Texas County Voice: Recent Episodes
Texas Association of Counties
A podcast from the Texas Association of Counties about the people, issues and all things important to Texans and Texas counties.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we catch up with County magazine Managing Editor Mary Huber for a preview of the latest issue. The cover story explores how recovery and rehabilitation programs in Midland County are giving people second chances. It's part of the Texas Association of Counties' ongoing Texas County Storytellers campaign. We also discuss how Texas counties are helping families prepare for the new school year, and we look at new state parks opening around Texas and what state parks mean for local economies.
Related Information:
- Summer 2026 County magazine
- Texas County Storytellers
"Every county has a story." That message guided Wise County Judge J.D. Clark throughout his year as president of the National Association of Counties. Fresh from NACo's Annual Conference in New Orleans, Judge Clark joins Texas County Voice to reflect on a year spent representing counties across the country and highlights the insights and experiences he brings back home to Texas.
Choosing a Medicare plan can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode of Texas County Voice, TAC Employee Benefits Consultant Rashawn Collins and Employee Benefits Specialist Casha Hill break down your Medicare options, explain what to expect during the enrollment process and share practical guidance for choosing coverage that fits your health needs and budget.
In the latest episode of Texas County Voice, we travel to Galveston County for an inside look at Gulf Coast Center, a new mental health facility helping restore critical services lost since Hurricane Ike nearly two decades ago. This episode is part of our Texas County Storytellers initiative, highlighting the people, partnerships and projects shaping communities across Texas.
Related Information:
- Galveston County's call for compassionate care
- Texas County Storytellers
In the 100th episode of Texas County Voice, hosts Jody Seaborn and Angela Maldonado reflect on the podcast's journey since its launch in 2022. They revisit memorable guests, award-winning episodes and stories that explored Texas history, big issues and the people behind county government. Join us as we celebrate the conversations and connections that have defined the show, and the many stories still left to tell.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we preview the latest issue of County magazine, featuring the second installment in our Texas County Storytellers cover series. We spotlight Galveston County's new mental health facility, a local, state and federal partnership restoring critical services lost after Hurricane Ike. We also explore Washington County's rural EMS helicopter program, the fascinating history of time capsules and the enduring legend of Eastland County's Old Rip, and innovative flood mitigation strategies from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Tune in to discover the stories shaping Texas counties.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we share the first feature from the Texas Association of Counties' Texas County Storytellers initiative. "Dust, pavement and the price of progress" reveals how South Texas counties worked together to manage road damage, rising costs and safety concerns during the Eagle Ford Shale oil boom. It's a powerful look at the tradeoffs of growth and the resilience and collaboration it takes to keep communities moving forward.
Counties do incredible work, but are those stories being heard? This National County Government Month, Texas County Voice welcomes Matt Chase, the CEO and executive director of the National Association of Counties, to explore NACo's new We Are Counties campaign and why sharing your county's story can transform public trust and engagement. Tune in to hear how counties can take control of their narrative and elevate their voices. Related Information:We Are Counties 2026 NACo Annual Conference & Exposition Texas County StorytellersTexas Counties Deliver
From patching asphalt as part of a county work crew to elected official, De Witt County Commissioner Ryan Varela knows what it takes to keep rural roads moving. In this episode of Texas County Voice — part of our Texas County Storytellers initiative — he shares how the Eagle Ford Shale oil boom tests South Texas infrastructure, and the lessons of responsibility, resilience and service he's learned along the way. See also:County magazine: Dust, pavement and the price of progress Texas County Storytellers
Take a first look inside the newest issue of County magazine. In this episode of Texas County Voice, host Jody Seaborn talks with Managing Editor Mary Huber about the cover story on De Witt County and the Eagle Ford Shale, plus other standout stories ranging from rodeos to drones to the marriage capital of Texas. Along the way, they spotlight TAC's Texas County Storytellers and County Best Practices Awards. But wait! There's more. Don't miss a preview of the upcoming Healthy County Boot Camp. Press play and catch it all.
Counties across Texas are finding smart, practical ways to serve their communities, and TAC's County Best Practices Awards are designed to highlight those successes. In this episode of Texas County Voice, TAC County Relations Officers Rhita Koches and Jay Mayden explain how the awards program works, why it matters and how an innovative idea in one county can benefit all 254. If your county is doing something worth sharing, this episode is your invitation to tell that story.
