STRATEGIC PLAN | 2017-21 - thc.state.tx.us
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STRATEGIC PLAN | 2017-21
Mission: To protect and preserve the state’s historic and prehistoric
resources for the use, education, enjoyment, and economic benefit of
present and future generations.
thc.state.tx.us
AGENCY STRATEGIC PLAN I FISCAL YEARS 2017–21
BY THE TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION
MEMBER NAME DATES OF TERM HOMETOWN
Mr. John L. Nau, III, Chair 2015-21 Houston
Mr. John W. Crain, Vice-Chair 2007-19 Dallas
Mr. Robert K. Shepard, Secretary 2012-17 Weatherford
Mr. Earl Broussard, Jr. 2005-17 Austin
Mr. Thomas M. Hatfield 2014-17 Austin
Mr. Wallace B. Jefferson 2015-19 Austin
Mr. Tom Perini 2011-17 Buffalo Gap
Mr. Gilbert E. “Pete” Peterson, III 2007-19 Alpine
Mrs. Judy Carolyn Richardson 2011-17 Caldwell
Mrs. Daisy Sloan White 2011-17 Houston
June 2016
Signed: ___________________________________
Executive Director
Approved: _________________________________
Commission Chair
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. I STRATEGIC PLAN 5
A. Introduction 7
B. Agency Mission and Overview of Functions 9
C. Agency Goals and Action Plan 14
D. Redundancies and Impediments 19
II. I SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULES 21
A. Budget Structure: Goals, Objectives and Outcome Measures,
Strategies and Output, Efficiency and Explanatory Measures 23
B. List of Measure Definitions 26
C. Historically Underutilized Business Plan 45
D. Agency Workforce Plan and Survey of Employee Engagement 46
E. Report on Customer Service 53
F. Assessment of Advisory Committees 67
3
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I. I STRATEGIC PLAN
5
INTRODUCTION I A. 6
A. I INTRODUCTION
Why is Texas so exceptional?
Some argue it’s the people—a melting pot of cultures that ultimately learned to
co-exist, respect, and succeed together. Others believe it’s the landscape—vast tracts
of forest, mountains, coastline, plains, and desert. Many are convinced it’s Texas’
unique culture of opportunity, innovation, and entrepreneurism.
The truth is, it’s not one of these things, but all of them. And all together they
comprise the story of the Lone Star State.
The goal of the Texas Historical Commission is nothing less than preserving this
story for the generations that will follow us. We do this because we know the history
of our state has contributed as much as anything to create a place of unparalleled
diversity, success, and livability.
Texas’ popularity is driving an astonishing growth in our population. Across the
nation and the world people are migrating here—and it’s not the first time this has
happened. Our state’s story is characterized by expansion and growth.
From the beginning of our recorded history, the lands that one day would be
called Texas attracted settlers, colonizers, and pioneers all seeking their fortune.
In the 20th century, international events and forces of industrialization changed
the face of the state and attracted residents and workers united in a desire for
a better life. One day, future historians will talk about the new age of energy
and information that drew a fresh generation to make their mark on Texas in
the 21st century.
One of our state’s greatest challenges in this time of incredible growth is that we
not lose sight of our past. As vital as any technology, as pertinent as any personal
liberty, the preservation of the incredible and unique story of Texas will ensure our
state’s continued prosperity and success.
Since 1953—when it was established as the Texas State Historical Survey
Committee—the agency now known as the Texas Historical Commission has
served as the Lone Star State’s leader in the preservation of Texas history.
The THC administers more than two dozen programs that protect the precious
places Texans value—Texas’ State Historic Sites, National Register properties,
irreplaceable archeological sites, and historic county courthouses. Across the
entire state our historical markers tell our most well-known and unknown histories.
7
INTRODUCTION I A.
We are one of the most respected state preservation offices in the nation and a
powerful engine of economic development for Texas communities. Even as our state
attracts permanent residents, it attracts temporary visitors—and their tourist dollars.
They love our historic places as much as Texans do. Heritage travelers in Texas spent
close to $7.3 billion in 2013 and supported more than 54,000 jobs.
Preservation construction, development, and historic rehabilitation programs
make an impact too. THC-administered federal historic tax credit programs have
supported more than 35,000 jobs and added $2.4 billion to the state’s GDP since
1976. Implemented in 2015, the Texas state historic franchise tax credit program
already has generated a remarkable increase in tax credit utilization—200 projects
with projected construction costs of more than $1.7 billion in the 16 months since the
state program began.
The past two years have been among our most successful. We’ve completed
the restorations of four historic county courthouses, including the impressive Bexar
County Courthouse. Our State Historic Sites completed four major visitor center
projects, and the THC is in the final stages of adding Mission Dolores State
Historic Site in San Augustine to our portfolio. We’ve produced and distributed
popular statewide and Tejano heritage travel guides, and continued to support
TexasTimeTravel.com, a one-stop website for heritage travelers to connect with Texas’
heritage tourism destinations great and small.
This Strategic Plan for 2017–2021 is our blueprint for how we plan to build on
these successes. Most importantly, it is our road map for ensuring that our state’s
future generations do not forget the past suffering, heroism, and success of the brave
Texans who contributed to the international success and stature our state now enjoys.
We owe this to them, and to the generations of Texans yet to be born.
Mark Wolfe
Executive Director
8
B. I AGENCY MISSION AND OVERVIEW OF FUNCTIONS
Mission: The mission of the Texas Historical Commission is
to protect and preserve the state’s historic and prehistoric
resources for the use, education, enjoyment, and economic
benefit of present and future generations.
PHILOSOPHY VALUES
The THC enriches lives through history by saving the Values are beliefs that are shared among the staff and
real places that tell the real stories of Texas. We are in the leadership of the agency and are woven into our day-to-day
business of preserving and leveraging Texas’ diverse history work, in the projects we endeavor, and in the decisions
for the social and economic benefit of its residents by: we make. We share the following key values with all
preservation partners in Texas, as articulated in Preservation
• Empowering our local, state, and national partners Connection: Texas’ Statewide Historic Preservation Plan:
to effectively preserve the resources that keep Texas
history alive; • Quality of Life: Historic places enhance the general
well-being of individuals and communities.
