Local Officials: Stronger, Together Podcast: Recent Episodes
Scott Houston
The Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool proudly introduces the Local Officials: Stronger, Together Podcast Series. The Pool is producing this regular podcast series, which has been dubbed STP, to help local officials (and managers and staff) understand key operational and legal concepts, and the services the Pool provides. After arming members with that information, each 15-minute episode will give easy action items to help keep your citizens, employees, volunteers, and property safe, all while saving public dollars. City council members can earn up to 19 Texas Municipal League Institute CEUs for listening to the podcasts. To receive CEUs for a particular episode, an elected official must provide a description of the episode, which must be educational in nature, pertain to municipal leadership, and should enhance your service as an elected official, for TML approval. Attorneys who listen to podcasts may be eligible for up to three hours of self-study CLE credit. Please refer to the State Bar CLE compliance rules for more information.
In this episode, special guest host Tamara Chafin (Risk Pool’s Communications Officer) interviews Scott Houston (Risk Pool Intergovernmental Relations Manager) about the dearth of city authority in Texas to regulate firearms.
Futher Information:
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam V5 (Comprehensive Paper in Q&A Format)
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam V5 (Cheat Sheet)
Texas Constitution, Article 1, Section 23
Texas Local Government Code Section 229.001
Texas summers are brutal and can even be deadly. Some local government employees have no choice but to work in the heat to do their jobs. For those employees, the Pool’s loss prevention provides tips and training on how to stay safe and healthy in a demanding environment. In this episode, Scott interviews Safety and Loss Control Consultant Johnny Vera about the Pool’s efforts in this area. He also hears from Risk Management Advisor Robert Hinojosa about a real story of how training can save lives.
Further Information:
Find Your Safety and Loss Control Consultant
Surviving the Texas Heat T.I.P.S. Sheet
Index to all T.I.P.S. Sheets and Publications
TML Risk Pool Training Webpage (Live and Online Training)
Our hearts are with those affected by the recent summer 2025 flooding in Texas, and the TML Risk Pool stands ready to assist its Members with Flood Coverage. Whether your entity has the coverage or not, you should know generally what it covers, for how much, and other specifics. In this episode, Scott interviews Paula Marr-Ludwig, who has been with the Pool for 37 years and managed the Pool’s underwriting department for 11 of those, about the ins-and-outs of the Pool’s Flood Coverage.
Further Information
· Flood Coverage FAQ
· FEMA Flood Maps Web Page (Search by Address)
Cybersecurity preparedness and response can seem technical, confusing, and daunting for local government officials, but pretending the threat isn’t real won’t save you. The TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Squad (consisting of Cyber Risk Services Manager Ryan Burns and Senior Cybersecurity advisor Mike Bell) is here to help. Whether your entity runs off one computer or 1,000, the Squad’s Fifteen-Minute Cyber Health Checkup for Local Leaders is a very simple assessment you can use as a guide to taking action, immediately. Every step you take to being more secure is a step in the right direction. Listen in to hear Scott interview Mike about how to get started, today.
Further Information:
- 15-Minute Cyber Health Checkup Test
- TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Liability Home Page
- TML Risk Pool Cyber Squad YouTube Channel
In this special report, you’ll hear from Jeff Thompson (Risk Pool Executive Director) as he explains the partnership that is the TML Risk Pool and the major rate drivers that affect your 2025-2026 rerates.
In this episode, Scott explains the predictions for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season and visits with a special guest – Matthew Rosencrans, NOAA's lead for the seasonal hurricane outlook – to get his take on things a local official should know about this season. Unsurprisingly, being prepared is one thing. Local officials from almost every part of the state should tune in to learn about one you might not know!
Further information:
- National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration’s Hurricane Preparedness Website and 2025 Season Predictions
- Colorado State University Climate Prediction Center 2024 forecast
- Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hurricane Preparedness and Evacuation Planning Website
- Texas Department of Emergency Management’s Preparedness Website
- TML Risk Pool’s Hurricane Resources Web Page
- www.ready.gov
In this special video episode, host Scott Houston interviews the TML Risk Pool’s mascot – Risky the Armadillo! In this super-fun conversation, you’ll hear about how Risky came to be, how he got his name, and how he plans to help spread the word about the Pool’s coverages, programs, and benefits for local governments. Watch the YouTube video version to see Risky in person!
Further Information
Risky the Armadillo’s Risk Management Minute #1 – Risky’s Cyber Save!
Risky the Armadillo’s Risk Management Minute #2 – Stay R.O.A.D. Ready!
In this STP episode, host Scott Houston interviews Texas A&M Forest Service Wildfire Prevention Specialist Heather Gonzales about state wildfire education and prevention resources available to local government officials. He also visits with Borger City Manager Garrett Spradling about the city’s mitigation program, which likely prevented wholesale destruction from the Windy Deuce fire in 2024.
Is your city or other local government prepared? Listen in to find out.
