In response to your feedback, we again will present this year's TAC Legislative Conference as a hybrid event (in person or online). We hear you and understand the demand to expand our services and offer multiple ways for you to connect with us.
Join us in person or online Aug. 30-Sept. 1 as we continue to explore new ways to share important information with you and your county.
The Texas Association of Counties' Legislative Conference offers county officials and staff unique opportunities to become more involved in the Texas legislative process. It is a time to learn how state lawmakers view pressing county issues and share how those views and issues affect local constituents.
Join your peers in public service from across the state, either in person or virtually, at the premier conference for county government in Texas to get in-depth analysis of what transpired during the 88th Legislature. The conference focuses on important policy issues and how they affect county government and local taxpayers.
What is a hybrid conference?
A hybrid conference combines an in-person event with a virtual component. That means you can join us in person at the Fairmont Hotel in Austin, or you can join from your county through a virtual conference platform.
Registration Fees
| Registration Type |
Early Bird |
After Aug. 7 |
| In-Person County Official or Staff |
$275 |
$350 |
| In-Person Half-Day Fee (Wednesday & Friday, county official or staff only) |
$75 |
$75 |
| In-Person Single-Day Fee (Thursday only) |
$205 |
$255 |
| In-Person Non-Member (government) |
$330 |
$380 |
| In-Person Non-Member (corporate half day, single day or full attendance) |
$480 |
$530 |
| In-Person Spouse Fee |
$100 |
$100 |
| Virtual Registration |
$200 |
$275 |
Please make checks payable to Texas Association of Counties.
*In-person registration fee does not include access to the virtual platform.*
NOTE: All participants (online and in person) must register by July 14 to receive conference giveaway.
Virtual Registration
Once you have registered for the virtual event, a personalized participation link will be emailed to you a few days before the start of the program.
Note: Event confirmation emails will come from Events@Accelevents.com to the email address that was used to register for the event.
How to access the virtual event platform:
Conference attendees will need to access the internet and use a browser to log in and join the virtual event. While almost all internet browsers (Google Chrome, Firefox, etc.) should allow the event to be accessed, we've found that it works most smoothly in Google Chrome, as other browsers may experience issues. Internet Explorer is not a supported browser for the event.
Google Chrome is a free download. However, some county information technology departments may require county staff members to get approval before downloading new software.
Special Services
To ensure that our conference is ADA accessible to all, please contact Deanna Auert or Rachel Kucera at (800) 456‑5974 if you need assistance.
THANK YOU TO OUR CONFERENCE SPONSORS!
Fairmont Hotel (SOLD OUT)
101 Red River St.
Austin, TX 78702
(512) 600-2000
$210 single/double, plus applicable tax
Check-in: 3 p.m. | Checkout: Noon
- The host hotel, Fairmont Austin Hotel, is sold out.
- If you would like to be added to the waiting list, please email Rachel Kucera with your arrival and departure dates.
- If you must cancel a room reservation, please notify Rachel Kucera. In the event of a waitlist, this allows others an opportunity to stay at the host hotel.
Surrounding Hotels:
Hampton Inn & Suites Austin - Downtown / Convention Center
200 San Jacinto Blvd
Austin, TX, 78701
(512) 472-1500
Hyatt Place Austin Downtown
211 E 3rd St
Austin, TX, 78701
(512) 476-4440
Courtyard by Marriott Austin Downtown/Convention Center
300 East 4th Street
Austin, TX, 78701
(512) 236-8008
Overnight Parking (Prices* shown include a 25% discount for attendees.)
*Prices may change.
| |
Valet Parking |
Self-Parking |
| 0-3 Hours |
$18 |
$11.25 |
| 3-6 Hours |
$24 |
$18.75 |
| Daily – Overnight |
$36.75 |
$27 |
Internet
Due to popular request, TAC has negotiated to have Wi-Fi available in the meeting space. A conference password will be provided at the event.
