The Wharton County Courthouse was built in 1889 in a Second Empire style as designed by noted Texas architect Eugene Thomas Heiner. The county capitol was rededicated in 2007 following a restoration project that included the demolition of the 1940s additions that had surrounded the building. The renewed exterior resulted in a replicated pressed metal shingle roof and a clock … [Read more...] about Wharton County Courthouse
Legislative Changes Impacting County Procurement
When the Texas Legislature meets, there are always changes that impact procurement. If you search the statutes, you will see that these changes have already been incorporated into the language. If you search the individual bills, you will more easily see the changes that were made, https://capitol.texas.gov/. The Big Change! SB 1173 increased the formal bid limit for … [Read more...] about Legislative Changes Impacting County Procurement
ADA Rule Addresses County Websites, Apps
In April 2024, the Federal Register published the Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) final rule updating its regulations for Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a new rule on the Accessibility of Web Content and Mobile Apps Provided by State and Local Governments. The rule is explained in detail at https://bit.ly/ada-web-app. Counties with a population of … [Read more...] about ADA Rule Addresses County Websites, Apps
Courthouse Preservation Program Receives $100 Million
Grant Applications Now Open; Master Plan Deadline March 13, 2026
The Texas Historical Commission’s (THC) Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program (THCPP) is accepting Round 14 grant applications. To be eligible to apply, counties must have a THCPP-approved master plan filed with the THC before March 13, 2026. All requirements and the timeline for THCPP Round 14, along with how to prepare a master plan, can be found on the THC’s … [Read more...] about Courthouse Preservation Program Receives $100 Million
Solving Our Legislative Relationship Problem: A New Year’s Resolution
In the October issue of County Progress, we discussed the deteriorating relationship between counties and the state leadership. Given the constitutional control exercised by the legislature over counties, this is a serious problem needing our attention. As we consider resolutions for the New Year, let’s discuss some suggestions to improve relationships with our … [Read more...] about Solving Our Legislative Relationship Problem: A New Year’s Resolution