Related information:
- TAC County Best Practices Awards Program
- TAC County Relations Officers
Denton County Treasurer Cindy Yeatts Brown began her two-year term as President of the Texas Association of Counties Board of Directors on Jan. 1. In this episode of Texas County Voice, she reflects on a journey that started with a part-time county job in high school and grew into nearly four decades of public service. Listen as she shares the experiences that shaped her passion for county government.
November is Men's Health Awareness month. In this episode of Texas County Voice, we sit down with TAC's Senior Director of Health Benefit Services Quincy Quinlan and Senior Wellness Consultant Mark Zollitsch to explore why men often avoid care, the barriers they face and how reaching out can make a difference. From vital stats to practical tips, we shine a light on why speaking up is the first step toward a healthier life.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we catch up with Mary Huber, managing editor of County magazine, for a look inside the latest issue. Hear why Texas counties should already be getting ready for the 2030 census and get a sneak peek at Texas County Storytellers, a new feature celebrating the people who bring county government to life. You'll also meet Rockwall County Justice of the Peace Mark Russo, the first storyteller in the new series. He shares what inspires his work and his connection to the community he serves.
Happy Halloween! Newton County Judge Ronnie Cochran tells us about getting the courthouse ready to pass out candy for local school children, and why he hopes the impact of this event will leave a lasting impression on the community.
This episode of Texas County Voice, we feature highlights from the 2025 Legislative Conference session on Cybersecurity. Dallas County Clerk John Warren and Texas Association of Counties Deputy Director of Technology Services Peter Crary talk about the newly formed Texas Cyber Command, plus how counties can use AI to serve their communities.
Recorded at TAC’s 2025 Legislative Conference, this episode of Texas County Voice takes you behind the scenes with Texas county leaders sharing stories from the frontlines. Join us for insights on the legislation that made it through this year's Legislature and what it means for counties across the state.
Related Resources:
- Texas leadership at the National Association of Counties
- Travis County's Men as Allies program
Once known as the "toughest little town in Texas," Helena was booming — until one man's vengeance stopped its future. In this episode of Texas County Voice, we visit the former seat of Karnes County to explore its wild past, from rowdy saloons and infamous duels to the grief-fueled act that sealed the town's fate. Discover the stories still echoing in Helena's surviving buildings and the ongoing efforts to preserve what remains.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, host Jody Seaborn chats with managing editor Mary Huber about the new issue of County, TAC's quarterly magazine. They cover how new state funding is helping rural counties buy ambulances, key takeaways from the 89th Legislature’s regular session and a profile of Wise County Judge and new National Association of Counties President J.D. Clark. Plus, hear the story of a Texas “ghost town” that’s making plans for the future. And County’s cover stories now come with a voice. You can listen right here.
Wise County Judge J.D. Clark, newly sworn in as president of the National Association of Counties, joins Texas County Voice to talk about the call to public service, the role of storytelling in leadership and his deep-rooted passion for county government. He also shares a few personal notes you won't want to miss.
Cass County Judge Travis Ransom joins Texas County Voice to discuss the 89th Legislature from a county leader's perspective. Judge Ransom also reflects on his personal journey from soldier to county judge, and how that path shapes his leadership today.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, host Jody Seaborn sits down with Caroline Love, Director of Legislative Services at the Texas Association of Counties, to break down the regular session of the 89th Texas Legislature. What passed? What didn’t? And what should counties prepare for next? Don’t miss this update as we head into a special session in July and look forward to the 2025 TAC Legislative Conference in August.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we peek inside the Spring 2025 issue of County magazine. Join us for a look at hurricane preparedness, the building of new mental health hospitals, the resolution of a long-standing Jane Doe case and the uniquely Texas legend of a horny toad known as Ol' Rip. Tune in for the highlights and be sure to read more at county.org.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we're joined by Kris Rivenburgh, founder of Accessible.org, to discuss why web accessibility is more than a technical concern — it's a legal and operational must for every county. Rivenburgh will also be leading sessions on this important topic at TAC's upcoming County Technology Conference in Williamson County.
For 20 years, she was known only as Jane Doe — no past, no story. But one woman refused to let her be forgotten. In this episode of Texas County Voice, Williamson County Senior Death Investigator Valerie Alvarez takes us inside the forensic and emotional journey to uncover a lost identity and finally bring a name back to the dead.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, recorded live at TAC's 2025 County Management and Risk Conference, Mason County Commissioner Reggie Loeffler and Hutchinson County Judge Cindy Irwin discuss the challenges and opportunities facing rural Texas counties. They explore key topics such as emergency medical services, wildfire recovery efforts and innovative strategies for enhancing community well-being.