High-speed internet access in guest rooms and all areas of the hotel is complimentary for all Fairmont President Club Members. Membership is free! Sign up at www.fairmont.com/fpc.
| Wednesday, Aug. 30 |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Welcome Reception |
| 5-6:30 p.m. |
New Official Networking Event (in person only)
Were you elected or appointed from Nov. 8, 2022-Aug. 30, 2023? If yes, you are invited to attend our first New Official Networking event on Wednesday, Aug. 30. RSVP online when you register. Formal Invitation to follow. |
| Thursday, Aug. 31 |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Legislative Reception
This social event is an opportunity to celebrate all county officials who have volunteered their time and expertise to advocate on behalf of counties. Your efforts this session were critical to the success of protecting local government. Thank you for your efforts! |
| Wednesday, Aug. 30 |
| 8 a.m.-5 p.m. |
Registration and Information Desk Hours |
| 12:45-1:45 p.m. |
Private Meeting: Core Legislative Group Networking and Training (in-person only)
Before the general session, Core Legislative Group members will have an opportunity to look at successes and the hard work CLG members did during the legislative session. A panel of CLG members will be discussing their experiences this session, from preparation to office visits and testifying in a hearing. This event is for current Core Legislative Group members. However, if you would like to attend, please register for the Core Legislative Group at the CLG Lounge on the fifth floor.
Moderator: Ms. Kelsey Bernstein, Legislative Consultant – Justices of the Peace and Constables Association and Core Legislative Group Coordinator, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker: Mr. Noe Barrios, Director of Legislative Services, Texas Association of Counties
|
| Noon-2 p.m. |
Meet and Greet Exhibitors |
| 2-4:30 p.m. |
Opening General Session (in-person and live online)
Welcome
Presiding: Mr. Nathan Cradduck, Tom Green County Auditor and President, Texas Association of Counties
Ms. Susan M. Redford, Executive Director, Texas Association of Counties
Legislative Overview
Mr. Noe Barrios, Director of Legislative Services
Stronger Together
Secretary Nelson's remarks will focus on how county and state governments can work together to best serve Texans and what Texas can do today to ensure a strong future.
Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson
|
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Welcome Reception |
| 5-6:30 |
New Official Networking Event (in-person only)
Were you elected or appointed from Nov. 8, 2022-Aug. 30, 2023? If yes, you are invited to attend our first New Official Networking event on Wednesday, Aug. 30. RSVP online when you register. Formal Invitation to follow.
|
| Thursday, Aug. 31 |
| 7 a.m.-5 p.m. |
Registration and Information Desk Hours |
| 7-7:50 a.m. |
Breakfast |
| 8-9:05 a.m. |
Legislative Discussion Sessions (1-5) (in-person and live online)
-
From the Legislature to the Gavel: A Discussion about the State of our Judiciary after the 88th Legislative Session
Join us for a panel discussion from judges and the Texas Office of Court Administration on how recent legislation will impact our court systems. Learn about how engagement and expert testimony positively affected legislative outcomes.
Moderator: Ms. Kelsey Bernstein, Legislative Consultant – Justices of the Peace and Constables Association and Core Legislative Group Coordinator, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): Hon. J.R. Woolley, Waller County Justice of the Peace
Ms. Megan Lavoie, Administrative Director, Texas Office of Court Administration
Hon. Jimmy Sylvia, Chambers County Judge
-
Mental Health: Confinement, Restoration and Recidivism
The expansive intersection between local public safety and mental health was again a priority of the Texas Legislature this year. This panel will discuss new legislation targeting county jail mental health backlogs, state mental health resources for beds and staffing, and local mental health programs designed to reduce reoffending through continuity of care once a person is released from custody.
Moderator: Mr. Skylor Hearn, Legislative Consultant – Sheriffs' Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): Hon. Jacob Putman, Smith County District Attorney
Hon. Brian Hawthorne, Chambers County Sheriff
-
Broadband Funding – Helping Counties Bridge the Digital Divide
The 88th Legislature has committed a historic amount of funding for broadband in Texas. This session will cover the grant application process that lies ahead and how your county can make a quality investment for its future.
