In the State of Texas, county government is a unit of state government often referred to as “an arm of the state” or an administrative subdivision of the state. Texas counties must do those actions required by state law. In some cases, the state requires services or duties to be provided by counties but does not provide the necessary funding, resulting in unfunded … [Read more...] about Resolution Spotlight: Opposition to Unfunded Mandates
Feature Story
Happy New Year! Time to Set Those County Resolutions
Last year, County Progress asked a group of county officials to share why they ran for office. Their responses reflect a desire to serve, a fondness for their constituents (a.k.a. friends and neighbors), and a commitment to quality of life. “I was raised in a household that believes in the motto of Service Above Self, and I wanted to give back and make Chambers County the … [Read more...] about Happy New Year! Time to Set Those County Resolutions
A Message of Encouragement and Unity for 2026
As Texas turns the page to a New Year and looks toward the possibilities of 2026, I want to take this opportunity to recognize the remarkable people serving in counties across our state. This past year has not been an easy one; it seems no year is. County officials have dealt with tight budgets, rapid growth, new mandates, and the nonstop demands of keeping local government … [Read more...] about A Message of Encouragement and Unity for 2026
Wharton County Courthouse
The Wharton County Courthouse was built in 1889 in a Second Empire style as designed by noted Texas architect Eugene Thomas Heiner. The county capitol was rededicated in 2007 following a restoration project that included the demolition of the 1940s additions that had surrounded the building. The renewed exterior resulted in a replicated pressed metal shingle roof and a clock … [Read more...] about Wharton County Courthouse
Legislative Changes Impacting County Procurement
When the Texas Legislature meets, there are always changes that impact procurement. If you search the statutes, you will see that these changes have already been incorporated into the language. If you search the individual bills, you will more easily see the changes that were made, https://capitol.texas.gov/. The Big Change! SB 1173 increased the formal bid limit for … [Read more...] about Legislative Changes Impacting County Procurement