STP episodes are short and informative, with short being the key – most episodes are less than 15 minutes. Check one out today on the Pool’s website or your favorite podcast app!
Contact your host, Scott Houston (Risk Pool Intergovernmental Relations Manager) at 512-791-4158 or scott.houston@tmlirp.org with comments, questions, or ideas for future episodes.
In this episode, Scott interviews renowned customer experience expert Jay Baer, who shares his powerful "Be Quick, Be Clear, Be Kind" customer experience framework.
Jay explains why speed matters in service, how clarity builds trust, and why kindness fosters stronger community relationships. He offers practical strategies for local officials and employees (or really anyone who interacts with customers), showing how responsiveness and empathy can enhance citizen engagement.
This is really great stuff. Tune in to learn how small changes can make a big impact!
Further Information
- www.jaybaer.com
- www.jaybaer.com/newsletter
- AGRiP Pooling Academy: Building a Better Customer Experience (Pooling Academy Registrants Only)
The TML Risk Pool has seen far too many accidents and injuries in and around roadways The Pool’s goal is to provide tools to help Members avoid them, and we’ve developed a program to do just that. R.O.A.D. Ready is a Risk Pool program designed to save lives, prevent injuries, and protect property by raising member awareness of dangers on and near roadways, and January is R.O.A.D. Ready month. Listen in to learn how you can participate and stop one of your employees from being a statistic.
FURTHER INFORMATION:
R.O.A.D. Ready Web Page
Find You Safety and Loss Control Consultant
Safety @ Your Fingertips Sign Up
First responders operate in a difficult environment. In fact, most civilians have no idea the stressors of their daily work. One thing has become clear: These important jobs can quickly take a toll on the mental health of a city’s police, fire, EMS, animal control, and code enforcement personnel.
How can city officials ensure that first responders have the resources they need to stay healthy? The first step is to understand what they go through. The next is to provide them with tools to deal with it.
The Texas Police Chiefs Association's Officer Safety Committee and the TML Risk Pool created two such tools, which are our Resilience Strategies for First Responders and Moving Right of Bang: Critical Incident Early Intervention Strategies Workshops. Both are provided under the banner of TPCA’s VINCIBLE training program.
Rick Randall is the primary trainer for the workshops, which emphasize survival strategies for a healthy public safety career and a long and enjoyable retirement. Rick, a retired Austin senior police chaplain and trainer who became an expert over the course of his career, is CEO of the Randall Group 911.
In this STP episode, host Scott Houston visits with Rick about the specifics of first responder mental health and ways city management can support them.
Further Information
- TML Risk Pool Training Calendar (look for Resilience Strategies for first Responders and Moving Right of Bang: Critical Incident Early Intervention Strategies)
- Texas Police Chiefs Association VINCIBLE Training Program
This year marks the 21st annual Cybersecurity Awareness Month and the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) encourages every American to take steps to “Secure Our World.”
In this episode, host Scott Houston – and the Risk Pool’s Cyber Squad – discuss ways to help you avoid being the victim of a cyberattack. The squad consists of Cyber Risk Services Manager Ryan Burns and Senior Cybersecurity Advisor Mike Bell. Ryan and Mike are an experienced team that offers Pool Members no-cost preventative services like: (1) cybersecurity best practices; (2) information security policy review/development; (3) incident response plan review; and much more.
The Cyber Squad’s YouTube Video Log provides up-to-date information you need to know. We’ll drop a new vlog each week of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, starting with “The Current Cybersecurity Threat Landscape” on October 1.
Is your world secure? Find out now by scheduling an on-site or virtual Cyber Squad visit today through your Risk Management Advisor, by calling 512-491-2300, or by emailing cybersquad@tmlirp.org.
Further Information
- TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Squad YouTube Channel (Video Logs)
- CISA Cybersecurity Awareness Month Webpage
- TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Liability Webpage
- TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Squad Information Sheet
In this episode, host Scott Houston – and guest TML General Counsel Bill Longley – explain H.B. 471 (effective September 1, 2023) and TML Risk Pool coverage designed to assist Members with compliance costs. The bill enacted a new state law (Local Government Code Chapter 177A) that requires a city (and any other political subdivision) to provide a firefighter, police officer, or emergency medical services employee a leave of absence for an illness or injury related to their line of duty. The leave is with “full pay” for a period “commensurate with the nature of the line of duty illness or injury,” up to at least one year. The complex bill also requires a city to provide additional benefits, including a light-duty return to work option.
The benefit required by the bill appears to be offset by indemnity benefits provided by the city’s workers’ compensation benefits. In other words, the bill doesn’t seem to require a city to pay a first responder’s full salary in addition to workers’ compensation income benefits. It presumably requires only that the city make up the differential or “gap” between workers’ compensation benefits and the first responders’ “full pay.”