Moderator: Ms. Megan Molleur, Legislative Consultant – Texas District & County Attorneys Association and Federal Issues Coordinator, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): Ms. Andrea Pacheco, Broadband Outreach Coordinator, Texas Broadband Development Office
Ms. Ginny Lewis Ford, Executive Director, Texas Association of Regional Councils
Ms. Jennifer Harris, Federal Program Officer, U.S. Dept. of Commerce (NTIA)
Ms. Jennifer Prather, Chief Executive Officer, Totelcom Communications, LLC
Mr. Joseph Seeber, Chief of Staff, Representative Trent Ashby
-
Grant Funding for Counties: New and Increased Funding Opportunities
Come to this session for a recap of new and increased grant funding for counties included in the state budgets and a refresher on new and recurring federal grant opportunities for which counties are eligible. You will also hear about the sustainability of state grant funds, the strings attached to grant programs and the cost versus the benefit to counties of accepting grant funds.
Moderator: Ms. Zelma Smith, Financial Analyst, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): Ms. Kimberly Lile Dowty, Associate Director, Texas Association of Regional Council
Mr. Nathan Cradduck, Tom Green County Auditor and President, Texas Association of Counties
Ms. Julie Lindsey, Assistant Director, Legislative Budget Board
-
ARPA, Year 3: Impact Assessment & Ongoing Obligations
The American Rescue Plan Act's historic investment directly in Texas counties has benefitted communities statewide in a wide variety of ways. As projects mature and deadlines approach, share in success stories and hear cautionary tales from leaders delivering for their counties.
Moderator: Mr. Pete Winckler, Legislative Consultant – Texas Association of County Auditors, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Hon. Curtis Parrish, Lubbock County Judge
Hon. Connie Scott, Nueces County Judge
Mr. Tramer Woytek, Judicial Resource Liaison & County Relations Officer, Texas Association of Counties
|
| 9 a.m.-3 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Hours (in-person only)
Open during lunch, noon-1:30 p.m. |
| 9:05-9:30 a.m. |
Refreshment Break |
| 9:30-10:35 a.m. |
Legislative Discussion Sessions (repeat 1-5) (in-person and live online)
-
From the Legislature to the Gavel: A Discussion about the State of our Judiciary after the 88th Legislative Session
-
Mental Health: Confinement, Restoration and Recidivism
-
Broadband Funding – Helping Counties Bridge the Digital Divide
-
Grant Funding for Counties: New and Increased Funding Opportunities
-
ARPA, Year 3: Impact Assessment & Ongoing Obligations
|
| 10:35-10:55 a.m. |
Refreshment Break |
| 10:55 a.m.-noon |
Legislative Discussion Sessions (6-10) (in-person and live online)
-
Elections: Standardization and Centralization of Elections
Join the esteemed panel to learn updates on new election laws passed during the legislative session. The panel will discuss implementing new laws, with best practice procedures for counties.
Moderator: Ms. Nanette Forbes, Legislative Consultant – County & District Clerks' Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Hon. Heather Hawthorne, Chambers County Clerk
Ms. Christina Adkins, Director of Elections, Secretary of State's Office
Ms. Jennifer Doinoff, Elections Administrator, Hays County
-
Emergency Management: Texas Water – Too Much or Not Enough? Recent Legislative Investments in Texas Water Infrastructure and Planning & Management
Whether there is too much or not enough, water can be a major emergency. During the last few sessions, the Texas Legislature has made historic investments in the state’s water future. In 2019, the legislature addressed flood planning and infrastructure funding by creating the Texas Infrastru cture Resiliency Fund and the Flood Infrastructure Fund. These funds will likely see an influx of new money after the final passage of HB 1 during the 2023 legislative session. In 2023, the Legislature also created and appropriated over $1 billion dollars to capitalize the new, Texas Water Fund to address water supply issues and help pay for new water development projects and upgrades to water infrastructure.
Moderator: Ms. Elizabeth Choate, Legislative Consultant – County Treasurers' Association of Texas, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): Ms. Sarah Kirkle, Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs, Texas Water Conservation Association
Ms. Brooke Paup, Chair, Texas Water Development Board
Senator Charles Perry, Texas Senate
Representative Tracy King, Texas House of Representatives
-
Property Taxes: Boost or Burden?
Property tax relief was the campaign promise heard across Texas. What did the 88th Legislature do to provide relief to property owners? Listen to industry experts explain what was passed by the Legislature, what it means for your communities, and long-term impacts to consider.
