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.
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) |
| 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)
-
Bail Reform: A Look at Implementation, the Magistration Process and the Denial of Bail
During a special session of the 86th Legislature, Senate Bill 6 was passed, making sweeping changes to the bail system in Texas. After this past legislative session, more changes were made through Senate Bill 1318. Additionally, voters will decide in November on Senate Joint Resolution 44, the constitutional amendment expanding the authority to deny bail this upcoming election. Join our panel for a discussion on the implementation and the impact this will have on the courts.
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
-
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): TBD
-
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): TBD
-
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 2023 supplemental and 2024-25 budgets and a refresher on new and recurring federal grant opportunities for which counties are eligible. You will also hear about the sustainability of increases in state grant funds and how counties can avoid the need to replace grant funds with local taxpayer funds.
Moderator: Ms. Zelma Smith, Financial Analyst, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): Ms. Ginny Lewis Ford, Executive Director, Texas Association of Regional Councils
-
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
|
| 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)
- Bail Reform: A Look at Implementation, the Magistration Process and the Denial of Bail
- 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
-
Emergency Management: Texas Water – Too Much or Not Enough? Recent Legislative Investments in Texas Water Infrastructure, Planning & Management, and How Counties Can Prepare to Access Funding
In 2019, the Texas Legislature created two new funds to be administered by the Texas Water Development Board: the Flood Infrastructure Fund, which provides grants and loans for drainage, flood mitigation and flood control projects; and the Texas Infrastructure Resiliency Fund, created with four sub-accounts, each serving a separate purpose. These funds have seen an influx of new money with the passage of HB 1 during the 2023 legislative session. During the 2023 legislative session, the Legislature created the Texas Water Fund to address the water supply and help pay for new water development projects and to upgrade water infrastructure.
Moderator: Ms. Elizabeth Choate, Legislative Consultant – County Treasurers' Association of Texas, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): TBD
-
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
-
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: A Tiered Perspective 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 with a perspective from each tier of the program.
Moderator: Mr. Skylor Hearn, Legislative Consultant – Sheriffs' Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker(s): TBD
|
| 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, Planning & Management, and How Counties Can Prepare to Access Funding
- Property Taxes: Boost or Burden?
- NACo: Counties' Seat at the Table in Washington, D.C.
- Law Enforcement: A Tiered Perspective 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): TBD
|
*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) |
Pending |
Pending |
| CPA/Auditors |
Pending |
Pending |
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.) |
Pending |
Pending |
| County and District Clerks |
Pending |
Pending |
| County Judges |
Not Approved by Texas Judicial Academy |
Not Approved by Texas Judicial Academy |
| Justices of the Peace |
Pending |
Pending |
PHRs and SPHRs
Reviewed on individual basis; self-report to HRCI |
Pending |
Pending |
Purchasing Agents
Self-report to Texas State Board of Public Accountancy |
Pending |
Pending |
| Sheriffs and Constables (TCOLE) |
Pending |
Pending |
| Tax Assessor-Collectors |
Pending |
Pending |
| Treasurers |
Pending |
Pending |
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 – click here to view sponsorships available.
To sign up to be a sponsor, first, log in to the TAC member portal located in the top right corner of the TAC homepage. Next, locate the 2023 Legislative Conference in the Calendar of Events and click register. Then, choose sponsorship opportunities to add your preferred sponsorship options. Once the registration is complete, Deanna Auert will follow up to confirm and determine your hotel room needs.
First-Time Users
- Click "Forgot username?"
- Enter your email address and click "Submit."
- Check your inbox for a TAC email with your username and logon instructions.
If you receive a message that your email address cannot be found:
- Click "Create a new account."
- Enter required fields*.
- Click "Save."
Return Users
- Log in with your username (email address) and password.
Registration Assistance
- For more information, please contact Deanna Auert at (800) 456‑5974.
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
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 |