Beginning October 1, 2024, the TML Risk Pool will provide a line of coverage that can assist Members with some of the costs to offset the pay gap. More specifically, a Pool Member with Workers’ Compensation and General Liability Coverage can elect to purchase the “Reimbursement of First Responder Injury/Illness Leave Supplemental Income Gap Expenses” Endorsement.
The Endorsement is designed to help a Member offset some of the “gap” using a pre-set formula based on workers’ compensation benefit calculations. To emphasize, the payment is to the Member entity, not the individual first responder. Depending on a first responder’s pay, how a city implements H.B. 471, and other factors, the endorsement may not fully cover the “gap” between a first responder’s workers’ compensation benefit and their “full pay.”
Further Information
- TML Risk Pool’s H.B. 471 FAQ
- Texas Local Government Code Chapter 177A: Illness or Injury Leave of Absence for Firefighters, Police Officers, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel of Political Subdivision
- House Bill 471 (2023)
On January 11, 2020, in Lubbock, a driver from the opposing lane of travel crossed the median while emergency crews were working the scene of an accident. Firefighter Lieutenant Eric Hill and Police Officer Nicholas Reyna were killed. Firefighter/Paramedic Matt Dawson suffered many broken bones across his legs, arms, and torso, a cracked skull along with multiple orbital fractures, and a traumatic brain injury. After working tirelessly to recover, Dawson also ultimately passed away in 2024.
In this episode, Scott visits with Lubbock Firefighter Brady Robinette about the use of specialized helmets by first responders working roadway incidents. “If those involved were wearing helmets constructed according to standards designed to protect their heads against the impacts they experienced, would the results have been different? Would the head injuries have been less serious?” Those questions have led Robinette to make it his mission to educate local officials on the issue.
Interested Members are encouraged to reach out to him at brady.d.robinette@gmail.com for more information.
Further Information
- Roadway Incident Operations: What Is the Right Helmet for the Job? – Brady Robinette
- What’s Your Head Worth PowerPoint Presentation ASTM Helmet Standard
- ASTM Standard Specification for Protective Helmets Worn by Pedestrian Roadway Workers
- ResponderSafety – Roadway Helmet Press Release for the above ASTM standard
- ResponderSafety – Helmets and Head Protection (This page stays up-to-date on all of the latest news about roadway helmets.)
In this episode, Scott first speaks with Arkansas Municipal League Executive Director Mark Hayes. Mark lost his son Wells in 2020 to a drug overdose. Mark and his wife Allison decided to share Wells’ story as publicly as they can in the hopes that doing so helps others avoid such a tragedy. Mark is also a co-founder of the Arkansas Opioids Recovery Partnership, which uses millions in drug company settlement funds to fight the opioid epidemic in Arkansas.
Scott then explains the TML Risk Pool’s Partnership Award, which was given to the City of Laredo for its outstanding efforts to fight overdoses locally. The city’s efforts run the gamut from prevention campaigns and treatment centers to overdose response and law enforcement operations. Scott interviews Laredo Police Chief Miguel A. Rodriguez, Jr., who highlights the city’s efforts.
This episode is so compelling it goes longer than a typical 15-minute STP episode. Every city official will want to listen to and learn from Wells’ story and Mark’s efforts, as well as those of the City of Laredo.
Further Information
- The Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership
- City of Laredo Opioid Response PowerPoint Presentation
- Laredo/Webb County Drug and Alcohol Commission
- ROOTS Recovery Center
- PILLAR Treatment Center
- NLC Cities Speak Podcast: Fighting the Opioid Crisis with Mark & Alison Hayes
- Texas Opioid Abatement Fund Council
Cybersecurity threats are changing, emerging, and growing every day to include city funds, government websites, and water systems and other infrastructure. Local officials should stay aware of the changing cybersecurity landscape and evolving hacker tactics. In this episode, Scott interviews Dr. Michael Ramage, Director of Cyber Education and Research Center at Murray State University, to learn about the most important issues to know. Dr. Ramage will also present a more in-depth version of this discussion at the 2024 TML Annual Conference and Exhibition in October. Don’t miss this episode or the presentation, both of which provide an overview of the dangers facing your communities, while highlighting steps and governance necessary to protect your network, data, and, ultimately, your people.
Further Information:
- Murray State University Cyber Program Home Page
- Murray State Cyber Center YouTube Channel (Including 10 @ 10)
- 2024 TML Annual Conference Cyber Presentation – Friday Agenda (see 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.)
- TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Bytes #3: Preventing Fraudulent Instruction
- TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Liability Home Page
In this episode, Scott explains the predictions for the 2024 hurricane season and visits with a special guest – Matthew Rosencrans, the Climate Testbed Director at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center – to get his top three things a local official should know about this season. Unsurprisingly, being prepared is one thing. Local officials from almost every part of the state should tune in to learn about one you might not know!
