Blog | May 12, 2026
Board Member Spotlight: Hon. Jen Crownover
County service often begins in unexpected ways — through community involvement, a simple conversation, or a willingness to step up when it matters most. For many county officials, what starts as grassroots engagement evolves into a deeper commitment to public service and leadership.
In this Q&A, we spotlight Hon. Jen Crownover, Vice President of the TAC Board of Directors and Comal County Commissioner. Her path to office was shaped by hands-on community involvement and a desire to make a meaningful impact. From navigating the realities of county authority to staying connected with constituents in a fast-growing area, she shares insights on leadership, collaboration and the vital role TAC plays in supporting officials across the state.
What originally sparked your interest in county government?
When my kids were young, I was heavily involved in their activities (like most moms, right!?), including at our county park, where they played soccer, baseball, basketball and football. Being involved, one thing led to another, and I became one of the point people involved with the county in some of the capital projects at our sports parks.
I knew nothing about county government at the time, but when my predecessor attended one of our grant meetings (with the parks folks), she thanked us for our service and said she was in her last term, and that our county needed fresh faces and perspectives.
Later, I thanked her for her support of our parks, and asked what a commissioner did, anyways!? We had lunch a few weeks later, and the more I learned from her, the more I really felt like I had something to offer! I attended commissioners court meetings for nearly an entire term before taking office….watching and learning…with communication and public relations as my background, I knew I could make a difference, starting day 1!
What has surprised you most about serving as a county commissioner since taking office?
I thought I’d have more ‘advanced intel’ on projects going on in our county — and I don’t! It sure would be handy, though! I’d always prefer to be out in front of an issue than blindsided by it.
I guess the other thing is just how limited we really are as counties, and how onerous our processes have to be, because of statute.
What are the biggest priorities for TAC right now from your perspective?
TAC is an incredible resource and hub for communication! Whether it’s helping county officials understand the impacts of bills filed or potential legislative updates, or navigate the actual mazes in Austin, or helping each county official navigate our different priorities in a manner that does not undermine or conflict with another county position, TAC SERVES!
The incredible open, efficient and constructive communication that is made possible by TAC is a lifeline for all county officials, and it enables us to do our best work in our positions on behalf of our counties, and in concert with our fellow electeds.
You’ve been deeply involved in professional organizations and leadership programs. Why is that important for county officials?
All of these experiences have helped me be a better county commissioner…which is my goal…to be the best at what I’m doing. Involvement in our associations has helped me learn more about issues that don’t just face my county, but others as well. It has been a place where I have been able to collaborate with peers across the state to hopefully propose solutions to the legislature with regard to problems that we (counties) share. I think we are even more effective when we collaborate with folks beyond our county lines.
The leadership program opportunities I’ve had the wonderful privilege of being part of have pushed me outside of my comfort zone and made me a better person, wife, mom, and servant of my county, and with my peers across the state, too.
How do you stay connected with constituents in a rapidly growing precinct?
I pride myself in answering every single call and email…as all of us should…but I also take the initiative in staying very active on social media, because I feel like that’s where the pulse of the community is.
I have built rapport online, and have positioned myself as a resource for factual information. It’s not always easy, and it’s not always fun, but it is effective, and people realize that when I chime in on a thread, or proactively put out information, folks know that I have taken the time to do the research and get it right before putting anything out.
In addition to the online presence, I have maintained weekly ‘Station Days’ out in the county since taking office. My Station Days are consistently scheduled and communicated. Those days put me out in different parts of my precinct where I’m more easily accessible and convenient for citizens to come discuss issues. From some points in my precinct, it’s a 45-minute drive to my office at the courthouse, so I think folks enjoy the fact that I work hard to be where they are, too.
What’s one thing you wish every Texan understood about county government?
How limited we are in our authorities, and basic “County Government 101”! Especially in such a fast growth county like Comal — folks are coming here in droves, and they don’t always understand the differences in how things work from where they came from to how they work here. I spend a large percentage of my time educating folks on the differences between city and county authorities, as well as legal and philosophical differences from their home state to Texas.
What helps you rest and recharge from your work?
Riding my horses (Pickles & ProZac), playing tennis, water sports and fun, attending concerts (near AND FAR!), or working on my property ❤