TAC - Archives

Jan / Feb 2020

State Infrastructure Banks

An Innovative (and Underused) Transportation Infrastructure Financing Tool for Texas Counties.

President's Report

Comal County Treasurer takes over as TAC Board President

Cybersecurity Training

State-mandated cybersecurity training: What it means for you and your county

AGRiP Award

TAC RMP receives AGRiP award for Best Practices

Counties Use Video for Transparency and Outreach

With the click of a mouse, counties and county officials are also educating the public by sharing TAC’s short, entertaining videos on their social media feeds

TAC Employee Spotlight - Caleb Sanchez

TAC Digital Marketing Manager Caleb Sanchez

Best Practices Awards: Hidalgo County

New initiative engages community, supports public safety

County Jail Inmate Subpopulations

Inmates with Immigration Detainers and Pregnant Inmates

Voices of County Government - Collin County Clerk Stacey Kemp

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Lynn County Tax Assessor-Collector Donna Wilis

See Full Jan / Feb 2020 Issues

Nov / Dec 2019

President's Report

It Has Been an Honor to Serve TAC and Texas Counties

2019 Legislative Conference Review: Revamping Disaster Response

Lessons Learned from Hurricane Harvey

2019 Legislative Conference Review: The Role of Counties in Addressing Behavioral Health

The 86th Texas legislative session emphasized the importance of mental health for the state.

2019 Legislative Conference Review: Media Relations 101

Tips of the Trade

Texas Counties are "Stepping Up" to Reduce Mental Illness in Jails

12 Texas counties join groundbreaking initiative.

2019 Legislative Conference Review: 2020 Census Overview

An overview of the 2020 U.S. census and how the results may impact Texas counties were covered in the “2020 Census and Redistricting” breakout session at the Legislative Conference.

TAC Employee Spotlight - Matt Bruns

Sr. Systems Administrator Keeps IT Up and Running

Best Practices Awards Spotlight: Midland County

RECOGNITION PROGRAM CELEBRATES COUNTY EMPLOYEES, BOOSTS MORALE

Legendary Leadership

County officials provide direction, broad perspective to TAC.

Is Texas Rural or Urban

Growth and population are not evenly distributed across all Texas counties.

2019 Legislative Conference Review: Texas' Political Landscape is Changing

Texas Tribune Chief Executive Officer Evan Smith told county officials at September’s annual Legislative Conference.

In Memoriam

TAC remembers the county officials who recently passed away. They were each dedicated to their office and community.

Texas Counties are "Stepping Up" to Reduce Mental Illness in Jails

12 Texas counties join groundbreaking initiative.

Voices of County Government - Hon. Margaret Sawyer

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Lynn County Tax Assessor-Collector Donna Wilis

See Full Nov / Dec 2019 Issues

Sept / Oct 2019

County Investment Academy Class of 2019

More than 220 county officials and staff attended the second session in the 2019 Basics of County Investments Course series.

TAC Employee Spotlight - Andrea Beard

Claims Supervisor Stays the Course

Best Practices Awards Spotlight: Collin County

Creative Initiative Connects Residents to Local Government

Hungry for Education

TAC's 50 Years of Promoting Excellence in County Government

Future Populations by County

Are you familiar with the Texas Demographic Center (TDC)? You should be if you are interested in future plans for your county.

Instagram Works for Texas Counties

This photo sharing platform enhances county communications

Voices of County Government - Hon. Laura Hinojosa

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Lynn County Tax Assessor-Collector Donna Wilis

See Full Sept / Oct 2019 Issues

July / Aug 2019

President's Report

The End of Session is Only the Beginning -- 50 Years and Counting

TAC Employee Spotlight -Dirk Ruedas

Print Services Production Supervisor Keeps the Train on the Tracks

Best Practices Awards Spotlight: Washington County

Creative Initiative Connects Residents to Local Government

Strategic Planning to Guide TAC

Mapping out the Future of Your Association

Happy Birthday TAC

The Official Birthday Celebration Included Current and Former Board Members, Presidents and Staff.

Home Access to Computers and the Internet

The 2020 Census will be Available to Complete Online - How Many Texans will Have Access?

The Renaissance Revival Courthouses of Texas

This style of architecture was popular in the last half or the 19th century.

