KOLKHORST FILES BILLS TO PROTECT STAR OF THE REPUBLIC FUNDING

  

On Friday, a number of bills were filed by Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst which would transfer control of the Star of the Republic Museum from Blinn College to state agencies.

According to the Brenham Banner Press, Kolkhorst filed the bills because of funding concerns in the state’s new spending plan.

In one of the bills, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department would take over the museum. The TPWD already oversees the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, where the museum is located. In another bill, the Texas Historical Commission would take on the responsibility of the museum. A third bill would see the Historical Commission take over both the museum and the park.

Kolkhorst says the legislation is not meant as a reflection on Blinn’s administration of the museum, but rather was filed as a safety precaution to ensure funding continues for the Star of the Republic.

Cyndee Smith, president of Washington-on-the-Brazos, says all of their partners at the historic site have been “wonderful to work with from the perspective of the Park Association”.

"We will stand with whatever organization is best prepared to take the greatest care of this historic site, ensure its long term vitality and continue to tell the story of the place Where Texas Became Texas" said Smith.