The newly elected county commissioners who took the oath of office at the first of this month will be immediately ensconced in an array of issues ranging from budgets to bridges and personnel to potholes … [Read more...] about County Judges and Commissioners Association of TexasPromoting, Protecting Effective Local Government
Feature Story
Effective Governing Veteran Commissioner Shares Valuable Tips
When I ran for this office 12 years ago, I made the commitment to be a full-time commissioner available to the people I represent including the employees of Ector County. I have always maintained an open-door policy and take pride in returning all phone calls that come into my office. I am always available to visit whether it is one-on-one in my office, in a home, or at a … [Read more...] about Effective Governing Veteran Commissioner Shares Valuable Tips
Barnett ShaleNatural Gas Phenomenon Begets Benefits, Challenges
When it comes to the Barnett Shale, perhaps no one can offer a more pluralized perspective than Roger Harmon. As county judge he's put pen to paper to analyze the fiscal effects of the geological formation on Johnson County, which at one time sported 77 active rigs. As a private landowner whose five acres are part of a 502-acre tract pooled for production, Harmon has negotiated … [Read more...] about Barnett ShaleNatural Gas Phenomenon Begets Benefits, Challenges
Rural Counties Face Unique Challenges
My name is John Nanny. I am currently an Irion County commissioner and newly elected secretary-treasurer of the Far West Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association. I have been serving as commissioner of Precinct 3 since January 1997. My wife, B.J., and I have three children and four grandchildren. We have resided in Barnhart our entire married life. In 1996 the … [Read more...] about Rural Counties Face Unique Challenges
Commissioners Court Responsibilities Over County Employees
Under the Texas Constitution and statutes, the powers in county government are widely distributed to a variety of elected officials. Generally, the commissioners court controls the county financial expenditures through the budget, and the other elected officials perform the duties of their offices within these budget restraints. The Attorney General Opinions and court … [Read more...] about Commissioners Court Responsibilities Over County Employees