Regional Workshops: HR Tools for Managers and Supervisors

Joe Bontke with EEOC to Speak at One-Day Training

Voices of County Government - Hon. Donna Willis

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Lynn County Tax Assessor-Collector Donna Wilis

See Full July / Aug 2019 Issues

May / June 2019

Large Turnout for County Government Day at the Capitol

On April 30 TAC filled the halls of the Capitol with the smell of barbecue

TAC Employee Spotlight - Stacey Jones

She is more than "Just the Facts"

Best Practices Awards Spotlight: Comal County

Creative Program Engages Community, Saves Local Tax Dollars

Celebrating 50 Years of Serving Texas

We are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Texas Association of Counties (TAC) all year long, but in May, your Association marks an extra-special milestone

The History of the Pools: TAC HEBP

TAC Health and Employee Benefits Pool - A Retrospective Journey

Trucks on County Roads

TxDOT's annual Roadway Inventory publication reports the number of centerline and lane miles of roads and highways by type of road.

The Moderne Courthouses of Texas

This style of architecture was influence by industrial designs of planes, ships and railroad engines.

Regional Workshops: HR Tools for Managers and Supervisors

Joe Bontke with EEOC to Speak at One-Day Training

The History of the Pools: TAC RMP

TAC Risk Management Pool - 45 Years Strong

Voices of County Government - Hon. Nancy Berry

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Brazos County Commissioner Nancy Berry

Voices of County Government - Hon. Dan Looten

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Carson County Judge Dan Looten

See Full May / June 2019 Issues

Mar / Apr 2019

Ashley Cureton - TAC 2018 Employee of the Year

TAC Wellness Consultant tackles wellness education with laughter, compassion and energy.

Meet Your New HBS Consultants

Four new Consultants join HBS to better serve members

TAC Employee Spotlight - Gaylene Jensen

Meet the "Voice of TAC"

Best Practices Awards Spotlight: Williamson County

Efficiencies Improve Operations, Save Tax Dollars

Looking Ahead to the Next 50

A look at what is in store for TAC's next 50 years

County Debt Per Capita 2018

The Texas Bond Review Board released its "Local Government Annual Report" for 2018 - we review it here.

Second Empire Courthouses of Texas

The style, inspired by French design, incorporates intricate detailing, deeply sculpted pillars and wide, winding staircases.

Counties Round Out County Government Month with Counties at the Capitol Day, Serving Barbecue April 30

Keeping Counties in the Know

Communications Evolved, Expanded to Best Serve Members

Voices of County Government - Hon. Ray Scifres

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Hockley County Sheriff Ray Scifres

Voices of County Government - Hon. Linda Douglass

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Guadalupe County Treasurer Linda Douglass

See Full Mar / Apr 2019 Issues

January / February 2019

2019 Public Outreach Checklist

A New Year’s Challenge. How many can you check off?

Make Public Outreach Part of your National County Government Celebrations this April

National County Government Month is a time to celebrate county government and public service in your communities

New Faces in the Texas Legislature

A Brief Introduction to the Freshman Class of the 86th Legislature

Beaux Arts Courthouses of Texas

This style of architectural style was popular from about 1880-1930

TAC Events during the 86th Legislative Session: Get Engaged. Stay Involved.

A variety of events are scheduled for TAC members to get involved during the 86th Legislative Session

The Texas Association of Counties Celebrates 50 Years

We look back at TAC’s 50 years, beginning with the Legal and Legislative Services

Best Practices Awards Spotlight: Fort Bend County

EFFICIENCIES IMPROVE LAW ENFORCEMENT, SAVE TAX DOLLARS

Voices of County Government - Hon. Larry Gaddes

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Williamson County Tax Assesor-Collector Larry Gaddes

School Property Taxes by County

School finance has once again become the topic of the day.

Courthouse History Preserved

The Brush Country Museum in La Salle County showcases items from the old courthouse

See Full January / February 2019 Issues

November / December 2018

Art Deco Courthouses of Texas

The first popular architectural style to break with tradition

School Finance: The Elephant in the Property Tax Equation

Surging property taxes are a direct result of the state’s school finance system, not cities and counties. Local property taxpayers are picking up billions more for public schools while the state spends billions less. And it’s by design.

In Memoriam

Remembering those we lost in 2018

Gene Terry Retires

Read his final Staff Report and fond farewell

TAC Events during the 86th Legislative Session: Get Engaged. Stay Involved.

A variety of events are scheduled for TAC members to get involved during the 86th Legislative Session

Creative Outreach

Officials offer insights on how to connect with the public

Best Practices Awards Spotlight: Wilson County

Strategic Alliances Expand Library Services, Engage Community

A Look at Team TAC

The Legislative Services Division

Your Voices, Actions Can Lead the Way

Terry's final Staff Report and a fond farewell

Voices of County Government - Hon. Tammy Biggar

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Fannin County Clerk Tammy Biggar

A Shifting Labor Force Makes Texas Top State for Business

We’ve experienced an economic downturn, the start of the fracking boom and roller coaster oil prices. Yet, the state keeps growing.

