Legislative Services

The Texas Association of Counties' podcast, Texas County Voice, is wrapping up its third year of informative discussions of the issues shaping Texas counties. The latest episode focuses on homelessness and mental health in Travis County. Commissioner Ann Howard shares local efforts to address these challenges.

Throughout its three-year run, Texas County Voice has covered a range of topics, gaining nationwide recognition for its engaging content. One popular episode this year featured Guadalupe County Elections Administrator Lisa Hayes. She talked about her office's Citizens Election Academy. This program helps educate voters, fight misinformation and promote transparency in the electoral process.

Environmental concerns took the spotlight in another notable episode. Johnson County Commissioner Larry Woolley and Constable Detective Dana Ames discussed their investigation into toxic "forever chemicals" contaminating local soil and water. Johnson County's experience attracted widespread media attention this year, including from The Texas Tribune and The New York Times.

The issue also prompted Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to sue 3M and DuPont on Dec. 11, accusing them of "misrepresentations and key omissions" regarding the safety of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl compounds. These so-called forever chemicals, used in countless household products, resist breaking down in the environment. They have been linked to various harmful health effects in humans.

Other episodes this year took listeners on a journey into the past in Buffalo Gap, the former county seat of Taylor County, and glimpsed the future of artificial intelligence with Robert Ruiz of TAC's Risk Management Services. Ruiz explained how counties could use AI and manage its risks.

The podcast also covered pressing issues like court security. Harris County Justice of the Peace Holly Williamson spoke about the need to improve it. Meanwhile, Matagorda County Judge Bobby Seiferman introduced a youth leadership program aimed at inspiring the next generation of Texans.

Texas County Voice will continue to feature insightful conversations in the year ahead. Tune in here.