• Teaching Texas communities to use historic assets to
help create economic opportunities and foster a sense • Authenticity: We focus on telling the real stories of the
of place; state’s history through the people, places, structures,
objects, and traditions that convey them authentically.
• Serving the residents of Texas and our diverse
clients with the highest standards of professionalism, • Cultural Diversity: We preserve the places and stories
responsiveness, consistency, accountability, and of Texas’ rich cultural heritage and communities.
ethics; and,
• Partnerships: We work together across cultures,
• Cultivating a culture of creative, engaged, passionate, interests, and disciplines to achieve mutually
and balanced employees. beneficial goals.
• Communication: We keep people informed and
develop strong lines of communication internally and
externally with partners and stakeholders.
OVERVIEW OF AGENCY SCOPE
AND FUNCTIONS
The Texas Historical Commission is the state agency
for historic preservation and also serves as the State
Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) required by the
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended.
Professional staff members consult with citizens and
organizations to preserve Texas’ architectural, archeological,
and cultural landmarks. The agency is recognized nationally
Historic businesses like Louie Mueller's Barbecue in Taylor draw visitors for its preservation programs.
from all over the country.
The Texas Historical Commission shares the key
values of quality of life, authenticity, cultural
diversity, partnerships, and communication
among staff and leadership.
9
AGENCY MISSION AND OVERVIEW OF FUNCTIONS I B.
STATUTORY BASIS AGENCY MAIN FUNCTIONS
The THC is enabled by the Texas Legislature and the federal The THC’s main functions closely match how we organize
government. State statutes that govern the agency include: our internal structure and deliver services. These key
functions are:
• Texas Government Code, Chapter 442 directs the THC
to provide leadership and coordinate services in the field Architectural Assistance: Protect Texas’ diverse architectural
of historic preservation. heritage by providing technical assistance for the responsible
rehabilitation and preservation of properties.
• Texas Local Government Code, Chapter 318 establishes
county historical commissions and sets forth their Archeological Heritage Protection: Protect Texas’ diverse
responsibilities for carrying out preservation efforts archeological heritage through state and federally mandated
within counties. cultural resource reviews, historic property management
programs, volunteer efforts, and public outreach.
• Texas Natural Resource Code, Chapter 191 (Antiquities
Courthouse Preservation: Provide financial and technical
Code of Texas) directs the THC to act as custodian
assistance through the Texas Historic Courthouse
of all cultural resources, historic and prehistoric,
Preservation Program for critical county courthouse
within the public domain of the state, and requires
preservation projects.
an antiquities permit for projects undertaken on state
or locally controlled land.
Historic Sites: Provide interpretive experiences to a wide
audience of Texans and visitors at 20 state historic sites. One
Federal laws that govern the agency include:
additional site is planned to be added to the state’s portfolio
in summer 2016.
• The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966,
as amended, directs the state to administer federal Development Assistance: Provide technical assistance to
preservation laws and policies. public, private, and nonprofit entities to encourage the
process of preservation and revitalization of Main Street
• The Tax Reform Act of 1986, as amended, directs states cities, promotion and development of heritage tourism,
to coordinate federally established tax incentives for the Certified Local Governments, and other local and regional
rehabilitation of historic properties. heritage initiatives.
• The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 directs the Evaluate and Interpret Resources: Provide information,
state to determine whether building modifications to programs, and services to private, public, and nonprofit
improve accessibility will threaten or destroy the historic constituents for the identification, evaluation, preservation,
integrity of the building. and interpretation of historic resources.
• The Native American Graves Protection and Indirect Administration: Serve the entire agency and the
Repatriation Act of 1990 requires federal land- preservation public through effective leadership, planning,
managing agencies to consult with Native American and management; public information and education; and
tribes when burials are found on their land. staff services.
The Texas Main Street Program has supported
more than 35,000 downtown jobs and
established nearly 9,000 new businesses
in historic downtowns.
10B. I AGENCY MISSION AND OVERVIEW OF FUNCTIONS
ECONOMIC IMPACT AND EFFECTIVENESS
OF AGENCY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
We evaluate our effectiveness through a combination
of performance measures, the economic impact of our
programs, and our success in training and empowering
the general public to accomplish preservation in their
communities. Our programs consistently demonstrate that
historic preservation has a positive impact on the local
and state economy.
• Since its inception, the Texas Main Street Program has
generated more than $3.3 billion in reinvestment in
Texas downtowns and urban neighborhood commercial A local crowd gathers on the lawn to enjoy a High Noon concert at the
Potter County Courthouse in Amarillo, one of the THC's Main Street cities.
districts, supported more than 35,000 downtown
jobs, and established nearly 9,000 new businesses
in historic downtowns. • The Texas Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit program
was implemented January 1, 2015. The state tax credit,
• Reinvestment in Main Street districts in Texas for FY enacted in 2013, complements the Federal Historic
2015 totaled more than $226 million, including $103 Rehabilitation Tax Credit administered by the THC at
million in private reinvestment dollars. More than 1,800 the state level since 1976. Since implementation of the
jobs were supported and the number of businesses new state credit, THC staff has facilitated approximately
created, expanded, or relocated totaled over 370. 200 state and federal historic tax credit projects with
estimated combined construction costs of more than
• 2015 travel spending in Texas topped $69 billion, $1.7 billion.
supporting an estimated 653,000 jobs within the travel
industry and generating $6.2 billion in state and local • Prior to the state tax credit program, all Texas projects
taxes. Approximately 10.5 percent of these travelers combined under the federal historic tax credit projects
were heritage tourists and nearly 13 percent of the totaled $1.27 billion in private-sector reinvestment
direct travel spending in the state comes from these through the 40 years of the program.
heritage tourists.
