup of a robotic hand typing on a keyboard.
    News
    DIR Advances Statewide Artificial Intelligence Governance Work
    What to Know:
    • DIR is implementing statewide AI requirements through training certification, public-facing notice templates and agency reporting.
    • The agency has received 87 AI training certification applications and has certified 57 programs.
    • DIR added AI questions to the 2026 Information Resources Deployment Review to track agency use.
    Insider
    May 26, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • cyber
    News
    DIR Outlines Cybersecurity Transition to Texas Cyber Command
    What to Know:
    • DIR transferred statewide cybersecurity employees and functions to Texas Cyber Command on March 1.
    • DIR will retain internal cybersecurity responsibilities and vendor-focused security oversight within its Shared Technology Services program.
    • Cyber Command has assumed DIR’s former roles tied to prohibited technologies and the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program.
    Insider
    May 21, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Houston, Texas, skyline.
    News
    Houston IT Proposes $161.4M Budget for Fiscal 2027
    What to Know:
    • Houston IT Services is proposing a 10.8 percent budget increase, up from $145.7 million.
    • The plan includes police technology needs, airport cybersecurity and library IT consolidation.
    • Other focus areas include cloud, data centers, network modernization, cybersecurity training and AI governance.
    Insider
    May 21, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • The Houston skyline with the sun just above the horizon reflected in the buildings.
    News
    Houston CIO Lisa Kent Announces Retirement After 30 Years With City
    Kent’s last day, June 19, coincides with the anniversary of the City Council vote that created Houston’s central IT department.
    Insider
    May 19, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • A sensor attached to a metal arm mounted over a drainage canal.
    News
    AI Flood Warning System Goes Live in Galveston County
    What to Know:
    • The Galveston County pilot agreement totals $49,500 and covers eight smart water sensors.
    • The system is designed to combine sensor, weather, water-level and infrastructure data for real-time flood alerts.
    Insider
    May 19, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Texas Regulatory Efficiency Office Website.png
    News
    Texas Launches AI-Integrated Site for Regulatory Guidance
    What to Know:
    • A new Texas Regulatory Efficiency Office website helps users search state rules, forms and regulatory requirements.
    • TREO has begun its first agency reviews, recommending more than 435 regulations for amendment or repeal across 11 state agencies.
    • The office estimates its initial recommendations could remove 69,000 words from the Texas Administrative Code and save an estimated $123 million.
    Insider
    May 15, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • The silhouette of a land-based oil drilling rig against a setting or rising sun.
    News
    General Land Office Hiring CIO Following Sean Peterson’s Departure
    What to Know:
    • Peterson recently left GLO to become CIO of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
    • Applicants need a related bachelor’s degree and at least eight years of IT experience, including leadership across enterprise technology teams and functions.
    Insider
    May 15, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
  • Education and Learning: A 3D vector illustration of a lightbulb with a graduation cap
    News
    Texas Higher Ed Coordinating Board Names Sean Peterson CIO
    What to Know:
    • Sean Peterson has left the Texas General Land Office to become CIO of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
    • He brings 27 years of public-sector technology experience, including leadership roles at the General Land Office, Texas Education Agency and Office of the Attorney General.
    • Peterson succeeds Layla Young, who left THECB in March to become CIO for the Texas Secretary of State.
    Insider
    May 14, 2026
     · Chandler Treon
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