The 87th Legislature was as we expected it to be. Participation from not only Judges and Commissioners, but sheriffs, treasurers, other elected officials, and association representatives helped us to stay engaged in order to have our voices heard. All of us together challenged those who wished to silence us. Even the legislators themselves, though some may not publicly … [Read more...] about A Call for Continued Leadership
Officially Speaking
Sincere Listening
Lessons Learned From a Dusty Road and an Apricot Branch
Welcome to a new year, and if you’re new to office or renewed to office, this is local government and we are family, so welcome to the family. We are glad you joined us! When asked to submit this little article, I struggled with what the topic should be. So many different folks read this publication. Different officials in different offices doing different things, but … [Read more...] about Sincere Listening
Protect Our Associations
I would like to share with all of you a great concern, and hopefully a solution. The 86th Legislative Session was an eye-opener with a new vision of local control that is just not acceptable. No matter how long you have been in office, now is the time to reach out to your state representatives and local senators. Do not be intimidated, for the same people who elected you … [Read more...] about Protect Our Associations
The Learning Never Stops
Editor’s Note: Throughout the year, County Progress has been inviting our retiring officials to reflect on their time in office and share words of wisdom with their fellow Judges and Commissioners. We wish all of these dedicated public servants the best as they finish out their final term. By Retiring Jack County Judge Mitchell Davenport Through the years of my life at the … [Read more...] about The Learning Never Stops
Beloved Judge Left Education Legacy: Fellow Official Finds Value in Advanced Certification
By Kevin Burns, Wise County Commissioner An unexpected job befell me in the fall of 2013. As you are likely aware, we lost our County Judge, Bill McElhaney, during Commissioners Court on Oct. 19. Walking back up the granite steps and cast iron stairs of the Wise County Courthouse to finish out and adjourn that meeting was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to … [Read more...] about Beloved Judge Left Education Legacy: Fellow Official Finds Value in Advanced Certification
