Texas County Progress

The Official Publication of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas

Johnson County

Monuments of Justice: Johnson County Courthouse

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County Seat: Cleburne * County Population: 175,817 (2019 Census Estimate)

Completed in 1913, the Johnson County Courthouse is one of the state’s finest historic landmarks. Among the building’s most notable features is its highly ornamented and stunning atrium. In 1854, a log building served as the courthouse in the initial county seat of Wardville. In 1856, a wooden, one-room courthouse was raised in the second county seat, Buchanan. In 1867, Camp … [Read more...] about Monuments of Justice: Johnson County Courthouse

A Call for Continued Leadership

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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

Rebirth of Senate Bill 29 and its Proposal to Silence Local Officials

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Misleading the public with the message that tax dollars are being wasted on associations and the hiring of legal representation.

Some legislators and private interest lobbyists are going to attempt to pass laws to silence local officials during the next session. Most of our large cities hire lobbyists to keep them informed on the effects of proposed bills on local decision-making. Our counties and smaller cities are represented by nonprofit associations and are being caught up in the mix. The legislative … [Read more...] about Rebirth of Senate Bill 29 and its Proposal to Silence Local Officials

A Glimpse in the Life of Johnson County Commissioner Rick Bailey

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Every so often, County Progress asks our distinguished Judges and Commissioners to allow us a glimpse into their public lives, giving us a fresh appreciation for the myriad of roles and responsibilities they shoulder every day. Our thanks to Johnson County Commissioner Rick Bailey for taking the time to visit with us.   HISTORY: I am proud to be a native of Texas who … [Read more...] about A Glimpse in the Life of Johnson County Commissioner Rick Bailey

Johnson County Courthouse Centennial Celebration

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Hundreds gathered at the Johnson County Courthouse on Nov. 16, 2013, to celebrate the 100th birthday of their renowned county capitol. After a fire destroyed the 1882 courthouse, Johnson County contracted with the Dallas architecture firm of Lang and Witchell to design a modern, fireproof building as the new seat of county government. The resulting design was inspired by two … [Read more...] about Johnson County Courthouse Centennial Celebration