Legislative Services

More than 100 county officials from across Texas gathered in Austin and online Tuesday for Counties at the Capitol Legislative Day. The event, held by the Texas Association of Counties early in each legislative session, serves as a platform for county officials to engage with state legislators and discuss issues important to county government.

TAC President and Yoakum County Commissioner Tim Addison opened the event with welcoming remarks. He emphasized the interconnected nature of challenges faced by all counties, rural and urban, and introduced the event's speakers: Sen. Charles Perry (R-Lubbock), Sen. Kevin Sparks (R-Midland) and Rep. Todd Hunter (R-Corpus Christi).

Perry, who chairs the Senate Water, Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, focused on water. He is seeking $1 billion in dedicated annual state funding on water infrastructure to help ensure the state's supply can sustain its growth. Perry said he anticipates a state constitutional vote on the matter in November.

"All lights are green" on the issue, he said. "The time is now."

Hunter urged county officials to assert their needs at the Capitol, pledging support for local government rather than interference. "We need to stop backseat driving you," he said. He also addressed coastal issues, rising insurance costs, and the need to bolster the state's electrical grid, water supply and workforce.

Sparks encouraged officials to foster relationships with lawmakers from other regions of the state, ensuring that proposals account for their potential impact statewide. He stressed the need to improve the state's grid and secure adequate funding for wildfire services and volunteer fire departments.

The morning wrapped with representatives from the various county office organizations updating members on their affiliate's legislative priorities and concerns. Officials attending in person later visited the Capitol to meet with legislators, followed by a reception at the TAC building for county officials, legislators and staff.