The month of March was one for the record books for us all. We started the month learning about the “Coronavirus” and by the end of the month, life as we know it was monumentally altered. Our staff came together quickly to orchestrate a colossal shift of our workforce to remote work. Our team remains energetic and determined to support license holders. I am particularly mindful of the loss many have experienced—loss of business, freedoms, health and in some cases, loss of life. Our staff remains ready to serve and we send our thoughts and prayers to our license holder community as each of us faces the realities of the day.

Social Distancing

The President has extended the federal guidelines for social distancing through April 30. Additionally, Governor Abbott’s disaster declaration continues as well as several executive orders, including one which implements a statewide definition of essential services.  See our FAQs for more details.

Public Meetings  

In this new era of social distancing, the agency will hold all regular committee, Commission, and Board meetings virtually. The Inspector Committee, Education Standards Advisory Committee, Broker-Lawyer Committee, and several Board and Commission committees will meet this month as planned. Details on how to participate in these virtual meetings will be posted on our website.

Planning Tour Postponed

Chairman Kesner and I planned to conduct our planning and introductory tour this Spring. I was looking forward to the opportunity to meet many of you face to face, however, we are must delay this tour for now. In the meantime, if you need anything or have a concern, please reach out to me. My email address is Chelsea.Buchholtz@trec.texas.gov.

Thank You to Doug Oldmixon

Our long-serving Executive Director and Commissioner, Douglas Oldmixon, retired as of March 31. TREC and TALCB were poised to quickly transition to a remote workforce because of Doug’s leadership and vision for the future. The agency changed quite a bit in his time, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work for him and learn from him. We wish him all the best. 

TREC and TALCB continue to navigate this new world of social distancing and working while managing life at home. I am reassured by one thing, the notion that even though we all may feel unsure of the future, we are in this together. Our community is strong, and we will support each other through this. Brighter days are ahead. Stay healthy and safe.