Get a sneak peek at the 2025 County Management & Risk Conference! Bee County Auditor April Cantu shares her role on the Texas Association of Counties Risk Management Pool Board and what she hopes to gain from this year's conference, while TAC’s Clem Zabalza breaks down key sessions on cybersecurity, risk management and more. Don’t miss this essential preview on Texas County Voice!
In this episode of Texas County Voice, Grimes County Judge Joe Fauth offers an inside look at the role and responsibilities of a county judge. He shares valuable insights on leadership, community engagement and his experiences serving the county, offering a firsthand look at the challenges and rewards of the position.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, Sherman County Combination Clerk Laura Rogers joins us to discuss the legislative election priorities of the County & District Clerks' Association of Texas. From countywide polling to continuing education for election officials, Rogers shares insights from the front lines of county government. We also highlight her recent testimony before the House Elections Committee — and don't miss the incredible story of how she saved a life at the Capitol!
In this episode of Texas County Voice, Chambers County Sheriff Brian Hawthorne outlines the priorities of the Sheriff's Association of Texas during the 89th Legislature. From grant funding for rural law enforcement to border security and THC regulation, Sheriff Hawthorne discusses the challenges and opportunities facing Texas sheriffs and counties.
Tune in to Texas County Voice for an exclusive look inside the new issue of County magazine. Plus, don't miss our inspiring conversation with Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth as she shares her journey and deep passion for public service.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, TAC Senior Fiscal and Policy Analyst Zelma Smith walks us through some key county-related provisions in the House and Senate's proposed budgets for the 2026-27 biennium. Join us for an overview of the state budget process and a first look at what's ahead.
Tune in to Texas County Voice for a sneak peek at this year's Healthy County Boot Camp, Jan. 29-31 in Austin. The conference is packed with exciting wellness strategies, fitness activities and interactive features to help counties thrive. Discover what's new and how you can take part!
TAC Legislative Services Director Caroline Love joins Texas County Voice to preview the 2025 Texas legislative session. Tune in to explore key county issues and discover the resources TAC offers to keep county officials informed and prepared.
Travis County Commissioner Ann Howard joins Texas County Voice to discuss homelessness and mental health challenges in Central Texas. She shares insights on supportive housing, Travis County's jail diversion program and creating sustainable change. Don’t miss this compelling conversation.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, Matagorda County Judge Bobby Seiferman discusses his county's innovative youth leadership program – a 2024 County Best Practices Award recipient from the Texas Association of Counties. Learn how this program is inspiring high school students through hands-on experiences in local government, health care and other sectors, equipping them with the skills and vision to shape the future of Matagorda County.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, Hays County Elections Administrator Jennifer Doinoff discusses the meticulous preparations behind fair and secure elections. Don’t miss this peek into the electoral process.
Join us for an insightful "fireside chat" as Yoakum County Commissioner Tim Addison and Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis discuss the shared challenges faced by urban and rural counties. Together, they explore strategies for building partnerships that foster stronger counties and a stronger Texas. Don’t miss this engaging conversation.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we visit Guadalupe County to explore its award-winning Citizens Election Academy. Designed to educate residents on the electoral process from voter registration to the reporting of results, the academy promotes transparency, combats misinformation and encourages civic engagement. Join us as Guadalupe County Elections Administrator Lisa Hayes shares how the academy builds trust in elections, one voter at a time.
Judicial safety has become an urgent issue as threats against judges and court personnel continue to rise. In this episode of Texas County Voice, Harris County Justice of the Peace Holly Williamson discusses the security challenges facing Texas courts and shares strategies to protect judges, staff and the public. As president of the Justices of the Peace and Constables Association of Texas, Judge Williamson recently spoke on this topic at the Texas Association of Counties' 2024 Legislative Conference. Don't miss this important and timely discussion.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we explore Johnson County’s investigation of the environmental and health risks linked to biosolids used in local agriculture. Commissioner Larry Woolley and Constable Detective Dana Ames discuss the alarming levels of toxic "forever chemicals" found in soil, water and livestock. Tune in to hear the investigation’s findings and learn what steps officials are taking in response.
