Most people know that when there is a fire or medical emergency – or a global pandemic – first responders help keep us safe. What may be surprising for many Texans is that many of these first responders are there because of a local emergency services district, or ESD. As we navigate current economic challenges and budget constraints, it’s imperative that all Texans … [Read more...] about Emergency Service Districts are Essential for Texans’ Safety
Commissioners Court
2020 Unfunded Mandates Survey
Submission Deadline Nov. 5
“Let me encourage each county to provide data for this survey so that we can accurately explain how unfunded and partially funded mandates affect local governmental bodies and taxpayers.” CJCAT President Chuck Statler, Taylor County Commissioner The Unfunded Mandate Survey was created to help explain the cost of unfunded and underfunded mandates on property tax payers. The … [Read more...] about 2020 Unfunded Mandates Survey
2019 County Property Tax Report
The taxpayer funds the majority of county government via the property tax, or ad valorem tax, which is the largest revenue source for Texas counties. The 84th Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 1760, which states that the Texas comptroller is required to publish on its website a statewide list of tax rates that includes the total tax rate reported by each taxing unit in … [Read more...] about 2019 County Property Tax Report
A Bridge Too Far
County Progress Magazine is a great resource providing many topics relative to county government. Each month there are interesting and informative articles. On occasion they provide articles written by engineers or seasoned officials addressing county road maintenance and construction. I would be hard pressed to try and better their skilled methods or proven practices. I do, … [Read more...] about A Bridge Too Far
Educating the Public on Your Bond Election
When it comes to financing, public education can be an arduous task. In some cases, the initial step is to set aside some stifling assumptions: If we can’t pay cash, it’s not worth doing. The voters will never go for it. If I obligate the county to this debt, some of the constituents will not see fit to re-elect me. Perhaps voters deserve more credit. It’s safe … [Read more...] about Educating the Public on Your Bond Election