The legal landscape is constantly changing with our society and technology. Counties are often called upon to be the “first responders” to new needs and opportunities. Counties try to provide the services needed by our citizens in a responsible, efficient manner. However, counties, unlike cities, have no general ordinance power. Our programs must be authorized by the Texas … [Read more...] about From the General Counsel: Speed Cameras and Nursing Homes
From the General Counsel
From the General Counsel: County Debt Analysis
The Senate Committee on Intergovernmental Relations has received an interim charge to study and make recommendations on the immediate and long-term fiscal impact that bonds and other types of obligations issued by local governments have on current and future generations of taxpayers. I was invited to testify at a recent hearing on this issue and presented some important … [Read more...] about From the General Counsel: County Debt Analysis
General Counsel’s Report: Alternative County Revenue Sources
The County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas continues to support alternative county revenue sources during each legislative session. These proposals range from an expanded local option sales tax, to an increase in the local option vehicle registration fees, to local options for a variety of user fees for county services. Successes in these efforts have been few … [Read more...] about General Counsel’s Report: Alternative County Revenue Sources
Best (and Worst) Commissioners Court Practices
By Jim Allison In the past 40 years, I have witnessed some extraordinary sights in Commissioners Court, ranging from audiences physically charging the podium, to shoving matches between members of the Court. I have also seen some commendable acts of courtesy and statesmanship. As the level of courtesy and respect declines in our society, Commissioners Court members should … [Read more...] about Best (and Worst) Commissioners Court Practices
General Counsel’s Report: Interim Legislative Studies
By Jim Allison, General Counsel After each legislative session, the speaker of the house assigns issues to be studied by House committees. These charges are the subject of public hearings, and recommendations are submitted at the next legislative session. Commissioners Court members should become familiar with these issues, present testimony at the public hearings, and … [Read more...] about General Counsel’s Report: Interim Legislative Studies