If you attended one of the County Judges and Commissioners regional conferences this year, you already know what is waiting for us in Waco. You have experienced education, the exchange of ideas, and perhaps most importantly, the fellowship that happens when county officials come together. Now, it’s time to bring all of our regional associations together for the 2026 County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas State Conference Oct. 5-8 in McLennan County.
I have had the privilege of attending the West, South, and North & East association conferences this year, and each one has reminded me of what makes our associations so special. Every region has its unique challenges and perspectives, but the commitment to serving our counties is something we all share.
One of the things I value most about these conferences is the opportunity to learn about issues affecting Texas right now. County government is constantly changing, and new challenges can emerge quickly. Whether we are discussing data centers, infrastructure, growth, property values, public safety, or other issues affecting our communities, these conversations help us better understand what is happening across the state.
The training we receive at conferences is especially valuable when we return home. Our constituents are asking questions about issues, and they expect their county officials to be informed. Conferences give us an opportunity to learn more about the topic, hear different perspectives, ask questions, learn from the experiences of other counties, take that knowledge back home, and have informed conversations with the people we serve.
Our State Conference gives us the opportunity to build on those regional experiences and learn from one another on an even larger scale. This year’s theme, “Leadership Beyond the Courthouse,” reminds us that leadership is about more than a title or position. It is about relationships, communication, collaboration, and the way we work with others to serve our counties.
One of our conference highlights will be our keynote speaker, Louis Fite. Louis brings a unique story and perspective to the stage. A native of Waco and one of the city’s celebrated high school football players, Louis went on to play in the NFL, beginning with the Dallas Cowboys before continuing his professional career with the Chicago Bears, Baltimore Ravens, and finally in Montreal. Louis’ story goes far beyond football. The journey from the football field to a career centered on relationships and communication provides a fitting connection to this year’s conference theme.
I hope you’ll plan to join us in Waco. Come ready to learn, share ideas, and make connections. Come ready to talk about the challenges facing our counties today, and discover ideas that can help meet those challenges tomorrow. Most of all, come be part of something bigger than any one county or region: the strength of county government across Texas.
The regional conferences have brought us together throughout the year. Now it is time for the entire state to come together. I look forward to seeing you in Waco!