Artificial intelligence is no longer futuristic. However, its implications for county government are not entirely understood. In this episode of Texas County Voice, Robert Ruiz, the associate director of TAC's Risk Management Services, breaks down the fundamentals of AI and covers real-world applications and key considerations for integrating AI into county operations. Join us as we discuss what county officials need to know about AI and its potential benefits – and risks.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we attend one of TAC's Judicial Education Roundtables, a series of meetings being held this summer across the state to provide county judges a platform for discussing county challenges. TAC's Stephanie Moreno explains the roundtables' focus on mental health. Featuring insights from Lee County Judge Frank Malinak, Knox County Judge Stan Wojcik and Comanche County Judge Stephanie Davis, the episode highlights various struggles with mental health resources and the significance of community involvement.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, Jackson County Judge Jill Sklar shares lessons learned from a ransomware attack that struck her county in 2019. Judge Sklar's experiences inform her role as chair of the Board of Directors of TAC's County Information Resources Agency, or CIRA. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of county cybersecurity.
Tune in to Texas County Voice for an engaging conversation with Randy Riggs, McClennan County Tax Assessor-Collector and vice president of the Texas Association of Counties. Discover his dedication to public service and hear his insights on upcoming legislative changes affecting vehicle registrations and new license plates. Plus! Enjoy a sampling of Riggs' talent beyond public office.
From growing up in the farmlands of Hidalgo County to becoming one of the few Asian American county judges in Texas, Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai, as he puts it, has always followed the path least taken. In this episode of Texas County Voice, Judge Sakai shares his unique journey and how his family history, including his father's four-year stay in a Japanese internment camp during World War II, shaped his dedication to public service.
We visit with Llano County Judge Ron Cunningham in this episode of Texas County Voice. Judge Cunningham shares his perspective on key issues faced by Llano County and discusses his engagement on bills that would simplify the federal grant process for counties and boost local support for veterans and their families. Join us for an insightful look at the leadership and experiences shaping Texas counties.
Please join Texas County Voice as we visit Lampasas County to bring you a conversation with County Judge Randy Hoyer. Tune in as Judge Hoyer shares his journey from educator to county judge and discusses the important advocacy he is leading for his community.
Texas County Voice recently reached out to county leaders as they prepared for the April 8 solar eclipse. From Bandera to Llano counties, and up to Rains County, join us on a journey through planning and anticipation as Texas counties get ready to witness and manage an unforgettable experience for both residents and visitors alike.
Please join Texas County Voice as we spotlight and celebrate the public servants who are making a difference in the Lone Star State. Our guest this episode: Schleicher County Judge Charlie Bradley.
In this episode of Texas County Voice, El Paso County Commissioner David Stout shares his journey from broadcast journalism to county government, highlights the issues and initiatives he champions, and discusses the importance of community engagement and collaboration in shaping effective policies. Please join us as we continue our conversations with the public servants who are making a difference in the Lone Star State.
Comments on current episodes of Texas County Voice or suggestions for future episodes are always welcome. Please send them to media@county.org.
Texas County Voice recently traveled to Washington, D.C., for the National Association of Counties' 2024 Legislative Conference. Join us as we sit down with NACo Executive Director Matt Chase to discuss federal policies and other developments shaping county governance. You'll also hear from Comal County Criminal District Attorney Jennifer Tharp on her priorities and conference takeaways.
Related information:
- For additional coverage of NACo's 2024 NACo Legislative Conference, visit naco.org.
- Go here to download and pre-order copies of NACo's AI-generated children's book, "The Marvelous Adventures in Countyland."
In this episode of Texas County Voice, we step back in time to explore the rich history of Buffalo Gap, the former county seat of Taylor County. Join us as we visit a living connection to the past.
In this episode, Texas County Voice looks ahead to February's 15th annual Healthy County Boot Camp. Join us as Texas Association of Counties Wellness Consultants Ashley Cureton-Whitfield and Biral Patel discuss the unique features of this year's event and share advice for setting and achieving personal health and fitness goals.
Yoakum County Commissioner Tim Addison began his two-year term as President of the Texas Association of Counties' Board of Directors on Jan. 1. In this episode of Texas County Voice, Commissioner Addison discusses his experience in public service, his family's deep roots in Texas and his goals as TAC President.
Texas Association of Counties Executive Director Susan Redford interviews Tom Green County Auditor Nathan Cradduck, whose two-year term as TAC Board President ends Dec. 31. They reflect on Cradduck's key accomplishments, including a renewed commitment to member engagement after the pandemic, and discuss the challenges and future of county leadership.