Moderator: Ms. Caroline Love, Legislative Consultant – Tax Assessor-Collectors Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): Hon. Larry Gaddes, Williamson County Tax Assessor-Collector
Mr. James LeBas, Principal, Tax & Fiscal Consulting
Mr. Bobby Preisler, Division of Legal Services, Harris County Appraisal District
-
NACo: Counties' Seat at the Table in Washington, D.C.
Join the National Association of Counties' leadership for a discussion about their federal advocacy efforts and how your engagement can help secure federal policies and resources that support your county.
Moderator: Ms. Megan Molleur, Legislative Consultant – Texas District & County Attorneys Association and Federal Issues Coordinator, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): Mr. Matthew Chase, Executive Director, National Association of Counties (NACo)
-
Law Enforcement: Perspectives on the Rural Law Enforcement Salary Assistance Grants
The rural law enforcement grants provided through SB 22 mark a significant shift in the historic legislative aversion to funding local law enforcement salaries with state dollars. These grants will have a significant impact on most Texas counties and a life-changing impact on many women and men who serve in these local criminal justice agencies. This panel will provide insight on that effect.
Moderator: Mr. Skylor Hearn, Legislative Consultant – Sheriffs' Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): Hon. Staley Heatly, 46h Judicial District Attorney
Hon. Greg Capers, San Jacinto County Sheriff
|
| Noon-1:30 p.m. |
Networking Lunch
Dine with your fellow attendees, then take a tour of the exhibit hall and visit with vendors. |
| 1:30-2:35 p.m. |
Legislative Discussion Sessions (repeat 6-10) (in-person and live online)
-
Elections: Standardization and Centralization of Elections
-
Emergency Management: Texas Water – Too Much or Not Enough? Recent Legislative Investments in Texas Water Infrastructure and Planning & Management
-
Property Taxes: Boost or Burden?
-
NACo: Counties' Seat at the Table in Washington, D.C.
-
Law Enforcement: Perspectives on the Rural Law Enforcement Salary Assistance Grants
|
| 2:35-3 p.m. |
Ice Cream Social Break |
| 3-4:30 p.m. |
Meeting of County Affiliate Organizations (in-person only)
County associations organize and host a 1.5-hour meeting to discuss legislative issues or association business during the conference |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Legislative Reception
This social event is an opportunity to celebrate all county officials who have volunteered their time and expertise to advocate on behalf of counties. Your efforts this session were critical to the success of protecting local government. Thank you for your efforts! |
| Friday, Sept. 1 |
| 8-10:30 a.m. |
Registration and Information Desk Hours |
| 8:30-9 a.m. |
Breakfast |
| 9-10:30 a.m. |
Closing General Session (in-person and live online)
Local Control: Keeping Decision Making Local
Local decision-making continues to be under attack. Join us for a discussion on recent legislative attempts to further erode local control.
Moderator: Ms. Katy Estrada, Legislative Consultant – County Judges and Commissioners Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): Rep. Todd A. Hunter, Texas House of Representatives
Hon. Andrew Eads, Denton County Judge
Hon. Tim Addison, Yoakum County Commissioner
Hon. Jennifer Tharp, Comal County District Attorney
|
*Agenda subject to change
Applications for continuing education credit are submitted to each governing body listed below. Upon approval, the number of continuing education hours will be posted. Please check back often for updates.
| Continuing Education Type |
Virtual Hours |
In-Person Hours |
| Attorneys (MCLE) |
8 |
10.5 |
| CPA/Auditors |
8 |
10.5 |
Commissioners
(*Please note that authorization of online attendance must be approved by commissioners court order. Online attendance cannot be used for the mandatory education hours by a new commissioner during the first year of service.) |
8 |
10.5 |
| County and District Clerks |
8.20 |
10.5 |
| County Judges |
Not Approved by Texas Judicial Academy |
Not Approved by Texas Judicial Academy |
| Justices of the Peace |
8 |
10.5 |
PHRs and SPHRs
Reviewed on individual basis; self-report to HRCI |
8 |
10.5 |
Purchasing Agents
Self-report to Texas State Board of Public Accountancy |
8 |
10.5 |
| Sheriffs and Constables (TCOLE) |
Not approved by TCOLE |
10 |
| Tax Assessor-Collectors |
8 |
10.5 |
| Treasurers |
8 |
10 |
Conference Cancellation
All cancellation and refund requests must be received in writing (fax or email acceptable). Refunds requested before Aug. 7 are subject to a $10 processing fee. Refunds after Aug. 7 will be subject to an administrative fee equal to half of the registration fee. No refund requests will be honored after Sept. 1. Please email Rachel Kucera to cancel your conference registration.