Further information:
National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration’s Hurricane Preparedness Website and 2024 Season Predictions
Colorado State University Climate Prediction Center 2024 forecast
Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hurricane Preparedness and Evacuation Planning Website
Texas Department of Emergency Management’s Preparedness Website
TML Risk Pool’s Hurricane Resources Web Page
In this episode, Scott visits with a public relations/communications expert about what a city or other local government official should know about communicating with the public and media during a crisis. Be it severe weather, an act of violence, or any other catastrophic event, elected officials, city managers, and city attorneys need to know the basics. This episode also mentions the Pool’s new qualifying crisis incident coverage, which can provide the services of a crisis management firm to assist Risk Pool Members during a qualifying crisis that leads to intense media scrutiny.
Further Information
- League of Minnesota Cities: Guide for Communicating During a City Crisis
- Public Entity Engagement Roundtable LMC Presentation: Why Crisis Comms Support Matters to Our Members
- PLUS Communications: John Wittman Contact Information
In this episode, Scott explains the Pool’s internal efforts to ensure appropriate resources are provided to the approximately 800 law enforcement departments covered by the Pool. The efforts began with a July 2023 preliminary report that was presented to the Board of Trustees for their consideration. The Board's comments were then incorporated into a summary of actions, which serves as a roadmap for the Pool’s loss prevention and other efforts. After explaining the summary, Scott interviews Charles “Chase” Stapp, the Pool’s Law Enforcement Consultant, about how he can assist departments with risk management efforts that save lives, prevent injuries, and protect property. Members are encouraged to reach out to Chase at chase.stapp@tmlirp.org or 512-491-2440 for a no-cost consultation designed to promote excellence in law enforcement.
Further Information
The Pool’s Role in Supporting Excellence in Law Enforcement – A Preliminary Report for Board of Trustees Consideration
* TML Risk Pool’s Support for Excellence in Law Enforcement – Summary of Actions*
In this special report, you’ll hear from Jeff Thompson (Executive Director) and Aaron Hardiman (Risk Services Manager) as they explain the state of the Pool, the major rate drivers, and their effect on your 2024–2025 rerates.
Further Information
- TML Risk Pool Board of Trustees Adopts 2024-2025 Rates
- TML Risk Pool Board of Trustees Adopts 2024-2025 Rates (Housing Authority Edition)
Texas Government Code Section 2054.5191 mandates cybersecurity training for local government employees, elected officials, and appointed officials who have access to a local government computer system or database and use a computer to perform at least 25 percent of their duties. The training must be certified by the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) – both this podcast and the YouTube video linked to the left are DIR-approved.
This episode isn’t some boring episode. Instead, join the Risk Pool Cyber Guy – Ryan Burns – and his buddy – Hacker Hank – as they discuss ways that “Hank Hacks” trick local government employees into sending money, downloading ransomware, and more!
A local government has two ways to track and report completion of the training: (1) a local government can keep track of participants internally and certify its compliance by August 31, 2024, using the Cybersecurity Training Certification for State and Local Governments form; or (2) DIR has developed an optional tool, Texas by Texas (TxT), for a local government to track compliance of participant’s training compliance.
In this episode, Scott talks about Robert Greenleaf’s seminal essay “The Servant as Leader.” Servant leadership is not about a personal quest for power, prestige, or material rewards. Instead, from this perspective, leadership begins with a true motivation to serve others. Scott is joined by a special guest – his Dad (hey, the price was right) – who speaks about one man’s experience practicing the philosophy over 50 years in business.
Further Information
The Servant as Leader Download (Robert K. Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership - $4.99)
Ten Principles of Servant Leadership from Indeed
Business Insurance New Names TML Risk Pool to 2020 “Best Places to Work” List
TDIndustries “What Does Servant Leadership Mean?”
Strategic Government Resources
In this episode, Scott explains some of the practical and legal issues related to hiring remote employees, whether in Texas or out-of-state, and interviews several Risk Pool employees with expertise in the subject.
Further Information:
Department of Labor Employee v. Independent Contractor FAQ
In this eye-opening episode, Scott interviews City of Tomball Assistant City Manager Jessica Rogers. Cyber-criminals hacked Tomball at the end of 2022, and the city is still – one year later – dealing with the aftermath. In this episode – which should be required listening for every city manager in Texas (and beyond) – Jessica explains exactly what it’s like to have essentially every computer system go down, including 9-1-1 dispatch, utility metering and billing, permitting, and everything in between. She’ll also describe the long road to getting everything up-and-running. Don’t miss this chill-inducing story.
Further Information:
- Texas City Management Association’s “TCMA Messenger” Newsletter article: “There and Back Again, An ACM’s Journey”
- Center for Internet Security’s 2022 Nationwide Cybersecurity Review
- TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Liability Home Page
The year 2023 has seen multiple city employee struck by fatalities on Texas roadways. The TML Risk Pool’s goal is to reduce that to zero in 2024, and we’ve developed a program to do just that. R.O.A.D. Ready is a Risk Pool program designed to save lives, prevent injuries, and protect property by raising member awareness of dangers on and near roadways, and January is R.O.A.D. Ready month. Listen in to learn how you can participate and stop one of your employees from being a statistic.
