Board Member Spotlight: TAC President Cindy Yeatts Brown 

What do you enjoy most about working in county government?

What I enjoy most about working in county government is that I have the opportunity to serve as a trusted steward of our community’s resources. Every day, I get to ensure that taxpayer dollars are managed responsibly, transparently, and with the long-term health of our county in mind.

I take pride in knowing that the work we do in the treasurer’s office directly supports the services and infrastructure that shape people’s daily lives, from safe roads to strong public safety to the programs that make our county a great place to live. It’s a role that blends precision, problem solving and public service, and I’m grateful for the chance to work with residents and partners across the county to keep our government strong, stable and accountable.

What’s a challenge counties are facing right now that you think deserves more attention?

One challenge Texas counties are facing right now that deserves our attention is the growing strain on county resources as responsibilities continue to rise without matching revenue or flexibility. Although this is nothing new, counties are being asked to do more, from managing rapid population growth to responding to increasingly severe weather events, yet their ability to raise revenue is tightly restricted. This creates a widening gap between what communities’ need and what counties are allowed to fund.

It’s a quiet challenge, but a serious one, because it affects everything from public safety to infrastructure to emergency response. Counties are incredibly resourceful, but without broader awareness and support, many will struggle to keep up with the demands placed on them.

How does TAC support you or your county in your day-to-day work?

TAC supports me and my county in ways that truly make a difference in our day-to-day work. Whether it’s navigating new legislation, providing training or finding practical solutions to complex issues, TAC is the partner we rely on.

Their legal and policy experts help us understand how state and legislative decisions affect county operations, and their educational programs ensure me and my staff stay current and confident in their roles. They also create a network where county officials can learn from one another, share best practices and avoid reinventing the wheel.

In a job where the challenges are constant and the stakes are high, having TAC as a resource means we never face those challenges alone. TAC provides knowledgeable and responsive teams backing us every step of the way.

What advice would you give to someone new to county government?

My advice to someone new to county government is to approach work with patience, curiosity and a genuine commitment to service. Take the time to learn how your office fits into the larger system and build strong connections with the people around you such as your elected officials, staff and the community you serve.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions or admit what you don’t know; the work is complex, and no one expects you to master it overnight. Focus on understanding the “why” behind processes, not just the “how,” because that is where you will find opportunities to improve things for the people who rely on county services. And above all, remember that every task, no matter how routine it may seem, contributes to the trust and stability that makes local government work.

What’s a lesson you’ve learned in public service that has stayed with you?

A lesson I’ve learned in public service that has stayed with me is that small acts of consistency build the strongest trust. People may not see every spreadsheet, every late-night decision, or every careful step behind the scenes, but they feel the impact of steady, reliable work.

Over time, I’ve learned that showing up with integrity, even in the routine moments, matters just as much as the big decisions. Public service isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being accountable, listening with humility and remembering that every choice we make touches someone’s life.

What might surprise people about your job?

What might surprise people about my job as county treasurer is just how much of the county’s daily operations depend on work that most folks never see. People often think the treasurer’s office is only about making county deposits, but behind the scenes we are managing cash flow, safeguarding investments, coordinating with every department, and making sure the county can meet its financial obligations down to the penny.

We are the county banker, payroll officer and investment officer, and we execute juror payments and accounts payable. It’s a role that requires both precision and big picture thinking, and even though much of it happens quietly, it has a huge impact on the stability and strength of county government.

Outside of work, what helps you recharge?

Outside of work, I recharge by stepping away from the pace of county business and reconnecting with the things that ground me. For me, that means spending time with the people I care about, going outdoors and giving myself space to breathe and reset. Whether it’s a quiet evening with family or simply enjoying a hobby that has nothing to do with money or deadlines, those moments help me come back to the office with fresh energy and a clearer perspective.