Welcome to the County Progress Audio Edition. The only publication dedicated to Texas County Commissioners' Courts can now be experienced via your favorite audio or podcasting platform. Make the most of your windshield time or absorb the latest news in grassroots government hands-free at your home or office. Thank you for listening in.
https://countyprogress.com/
In his December 2025 column, CJCAT Senior General Counsel Jim Allison warned of the coming reduction in funding for federal health care programs. Today, he says those anticipated cuts have become a reality.-County Progress
9 Oct 2026
Explaining County Authority
What authority do Texas counties have? The answer comes down to the tools available under state law.-County Progress
1 Oct 2026
Leading the Way to the Ballot Box
Beyond Election Day, public officials have a unique opportunity to strengthen democracy by encouraging every voice to be heard.-County Progress
23 Sept 2026
Voting in Elections: A Fundamental Right and Duty
Although the state is charged with the responsibility for elections, the legislature has assigned most election duties to counties and their elected officials. County officials perform these functions as a solemn duty of their offices. The details of these operations and events occur beyond the knowledge and recognition of most citizens.-County Progress
14 Sept 2026
Communicating With the Texas Legislature
Throughout the last several sessions, certain legislators have continued their efforts to prohibit local officials and their nonprofit associations from communicating with the Texas Legislature. The CJCAT has passed a resolution opposing these efforts. -County Progress
2 Sept 2026
Annual State Conference: Bringing Texas Together in Waco
If you attended one of the County Judges and Commissioners regional conferences this year, you already know what is waiting for us in Waco. You have experienced education, the exchange of ideas, and perhaps most importantly, the fellowship that happens when county officials come together. Now, it’s time to bring all of our regional associations together for the 2026 County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas State Conference Oct. 5-8 in McLennan County.-County Progress
24 Aug 2026
Burial of Paupers
Are Texas counties responsible for the burial of paupers? -County Progress
19 Aug 2026
The Corrupt Property Tax Appraisal System
Texas property taxes were intended to be built on fairness and uniformity, but decades of legislative changes have created disparities that shift more of the tax burden onto homeowners. As policymakers reexamine the appraisal system, county officials are working to identify reforms that restore equity and transparency.-County Progress
10 Aug 2026
Leadership Beyond the Courthouse
Effective leadership is about more than managing county business. In this episode, CJCAT President and Parmer County Commissioner Kirk Frye discusses how influence, integrity, and service help local officials build stronger communities and leave a legacy that extends far beyond their time in office.-County Progress
3 Aug 2026
92nd Annual South Texas Conference
This episode recaps key lessons from the 96th Annual South Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association Conference, focusing on how effective leadership, positive mindsets, and strong communication can help county officials work together to better serve their communities and navigate the road ahead.-County Progress
13 Jul 2026
Optional County Road and Bridge Fee
David Tullos, Grimes County Commissioner, discusses growing support among Texas county officials to increase the optional vehicle registration fee from $10 to $20, citing rising road maintenance costs, inflation, and the need for additional funding to maintain county transportation infrastructure.
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County Progress
9 Jul 2026
The Good Roads Our Counties Need
NACo President J.D. Clark explains why America's county-owned roads and bridges are falling behind on funding, and what Congress can do about it in the next surface transportation bill.
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County Progress
8 Jul 2026
Interim Legislative Hearings
Texas legislative interim committees are beginning hearings
on key policy issues that could shape future legislation. County officials are
encouraged to participate and provide input.
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County Progress
7 Jul 2026
County Budgets and the Responsibility of Leadership
Kirk Frye, CJCAT President and Parmer County Commissioner, emphasizes that thoughtful, transparent, and collaborative budgeting is one of the most important responsibilities of county leaders, shaping priorities today while preparing communities for the future.
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County Progress
22 Jun 2026
Required Artificial Intelligence Training
Texas law now requires certain county officials and employees who regularly use computers to complete annual AI awareness training through state-certified programs, with compliance tied to reporting requirements and grant eligibility.
countyprogress.com
15 Jun 2026
Wise County AI Exploratory Program
Wise County’s AI pilot program has evolved into a practical platform that helps county employees save time, improve communication, and support operations while emphasizing human oversight and accuracy.
countyprogress.com
8 Jun 2026
Resolution Spotlight: Municipal Utility Districts
Municipal utility districts (MUDs) in Texas can provide essential infrastructure but also raise concerns about unchecked development, limited county oversight, and potential long-term burdens on residents and local resources.
1 Jun 2026
Cybersecurity Training
Texas law now requires all county officials and employees with access to government IT resources to complete annual cybersecurity training, following updated legislation that expanded the mandate and removed prior exceptions. https://countyprogress.com
25 May 2026
Introducing County Progress Audio
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