FURTHER INFORMATION:
R.O.A.D. Ready Web Page
Find You Safety and Loss Control Consultant
Safety @ Your Fingertips Sign Up
In this episode, Scott interviews Dripping Springs City Attorney and Texas City Attorneys Association Board Member Laura Mueller. In it, Laura explains how the law limits the circumstances in which a city or other local government can drug test its employees. Lots of entities are improperly drug testing employees, and this short interview can help set them straight. Check out the podcast as usual or watch the interview by clicking on the video to the left of this episode.
Further Information:
“Weeding Out Bad Employees: Random Drugs Testing and Cities 2023 Update” prepared by Laura Mueller and recently presented to the Texas City Attorneys Association.
In this special, abbreviated episode, Scott welcomes you back from the TML Annual Conference and Exhibition and explains more about the TML Risk Pool and what we offer our Members. He describes a few of the Pool’s most important Member benefits and encourages elected officials to learn more by reviewing the 50th Anniversary Pamphlet. In it, you’ll learn about why TML created the Pool, why we’re the best value proposition for cities, and our coverages and loss prevention services. Reach out to Scott at scott.houston@tmlirp.org with questions or comments!
Further Information:
TML Risk Pool’s 50th Anniversary Pamphlet
In this episode, Scott introduces the second of several short cyber security training videos. This isn’t some boring webinar. No way. Instead, join the Risk Pool Cyber Guy, Ryan Burns, and his buddy Hacker Hank as they continue to educate you about all sorts of cyber perils. These videos are hilarious! You can listen in traditional podcast format, but you’ll be missing out if you don’t watch the nine-minute YouTube video version linked here! If you can identify which pool employee plays Hacker Hank, email Scott at scott.houston@tmlirp.org for the chance to win a prize!
Further Information:
DIR Cyber Incident Reporting Requirement
In this episode, Scott explains State of Texas code enforcement officer certification and training and he interviews City of Irving Assistant City Manager Teresa Adrian, Code Enforcement Director Shain Diller, and Deputy City Attorney Janet Spugnardi about practical and legal challenges related to code enforcement.
Further Information:
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation New Code Enforcement Officer in Training Registration.
- Texas Department of State Health Services Code Enforcement Certification and Training Website.
- Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service Basic Code Enforcement Officer Training.
Únase al anfitrión invitado especial Víctor Flores, abogado de la ciudad de Mission y miembro de la Junta de Síndicos del Grupo de Riesgos de TML, mientras explica en español: (1) que el Grupo de Riesgos de TML proporciona propiedad, responsabilidad civil, compensación laboral y cobertura cibernética; (2) que el departamento de prevención de pérdidas del Pool puede proporcionar capacitaciones para mantener seguros a los empleados mientras trabajan.
Join special guest host Victor Flores, Mission City Attorney and TML Risk Pool Board of Trustees member, as he explains (in Spanish): (1) that the TML Risk Pool provides property, liability, workers’ compensation, and cyber coverage; (2) that the Pool’s loss prevention department can provide resources to keep employees safe while at work.
In this special episode, Scott interviews Pool Deputy Director and C.O.O. Lindsey Fields about reinsurance – what it is, why the Pool has it, and how the Pool uses it.
Further Information:
· A Message from the TML Risk Pool: TML Risk Pool Board of Trustees Adopts 2023-2024 Rates
In this special episode, Scott interviews Pool Executive Director Jeff Thompson about the major rate drivers and their effect on your 2023 rerates, the state of the Pool, and more.
Further Information:
- A Message from the TML Risk Pool: TML Risk Pool Board of Trustees Adopts 2023-2024 Rates
Explains preliminary forecasts, lessons from Florida’s Hurricane Ian last year, SynergyNDS (one of the Pool’s turnkey recovery partners), and more.
Further information:
Are You Prepared: Before, During and After the Storm Workshop Recording
Are You Prepared: Before, During and After the Storm PowerPoint Presentation
Top 10 Components of a Continuity of Operations Plan
Individual Building Continuity of Operations Plan Worksheet (PDF)
Individual Building Continuity of Operations Plan Worksheet (Excel spreadsheet)
SynergyNDS Flyer
Synergy/TML Risk Pool Hurricane Harvey Recovery Video
Synergy’s TML IRP Website
TML Emergency Management Resources
TDEM Preparedness
TML Risk Pool Member Portal
TML Risk Pool's Preparing for Natural Disasters and Emergencies
Posted March 3, 2023
In this episode, Scott interviews Mike Rains. Mike is retiring after 37 years of service to the Pool and its Members. Listen to Mike’s insights about the Pool’s growth over his almost four-decade tenure.
