Texas County Voice

In this episode of Texas County Voice, we peek inside the Spring 2025 issue of County magazine. Join us for a look at hurricane preparedness, the building of new mental health hospitals, the resolution of a long-standing Jane Doe case and the uniquely Texas legend of a horny toad known as Ol' Rip. Tune in for the highlights and be sure to read more at county.org.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, we're joined by Kris Rivenburgh, founder of Accessible.org, to discuss why web accessibility is more than a technical concern — it's a legal and operational must for every county. Rivenburgh will also be leading sessions on this important topic at TAC's upcoming County Technology Conference in Williamson County.

For 20 years, she was known only as Jane Doe — no past, no story. But one woman refused to let her be forgotten. In this episode of Texas County Voice, Williamson County Senior Death Investigator Valerie Alvarez takes us inside the forensic and emotional journey to uncover a lost identity and finally bring a name back to the dead.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, recorded live at TAC's 2025 County Management and Risk Conference, Mason County Commissioner Reggie Loeffler and Hutchinson County Judge Cindy Irwin discuss the challenges and opportunities facing rural Texas counties. They explore key topics such as emergency medical services, wildfire recovery efforts and innovative strategies for enhancing community well-being.

Get a sneak peek at the 2025 County Management & Risk Conference! Bee County Auditor April Cantu shares her role on the Texas Association of Counties Risk Management Pool Board and what she hopes to gain from this year's conference, while TAC's Clem Zabalza breaks down key sessions on cybersecurity, risk management and more. Don't miss this essential preview on Texas County Voice!

In this episode of Texas County Voice, Grimes County Judge Joe Fauth offers an inside look at the role and responsibilities of a county judge. He shares valuable insights on leadership, community engagement and his experiences serving the county, offering a firsthand look at the challenges and rewards of the position.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, Sherman County Combination Clerk Laura Rogers joins us to discuss the legislative election priorities of the County & District Clerks' Association of Texas. From countywide polling to continuing education for election officials, Rogers shares insights from the front lines of county government. We also highlight her recent testimony before the House Elections Committee — and don't miss the incredible story of how she saved a life at the Capitol!

In this episode of Texas County Voice, Chambers County Sheriff Brian Hawthorne outlines the priorities of the Sheriff's Association of Texas during the 89th Legislature. From grant funding for rural law enforcement to border security and THC regulation, Sheriff Hawthorne discusses the challenges and opportunities facing Texas sheriffs and counties.

Tune in to Texas County Voice for an exclusive look inside the new issue of County magazine. Plus, don't miss our inspiring conversation with Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth as she shares her journey and deep passion for public service.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, TAC Senior Fiscal and Policy Analyst Zelma Smith walks us through some key county-related provisions in the House and Senate's proposed budgets for the 2026-27 biennium. Join us for an overview of the state budget process and a first look at what's ahead.

Tune in to Texas County Voice for a sneak peek at this year's Healthy County Boot Camp, Jan. 29-31 in Austin. The conference is packed with exciting wellness strategies, fitness activities and interactive features to help counties thrive. Discover what's new and how you can take part! 

TAC Legislative Services Director Caroline Love joins Texas County Voice to preview the 2025 Texas legislative session. Tune in to explore key county issues and discover the resources TAC offers to keep county officials informed and prepared.

Travis County Commissioner Ann Howard joins Texas County Voice to discuss homelessness and mental health challenges in Central Texas. She shares insights on supportive housing, Travis County's jail diversion program and creating sustainable change. Don't miss this compelling conversation.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, Matagorda County Judge Bobby Seiferman discusses his county's innovative youth leadership program – a 2024 County Best Practices Award recipient from the Texas Association of Counties. Learn how this program is inspiring high school students through hands-on experiences in local government, health care and other sectors, equipping them with the skills and vision to shape the future of Matagorda County.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, Hays County Elections Administrator Jennifer Doinoff discusses the meticulous preparations behind fair and secure elections. Don't miss this peek into the electoral process.

Join us for an insightful "fireside chat" as Yoakum County Commissioner Tim Addison and Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis discuss the shared challenges faced by urban and rural counties. Together, they explore strategies for building partnerships that foster stronger counties and a stronger Texas. Don't miss this engaging conversation.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, we visit Guadalupe County to explore its award-winning Citizens Election Academy. Designed to educate residents on the electoral process from voter registration to the reporting of results, the academy promotes transparency, combats misinformation and encourages civic engagement. Join us as Guadalupe County Elections Administrator Lisa Hayes shares how the academy builds trust in elections, one voter at a time.

Judicial safety has become an urgent issue as threats against judges and court personnel continue to rise. In this episode of Texas County Voice, Harris County Justice of the Peace Holly Williamson discusses the security challenges facing Texas courts and shares strategies to protect judges, staff and the public. As president of the Justices of the Peace and Constables Association of Texas, Judge Williamson recently spoke on this topic at the Texas Association of Counties' 2024 Legislative Conference. Don't miss this important and timely discussion.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, we explore Johnson County's investigation of the environmental and health risks linked to biosolids used in local agriculture. Commissioner Larry Woolley and Constable Detective Dana Ames discuss the alarming levels of toxic "forever chemicals" found in soil, water and livestock. Tune in to hear the investigation's findings and learn what steps officials are taking in response.