• In FY 2015, more than 300,000 people visited the
• The Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program THC’s state historic sites. Visitation has increased over
has granted more than $251 million to 91 counties for the past five years, up 11% from FY 2011.
courthouse planning and restoration work since 1999,
generating more than $174 million in local matches
from participating counties, over 9,600 jobs, over $269 The Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation
million in income, and over $367 million in gross Program has generated over 9,600 jobs, over
$269 million in income, and over $367 million in
state product. gross state product.
11AGENCY MISSION AND OVERVIEW OF FUNCTIONS I B.
Agency programs focus on training and educating • Facilitated 34 nominations in FY 2014 to the National
people and organizations to carry out successful local Register of Historic Places resulting in 208 properties
preservation endeavors. The THC services bolster being listed; facilitated 28 nominations in FY 2015
volunteerism, in-kind donations, and the acquisition of resulting in 108 properties being listed in the National
private funds for local programs that the agency facilitates Register of Historic Places.
and supports.
• Designated eight State Antiquities Landmarks in FY
• Volunteers have contributed more than 1.2 million 2015 and nine in FY 2014.
hours on activities in their local Texas Main Street cities.
• Designated 67 Historic Texas Cemeteries from January
• In the past 17 years, the heritage regions of the Texas 2014 to April 2016.
Heritage Trails Program have raised more than $2.1
million in regional cash contributions, $3.7 million • Worked with 73 Certified Local Governments.
in in-kind contributions to fund their operations,
and more than 83,000 hours have been contributed • In FY 2015, the THC agency website
by volunteers. (www.thc.state.tx.us) received more than
375,000 visitors. Each visitor spent an
• County Historical Commissions reported more average of three minutes on the website.
than 3,300 appointees donating an excess of 478,000 The heritage tourism websites—
hours for the 2015 year of service and 383,000 hours TexasTimeTravel.com and the sites representing the 10
for 2014. Heritage Trail regions—attracted more than 405,000
unique visitors. More than 20,000 users follow the
• Archeological stewards logged 22,895 volunteer hours THC’s social networks.
in FY 2015.
The agency manages essential grant programs for
• Staff trained over 11,649 individuals in archeological historic preservation, supporting local building
preservation in FY 2015, accounted for over 885 rehabilitation and restoration projects, archeological
volunteer-directed archeology projects, and distributed collections, small history museums, heritage tourism
more than 62,587 materials about archeology. development, historic and cultural resource surveys, and
educational and interpretative projects, among many other
The THC manages the public demand for its programs worthwhile endeavors. The success of these grants programs
and services and continues to seek ways to improve its in helping to accomplish local projects cannot be overstated.
efficiency. The agency: Often, the THC provided a nominal amount of funding
that served as an important piece of a larger funding effort.
• Completed nearly 12,000 cultural resource reviews in
FY 2015. • Since being established in 1993, the Texas Department
of Agriculture has provided over $13.7 million through
• Conducted 99 percent of federal and state archeology the Texas Capital Fund, resulting in approximately $27
reviews in less than 30 days in FY 2015. million invested in local projects for Main Street cities.
• Communities and nonprofits have received more than
$652,000 in partnership grants over the past 17 years
through the Texas Heritage Trails Program.
12B. I AGENCY MISSION AND OVERVIEW OF FUNCTIONS
TEXAS HISTORIC REHABILITATION
TAX CREDITS
Recent developments in state and federal tax credits have
driven significant increases in historic preservation projects
across the state. Enacted in 2013, the Texas state franchise
tax credit became effective January 1, 2015. To date, THC
staff members have worked with private sector developers
on approximately 200 projects with combined projected
construction costs of more than $1.7 billion.
By contrast, in FY 2013 agency staff facilitated 15
THC Diversity Interns Haian Abdirahman and Victor Hurtado, summer 2016. federal rehabilitation tax credit projects resulting in $259
million in private investment. The federal tax credit was
• The THC reintroduced the Texas Preservation Trust enacted in 1976 with significant modifications in 1981.
Fund in FY 2015 after suspension in 2010. The The remarkable increase in tax credit utilization can
THC awarded $530,000 in matching grants to 23 be attributed largely to the appeal of using both credits
communities, nonprofit organizations, and individuals with a potential return for investors of 45 percent of
working to preserve endangered historic structures and eligible rehabilitation spending. Federal law allows a
archeological sites. This is up from $336,950 awarded credit against income taxes owed of up to 20 percent
in FY 2009. of eligible construction costs while the state credit is a
potential 25 percent of state franchise taxes owed, also
• Ten percent of the agency’s annual federal appropriation on eligible—but not duplicative—expenses.
is allocated for preservation grants to Certified Local Texas law, amended by the Legislature in 2015 to clarify
Governments (CLG). In FY 2016, over $118,000 that buildings owned by a nonprofit entity are eligible for
was granted to eight CLGs and another nearly $29,000 the state franchise tax credit, allows transfers of credits from
was granted in the form of travel stipends for 27 local an owner with no tax liability to an entity with a franchise
public officials and board members to attend a national tax liability. Credits are processed by the Texas Comptroller
training opportunity. In FY 2015, just over $81,000 and the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, respectively,
was awarded to six CLGs for grant projects and following project completion and certification of eligibility.
another $56,000 was used to help develop an online More than 75 percent of tax credit applications to the THC
inventory tool that will help CLGs survey and manage seek certification for both state and federal credits.
their historic resources.
The THC also derives great benefit from funds raised by Gifts to the Friends of the Texas Historical
Commission help fund programs like the Diversity
the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission. This 501 (c) Internship Program, building interest in and
(3) organization partners with individuals, foundations, and awareness of historic preservation, specifically
corporations to provide additional resources from the private among students from underrepresented cultural,
ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.
sector for the agency’s programs and projects.