Hotel Cancellation
If you must cancel a room reservation, please notify Deanna Auert. In the event of a waitlist, this allows others opportunity to stay at the host hotel.
Your Connection to Texas Counties
You're invited to the 2023 TAC Legislative Conference. Register today to strengthen your connections with county officials in your district and from across the state.
The conference takes a deep dive into the most pressing issues counties face today. Each county office will be represented at this premier event.
We offer you:
- Two complimentary registrations with an invitation to attend the legislative reception on Thursday, Aug. 31, 4:30-6 p.m.
- Your constituents. Upon request, we'll send you a custom list of your preregistered constituents.
- Private meeting space. With your registration, we offer you the opportunity to visit privately with your constituents attending the conference. To host an exclusive meeting with attendees from your district, contact Deanna Auert. Space is limited. Choose the time and date most convenient for you and reserve it today.
- Three meeting rooms available, Aug. 30, 5-6 p.m. (Hospitality provided)
- Three meeting rooms available, Aug. 31, Noon-1:30 p.m. (Lunch provided)
Contacts
Deanna Auert, Manager of TAC Programs & Education Services
TAC Office, (512) 478-8753 or (800) 456-5974
Schedule of Events
| Wednesday, Aug. 30 |
| 2-4:30 p.m. |
Opening General Session (in person and live online) |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Welcome Reception |
| 5-6 p.m. |
Exclusive Meetings for Legislators and County Officials (three rooms; hospitality provided) (in person only) |
| Thursday, Aug. 31 |
| 8 a.m.-2:35 p.m. |
Legislative Discussion Sessions (in person and live online) |
| 9 a.m.-3 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Hours |
| Noon-1:30 p.m. |
Exclusive Meetings for Legislators and County Officials (three rooms; lunch provided) (in person only) |
| 3-4:30 p.m. |
Meeting of County Affiliate Organizations (in-person only)
County associations organize and host a 1.5-hour meeting to discuss legislative issues or association business during the conference. |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Legislative Reception |
| Friday, Sept. 1 |
| 9-10:30 a.m. |
Closing General Session (in person and live online) |
Your Connection to County Government
Sponsors (limited availability) – contact Deanna Auert for available sponsorship opportunities.
Cancellations
Sponsorship cancellations must be made in writing before July 1, 2023, to receive a 50% refund. Any sponsorship that requires a company logo to be printed on a promotional item or on multiple print pieces will be final upon receipt of payment, and cancellations are not permitted. Sponsors canceling after July 1 are responsible for payment in full or may jeopardize future sponsorship opportunities.
Vendors - SOLD OUT
Visit the County Progress website or contact Sarah Lazarowitz for vendor registration.
Join us in Austin this August as 600-plus Texas county officials and staff members gather. This is a prime opportunity to display your goods and services to decision-makers in county government.
Booth Specifications
The $700 registration fee includes a standard booth, registration for two and access to two sleeping rooms at the host hotel.
Hotel reservations must be made through Sarah Lazarowitz when booth registration is complete. Company representatives are welcome to attend all conference activities.
Standard exhibit booths consist of 10-by-10-foot exhibit spaces. Booth spaces are equipped with 10-foot back drape, 3-foot side dividers, 6-foot skirted table, two chairs and standard ID sign.
Schedule of Events
| Tuesday, Aug. 29 |
| 1-4 p.m. |
Vendor Move-in |
| Wednesday, Aug. 30 |
| 8 a.m.-noon |
Vendor Move-in |
| Noon-2 p.m. |
Dedicated Time with Exhibitors |
| 2-4:30 p.m. |
Opening General Session (in person and live online) |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Welcome Reception |
| Thursday, Aug. 31 |
| 8 a.m.-2:35 p.m. |
Legislative Discussion Sessions (in person and live online) |
| 9 a.m.-3 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Open |
| 3-4:30 p.m. |
Meeting of County Affiliate Organizations (in person only) |
| 3 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Tears Down |