Artificial intelligence is no longer futuristic. However, its implications for county government are not entirely understood. In this episode of Texas County Voice, Robert Ruiz, the associate director of TAC's Risk Management Services, breaks down the fundamentals of AI and covers real-world applications and key considerations for integrating AI into county operations. Join us as we discuss what county officials need to know about AI and its potential benefits – and risks.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, we attend one of TAC's Judicial Education Roundtables, a series of meetings being held this summer across the state to provide county judges a platform for discussing county challenges. TAC's Stephanie Moreno explains the roundtables' focus on mental health. Featuring insights from Lee County Judge Frank Malinak, Knox County Judge Stan Wojcik and Comanche County Judge Stephanie Davis, the episode highlights various struggles with mental health resources and the significance of community involvement.    

In this episode of Texas County Voice, Jackson County Judge Jill Sklar shares lessons learned from a ransomware attack that struck her county in 2019. Judge Sklar's experiences inform her role as chair of the Board of Directors of TAC's County Information Resources Agency, or CIRA. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of county cybersecurity.  

Tune in to Texas County Voice for an engaging conversation with Randy Riggs, McClennan County Tax Assessor-Collector and vice president of the Texas Association of Counties. Discover his dedication to public service and hear his insights on upcoming legislative changes affecting vehicle registrations and new license plates. Plus! Enjoy a sampling of Riggs' talent beyond public office.

From growing up in the farmlands of Hidalgo County to becoming one of the few Asian American county judges in Texas, Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai, as he puts it, has always followed the path least taken. In this episode of Texas County Voice, Judge Sakai shares his unique journey and how his family history, including his father's four-year stay in a Japanese internment camp during World War II, shaped his dedication to public service.

We visit with Llano County Judge Ron Cunningham in this episode of Texas County Voice. Judge Cunningham shares his perspective on key issues faced by Llano County and discusses his engagement on bills that would simplify the federal grant process for counties and boost local support for veterans and their families. Join us for an insightful look at the leadership and experiences shaping Texas counties.

Please join Texas County Voice as we visit Lampasas County to bring you a conversation with County Judge Randy Hoyer. Tune in as Judge Hoyer shares his journey from educator to county judge and discusses the important advocacy he is leading for his community.

Texas County Voice recently reached out to county leaders as they prepared for the April 8 solar eclipse. From Bandera to Llano counties, and up to Rains County, join us on a journey through planning and anticipation as Texas counties get ready to witness and manage an unforgettable experience for both residents and visitors alike.

Please join Texas County Voice as we spotlight and celebrate the public servants who are making a difference in the Lone Star State. Our guest this episode: Schleicher County Judge Charlie Bradley.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, El Paso County Commissioner David Stout shares his journey from broadcast journalism to county government, highlights the issues and initiatives he champions, and discusses the importance of community engagement and collaboration in shaping effective policies. Please join us as we continue our conversations with the public servants who are making a difference in the Lone Star State. Comments on current episodes of Texas County Voice or suggestions for future episodes are always welcome. Please send them to media@county.org.

Texas County Voice recently traveled to Washington, D.C., for the National Association of Counties' 2024 Legislative Conference. Join us as we sit down with NACo Executive Director Matt Chase to discuss federal policies and other developments shaping county governance. You'll also hear from Comal County Criminal District Attorney Jennifer Tharp on her priorities and conference takeaways. Related information: For additional coverage of NACo's 2024 NACo Legislative Conference, visit naco.org. Go here to download and pre-order copies of NACo's AI-generated children's book, "The Marvelous Adventures in Countyland."

In this episode of Texas County Voice, we step back in time to explore the rich history of Buffalo Gap, the former county seat of Taylor County. Join us as we visit a living connection to the past.

In this episode, Texas County Voice looks ahead to February's 15th annual Healthy County Boot Camp. Join us as Texas Association of Counties Wellness Consultants Ashley Cureton-Whitfield and Biral Patel discuss the unique features of this year's event and share advice for setting and achieving personal health and fitness goals.  

Yoakum County Commissioner Tim Addison began his two-year term as President of the Texas Association of Counties' Board of Directors on Jan. 1. In this episode of Texas County Voice, Commissioner Addison discusses his experience in public service, his family's deep roots in Texas and his goals as TAC President.

Texas Association of Counties Executive Director Susan Redford interviews Tom Green County Auditor Nathan Cradduck, whose two-year term as TAC Board President ends Dec. 31. They reflect on Cradduck's key accomplishments, including a renewed commitment to member engagement after the pandemic, and discuss the challenges and future of county leadership.

Please join Texas County Voice as we continue to spotlight and celebrate the public servants who make a difference in the Lone Star State. Our guest: Taylor County Commissioner Chuck Statler. Commissioner Statler is a former president of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas and a former member of the Texas Association of Counties' Board of Directors. He has a radio and television background and still pursues his passion for broadcasting by announcing local football, basketball and baseball games – something he's been doing for more than 40 years.

