County Magazine

In late August, hundreds of county officials from across Texas will gather in Austin for the Texas Association of Counties’ 2026 Legislative Conference. Taking place less than five months before the 90th Texas Legislature convenes in January, the conference serves as part policy forum, part reunion and part preview of the legislative session ahead. 

Scheduled for Aug. 26-28, the event gives county officials a chance to connect with peers and compare notes on shared challenges. Legislators, policy experts, representatives from the National Association of Counties and exhibitors showcasing county-focused services and products also will attend. 

Keynote Speaker 

The conference opens with a keynote address from S.C. Gwynne, bestselling author of “Empire of the Summer Moon,” his acclaimed history of Quanah Parker and the Comanches. Gwynne will speak about the power of storytelling and how county officials can better explain the work of local government in ways that resonate with constituents. 

Panel Discussions 

On Thursday, Aug. 27, members of TAC’s Legislative Services team will moderate 10 panel discussions focused on issues likely to shape next year’s legislative session and addressing challenges counties already are facing. 

Topics include: 

• A legislative preview with state Sen. Charles Perry (R-Lubbock), chair of the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture & Rural Affairs. 

• How counties can respond to development pressures. 

• Election administration challenges and policy implementation. 

• Disaster preparedness and recovery strategies. 

• Improving radio interoperability and communication among first responders. 

• Federal transportation funding. 

• Strategies to maximize federal funding tied to population counts and demographic programs. 

• The evolving relationship between justices of the peace and medical examiners in Texas death investigations. 

• Operational challenges facing county tax offices. 

• Financial collaboration among county judges, auditors and treasurers to strengthen stewardship of county resources. 

Closing Session 

The conference concludes Friday, Aug. 28, with a discussion of state property tax policy and its effect on counties’ ability to fund and deliver essential services, including public safety and road maintenance. Panelists also will explore ways to better align state policy decisions with local government realities. 

For agenda details, session overviews and speaker information, visit www.county.org/legeconference.