Posted March 3, 2023
In this episode, Scott introduces the first of several short cyber security training videos. This isn’t some boring webinar. No way. Instead, join the Risk Pool Cyber Guy, Ryan Burns, and his buddy Hacker Hank as they discuss “Hank’s Hacks,” which are the most common ways a hacker tricks local government employees into sending money, downloading ransomware, and more. This video is hilarious! You can listen in traditional podcast format, but you’ll be missing out if you don’t watch the nine-minute YouTube video version linked next to this episode! If you can identify which pool employee plays Hacker Hank, email Scott at scott.houston@tmlirp.org for the chance to win a prize!
Explains: (1) that the Texas Municipal League prepares an outstanding edition of Texas Town and City Magazine in January of legislative years called “How Cities Work;” and (2) reviews ways a city official can use the magazine to educate legislators and others.
Further materials links:
Texas Town & City Magazine (January 2023 Edition)
Updated and Reposted December 23, 2022
Explains: (1) the law related to a local government’s liability for raw sewage backups into customers’ homes or businesses; and (2) the Pool’s opt-out and supplemental sewage backup coverage.
Further information:
Sewage Backups: Know Before You Go (Q&A)
Sewage Backups: Know Before You Go (Cheat Sheet)
Explains: (1) the three most common human resources challenges and opportunities for local government employees; (2) training provided by the Pool to address behaviors that cause unhealthy conflict in the workplace.
Further materials links:
Risk Pool Loss Prevention Department (Training and More)
TML Risk Pool’s “Call Before You Fire Program”
Employment Law Manual for Texas Cities
Texas Municipal Human Resources Association
In this episode, you’ll get to know City of Live Oak Mayor Mary M. Dennis, who was recently chosen to lead to Pool’s Board of Trustees. Scott and/or Mary would love to come speak at your event about the benefits of Pool Membership.
Explains: (1) several criminal offenses for which a local official can be indicted; (2) criminal offenses that can be perpetrated against a local government; and (3) various crime coverages offered by the Pool.
Further materials links:
Understanding Your Liability as a City Official: A Primer
Legal Q&A – Bribery and Prohibited Gifts
In this episode, special guest host Tamara Chafin, the Risk Pool’s Communications Officer, explains: (1) the role a Member Services Manager (MSM), plays at the Pool; and (2) interviews 2 of our MSMs: Linda Morvant and Marc Rodriguez.
Further information:
- MSM Map
- The Portal
Posted August 19, 2022
In this episode, Scott: (1) explains the basics of the Public Information Act; and (2) interviews three city secretaries and an open government analyst for practical tips and advice.
Further information:
· Texas Attorney General’s Public Information Act Handbook
· Texas Attorney General’s Mandatory Public Information Act Training
· Texas Municipal League Public Information Act Resources
· Texas Attorney General’s Charges for Public information Resources
Mentions a recent Texas Observer assertion that the Pool mistreated three first responders and explains that: (1) the Pool never tries to claw back benefits already received in a benefits determination appeal; (2) the workers’ compensation beneficiary determination process can seem calloused; and (3) appeal lawsuits are about determining who is the appropriate beneficiary.
Further information:
First Responder Workers’ Compensation Beneficiaries: The Facts
Explains: (1) that work-related local government information held on private devices or in private accounts is public information; and (2) that a local government official or employee is a “temporary custodian” responsible for maintaining that information according to certain procedures.
Further information:
Temporary Custodian Q&A
Attorney General Public Information Act Handbook Excerpts
Texas State Library and Archives Commission Records Retention Website
An Interview with Executive Director Jeff Thompson
Posted June 24, 2022
In this special five-episode series, you can either watch or listen in the traditional podcast format. The series provides an explanation of the major rate drivers and their effect on your 2022 rerates.
In this episode, Scott interviews Jeff Thompson (Risk Pool Executive Director) to get Jeff’s thoughts on the state of the Pool, rerates, and more.
Further Information:
A Message from the TML Risk Pool: Increasing 2022–2023 Member Rates and Contributions
The Risk Pool’s Finances and Reinsurance
Posted June 17, 2022
Please join me for a special five-episode series that allows you to either watch or listen to explanations of the major rate drivers and their effect on Members’ 2022 rerates.
In this episode, Scott interviews: (1) Tito Villegas (Risk Pool CFO and Chief Investment Officer) about the structure of the Pool’s finances; and (2) Lindsey Fields (Risk Loss Deputy Executive Director and COO) about how reinsurance works and relates to your rates.
Further Information:Risk Pool Financial Strength (including 2021-2022 Annual Report
“Workers’ Compensation First Responder COVID-19 Disease Presumption and Liability”
Posted June 3, 2022
Please join me for a special five-episode series that allows you to either watch or listen to explanations of the major rate drivers and their effect on Members’ 2022 rerates.