• In FY 2014, the Friends launched an annual fund
program which has raised approximately $100,000 in
unrestricted funds each fiscal year since its creation.
In addition, during the last two years (FY 2014 and
FY 2015), the Friends raised approximately $1.1 million
in restricted gifts.
13AGENCY GOALS AND ACTION PLAN I C.
AGENCY OPERATIONAL GOAL: HOW OUR WORK TO PROTECT
PROTECT AND PRESERVE AND PRESERVE HISTORIC RESOURCES
HISTORIC RESOURCES SUPPORTS THE STATEWIDE OBJECTIVES
Encourage the preservation and protection of historic The programs administered within this goal help
and archeological properties providing leadership, communities use historic assets to create economic
technical expertise, and assistance. opportunities and foster a sense of place. These efforts
contribute to the economic advancement of Texas, both
ACTION ITEMS statewide as well in the local communities served by each
• Courthouse Preservation: Identify and implement program. Partnering with local communities to restore the
strategies to extend and optimize funding to provide state’s historic courthouses, promoting the key themes of the
significant financial and technical assistance to state’s unique and exciting history, maintaining Texas’ most
counties through the Texas Historic Courthouse significant historic sites, and assisting local communities
Preservation Program (THCPP). Target completion with the preservation of historic places and stories, directly
date: August 2019. promotes increased tourism, site visitation, and contributes
to the economic vitality of the state and overall quality of
• Historic Site Development: Complete a study of life for its citizens. These benefits result in increased state
the key themes of Texas history to determine whether revenues and efficient use of taxpayer resources. The demand
the THC’s sites are representative of these themes for these programs is greater than the agency can currently
and identify what additional types of sites may be meet, demonstrating that not only are we achieving our
appropriate to acquire to tell the complete story of performance measures, but also, more importantly, that
Texas. Target completion date: August 2017. Texans understand and value this work.
• Historic Site Maintenance: Prioritize capital
improvements and deferred maintenance needs
at the THC’s state historic sites and Capitol
complex buildings and seek public and private
funding to complete the needed capital improvements
and repairs to current sites, as well as any future sites
acquired, in order to provide the best stewardship
of state historic assets by addressing safety, code,
and public amenity upgrades. Target completion date:
August 2019.
• Texas Preservation Trust Fund: Develop and
implement improvements to the application process,
cash match requirements, and other strategies to extend
and optimize funding to continue to provide financial
assistance to local communities in their pursuit of
historic and archeological preservation efforts and
economic development. Target completion date:
August 2017.
Fort Lancaster State Historic Site, which re-opened an improved visitors
center in 2016.
14C. I AGENCY GOALS AND ACTION PLAN
AGENCY OPERATIONAL GOAL:
ENCOURAGE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT,
TOURISM, AND EDUCATION
Encourage economic development, tourism, and heritage
education through historic places in partnership with
local public, private, and nonprofit entities.
ACTION ITEMS
• Heritage Trails Program: Expand regional heritage
tourism efforts by establishing a stable funding source
for the Heritage Trails Program. Target completion date:
August 2018.
• State Historic Tax Credit Program: Conduct a review
of the new state historic tax credit program and develop
recommendations to further optimize its effectiveness
and impact on the Texas economy. Target completion Celebrants at a festival in Corpus Christi, Texas
date: August 2017. Tropical Trail Region.
• Bicentennial Planning: Work with the state legislature • Texas Archeology Month Program: Increase local
to create a Bicentennial Commission and draft a work participation in this statewide observance by updating
plan that will outline a schedule and scope of work. existing guidance tools and through outreach to
Target completion date: August 2018. potential event sponsors. Target completion date:
August 2019.
• Strengthen Local Partnerships at Historic Sites:
Increase private and nonprofit financial and volunteer • Education and Tourism Promotion: Expand historic
support at state historic sites by strengthening, sites’ visitation, promotion, and heritage tourism efforts
establishing, and reestablishing Friends groups. through the implementation of a digital, web-based,
This will include building business partnerships to and social media strategy. Target completion date:
expand the state historic sites’ viability and relevance August 2019.
in servicing their local heritage tourism market and
meeting community planning objectives. Target
completion date: August 2019.
The Texas Historical Commission encourages
economic development, tourism, and heritage
• Diverse Audiences: Creatively engage underrepresented education by providing leadership, technical
groups in preservation and work to interpret and expertise, and assistance.
re-interpret sites to tell compelling, dynamic, and
fascinating stories to educate, inspire, and spark
interest. Target completion date: August 2019.
15AGENCY GOALS AND ACTION PLAN I C.
HOW OUR WORK TO ENCOURAGE AGENCY OPERATIONAL GOAL:
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, IDENTIFY AND EVALUATE
TOURISM, AND EDUCATION THROUGH HISTORIC RESOURCES
HISTORIC PLACES SUPPORTS Identify, evaluate, and interpret historic and
THE STATEWIDE OBJECTIVES archeological resources across the state and
The programs administered within this goal are designed provide information accessible to stakeholders.
to increase economic development activities in the local
communities served by each program. All the programs ACTION ITEMS
within this goal focus on revitalizing historic areas, • Survey and Inventory: Meet the increased demand
stimulating tourism, and encouraging economic for electronic survey tools and online access to historic
development through the use of preservation strategies. resource data by digitizing existing information and by
Regarding the objectives of transparency and developing new electronic tools for survey/inventory
accountability, all these programs incorporate citizen while enhancing the Texas Historic Sites Atlas
involvement at the local level primarily through boards with new searching, mapping, and downloading
and commissions. This local involvement brings components. Online access and technology
accountability but also some ability of the communities enhancement progress will be assessed annually and
to direct the program efforts and priorities. Efficiency plans optimized or adjusted as necessary. Target
and effectiveness is increased by the agency’s role of completion date: August 2019.
coordinating the local and regional efforts into
statewide successes. • Texas Archeological Stewardship Network:
In addition, the programs efficiently use minimal Enhance the abilities of local archeological volunteers
resources to leverage significant local investment and to identify, evaluate, and interpret the state’s
support; for example, the model of regional tourism archeological resources by conducting training
promotion established by the Heritage Trails program and developing guidance materials. Target completion
is extraordinarily efficient for the industry as it uses 10 date: August 2019.
independent boards with staff to bring together hundreds
of volunteers through partnerships to help millions of
travelers find state and local historic sites. These efforts
not only improve the quality of life for residents at the
local level, but also result in increased state revenues and
efficient use of taxpayer resources. Again, the demand for
these programs is greater than the agency can currently
meet, demonstrating that not only are we achieving our
performance measures, but also, more importantly, that
Texans understand and value this work.