Newton County Clock Tower

The original Newton County courthouse had a faux clock in the tower. In 1929, a real four-faced clock was installed by local benefactors in honor of Dr. J.S. Peavy and wife, Maryann Fuller.

See Full November / December 2018 Issues

September / October 2018

Classical Revival Courthouses of Texas

This style of architecture is rooted in classic antiquity

Restore What's Right

Heading into the 86th legislative session, it is essential that we stand together on the main issues that we all face.

TAC Rolls Out New Website

New Risk Management Services Staff

2018 TAC Legislative Conference

More than 500 county officials and staff from across the state gathered in Austin Aug. 29-31 for TAC’s annual Legislative Conference

Bridging the Mental Health Gap

The Long Road to Recovery

County judges look back at Hurricane Harvey, the lessons learned and the changes needed

Voices of County Government - Sheriff Brian Hawthorne

County government officials are as diverse as the Texans who elect them, coming from every background imaginable. In this issue we talk with Chambers County Sheriff Brian Hawthorne

What are Orphaned Wells and Where Can We Find Them?

Studies have shown that unattended wells can leak methane and other contaminants into groundwater and create other environmental problems.

See Full September / October 2018 Issues

July / August 2018

Romanesque Revival Courthouses of Texas

This architectural style emphasizes the classic Roman arch, stone and towers.

TAC Communications Staff Receive NACIO Awards

TAC Communications Services staff receive 2018 Awards of Excellence for graphic design and writing.

Legislative Conference Agenda Unveiled

TAC's 2018 Legislative Conference will help county officials and staff prepare for the 86th Texas Legislature

Go Viral or Go Home

From CMRC: How to create and nurture a culture of healthy living.

Heads-Up: Benefits Changes are Coming

TAC HEBP members will see more flexibility in prescription benefits.

The Cost of Health Care and Lifestyle Choices

From CMRC: You may have more control than you think

New Challenges and Old Problems: County Jail Operations

From CMRC: County jails are undergoing major changes in the way they deal with suspected of being mentally ill.

Courtroom Safety and Security

From CMRC: After the shooting of a district judge, courtroom security is a pressing issue.

Problems Caused by State's Growth Must be Faced

People are flocking to Texas and I don’t blame them. It’s a great place to live.

Voices of County Government - Sheriff Robert Chody

First Leadership 254 Class Completes Program

County officials completed TAC's new leadership program.

Where are Our Veterans?

We do not know the value of homes owned by veterans, but we can, at least, get the number of veterans by county from the “American Community Survey

See Full July / August 2018 Issues

May/June 2018

Tap Into TAC Services

TAC provides service to all elected and appointed county officials, to all counties and to all of the associations of county officials. We want you to use those services.

Clerks Rushed to Reopen After Hurricane Harvey

Once the lights were back on, district and county clerks relocated or erected temporary offices to serve the public.

‘Show Respect to Gain Respect’

Former Falls County Sheriff reflects on 43-year career in law enforcement

Voices of County Government - Hon. Mary Louise Garcia

Fifteen Historic Texas Courthouses Receive $20 million

The Texas Historic Commission announced grant recipients

2017 Safety Awards

Eleven counties and three individuals were recognized for their commitment to employee safety.

Changing Mortality Rates by County

Tim Brown looks into the change in mortality rates due to cardiovascular diseases and diabetes across Texas counties.

See Full May/June 2018 Issues

March / April 2018

You Take the High Road

I've never been around people I enjoy more than my friends in county government.

Seven Healthy Investments that Yield the Greatest Return

Your family history could put you at risk of developing high blood pressure or other health problems. But you can make smart lifestyle choices to improve overall health and may counteract genetic risks.

Rep. Oliveira Named Friend of County Government

See Full March / April 2018 Issues

January / February 2018

Meet the New TAC President, Hidalgo County Constable Larry Gallardo

Hidalgo County Constable Gallardo became president of the TAC Board of Directors on Jan. 1 and will serve for two years. Get to know more about him.

Counties Helping Counties

After Hurricane Harvey, local government was at the ground level helping their counterparts in hard-hit areas. Here are just a few of the examples of how Texas takes care if its own and how county government has been at the heart of the recovery efforts.

My Friend Charlye Farris

Honoring Texas’ first female county judge, who was also the first African-American to hold the office.

Nine Ways to Celebrate County Government Month This April

National County Government Month is just around the corner. This April is a great opportunity to spread the word about the value of county government and how your county delivers to Texans every day.

See Full January / February 2018 Issues

County Magazine