Location: Vine
Location: Convention Registration
Location: Convention Registration
Location: Vine 2
This session is required for all new tax assessor-collectors during the first 90 days of taking office. It provides information on the basic operations of a county tax office, where additional resources can be obtained, and on the rules and regulations that are state-mandated. Tax assessor-collectors are considered new if still in their first term of office.
Speakers: Hon. Tammy McRae, TACA Past President and Tax Assessor-Collector, Montgomery County
Hon. Randy Riggs, TACA Past President and Tax Assessor-Collector, McLennan County
Moderator: Hon. Cheryl Gaskamp, Tax Assessor-Collector, Washington County
Location: Vine 1
Come learn to unite your team as one force, learning to collaborate across the galaxy’s challenges and strengthen the bonds that drive collective success. Through strategic exercises, you’ll master the art of communication, decision-making, and adaptability, ensuring your team is ready for any mission that comes your way. By the end, you’ll be a cohesive unit, equipped to face even the most perilous adventures with unwavering trust and shared purpose.
Speaker: Tiffany Seward, Director of Communications, Travis County
Stacy Spruell, Director of Business Services, Travis County
Moderator: Hon. Terrie Pendley, Tax Assessor-Collector, Real County
This course is approved for advanced designation completion. Additional fee required.
Location: Floral Hall
This session will provide instructions for detecting vehicle fraud, including title, odometer and tax fraud. This is a TACA-approved course for certification. Preregistration required.
Speakers: TxDMV Enforcement Division Staff
Moderator: Hon. Ruben Gonzalez, Tax Assessor-Collector and TACA Director, El Paso County
Location: Ivy
Location: Vine 2
Location: Vine 2
Location: Moody Ballroom
Location: Expo Hall A1
Location: Expo Hall A2
Location: Expo Hall Foyer
Location: Convention Registration
Greetings by Hon. Shay Luedeke, TACA President and Tax Assessor-Collector, Bell County
Invocation by Hon. Mike Dowd, Tax Assessor-Collector, Navarro County
Presentation of Colors
Pledge of Allegiance to the U.S. Flag and Pledge to the Texas Flag by Hon. Melissa Leonard, Tax Assessor-Collector, Brazos County
Location: Expo Hall C
In this high-stakes session, participants will explore the critical moments that define successful leadership when the pressure is on. Much like a quarterback in the final minutes of a game, leaders must make crucial decisions, inspire confidence, and execute with precision. Learn how to navigate challenging situations, rally your team, and take action when the stakes are highest, ensuring you score big and lead your team to victory in the most intense moments.
Speaker: Spencer Tillman, College Football Analyst, Fox Sports 1 and NFL Houston Texans
Location: Expo Hall C
Location: Expo Hall C Foyer
The Galveston County Tax Office was once a leader in disorganization but today is a role model for outstanding performance and efficiency. Its successes are believed to be the result of the development of properly written and consistently executed policies and procedures. A policy can take your office from chaos to calm creating structure and eliminating confusion. Learn how and when to write policies that will provide for rational and uniform decision making in the day-to-day operations of your office while fostering an environment conducive to success, growth and ethical conduct.
Speaker: Hon. Cheryl Johnson, Tax Assessor-Collector, Galveston County
Location: Expo Hall A1
In this session, you'll embark on a mission to explore the vast universe of cybersecurity, learning how to protect your systems from the ever-growing threats lurking in the digital cosmos. Just like a skilled starship crew defends against intergalactic dangers, you’ll discover essential strategies and tools to safeguard your data,
networks, and sensitive information from cyber invaders. By the end of the session, you'll be equipped to navigate the cyber galaxy with confidence, ensuring your operations stay secure in the face of emerging threats.
Speaker: Casey Osborn, Sales Manager, BIS Consulting
Moderator: Hon. Karen Lane, Tax Assessor-Collector and TACA Director, Madison County
Location: Expo Hall A2
In this session, tax assessor-collectors will embark on a journey to discover the key contacts within state and local agencies—vital allies in the galaxy of county operations. Like a skilled Jedi navigating the cosmos, you'll learn how to forge strong alliances and collaborate with these agencies to maintain order and ensure smooth operations. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and resources to build powerful connections, ensuring your success in the ever-evolving world of Texas government agencies.
Speaker: Connie Rose, Director of Education, McCreary Veselka Bragg & Allen, P.C.
