KEY CONCEPT: Public Finance Options KEY QUESTION: Can a county finance debt? MAIN REFERENCE POINTS: Article XI, Section 7 of the Texas Constitution – a county that borrows money is required to establish an interest and sinking fund. Texas Government Code Chapter 1251 – bond election provisions. Texas Government Code Chapter 1431 – … [Read more...] about Public Finance
Public Finance
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
KEY CONCEPT: Public Finance Options
KEY QUESTION: Can a county finance debt?
MAIN REFERENCE POINTS: Article XI, Section 7 of the Texas Constitution – a county that borrows money is required to establish an interest and sinking fund. Texas Government Code Chapter 1251 – bond election provisions. Texas Government Code Chapter 1431 – authorizes the issuance of tax notes. Texas Local Government Code Chapter 271, Subchapter C – authorizes a … [Read more...] about KEY CONCEPT: Public Finance Options
Financing Routine Capital Expenditures
Each year as counties prepare their budgets, along with the routine maintenance and operational costs, counties inevitably face the need to budget for some routine capital items. Law enforcement vehicles or road grading equipment may need replacement; radios, computers or office equipment may have worn out; gravel and road base material may be needed to repair county roads; or … [Read more...] about Financing Routine Capital Expenditures
Public Finance 101
Statutes Define County Options By Julie Anderson, Editor As a unit of state government, county government is charged with mandatory duties including conducting elections, providing for public safety, operating the court and jail systems, and providing for indigent legal defense. As part of their commitment to the local community, county governments also authorize … [Read more...] about Public Finance 101