The Texas Historical Commission is steadily developing apps for heritage tourism
travel, featuring themes like African Americans in Texas and Hispanic Texas.
16C. I AGENCY GOALS AND ACTION PLAN
HOW OUR WORK TO IDENTIFY AGENCY OPERATIONAL GOAL:
AND EVALUATE HISTORIC RESOURCES MAXIMIZING QUALITY
SUPPORTS THE STATEWIDE OBJECTIVES AND EFFECTIVENESS OF SERVICES
The programs administered within this goal empower our Cultivate an agency culture of innovation and creativity
local, state, and national partners to effectively identify, that results in a motivated and diverse staff working to
evaluate, and document the resources that keep Texas maximize the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of
history alive. These programs comprise the core functions services to the public.
of our agency, and we efficiently manage public funds from
multiple sources to meet these essential responsibilities as ACTION ITEMS
the state historic preservation office. Permit and review • Empowering the Workforce: Utilize the results
processes are clearly communicated in a variety of formats of the Survey of Employee Engagement to
to our constituents and the agency consistently meets further empower the THC workforce and foster an
its performance measure targets for projects reviewed environment of employee productivity and quality
and projects reviewed in less than 30 days. We strive customer service. Target completion date: August 2018.
to provide new tools and resources including software,
online access, streamlined review processes, and • Competitive Salaries: Analyze agency salaries for
inter-agency collaboration to make our work more THC’s more specialized professional disciplines to
efficient, transparent, and customer-friendly for our ensure that they are competitive with comparable
increasing base of diverse customers. public and private sector organizations to attract
and retain the best talent. Target completion date:
August 2018.
• Information Technology Productivity Tools and
Systems: Upgrade and enhance the THC’s technology
infrastructure, hardware, software, and systems to
maximize the efficiency and productivity of agency
staff, including the implementation of cloud-based
services and CAPPS, the state’s centralized
administrative, purchasing, and personnel system.
Target completion date: August 2019.
• Grant Administration Process Improvement:
Identify and implement ongoing improvements and
A new visitors center at Caddo Mounds State Historic Site (opened in best practices in the agency’s grants administration
2014) helps staff offer compelling educational programming to students.
programs and processes. Target completion date:
August 2018.
17AGENCY GOALS AND ACTION PLAN I C.
HOW OUR WORK TO MAXIMIZE QUALITY
AND EFFECTIVENESS OF SERVICES
SUPPORTS THE STATEWIDE OBJECTIVES
The agency continually works to cultivate a culture of
creative, engaged, passionate, and highly competent
employees. This, in turn, allows us to serve the citizens
of Texas and our diverse clients with the highest standards
of professionalism, responsiveness, consistency, accountabil-
ity, and ethics. THC employees are drawn to this agency
because of the mission and care deeply about protecting
and preserving historic and archeological resources for the
benefit of the public. Employees engage frequently with
diverse audiences from all regions of the state and strive to
make the many facets of our work—public meetings and
workshops, permit processes, survey work, project and grant
reviews, and other services—as efficient and transparent
as possible. The engagement and commitment of our
employees is demonstrated through the results of the Survey
of Employee Engagement. The total overall agency score
in 2015 was 386, which is notably high as synthesis scores
for state agencies typically range from 325 to 375. The
Customer Service Survey also repeatedly demonstrates THC
employees respond quickly and effectively to the requests
for assistance from our constituents.
Historical marker dedication events give communities an opportunity to celebrate
their shared stories.
18D. I REDUNDANCIES AND IMPEDIMENTS
The Texas Historical Commission has not identified
any services, state statutes, state rules, or regulations
applicable to the agency that result in barriers to the
economic prosperity of Texans or make the agency less
effective and efficient in achieving its core mission.
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II. I SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULES
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A. Budget Structure
Agency Goal A Historic Preservation
We will preserve Texas’ diverse heritage by identifying,
evaluating, and protecting historic resources; providing
appropriate financial resources for historic preservation
activities; and enabling the public to revitalize and improve
the quality of life in their communities through the use of
historic assets.
OBJECTIVE A.1 PROTECT AND PRESERVE HISTORIC RESOURCES
Encourage the preservation and protection of historic and
archeological properties providing leadership, technical
expertise, and assistance.