Moderator: Hon. Karen Lane, Tax Assessor-Collector and TACA Director, Madison County
Location: Expo Hall A3
Location: Moody Ballrom
Location: Expo Hall B
Location: Expo Hall B
The Texas Association of Counties (TAC) stands as a powerful ally to county governments, offering vital support in advocacy, education, and legal wisdom to guide them through the ever-shifting galaxy of governance. TAC equips counties to navigate the challenges of the political universe and ensure prosperity for their citizens. Through connections, resources, and cutting-edge technology, TAC helps counties evolve, thriving in the ever-expanding frontier of local leadership.
Speaker: Hon. Susan M. Redford, Executive Director, Texas Association of Counties
Moderator: Hon. Shay Luedeke, Tax Assessor-Collector, TACA President and TAC Board of Directors Liaison, Bell County
Location: Expo Hall C
Location: Expo Hall B
In this session, participants will receive the latest updates from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, your trusted guide through the complex universe of state finance. Like a seasoned pilot navigating through hyperspace, you’ll learn about new rules, regulations, and tools that will help you stay ahead of the curve in the galaxy of public accounting. Prepare to leave with the knowledge and strategies to navigate the ever-changing landscape and ensure your mission is a success.
Speakers: Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Staff
Location: Expo Hall C
In this session, you'll receive the latest updates from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, your essential partner in the vast galaxy of vehicle registration and regulation. Like a fleet commander steering through uncharted space, you’ll learn about new policies, systems, and tools that will keep your operations running smoothly and efficiently. By the end, you’ll be equipped to navigate the ever-evolving terrain of motor vehicle management with precision and confidence.
Speakers: Roland D. Luna, Deputy Executive Director, TxDMV
Monique Johnston, Motor Vehicle Division Director, TXDMV
Annette Quintero, Vehicle Titles & Registration Division Director, TxDMV
Corrie Thompson, Enforcement Division Director, TxDMV
Moderator: Hon. Becky Robles, Tax Assessor-Collector and TACA Secretary, Tom Green County
Location: Expo Hall C
Location: Expo Hall A1
Location: Expo Hall A2
Location: Monarch Room – Café in the Park
Location: Expo Hall B
Location: Expo Hall B
Location: Convention Registration
Join the Rebel Alliance for a crucial deputy session where VTR staffers will share vital intel on key frontline topics such as bonded titles and the latest updates on redrawing the county service map, including the addition of new strategic locations. This session is designed to ensure that our forces stay aligned and informed across all regions of the galaxy. Prepare to receive tactical updates and engage in valuable information exchanges with the regional service centers to strengthen our unified efforts.
Speakers: TxDMV Regional Service Center Managers
Moderator: Cydney Norton, Chief Deputy, Randall County
Location: Expo Hall C
Location: Expo Hall A1
Location: Expo Hall B
Speaker: U.S. Secret Service Member
Moderator: Cydney Norton, Chief Deputy, Randall County
Location: Expo Hall C
Location: Expo Hall B
Location: Expo Hall A1
In this session, you’ll learn the art of handling difficult customers with the calm wisdom of a Jedi, turning challenging encounters into opportunities for resolution. Like a skilled negotiator in a galaxy of diverse personalities, you’ll master techniques to de-escalate conflict, build rapport, and provide exceptional service even in the toughest situations. By the end, you’ll be ready to navigate any customer interaction with grace, ensuring that every encounter ends in harmony, no matter the obstacles.
Speakers: Christina Benedict, Property Tax Director, Dallas County
Cici Garcia, Taxpayer Relations Director, Dallas County
Ellen Hays, Motor Vehicle Director, Dallas County
Ashley Richard, Accounting Director, Dallas County
Moderator: Peggy McCormick, Chief Deputy, Dallas County
Location: Expo Hall C
Location: Moody Ballroom
Location: Garden Cay Staircase
This session will provide an in-depth overview of vehicle inventory taxation, including the various factors that impact taxation rates and the specific regulations governing this process. Additionally, participants will gain insight into special inventory taxation guidelines and exemptions, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of how to navigate these complex tax considerations.
Speaker: James Guest, Partner, Linebarger Attorneys at Law
Moderator: Hon. Marcela Thormaehlen, Tax Assessor-Collector, San Patricio County
Location: Expo Hall A1
This session will provide essential strategies for maintaining a secure office environment, focusing on identifying potential threats and implementing effective security measures. Participants will learn best practices for protecting sensitive information, securing physical spaces, and responding to emergencies. By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge to enhance office security and ensure the safety of staff, visitors, and assets.
