The previous column emphasized the importance of education and training for members of Commissioners Court, especially our new members. The education of legislators is equally important, and county officials are an essential part of that process. Unfortunately, very few legislators have any experience in local government. This is the first opportunity for public service for … [Read more...] about Educating Our Legislators
Do’s and Don’ts of County Purchasing
When it comes to county government purchasing, the statutes contain many requirements that must be met. These requirements are scattered throughout the statutes – not just in the section known as the County Purchasing Act – and change each time the Texas Legislature meets. It is the duty of every county official to follow these laws. Many counties rely on procurement … [Read more...] about Do’s and Don’ts of County Purchasing
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension District Training Conferences
One-Day Sessions Provide Commissioners Continuing Education
Nine Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Districts will offer in-service training for members of Commissioners Court during the months of November-December. The District Conferences provide varying amounts of continuing education credits for County Commissioners; County Judges are also welcome to attend. Application has been made to the County Judges and Commissioners … [Read more...] about Texas A&M AgriLife Extension District Training Conferences
Mentally Ill Inmates
One Family’s Hope and Heartbreak
In many counties, the jail has become a de facto mental institution, housing mentally ill inmates awaiting due process without their medications and/or life-sustaining therapies. The situation is lose-lose-lose; the inmate, fellow inmates and jail staff, and the taxpayers are all affected. The statistics have been quoted for so long that one wonders if they have lost their … [Read more...] about Mentally Ill Inmates
Monuments of Justice: Caldwell County Courthouse
County Seat: Lockhart | County Population: 45,883 (2020 Census)
The first Caldwell County Courthouse was erected in 1848, when the county was organized and named for Mathew Caldwell, a Texas Ranger and signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. This inaugural temple of justice was replaced in 1858 by a two-story limestone edifice measuring 65 feet by 40 feet with six offices and two rooms for storing records. By 1893, that building … [Read more...] about Monuments of Justice: Caldwell County Courthouse