Relationship to Goal 2: Emphasize Cultural Landscapes
Statewide Plan Goal 3: Implement Policies and Incentives
Outcome Measures 1. Number of properties designated annually
2. Number of Section 106 and Antiquities Code reviews
3. Number of individuals provided training and assistance in
historic and archeological preservation
4. Percent of courthouses fully restored or rehabilitated
5. Private dollars reinvested through the Federal Tax Incentives
program
6. Private dollars reinvested in buildings by the Texas Historic
Tax Credit program
7. Number of archeological publications distributed
STRATEGY A.1.1 Architectural Assistance – Protect Texas’ diverse architectural
heritage by providing technical assistance for the responsible
rehabilitation and preservation of historic properties
Output Measure 1. Number of historic properties provided technical assistance,
monitoring and reviews
STRATEGY A.1.2 Archeological Heritage Protection – Protect Texas’ diverse
archeological heritage through state and federally mandated
cultural resource reviews, historic property management
programs, volunteer efforts, and public outreach
Output Measure 1. Number of volunteer archeological site protection efforts
directed
Efficiency Measure 1. Percentage of construction projects reviewed in less than 30
days
23STRATEGY A.1.3 Courthouse Preservation – Provide financial and technical
assistance through the Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation
Program (THCPP) for critical courthouse preservation projects
Output Measure 1. Number of courthouse preservation grants awarded
STRATEGY A.1.4 Historic Sites – Operation and maintenance of historic sites
Output Measure 1. Number served by state historic sites and interpretive programs
STRATEGY A.1.5 Texas Preservation Trust Fund – Provide financial assistance
through the Preservation Trust Fund for critical preservation projects
Output Measure 1. Number of Preservation Trust Fund grants awarded
OBJECTIVE A.2 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TOURISM, AND EDUCATION
Encourage economic development, tourism, and heritage
education through historic places in partnership with local
public, private, and nonprofit entities.
Relationship to Goal 4: Leverage Economic Development Tools
Statewide Plan Goal 5: Learn and Experience History through Place
Outcome Measures 1. Dollar reinvestment in physical improvements from public and
private sources in Texas Main Street Central Business Districts
2. Number of Heritage Tourism guides distributed
STRATEGY A.2.1 Development Assistance – Provide technical assistance to public,
private, and nonprofit entities to encourage the process of
preservation, development, and revitalization of Main Street cities,
promotion and development of heritage tourism, Certified Local
Governments, and other local and regional heritage initiatives
Output Measures 1. Number of technical assists provided
2. Number of properties and sites assisted
OBJECTIVE A.3 IDENTIFY AND EVALUATE HISTORIC RESOURCES
Identify, evaluate, and interpret historic and archeological
resources across the state and provide information
accessible to stakeholders.
Relationship to Goal 1: Survey and Online Inventory
Statewide Plan
Outcome Measures 1. Number of historic properties, sites, and other assets identified
and recorded
STRATEGY A.3.1 Programs for Historic Resource Identification, Evaluation &
Interpretation – Provide information, programs, and services to
private, public, and nonprofit constituents for the identification,
evaluation, preservation, and interpretation of historic resources.
Output Measure 1. Number of sites, properties, and other historical resources
evaluated
24Agency Goal B Indirect Administration
OBJECTIVE B.1 INDIRECT ADMINISTRATION
STRATEGY B.1.1 Central Administration
25B. List of Measure Definitions
OBJECTIVE OUTCOME DEFINITIONS REPORT
85th Regular Session, Base Recon, Version 1
Automated Budget and Evaluation System of Texas (ABEST)
Date: 6/7/2016
Page: 1 of 10
Agency Code: 808
Agency: Historical Commission
Goal No. 1 Preserve the State's Historic Landmarks and Artifacts
Objective No. 1 Encourage Preservation/Protection of Historic/Archeological Resources
Outcome No. 1 Number of Properties Designated Annually
Calculation Method: N
Key Measure: Y
New Measure: N
Target Attainment: H
Priority: M
Percentage Measure: N
Cross Reference: Agy 808 084-R-S70-1 01-01 OC 01
Definition
Number of properties designated annually.
Data Limitations
There are no data limitations for this measure.
Data Source
Data are collected as follows: (a) the total number of properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places,
tabulated from the number of individual properties listed as reported by the National Park Service, and the
number of contributing properties in a historic district that are included on the nomination form; (b) the number
of new historical markers shipped from the foundry during the reporting period; (c) the number of Historic
Texas Cemeteries recorded in county deed records; (d) the number of properties designated as State
Archeological Landmarks by the Texas Historical Commission; and (e) the number of archeological sites added
to the Texas Historic Sites Atlas.
Methodology
The methods used in the calculation of this data are as follows: (a) the number of properties listed on the
National Register of Historic Places are compiled from National Park Service nomination forms and reference
numbers, (b) the number of new historical markers are compiled from the marker database, (c) the number of
Historic Texas Cemeteries is taken from the cemeteries database, (d) the number of properties designated as
State Archeological Landmarks is compiled manually from the minutes of the Texas Historical Commission’s
quarterly meetings; and (e) the number of archeological sites added to the Texas Historic Sites Atlas are
compiled electronically from the Texas Historic Sites Atlas computer database. The numbers collected on these
designations will be manually added by staff, and the total will be reported quarterly.
Purpose
This measure will provide the agency and the public with key information on (a) the total number of properties
listed in the National Register of Historic Places; (b) the number of new historical markers; (c) the number of
Historic Texas Cemeteries recorded in county deed records; (d) the number of properties designated as State
Archeological Landmarks; and (e) the number of archeological sites added to the Texas Historic Sites Atlas.
These designations reflect results of the agency's preservation education efforts to provide to its constituents
information and services on the use of designations to preserve Texas' cultural and historic resources.
26OBJECTIVE OUTCOME DEFINITIONS REPORT
85th Regular Session, Base Recon, Version 1
Automated Budget and Evaluation System of Texas (ABEST)
Date: 6/7/2016
Page: 2 of 10
Agency Code: 808
Agency: Historical Commission
Goal No. 1 Preserve the State's Historic Landmarks and Artifacts
Objective No. 1 Encourage Preservation/Protection of Historic/Archeological Resources
Outcome No. 2 Number of Section 106/Antiquities Code Reviews
Calculation Method: N
Key Measure: Y
New Measure: Y
Target Attainment: H
Priority: M
Percentage Measure: N
Cross Reference:
Definition
This is a count of the number of Section 106/federal undertaking and Antiquities Code reviews conducted across
the agency as required by Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, and the
Antiquities Code of Texas. Numbers do not reflect the complexity of work or time required to complete the
review which varies from project to project.
