Ep. 73: A County-Level First Look at the 2026-27 State Budget
Release Date: 02/07/2025
Ep. 88: Inside TAC's 2025 Legislative Conference: Big Issues, County Stories
Texas County Voice
Recorded at TAC’s 2025 Legislative Conference, this episode of Texas County Voice takes you behind the scenes with Texas county leaders sharing stories from the frontlines. Join us for insights on the legislation that made it through this year's Legislature and what it means for counties across the state. Related Resources:
info_outline
Ep. 87: Echoes of Helena: Preserving the Toughest Little Town in Texas
Texas County Voice
Once known as the Helena was booming — until one man's vengeance stopped its future. In this episode of Texas County Voice, we visit the former seat of Karnes County to explore its wild past, from rowdy saloons and infamous duels to the grief-fueled act that sealed the town's fate. Discover the stories still echoing in Helena's surviving buildings and the ongoing efforts to preserve what remains.
info_outline
Ep. 86: County Magazine Speaks
Texas County Voice
In this episode of Texas County Voice, host Jody Seaborn chats with managing editor Mary Huber about the , TAC's quarterly magazine. They cover how new state funding is helping rural counties buy ambulances, key takeaways from the 89th Legislature’s regular session and a profile of Wise County Judge and new National Association of Counties President J.D. Clark. Plus, hear the story of a Texas “ghost town” that’s making plans for the future. And County’s cover stories now come with a voice. You can listen right here.
info_outline
Ep. 85: Leading With Story: Wise County Judge and NACo President J.D. Clark
Texas County Voice
Wise County Judge J.D. Clark, of the National Association of Counties, joins Texas County Voice to talk about the call to public service, the role of storytelling in leadership and his deep-rooted passion for county government. He also shares a few personal notes you won't want to miss.
info_outline
Ep. 84: A Conversation With Cass County Judge Travis Ransom
Texas County Voice
Cass County Judge Travis Ransom joins Texas County Voice to discuss the 89th Legislature from a county leader's perspective. Judge Ransom also reflects on his personal journey from soldier to county judge, and how that path shapes his leadership today.
info_outline
Ep. 83: Key Takeaways From the 89th Texas Legislature
Texas County Voice
In this episode of Texas County Voice, host Jody Seaborn sits down with Caroline Love, Director of Legislative Services at the Texas Association of Counties, to break down the regular session of the 89th Texas Legislature. What passed? What didn’t? And what should counties prepare for next? Don’t miss this update as we head into a special session in July and look forward to the in August.
info_outline
Ep. 82: From Hurricanes to a Legendary Horny Toad: Inside the New Issue of County Magazine
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 .
info_outline
Ep. 81: Why Web Accessibility Matters for Every County
Texas County Voice
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 in Williamson County.
info_outline
Ep. 80: Inside the Life of a Death Investigator – and Her Mission to Identify the Dead
Texas County Voice
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.
info_outline
Ep. 79: Leadership in Action: Insights From Mason and Hutchinson Counties
Texas County Voice
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.
info_outlineIn 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.