“Houston, we have a problem.” This paraphrase of the 1975 message from Apollo 13 has become synonymous with recognition of a crisis situation. Fifty years ago, this crisp statement triggered the most incredible rescue effort in history. It required combined dedication from many participants to successfully recover and turn a disaster into triumph. Today, counties face a similar … [Read more...] about Counties, We Have a Problem
From the General Counsel
Evaluation of Economic Development Programs
Prior to the adoption of Section 52-a, Article III, Texas Constitution in 1987, counties were prohibited from using public funds for economic development. Thereafter, the legislature approved Chapter 312, Tax Code for tax abatement agreements and Chapter 381, Local Government Code for general economic development grants and loans in 1987. These statutes have been the subject of … [Read more...] about Evaluation of Economic Development Programs
The First Law of Holes
“If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.” – Will Rogers. This adage is known as the First Law of Holes. As with most old sayings, there is a lesson to be learned. There are two types of holes in life: Those that others dig for us, and those that we dig for ourselves. For examples of those dug by others, see previous columns on “Traps for the Unwary.” This column will … [Read more...] about The First Law of Holes
Win Some, Lose Some, Some Get Rained Out
The old baseball expression “win some, lose some, some get rained out” is applicable to the legislative process. This column is submitted at the close of the 89th Regular Session but prior to the veto deadline by Gov. Greg Abbott. However, it is clear that counties have registered some successes and some losses, and some issues are postponed until the next session. Each … [Read more...] about Win Some, Lose Some, Some Get Rained Out
The Slippery Slope
In an earlier column, we warned that the foundational principles of county government were eroding. Local decision-making/local control were once basic tenets endorsed by the state leadership. Support for these tenets has slipped significantly, especially in the Texas Senate. As special interests have pumped millions of dollars into legislative races, many supportive … [Read more...] about The Slippery Slope