Data Limitations
The number of project reviews is not controllable by the agency. Rather, reviews are based on applications by
project developers working under federal funds and permits, or by state political subdivisions that construct new
projects on public land. The general Texas economy has significant influence on the number of reviews, with
more required during periods of strong economic growth. This measure does not convey the length of time or
complexity of reviews.
Data Source
This number is taken directly from the project review computer database statistics report, compiled and
maintained by the THC staff, which tracks: (1) Texas projects that are federally funded/permitted requiring
review under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, (2) Projects on public lands requiring review
under the Texas Antiquities Code.
Methodology
The number of reviews is taken directly from the project review computer database statistics report. Projects are
entered into the database upon receipt by the THC and updated with each staff member review.
Purpose
The review of construction projects is a primary tool for the protection of archeological and historic sites in the
state, and this activity is federally mandated and required under Texas Government Code, Chapter 442.005(b)
and (e).
27OBJECTIVE OUTCOME DEFINITIONS REPORT
85th Regular Session, Base Recon, Version 1
Automated Budget and Evaluation System of Texas (ABEST)
Date: 6/7/2016
Page: 3 of 10
Agency Code: 808
Agency: Historical Commission
Goal No. 1 Preserve the State's Historic Landmarks and Artifacts
Objective No. 1 Encourage Preservation/Protection of Historic/Archeological Resources
Outcome No. 3 # Provided Training/Assistance in Historic/Archeological Preservation
Calculation Method: N
Key Measure: Y
New Measure: N
Target Attainment: H
Priority: H
Percentage Measure: N
Cross Reference: Agy 808 084-R-S70-1 01-01 OC 04
Definition
This measure reflects the outcome of staff work to educate, train and assist members of the public in historic and
archeological preservation.
Data Limitations
Data that might be submitted to this agency by volunteers is unaudited and unverified, since auditing this data is
cost prohibitive and not practical.
Data Source
This number is reported on monthly reports, trip reports and site visits; verbal and written communications and
electronic mail in response to an inquiry; architectural drawings and pro formas; training, workshops and
presentations; archeological stewards' semi-annual reports, and other volunteers' reports for performance
measures purposes. Actual conference or workshop registration lists or participant head counts are made by staff
members in attendance and are used to derive this number.
Methodology
Staff manually tabulates from monthly reports, trip reports, public attendance at workshops, conferences, or
other gatherings where staff provide training, archeological stewards' reports, or the reports of other directed
volunteers.
Purpose
Training members of the public in historic and archeological preservation is critical to the achievement of the
agency's overall goal. By providing these services, the staff then empowers volunteer preservationists to preserve
historic landmarks and artifacts at the local level.
28OBJECTIVE OUTCOME DEFINITIONS REPORT
85th Regular Session, Base Recon, Version 1
Automated Budget and Evaluation System of Texas (ABEST)
Date: 6/7/2016
Page: 4 of 10
Agency Code: 808
Agency: Historical Commission
Goal No. 1 Preserve the State's Historic Landmarks and Artifacts
Objective No. 1 Encourage Preservation/Protection of Historic/Archeological Resources
Outcome No. 4 Percent Courthouses Fully Restored/Rehabilitated
Calculation Method: N
Key Measure: N
New Measure: N
Target Attainment: H
Priority: H
Percentage Measure: Y
Cross Reference: Agy 808 084-R-S70-1 01-01 OC 05
Definition
The Texas Historical Commission has found that there are approximately 200 historic county courthouses in
Texas that are currently eligible for the Historic Courthouse Preservation Program. Fully restored/rehabilitated is
defined as having completed the entire scope of work as outlined in their required master plan.
Data Limitations
The degree of work needed on each courthouse may vary. The application may not ask for the full amount
needed to complete the restoration/rehabilitation; therefore, a courthouse not completing the entire scope of
work as outlined in their master plan may not be counted under this measure. Furthermore, preservation
construction projects can have a number of delays due to inclement weather, discovery of unknown building
conditions, and county budget shortfalls, etc. The number of eligible historic county courthouses may increase
each year as courthouses become eligible for the program or decrease due to courthouses lost or going out of
county ownership.
Data Source
The required master plans that outline the scope of work will assist in the collection of data for this measure. As
courthouse restoration projects are completed, they will be tracked on a spreadsheet/database at the THC.
Methodology
The number of county courthouses fully completing restoration/rehabilitation projects under this program will be
divided by the total number of courthouses eligible for the program. The result will be a percentage of the
whole.
Purpose
This measure is intended to show the percentage of eligible courthouses that are fully restored/rehabilitated.
Additionally, this measure will represent the overall success of the Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation
Program.
29OBJECTIVE OUTCOME DEFINITIONS REPORT
85th Regular Session, Base Recon, Version 1
Automated Budget and Evaluation System of Texas (ABEST)
Date: 6/7/2016
Page: 5 of 10
Agency Code: 808
Agency: Historical Commission
Goal No. 1 Preserve the State's Historic Landmarks and Artifacts
Objective No. 1 Encourage Preservation/Protection of Historic/Archeological Resources
Outcome No. 5 Private $ Reinvested through The Federal Tax Incentives Program
Calculation Method: N
Key Measure: N
New Measure: N
Target Attainment: H
Priority: M
Percentage Measure: N
Cross Reference: Agy 808 084-R-S70-1 01-01 OC 02
Definition
The NPS administers the Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives Program with the IRS in partnership with
State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPO). The SHPO in Texas is the THC. Tax incentives promote the
rehabilitation of income-producing historic structures of every period. Underutilized vacant schools, warehouses,
retail stores, hotels, houses, offices & other buildings are returned to life in a manner that maintains their historic
character. The Architecture Division reviews and approves preservation tax incentive projects according to the
Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. The THC reviews the applications & forwards them to NPS
with recommendations. State recommendations are generally followed but by law all certification decisions are
made by NPS on behalf of the Secretary of the Interior. The NPS decisions may differ from recommendations of
the THC. NPS notifies applicants of the decisions and provides copies of all decisions to the IRS and the THC.
