Texas County Progress
The Official Publication of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas
What began as rough sketches and brainstorming sessions back in 2016 slowly evolved into a vision to address the growing needs of Chambers County. That vision will become reality late next year with the completion of the new Chambers County Justice Center. The 200,000-plus-square-foot facility will sit on a 13-acre space and feature a 336-bed county jail, four courtrooms, a … [Read more...] about Chambers County Justice Center
Since the last time I had the opportunity to reduce my thoughts and observations to writing a year ago, quite a bit has occurred with regard to our county jails. The shift that took place at the federal level has had an impact on our operations at the local level. The actions of our partners at the state level have had just as much, if not more, of an impact. While we … [Read more...] about Texas County Jails
On Aug. 23, Travis County opened a short-term, 24-hour respite facility for youth in Central Texas. The Youth Crisis Respite Program provides a safe and supportive environment for young people ages 13-17 in Travis County who are experiencing a crisis or need a break from life’s stressors, explained Marlene Buchanan, LPC, director of Systems of Care for Integral Health, … [Read more...] about Travis County Youth Crisis Respite Program
“People should always be treated with dignity and respect. While we cannot ignore or forget the past, we also don’t have to let the past define us or others.” Cass County Judge Travis Ransom In April, I had the opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone. I participated in a “Prison Reentry Simulation” which replicates the challenges and struggles faced by thousands of … [Read more...] about In Their Shoes
In a recent report, Texas ranked 51st among the states and the District of Columbia in access to mental health care services. This is not a new situation. Texas has consistently funded its services near the bottom of all states. The unfortunate results are easy to document. Early intervention and treatment are unavailable. Law enforcement, the courts, jails, detention centers, … [Read more...] about The High Cost of Neglected Mental Health Services