In this second episode (15b), Scott interviews: (1) Phil English (Risk Pool Worker’s Compensation Claims Manager) about the workers’ compensation first responder COVID-19 disease presumption; and (2) Claudia Poblano (Risk Pool Member Services Manager) about the role of an MSM and liability issues.
Further Information:
Contact Your Member Services Manager
"Cybersecurity and the Risk Pool’s Loss Prevention Efforts"
Posted June 10, 2022
Please join me for a special five-episode series that allows you to either watch or listen to explanations of the major rate drivers and their effect on Members’ 2022 rerates.
In this episode, Scott interviews: (1) Ryan Burns (Risk Pool Cyber Risk Services Manager) about the increasing threat of cyberattacks, phishing, and other cyber threats, and (2) Irvin Janak (Risk Loss Prevention Manager) about how Risk Pool Loss Prevention Representatives serve you and the Pool’s loss prevention efforts.
Further Information:
Contact Your Loss Prevention Representative
Upcoming Risk Pool Training and Other Risk Management Resources
R.O.A.D. Ready Initiative
Cyber Resources
Explains: (1) the most important aspect of preparing for and recovering from damage caused by a hurricane; and (2) links below to a video of a comprehensive workshop presentation on the subject.
Further information:
- Are you Prepared: Before, During and After the Storm Workshop Recording
- Are you Prepared: Before, During and After the Storm PowerPoint Presentation
- Top 10 Components of a Continuity of Operations Plan
- Individual Building Continuity of Operations Plan Worksheet
- Individual Building Continuity of Operations Plan Worksheet (Excel spreadsheet)
- SynergyNDS Flyer
- Synergy/TML Risk Pool Hurriane Harvey Recovery Video
- Synergy’s TML IRP Website
- TML Emergency Management Resources
- TDEM Preparedness
- TML Risk Pool Member Portal
In this Episode you’ll hear: (1) about the STP Series and how it can help elected officials and other local officials and employees keep their citizens, employees, volunteers, and property safe, all while saving public dollars; (2) from a podcast fan and the Pool’s Executive Director about the benefits of the series; and (3) segments from three special episodes.
Further Materials:
Texans Helping Texans Videohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lG2URrYQpjw&t=131s
Explains: (1) the importance of shifting risk to the appropriate parties to a contract; and (2) the essential provisions that should be included in any major or high-exposure contract.
Further information:
- TML Risk Pool’s Risk Transfer and Contract Strategies
- Thomson Reuters (Westlaw): Contract Drafting or Review for Local Governments
- Public Risk management Association Insurance Requirements in Contracts: Tips for Effectively Transferring Risk Podcast
This episode explains: (1) training provided by the Pool to address behaviors that cause unhealthy conflict in the workplace; and (2) the importance of harassment training for supervisors.
Further materials links:
Risk Pool Loss Prevention Department (Training and More)
https://www.tmlirp.org/risk-management/
TML Risk Pool’s “Call Before You Fire Program”
https://www.tmlirp.org/risk-management/call-before-you-fire/
Employment Law Manual for Texas Cities https://www.tml.org/DocumentCenter/View/1510/EMPLOYMENT_LAW_MANUAL_FOR_TEXAS_CITIES-2019_020620-UPDATE
Texas Municipal Human Resources Association
www.tmhra.org
R.O.A.D. Ready is a Risk Pool program designed to save lives, prevent injuries, and protect property by raising member awareness of dangers on and near roadways. The Pool will provide participating members with: (1) specifically-designed resources and training to mitigate roadway risks; and (2) promotional materials to show they are R.O.A.D. Ready.
The Pool launched the program in January 2022 and has designated each successive January as R.O.A.D. Ready month. To participate, a member should: (1) make a commitment to becoming R.O.A.D. Ready by providing internal roadway safety training or using the Pool’s resources to do so; and (2) participating in national roadway, vehicle, or work zone programs.
In this episode, you’ll hear more about why this initiative came about and why it’s so important.
FURTHER INFORMATION:
R.O.A.D. Ready home page
http://info.tmlirp.org/road-ready
The TML Risk Pool provides workers’ compensation coverage for thousands of first responders. State law provides a special workers’ comp benefit to those employees, known as the disease presumption law. Simply put, the law “presumes” that first responders contracted certain diseases on the job for purposes of workers’ comp benefits. In this episode, you’ll hear about the presumption, how it’s administered, and how the Pool partners with Members to help guide them through the complex process.
Texas Department of Insurance - Division of Workers’ Compensation First Responder FAQ
https://www.tdi.texas.gov/wc/employee/firstresp.html
Texas Government Code Chapter 607
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/GV/htm/GV.607.htm
The TML Risk Pool provides workers’ compensation coverage for more than 200,000 local government employees, and receives around 10,000 claims per year. The Workers’ Compensation Department is the largest of all the Pool’s departments, largely because the workers' compensation process is highly-regulated by the Workers’ Compensation Division of the Texas Department of Insurance. In this episode, you’ll hear from key Pool staff about the process and how it’s administered, most importantly how we partner with Members to help guide them through the complex process.