Please join Texas County Voice as we continue to spotlight and celebrate the public servants who make a difference in the Lone Star State. Our guest: Parmer County Commissioner Kirk Frye.

Please join us as we step outside Studio 254 and embark on a road trip of sorts through the history and stories hidden in the remnants of vanished communities. Don't miss this journey to a Texas that once was.

Join us as Texas County Voice talks with Comal County Commissioner Jen Crownover, the new president of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas. She shares her journey to county office, her enthusiasm for leadership development and her fondness for her "seahorses." Don't miss this engaging conversation.

Join us as TAC Legislative Consultant Kelsey Bernstein talks with Jefferson County Constable Christopher Bates, the current president of the Justices of the Peace and Constables Association of Texas and the 2023 United States Constable of the Year. He shares his journey to county office, his love of community and service, and an impromptu performance of "God Bless America." Don't miss this engaging conversation.

In this episode, we dive back into Senate Bill 22, the rural law enforcement grant program that we outlined previously. With proposed rules now on the table and a 30-day comment window open for county officials, we address pressing questions surrounding this groundbreaking initiative. Our guests, TAC's Skylor Hearn and Russell Gallahan with the Comptroller's Office, provide insights and clarity. Join us for this essential update on SB 22. Check our show page for more information related to this episode.

Join us as we share a second helping from the Texas Association of Counties' recent 2023 Legislative Conference, where more than 850 county officials and staff members gathered for a county-focused look at this year's legislative decisions. This episode features a panel discussion exploring the historic levels of state and federal funding set aside for expanding high-speed internet access across Texas and how counties can bridge the digital divide and invest in their futures.

Join us as we share a sampling from the Texas Association of Counties' recent 2023 Legislative Conference, where more than 850 county officials and staff members gathered for a county-focused look at this year's legislative decisions. Hear Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson's keynote on elections and more, followed by a short interview with Mary Jo McGuire, the new president of the National Association of Counties.

How will artificial intelligence influence county governance? How can counties leverage AI's potential benefits while avoiding its hazards? These are among the questions the National Association of Counties' new AI Exploratory Committee, co-chaired by Travis County Judge Andy Brown, will be considering in the months ahead. Join us on Texas County Voice as we talk with Judge Brown about the committee's scope and goals. You'll hear additional insights from Peter Crary, the Texas Association of Counties' senior manager of technology and a member of NACo's AI committee. Tune in for a glimpse at the evolving intersection of AI and government.

Join us on Texas County Voice as we walk through the key provisions of Senate Bill 22, a pivotal piece of county-related legislation that provides crucial financial assistance to sheriffs, constables and prosecutors in rural counties. Our guides for this informative episode: Skylor Hearn and Katy Estrada from the Texas Association of Counties' Legislative Services department.

Join us on Texas County Voice as we report from the National Association of Counties' annual conference held July 21-24 in Travis County. Over four days, nearly 3,200 county officials and representatives from 680 counties across the country gathered in Austin to discuss important county-related matters. A Texas highlight: Wise County Judge J.D. Clark was elected Second Vice President of NACo's Executive Committee, positioning him to become NACo president in 2025. Hear about the Texas presence at the conference and NACo's role in advocating for counties in Washington, D.C.

Join us on Texas County Voice as we interview Wise County Judge J.D. Clark and anticipate the start of the National Association of Counties' annual conference in Travis County. Discover the significance of county engagement in shaping policies at the state and federal levels, along with Wise County's notable achievements in expanding broadband access. Don't miss this insightful conversation with Judge J.D. Clark.

What does a county judge do? And why are they called "county judges"? Comal County Judge Sherman Krause explains, in the first of an occasional series exploring the roles of county officials. Judge Krause also talks about the challenges of keeping pace with rapid population growth in one of the country's fastest-growing counties. To learn more about the services Texas counties provide and the responsibilities of each county official, visit www.TexasCountiesDeliver.org.

    Randall County Commissioner Eric Barry, a classically trained tenor, shares his journey from singing opera in some of the world's most famous concert halls to settling down in the Panhandle and serving county government. Barry's interview with Texas County Voice can also be read in the latest issue of County magazine.

    State Rep. Andrew Murr of Junction joins Texas County Voice to discuss how serving as Kimble County judge prepared him for the Legislature and to share his legislative priorities for the state and his wide-ranging, 16-county House district. This is the fourth in a series of interviews with state lawmakers by TAC Legislative Consultant Katy Estrada.

State Rep. Joe Moody of El Paso, chair of the House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee, joins Texas County Voice to share his legislative priorities of interest to counties. This is the third in a series of interviews with Capitol leaders by TAC Legislative Consultant Katy Estrada.

State Rep. Lynn Stucky of Denton joins Texas County Voice to discuss his legislative priorities of interest to counties. TAC Legislative Consultant Katy Estrada guest hosts.