*** Click here for the audio version.*** Elections are the signature trademark of a democratic republic. The framers of the U.S. Constitution recognized the importance of guaranteeing the right to elect our representation. Consistent with the concerns over concentration of power, Article I of the U.S. Constitution assigns the responsibility for elections to the states, not the … [Read more...] about Voting in Elections: A Fundamental Right and Duty
From the General Counsel
The Corrupt Property Tax Appraisal System
*** Click here for the audio version.*** In 1979, the Texas Legislature approved the Property Tax Code to abolish unequal property tax appraisals by cities, counties, and school districts. The “Peveto Bill” created 254 appraisal districts, charged with the responsibility of ensuring uniformity based on “fair market value.” Since the adoption of this reform, the legislature … [Read more...] about The Corrupt Property Tax Appraisal System
Interim Legislative Hearings
*** Click here for the audio version.*** With the completion of the primary elections, the legislature begins its interim studies. Senate and House committees will conduct hearings on subjects assigned by the lieutenant governor and speaker. These committees will file reports in November and recommend draft legislation on their assigned topics. Many of the 8,000 bills … [Read more...] about Interim Legislative Hearings
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness
As we celebrate the 190th anniversary of the Texas Declaration of Independence and approach the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence, it is appropriate to reflect on the principles that were embodied in both of these documents and the efforts required to attain and sustain these principles. The significant role of county government in the … [Read more...] about Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness
Groundwater Issues for Counties
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