Please join Texas County Voice as we continue to spotlight and celebrate the public servants who make a difference in the Lone Star State. Our guest: Taylor County Commissioner Chuck Statler.
Commissioner Statler is a former president of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas and a former member of the Texas Association of Counties' Board of Directors. He has a radio and television background and still pursues his passion for broadcasting by announcing local football, basketball and baseball games – something he's been doing for more than 40 years.
Please join Texas County Voice as we continue to spotlight and celebrate the public servants who make a difference in the Lone Star State. Our guest: Parmer County Commissioner Kirk Frye.
Please join us as we step outside Studio 254 and embark on a road trip of sorts through the history and stories hidden in the remnants of vanished communities. Don't miss this journey to a Texas that once was.
Join us as Texas County Voice talks with Comal County Commissioner Jen Crownover, the new president of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas. She shares her journey to county office, her enthusiasm for leadership development and her fondness for her "seahorses." Don't miss this engaging conversation.
Join us as TAC Legislative Consultant Kelsey Bernstein talks with Jefferson County Constable Christopher Bates, the current president of the Justices of the Peace and Constables Association of Texas and the 2023 United States Constable of the Year. He shares his journey to county office, his love of community and service, and an impromptu performance of "God Bless America." Don't miss this engaging conversation.
In this episode, we dive back into Senate Bill 22, the rural law enforcement grant program that we outlined previously. With proposed rules now on the table and a 30-day comment window open for county officials, we address pressing questions surrounding this groundbreaking initiative. Our guests, TAC's Skylor Hearn and Russell Gallahan with the Comptroller's Office, provide insights and clarity. Join us for this essential update on SB 22.
Check our show page for more information related to this episode.
Join us as we share a second helping from the Texas Association of Counties' recent 2023 Legislative Conference, where more than 850 county officials and staff members gathered for a county-focused look at this year's legislative decisions. This episode features a panel discussion exploring the historic levels of state and federal funding set aside for expanding high-speed internet access across Texas and how counties can bridge the digital divide and invest in their futures.
Join us as we share a sampling from the Texas Association of Counties' recent 2023 Legislative Conference, where more than 850 county officials and staff members gathered for a county-focused look at this year's legislative decisions. Hear Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson's keynote on elections and more, followed by a short interview with Mary Jo McGuire, the new president of the National Association of Counties.
How will artificial intelligence influence county governance? How can counties leverage AI's potential benefits while avoiding its hazards? These are among the questions the National Association of Counties' new AI Exploratory Committee, co-chaired by Travis County Judge Andy Brown, will be considering in the months ahead.
Join us on Texas County Voice as we talk with Judge Brown about the committee's scope and goals. You'll hear additional insights from Peter Crary, the Texas Association of Counties' senior manager of technology and a member of NACo's AI committee. Tune in for a glimpse at the evolving intersection of AI and government.
Join us on Texas County Voice as we walk through the key provisions of Senate Bill 22, a pivotal piece of county-related legislation that provides crucial financial assistance to sheriffs, constables and prosecutors in rural counties. Our guides for this informative episode: Skylor Hearn and Katy Estrada from the Texas Association of Counties' Legislative Services department.
Join us on Texas County Voice as we report from the National Association of Counties' annual conference held July 21-24 in Travis County. Over four days, nearly 3,200 county officials and representatives from 680 counties across the country gathered in Austin to discuss important county-related matters. A Texas highlight: Wise County Judge J.D. Clark was elected Second Vice President of NACo's Executive Committee, positioning him to become NACo president in 2025. Hear about the Texas presence at the conference and NACo's role in advocating for counties in Washington, D.C.
Join us on Texas County Voice as we interview Wise County Judge J.D. Clark and anticipate the start of the National Association of Counties' annual conference in Travis County. Discover the significance of county engagement in shaping policies at the state and federal levels, along with Wise County's notable achievements in expanding broadband access.
Don't miss this insightful conversation with Judge J.D. Clark.
What does a county judge do? And why are they called "county judges"? Comal County Judge Sherman Krause explains, in the first of an occasional series exploring the roles of county officials.
Judge Krause also talks about the challenges of keeping pace with rapid population growth in one of the country's fastest-growing counties.
To learn more about the services Texas counties provide and the responsibilities of each county official, visit www.TexasCountiesDeliver.org.