Speaker: Hon. Justin West, Constable, Galveston County
Location: Expo Hall A2
County tax assessor-collectors, deputies and their staff must continuously work to promote an ethical environment in the county tax office to avoid negative perceptions. This course defines ethics and reviews basic terms, ethical conduct and consequences of unethical behavior.
This course is approved for TACA advanced designation completion. You must attend both parts to receive advanced designation credit.
Speaker: Jim Lambeth, Capital Partner, Linebarger Attorneys at Law
Location: Expo Hall A3
This session will provide an update from the Texas Secretary of State’s Office regarding voter registration updates and how and when you can use Chapter 19 funds.
Speakers: Christina Adkins, Director, Texas Secretary of State
Kristi Hart, Deputy Director, Texas Secretary of State
Moderator: Hon. Kim Rinn, Tax Assessor-Collector, Austin County
Location: Expo Hall A1
This session will equip you with practical strategies to prevent workplace accidents by identifying common hazards and understanding safety procedures. Participants will learn how to report incidents, follow proper protocols, and contribute to creating a safer work environment for everyone.
Speaker: Halie Bever, Human Resources Consultant, Texas Association of Counties
Moderator: Hon. Marcela Thormaehlen, Tax Assessor-Collector, San Patricio County
Location: Expo Hall A2
County tax assessor-collectors, deputies and their staff must continuously work to promote an ethical environment in the county tax office to avoid negative perceptions. This course defines ethics and reviews basic terms, ethical conduct and consequences of unethical behavior.
This course is approved for TACA advanced designation completion. You must attend both parts to receive advanced designation credit.
Speaker: Jim Lambeth, Capital Partner, Linebarger Attorneys at Law
Location: Expo Hall A3
Location: Expo Hall B
Hear about TxDMV’s organizational update, reflecting on where the agency has been and the lessons learned along the way. TxDMV division directors will also offer an operational update, discussing key initiatives on the horizon such as RTS modernization, the RSC expansion project, and long-range facility planning and findings.
Speakers: Charles Bacarisse, Chair, TxDMV
Daniel Avitia, Executive Director, TxDMV
Roland D. Luna, Deputy Executive Director, TxDMV
Wendy Barron, Chief Information Officer, TxDMV
Annette Quintero, Vehicle Titles & Registration Division Director, TxDMV
Corrie Thompson, Enforcement Division Director, TxDMV
Location: Expo Hall C
Dinner provided
Location: Moody Ballroom
Location: Garden Cay
Location: Expo Hall B
Location: Expo Hall B
Location: Convention Registration
In a galaxy not so far away, a new social movement known as First Amendment Audits is sweeping across the land, and Texas is no exception. Auditors—mysterious figures who often refuse to reveal their identities and provoke conflict—seek to test the boundaries of free speech and public access, challenging those who serve the public. This session will guide you through the audit process, helping you understand its true intent, while exploring the laws and constitutional rights these auditors wield. Learn the strategies, policies, and responses that can help you navigate these encounters, avoid becoming the villain in a viral video, and ensure you’re prepared to protect both your duties and your legal standing in the face of these modern challenges.
Speaker: Hon. David Whitis, Law Enforcement Consultant II, Texas Association of Counties
Moderator: Hon. Octivia Guzman, Tax Assessor-Collector, Orange County
Location: Expo Hall C
Location: Expo Hall B
This session will cover the key legislative bills that passed in the recent legislative session and their impact on local governments. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of the new laws, including their implications for county operations, policies, and services. By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge to navigate these changes and ensure compliance with the latest legislative updates.
Speakers: Panelists: TACA Legislative Committee Vice Chairs
Denise Davis, Legislative Consultant, Davis Kaufman PLLC
Davis Hairston, Legislative Consultant, Texas Association of Counties
Moderator: Hon. Larry Gaddes, Tax Assessor-Collector and TACA Legislative Committee Chair, Williamson County
Location: Expo Hall C
Location: Expo Hall Foyer
This session will serve as a summary of the truth-in-taxation process and will facilitate a refresher on Truth-N-Taxation and discuss the ETR and RTR worksheets, the best place to get data and how to work with your entities to be successful.
Speaker: Connie Rose, Director of Education, McCreary Veselka Bragg & Allen PC
Location: Expo Hall C