Data Limitations
Private investment is driven by a number of complex factors. The general Texas economy has significant
influence on submission of historic preservation tax incentive projects to the THC for review. The number of
rehabilitation projects utilizing the historic tax credits is typically lower during downturns in the economy and in
particular the real estate market. The willingness of property owners/developers to make such investments and
their ability to secure project funding can be a limitation in utilizing the historic preservation tax incentive
program. The Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program, however, remains an outstanding means of
leveraging private investment in the adaptive use and preservation of historic buildings. The program continues
to be a major stimulus for economic recovery in older communities throughout Texas and the nation even
during such downturns.
Data Source
As federal historic preservation tax incentive projects are received they are entered into the divisions' program
tracking database. The application contains three parts: Part 1 - Evaluation of the Significance; Part 2 -
Description of Rehabilitation (describes work to be undertaken); and Part 3 - Request for Certification of
Completed Work.
Methodology
The dollar reinvestment amount, as entered on the Part 3 - Request for Certification of Completed Work, is taken
from the Architecture Division's program tracking database. This field of the database is summed on a quarterly
basis, although substantial staff work may be involved in the initial planning and review of projects that may not
go forward due to factors beyond THC control.
Purpose
This measure indicates the dollars reinvested in commercial buildings/income-producing properties through the
Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program. It also serves as an indicator of the economic condition in
Texas, including jobs generated as a result of these projects.
30OBJECTIVE OUTCOME DEFINITIONS REPORT
85th Regular Session, Base Recon, Version 1
Automated Budget and Evaluation System of Texas (ABEST)
Date: 6/7/2016
Page: 6 of 10
Agency Code: 808
Agency: Historical Commission
Goal No. 1 Preserve the State's Historic Landmarks and Artifacts
Objective No. 1 Encourage Preservation/Protection of Historic/Archeological Resources
Outcome No. 6 Private $ Reinvested in Buildings by The Texas Historic Tax Credit Program
Calculation Method: N
Key Measure: N
New Measure: Y
Target Attainment: H
Priority: M
Percentage Measure: N
Cross Reference: Agy 808 083-R-S70-1 01-01 OC 06
Definition
The Texas Historical Commission (THC) administers the Texas Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program. The
state franchise tax credit program promotes the rehabilitation of income-producing or for non-profit use historic
structures of every period. Underutilized vacant schools, warehouses, retail stores, hotels, houses, offices, and
other buildings are returned to life in a manner that maintains their historic character. The Architecture Division
reviews and approves the state preservation tax incentive projects according to the Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for Rehabilitation. The THC reviews the Part A, B and C applications and approves or rejects
applications. The THC notifies applicants of the decisions.
Data Limitations
Private investment is driven by a number of complex factors. The general Texas economy has significant
influence on submission of historic preservation tax incentive projects to the THC for review. The number of
rehabilitation projects utilizing the historic tax credits is typically lower during downturns in the economy and in
particular the real estate market. The willingness of property owners/developers to make such investments and
their ability to secure project funding can be a limitation in utilizing the historic preservation tax incentive
program. The Texas Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program began on January 1, 2015 and is outstanding
means of leveraging private investment in the adaptive use and preservation of historic buildings. The program is
proving to be a major stimulus for the economy in large urban areas as well as in smaller communities
throughout Texas.
Data Source
As state historic preservation tax incentive projects are received they are entered into the divisions' program
tracking database. The application contains three parts: Part A - Evaluation of the Significance; Part B -
Description of Rehabilitation (describes work to be undertaken); and Part C - Request for Certification of
Completed Work.
Methodology
The dollar reinvestment amount, as entered on the Part C - Request for Certification of Completed Work, is taken
from the Architecture Division's program tracking database. This field of the database is summed on a quarterly
basis, although substantial staff work may be involved in the initial planning and review of projects that may not
go forward due to factors beyond THC control.
Purpose
This measure indicates the dollars reinvested in in buildings that are income-producing or for non-profit use by
the Texas Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program. It also serves as an indicator of the economic condition in
Texas, including jobs generated as a result of these projects.
31OBJECTIVE OUTCOME DEFINITIONS REPORT
85th Regular Session, Base Recon, Version 1
Automated Budget and Evaluation System of Texas (ABEST)
Date: 6/7/2016
Page: 7 of 10
Agency Code: 808
Agency: Historical Commission
Goal No. 1 Preserve the State's Historic Landmarks and Artifacts
Objective No. 1 Encourage Preservation/Protection of Historic/Archeological Resources
Outcome No. 7 Archaeological Publications Distributed
Calculation Method: N
Key Measure: N
New Measure: Y
Target Attainment: H
Priority: M
Percentage Measure: N
Cross Reference:
Definition
This measure tracks archeological publications provided to the public. The measure will track both hard copies
distributed, as well as PDF copies downloaded from THC's website.
Data Limitations
Reported numbers do not account for the complexity or length of distributed materials. It does not report
electronic redistribution of archeological publications by the public after initial receipt from our agency.
Data Source
This measure tracks archeological publications provided to the public either through print or electronic media.
The count includes any dissemination of outreach, information materials, including booklets and pamphlets for
the general public, booklets and pamphlets for archeologists or other members of the archeological community.
Such materials may be distributed by staff or by volunteers under THC staff direction.
Methodology
Printed material will be manually tabulated by staff, electronic media will be tabulated from automatic counts of
access (the non-THC users count is a proxy for number of materials accessed by the public). Publication
downloads from THC website will be counted by web analytic software.
Purpose
Providing educational and technical materials, both in print and through electronic and online media, are an
important aspect of the agency's effort to promote preservation and empower volunteer preservationists at the
local level and provide technical assistance. The demand and provision of such materials also serves to answer
requests for information and assistance from the general public, and serves as an indicator of public demand and
interest in programs and services.
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