Randall County Commissioner Eric Barry, a classically trained tenor, shares his journey from singing opera in some of the world's most famous concert halls to settling down in the Panhandle and serving county government. Barry's interview with Texas County Voice can also be read in the latest issue of County magazine.
State Rep. Andrew Murr of Junction joins Texas County Voice to discuss how serving as Kimble County judge prepared him for the Legislature and to share his legislative priorities for the state and his wide-ranging, 16-county House district. This is the fourth in a series of interviews with state lawmakers by TAC Legislative Consultant Katy Estrada.
State Rep. Joe Moody of El Paso, chair of the House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee, joins Texas County Voice to share his legislative priorities of interest to counties. This is the third in a series of interviews with Capitol leaders by TAC Legislative Consultant Katy Estrada.
State Rep. Lynn Stucky of Denton joins Texas County Voice to discuss his legislative priorities of interest to counties. TAC Legislative Consultant Katy Estrada guest hosts.
State Rep. and former House Speaker Tom Craddick of Midland joins Texas County Voice to discuss his legislative priorities of interest to counties. TAC Legislative Consultant Katy Estrada guest hosts.
Chambers County District Clerk Patti Henry, president of the County and District Clerks' Association of Texas, joins the podcast to talk about her association's priorities for the 2023 legislative session. TAC Legislative Consultant Nanette Forbes guest hosts.
In this episode, we talk with Travis County District Clerk Velva Price about what it means to be the first Black district clerk in Travis County, her journey to elected office and what keeps her motivated with her work.
The Texas Legislature is in session and among the Texas Association of Counties' many educational and informational resources for county officials is the Core Legislative Group. TAC Legislative Consultant and Core Legislative Group coordinator Kelsey Bernstein talks with Travis County Constable Carlos Lopez and Schleicher County Treasurer Jennifer Henderson about this invaluable resource for county officials interested in the legislative process.
The Texas Legislature is back in session and the Texas Association of Counties is here to help you keep pace with the latest happenings at the Capitol. TAC's Legislative Services Director Noe Barrios joins us to give an overview.
Rural Texas desperately needs more doctors and health care providers. In this episode, Curtis Donaldson, director of Rural Medicine Outreach at Texas A&M University's School of Medicine, talks about the school's efforts to cultivate country doctors.
We talk with Burleson County Judge Keith Schroeder about his county's decision to hire a full-time mental health deputy to help persons in psychological crisis find treatment and avoid jail. The initiative earned Burleson County a 2022 County Best Practices Award from the Texas Association of Counties.
In this episode, we talk with Jeff Davis County Judge Curtis Evans about growing up in Far West Texas, his passion for horses and roping, and the real star of the courthouse in Fort Davis, his dog Lou.
With the help of Williamson County Elections Administrator Chris Davis and Texas Association of Counties' associate general counsel Paul Miles, Texas County Voice looks at what a recent opinion by Attorney General Ken Paxton potentially means for voted ballots, county election officials and election budgets.
Three Texas county election officials discuss what it takes to make our elections work. Guests: Cameron County Elections Administrator Remi Garza, Hays County Elections Administrator Jennifer Doinoff and Sherman County District and County Clerk Laura Rogers.
Texas Secretary of State John Scott, the state's chief election officer, talks with Texas County Voice about the challenges county election officials are facing ahead of the Nov. 8 general election, and how his office is working to support them.
Texas' new election rules and broadband development efforts were prominent topics at TAC's 2022 Legislative Conference. In this episode, you'll hear excerpts from two panel discussions on the subjects. Plus: a Q&A with U.S. Sen. John Cornyn.
Texas' new election rules and broadband development efforts were prominent topics at TAC's 2022 Legislative Conference. In this episode, you'll hear excerpts from two panel discussions on the subjects. Plus: a Q&A with U.S. Sen. John Cornyn.
Matthew Chase, the National Association of Counties' CEO and executive director, joins Texas County Voice to talk about federal issues of interest to Texas counties, including the American Rescue Plan Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. You'll also learn about Operation Green Light, a special NACo initiative planned for Veterans Day.
Matthew Chase, the National Association of Counties' CEO and executive director, joins Texas County Voice to talk about federal issues of interest to Texas counties, including the American Rescue Plan Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. You'll also learn about Operation Green Light, a special NACo initiative planned for Veterans Day.
Texas County Voice joined hundreds of county officials recently at TAC's 2022 Legislative Conference. Our latest episode samples the action from three busy, informative days.
