As those who lived through the drought of record in the 1950s can attest, there are three certainties in Texas: Death, Taxes, and Drought. When rain is scarce, reservoirs evaporate and available groundwater becomes an imperative. It is also clear that the present rate of growth in urban areas cannot be sustained with surface water. With unlimited finances, the cities can afford … [Read more...] about Groundwater Issues for Counties
From the General Counsel
The Future of Rural Texas
With the advent of motor vehicles and mechanized agriculture, the future of rural Texas changed drastically in the last century. Previously, the agrarian economy encouraged rural population growth with small regional towns. Labor-intensive farming and ranching required a large, physically fit labor force. The lack of development of large-scale manufacturing and transportation … [Read more...] about The Future of Rural Texas
Road Use Agreements
Section 251.153, Transportation Code permits a Commissioners Court to “establish load limits for any county road or bridge." This same power is reiterated in Section 621.301 but provides an exception for vehicles that have obtained certain state permits. In Scurlock Permian Corp. v. Brazos County, 869 S.W. 2d 478 (Tex. App. – Houston (1st Dist.) 1993, writ denied), the courts … [Read more...] about Road Use Agreements
Hope and Faith Overcome Disillusionment and Despair in the New Year
We have often discussed the outsized influence in our system of government of special interest groups funded by wealthy individuals and other entities. We have noted with disgust their unrestrained manipulation of social media to attack dedicated public servants. Using misinformation, innuendo, and outright falsehoods, they attempt to intimidate and undermine independent … [Read more...] about Hope and Faith Overcome Disillusionment and Despair in the New Year
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