As those who lived through the drought of record in the 1950s can attest, there are three certainties in Texas: Death, Taxes, and Drought. When rain is scarce, reservoirs evaporate and available groundwater becomes an imperative. It is also clear that the present rate of growth in urban areas cannot be sustained with surface water. With unlimited finances, the cities can afford … [Read more...] about Groundwater Issues for Counties
From the General Counsel
The Future of Rural Texas
With the advent of motor vehicles and mechanized agriculture, the future of rural Texas changed drastically in the last century. Previously, the agrarian economy encouraged rural population growth with small regional towns. Labor-intensive farming and ranching required a large, physically fit labor force. The lack of development of large-scale manufacturing and transportation … [Read more...] about The Future of Rural Texas
Hope and Faith Overcome Disillusionment and Despair in the New Year
We have often discussed the outsized influence in our system of government of special interest groups funded by wealthy individuals and other entities. We have noted with disgust their unrestrained manipulation of social media to attack dedicated public servants. Using misinformation, innuendo, and outright falsehoods, they attempt to intimidate and undermine independent … [Read more...] about Hope and Faith Overcome Disillusionment and Despair in the New Year
Solving Our Legislative Relationship Problem: A New Year’s Resolution
In the October issue of County Progress, we discussed the deteriorating relationship between counties and the state leadership. Given the constitutional control exercised by the legislature over counties, this is a serious problem needing our attention. As we consider resolutions for the New Year, let’s discuss some suggestions to improve relationships with our … [Read more...] about Solving Our Legislative Relationship Problem: A New Year’s Resolution
Preparing for Funding Reduction in Federal Health Care Programs
The current federal budget includes significant reductions in funding for federal health care programs. Reductions in subsidies for Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums are effective January 1. Reductions in federal payments to states for Medicaid services will be effective in the next fiscal year. Estimates from the Congressional Budget Office indicate that these reductions will … [Read more...] about Preparing for Funding Reduction in Federal Health Care Programs