Texas County Progress

The Official Publication of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas

Sarah L

Tax Assessor-Collector: Roles and Responsibilities 

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“As elected officials, we all have to work together. It’s important that the county tax assessor-collector take time to nurture good relations with members of the Commissioners Court. Remember, they’re responsible for approving your budget.” Bruce Stidham Grayson County Tax Assessor-Collector, President, Tax Assessor-Collector’s Association of Texas    Tax assessor-collectors … [Read more...] about Tax Assessor-Collector: Roles and Responsibilities 

Welcome To County Government 

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Congratulations to our 79 newly elected County Judges and 172 newly elected County Commissioners! 

County Progress Magazine recently asked Calhoun County Commissioner David Hall to reflect on his five-plus years in office.       “Being a County Commissioner is nothing like I’ve ever done before. It is a special calling that comes from the love one has for his/her   community and a passion to help and serve others,” Hall shared. “I feel that I am truly blessed to have had … [Read more...] about Welcome To County Government 

Legislative Priorities

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With the pre-filing of bills, state leaders and legislators are outlining their priorities for this legislative session. A lively discussion has already begun concerning the proper utilization of the state revenue surplus, estimated to exceed $30 billion. Gov. Abbott has proposed that 50 percent be dedicated to property tax relief. Lt. Gov. Patrick has indicated support for a … [Read more...] about Legislative Priorities

Sample Rules of Procedure, Conduct, and Decorum at Meetings of the County Commissioners Court

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Editor’s Note: These rules are a sample set developed by the general counsel of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas. Unless required by statute, the rules may be personalized to reflect the preferences of your Commissioners Court. For example, Rule V pertaining to the Judge Pro Tem suggests the senior member; your Commissioners Court may choose to designate another member as Judge Pro Tem.

I. All Regular, Special, Emergency, and Executive Session Meetings of the ____________ County Commissioners Court will be called and conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Government Code. II. Regular, Special, and Emergency Meetings of the ____________ County Commissioners Court are open to the public and to representatives … [Read more...] about Sample Rules of Procedure, Conduct, and Decorum at Meetings of the County Commissioners Court

Words of Widsom with Mason County Judge Jerry Bearden

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Mason County Judge Jerry Bearden took office Jan. 1, 2003. As you look back on your years of service, what are some of the most valuable lessons you learned? I learned very quickly that as the County Judge elected by the citizens of your county, you are a public servant responsible for the duties of your office. Always treat everyone fairly and justly, don’t show … [Read more...] about Words of Widsom with Mason County Judge Jerry Bearden