Resources:
Texas Political Subdivision Workers’ Compensation Alliance
https://www.pswca.org/
Texas Department of Insurance - Division of Workers’ Compensation
https://www.tdi.texas.gov/wc/index.html
Division of Worker’s Compensation – Performance-Based Oversight Results
https://www.tdi.texas.gov/wc/pbo/pboresults.html#icrslts
Lubbock Firefighter Matt Dawson Receiving Risk Pool Worker’s Compensation Benefits:
https://www.everythinglubbock.com/video/matt-dawson-honored-with-brand-new-home-community-welcomes-him-in/6407637/
https://www.kcbd.com/app/2021/08/25/matt-dawson-family-will-receive-keys-mortgage-free-home-thursday/
Local governments, in addition to the nuts-and-bolts services they provide, are actually just as much in the business of providing and maintaining information, and local officials should recognize that they should work at it just as hard at protecting that information as they do providing law enforcement and maintaining streets and water lines.
You’ve got to think of cybersecurity as part of your daily work serving and protecting your residents. In today’s world, you just can’t afford to be unprepared – that’s true whether your population is 250,000 or 250.
In this episode, you’ll hear why local governments are frequently targeted by cyber-criminals, how the Risk Pool can help you avoid trouble on the front end, and that we’ve got your back should you get hacked.
Resources:TML Risk Pool’s Cyber-Liability Home Page
https://www.tmlirp.org/risk-management/cyber-liability/
TML Risk Pool’s State-Mandated Cyber-Security Training
http://info.tmlirp.org/cyber-security-training-program
Texas City Attorneys Association: Cyber Security is a Risky Business
PowerPoint Presentation
Paper
Cyber-Breach Checklist
Will Trevino’s Cybersecurity Blog
https://txcybersecuritygov.com/
CPM Applied Research: Steps in Building a Successful Cybersecurity Protocol
https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/cpmar/vol2/iss1/5/?mc_cid=c0bcd4671e&mc_eid=2ea2677c7d
Provides COVID-19 statistics and the story of Roger Dean – as told by his surviving family. Roger was a healthy 31-year-old Seguin firefighter who passed away after a months-long battle with COVID.
Explains how the Pool uses the BEST Roofing Program (Scott Franklin and 4T Partnership) to assist member recovery.
Further Information:
Texas Municipal Procurement Made Easy
Texas Municipal Procurement Cheat Sheet
TML Risk Pool Building Envelope Systems Team (BEST) Roofing Program Flyer
City of Del Rio Article
Explains the officer safety and risk management benefits when a member’s law enforcement agency used the Vincible Training Program.
Further information:
Vincible Promotional Video
Vincible Website
Texas Police Chiefs Association
Explains: (1) the legalities of purchasing and rebuilding requirements after a hurricane or other disaster; and (2) how the Pool uses Synergy to assist member recovery.
Further information:
SynergyNDS Flyer
Synergy/TML Risk Pool Hurricane Harvey Recovery Video
Synergy’s TML IRP Website
TML Emergency Management Resources
TDEM Preparedness
Explains: (1) the law related to a local government’s liability for raw sewage backups into customers’ homes or businesses; and (2) the Pool’s supplemental sewage backup coverage.
Further information:
Sewage Backups: Know Before You Go (Q&A)
Sewage Backups: Know Before You Go (Cheat Sheet)
Explains: (1) why the Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool was started and the services it provides; and (2) the STP Series and how it can help elected officials keep their citizens, employees, volunteers, and property safe, all while saving public dollars.
The information in this episode becomes effective on September 1, 2021. In this episode, we talk about whether local governments can prohibit — or allow — employees to actually carry a gun while at work, and how that can affect your workplace and your risk of a lawsuit.
Further information:
The following are effective until August 31, 2021
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam (Comprehensive Paper in Q&A Format)
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam (Cheat Sheet)
The following become effective on September 1, 2021
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam V2 (Comprehensive Paper in Q&A Format)
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam V2 (Cheat Sheet)
The information in this episode becomes effective on September 1, 2021. Explains the authority of a local government to prohibit or allow employees with a license to carry a handgun at work, the potential liability for doing so, and basics of the Pool’s coverage.
Further information:
The following are effective until August 31, 2021
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam (Comprehensive Paper in Q&A Format)
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam (Cheat Sheet)
The following become effective on September 1, 2021
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam V2 (Comprehensive Paper in Q&A Format)
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam V2 (Cheat Sheet)
Explains: (1) that you may be liable for improper employment actions; and (2) the availability to speak with one of the Pool’s attorneys prior to taking action.
Further information:
TML Risk Pool’s “Call Before You Fire Program”
Employment Law Manual for Texas Cities
Texas Municipal Human Resources Association
Ask a Texas Municipal League Attorney