When the current state constitution was adopted in 1876, Texas was a rural, frontier state. With limited communication and transportation systems, a centralized government was not feasible, and county government was a necessity. The framers relied upon locally elected officials to provide essential governmental services, such as law enforcement, courts, public records, roads, … [Read more...] about The Eroding Foundation of County Government
Emergency Medical Services
Health care has been and still is a big issue for counties, and it is becoming an even bigger issue now. There are many counties in Texas that have little or no medical care services. Some do not even have one clinic, and there are still others that do not have a local hospital. In light of these facts, emergency medical services (EMS) is a very important issue. When I … [Read more...] about Emergency Medical Services
Travis County Courthouse
A log cabin reportedly served as the inaugural Travis County Courthouse. The first purpose-built courthouse, a $22,292, two-story stone building, stood on what is now Fourth Street between Colorado and Guadalupe. However, this location was found to be inconvenient. The second official home for county government was completed in 1876 for $94,000 at 11th Street and Congress … [Read more...] about Travis County Courthouse
Glimpse in the Life of Hidalgo County Commissioner David Fuentes
Every so often, County Progress asks our distinguished Judges and Commissioners to allow us a glimpse into their public lives giving us a fresh appreciation for the myriad of roles and responsibilities they shoulder every day. Our thanks to Hidalgo County Commissioner David Fuentes for taking the time to visit with us. YOUR HISTORY: I was born to migrant parents in 1972 … [Read more...] about Glimpse in the Life of Hidalgo County Commissioner David Fuentes
89th Texas Legislature
Upon taking their oaths of office, a slate of newly elected officials will join their veteran colleagues in a state-county partnership designed by the Texas Constitution. The March issue of County Progress Magazine will be dedicated to the newest members of Commissioners Court and will feature our special County Government 101 Section. Since Texas Legislature will already be in … [Read more...] about 89th Texas Legislature