Message from the President

It was a sad day this past Oct. 22 and yet a day of rejoicing as we shared memories of a friend of county government and a friend to just about everybody who met the late Commissioner Bobby Smith. He was sorta rough around the edges, but still he had a personality about him that reminded one of a big teddy bear. But the rascal had one of the biggest hearts found anywhere. He cared about his family, town, county, and everybody in it. He cared about his area council of governments, V.G. Young Institute of County Government, and the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas as he went through the ranks as an officer.
If you needed something, you just had to let Bobby do it, and it would get done. If it was a fund-raiser, golf tournament, pool tournament, or hunting trip, Bobby had all the answers or knew who did. His amazing skill and memory of details showed experience and forethought about the services it took to put on a conference, as he always took care of things. Just turn it over to Bobby, and watch him go. I am just glad to have had the experience to be one of his fellow officers in training as he freely gave everybody his leadership and experience expertise for future conferences. He will be remembered for a long time to come and missed so much. We all shared and learned so much. Thank you, Bobby Smith, for everything.
On a much lighter note, for judges and commissioners who need to know about laws related to public office, there is a handbook that gives vital information on “Traps For The Unwary.” The free handbook available at the Office of the Attorney General explains most laws that require a wary eye on the part of public officials. It is interesting reading and it explains some of the interpretations of recent opinions by that office. To get a free copy, call the AG’s office in Austin: 512-463-2100, or request a copy by writing to P.O. Box 12548, Austin, TX 78711-2548. You may also visit their Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us. There are limited amounts of the 2004 edition available, and the 2006 edition will come out sometime next spring. It is essential that one knows the laws, and these laws are explained in detail as interpreted by the attorney general.
Keep in mind that the Legislature may still call a special session. Elna Christopher at TAC is compiling valuable information everyone can use to inform your legislators about county finances and why caps aren’t needed. It will be out soon or may already be available.
We hope that everyone had a nice Thanksgiving and enjoyed family and friends. As we look forward to the Christmas season, many of you will be traveling, visiting, or maybe just staying home. Wherever you are, keep our troops in your prayers. Also pray for those less fortunate and those who are ill and suffering, and for our national, state and regional governments and our counties. It is my hope that the New Year brings you many blessings. God Bless America.
Gilbert Pargmann, President CJCAT