We here at the Texas Association of Counties have been busy getting ready for our 2022 Legislative Conference, Aug. 24-26. The conference will dig into the details of numerous issues that counties can expect to face when the Legislature reconvenes in January. It's an essential event for preparing for legislative action to come, and in this episode, we take a quick look at what's ahead.
Hurricane Harvey made landfall on Aug. 25, 2017, causing massive damage in Aransas and many other Texas counties. In this episode of Texas County Voice, we recognize the five-year anniversary of the storm and the resilience of our members as they continue to rebuild. Joining us is Robert Ruiz, associate director of TAC Risk Management Services. Ruiz was one of the first TAC staff members to visit counties in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. He walks us through the damage our members sustained and offers lessons learned and tips on how to prepare for disaster.
This episode pairs with the cover story in the summer issue of County magazine.
Voices of County Government is a favorite feature of the Texas Association of Counties' quarterly magazine, County. Consider it now an occasional feature here on Texas County Voice.
Our guest: Hemphill County Judge Lisa Johnson. Judge Johnson talks about what it's like to wield the county gavel after 11 years as county and district clerk, her experience as clerk and a few of her favorite things about Hemphill County.
On this episode of Texas County Voice, we sit down with the presidents of the Sheriffs' Association of Texas and Texas Chief Deputies Association, both of whom just so happen to be from the same county – Lubbock County, about the biggest issues affecting county law enforcement, including staffing shortages and mental health services in their jails. We also talk to them about how they got interested in law enforcement and what motivates them to show up to work every day.
Haley Click, director of the Texas Association of Counties' Education & Member Services, and Comal County Treasurer Renee Couch visit Texas County Voice to talk about Leadership 254, one of TAC's premier training programs for county officials.
Applications are open for the next class of Leadership 254 until Sept. 16, 2022. County officials can apply online at www.county.org/leadership254.
What happens in Washington doesn't stay in Washington. Decisions made at the federal level affect Texas counties. Federal outreach efforts by TAC's Legislative Services department, in partnership with the National Association of Counties, make sure Texas counties have a voice in Washington, D.C.
Delivering health care in rural communities is a perennial challenge. This episode includes excerpts from a recent panel discussion on rural health care hosted by The Texas Tribune and cosponsored by the Texas Association of Counties. The episode also includes an interview with Bell County Pct. 3 Commissioner Bill Schumann.
The new issue of County magazine is here, and we're talking about it. Because it's got stuff you'll want to read. For free. Plus: Hudspeth County Judge Tom Neely is 94. That's right, 94. Yeah, he has a few stories to tell.
Burnet County Justice of the Peace Roxanne Nelson and Waller County Justice of the Peace J.R. Woolley talk about the judiciary's role when interacting with people with mental health issues, intellectual and developmental disabilities or substance use disorders.
Robert Ruiz, associate director of TAC's Risk Management Services, and San Patricio County IT Director Steven González guide Texas County Voice through the cybersecurity landscape in this report from this year's County Management & Risk Conference.
The Legislature made big changes to the bail bond system in Texas in 2021. TAC Legislative Consultant Kelsey Bernstein and Bronson Tucker, director of curriculum at the Texas Justice Court Training Center, join Texas County Voice to discuss key bail reporting rules now taking effect.
It was year ago on March 11, 2021, that President Biden signed the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act into law. The act set aside $5.7 billion in direct aid for Texas counties. In this episode, we look at the key points and questions associated with the American Rescue Plan.
County jails have become de facto mental health facilities for many Texans suffering a mental health crisis. In this episode, we look at one of the state's most pressing problems.
This year's Healthy County Boot Camp focused on how to move from the challenges of the pandemic to a new normal. Texas County Voice attended the annual wellness conference hosted by TAC's Health & Employee Benefits Pool. This is our report.
More than 1,000 Texas laws are based on a county's population. We explore an interactive tool TAC created to help counties find which population-bracketed laws apply to them. And we visit Chambers County, one of many Texas counties experiencing rapid growth.
Confused about Texas' new election law? Cameron County Elections Administrator Remi Garza walks listeners through the new rules and what they mean for Texas voters and counties.
In our debut episode, Texas Association of Counties' Executive Director Susan Redford talks with Comal County Treasurer Renee Couch about her accomplishments as president of the TAC Board of Directors, and TAC's Jody Seaborn interviews new Board President and Tom Green County Auditor Nathan Cradduck.