In its April 2005 Local Government Survey, "The Challenges of Governing," the Office of the Texas Comptroller asked participants two key questions: What are the greatest internal obstacles to fulfilling your organizational goals? What are the greatest external obstacles to fulfilling your organizational goals? To most of us in county government, the answers were no surprise. … [Read more...] about The County Government Revenue Stream – Can We Swell the Waters?
Miscellaneous
Giving Continues Across Texas
One out of every four seniors goes hungry each day in our country, and this crisis is expected to get worse before it gets better. In Texas alone seniors 60 years and older are expected to reach about 8.1 million by 2040 … [Read more...] about Giving Continues Across Texas
Jail Commission Meeting Report
The Texas Commission on Jail Standards (TCJS) is under Sunset Review in 2008. TCJS held public meetings during the first quarter of 2008 and has recently submitted a survey to county judges and sheriffs to receive testimony and written comments on policies, procedures and customer service. A Strategic Planning Session was conducted on April 30 to review input received from … [Read more...] about Jail Commission Meeting Report
Counties Receive $12.4 Million in Tobacco Money
The Tobacco Settlement Permanent Trust Account Investment Advisory Committee approved $92.3 million for the year 2008 tobacco settlement distribution. According to the distribution report published by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), 161 counties received about $12.4 million in reimbursements. Under the terms of a historic settlement negotiated in the summer … [Read more...] about Counties Receive $12.4 Million in Tobacco Money
West Texas Association Welcomes New Director
I appreciate the opportunity to serve as a director of the West Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association and to work with the members to address the needs of West Texas. I have been the county judge of Swisher County since 1995. Prior to pursuing public office, I was a partner and general manager of a family owned meat business for 20 years. I am a past president of … [Read more...] about West Texas Association Welcomes New Director