In response to your feedback, we will follow last year’s successful hybrid model and again give you the option of attending the 2022 TAC Legislative Conference either in person or online. We hear you and understand the demand to expand our services and offer multiple ways for you to connect with us.
Join us Aug. 24-26 as we continue to explore new ways to share important information with you and your county.
The 2022 TAC Legislative Conference is essential to preparing for the 88th Legislature, which convenes Jan. 10, 2023. The conference offers information about the biggest issues in county government today. Connect with your fellow county officials, state legislators and issue experts to discuss what's important to your county and constituents.
What is a hybrid conference?
A hybrid conference combines an in-person event with a virtual component. That means you can join us in person at the Fairmont Hotel in Austin, or you can join from your county through a virtual conference platform.
Registration Fees
| Registration Type |
Early Bird |
After Aug. 8 |
| In-Person County Official or Staff |
$230 |
$250 |
| In-Person Half-Day Fee (Wednesday & Friday, county official or staff only) |
$75 |
$75 |
| In-Person Single-Day Fee (Thursday only) |
$155 |
$155 |
| In-Person Non-Member (government) |
$280 |
$300 |
| In-Person Non-Member (corporate half-day, single day or full attendance) |
$430 |
$450 |
| In-Person Spouse Fee |
$30 |
$30 |
| Virtual Registration |
$175 |
$175 |
NOTE: All participants (online and in person) must register by July 13 to receive conference giveaway.
Please make checks payable to Texas Association of Counties.
Virtual Registration
Once you have registered for the virtual event, a personalized participation link will be emailed to you a few days before the start of the program.
Note: Event confirmation emails will come from Events@Accelevents.com to the email address that was used to register for the event.
How to access the virtual event platform:
Conference attendees will need to access the internet and use a browser to log in and join the virtual event. While almost all internet browsers (Google Chrome, Firefox, etc.) should allow the event to be accessed, we've found that it works most smoothly in Google Chrome, as other browsers may experience issues. Internet Explorer is not a supported browser for the event.
Google Chrome is a free download; however, some county information technology departments may require county staff to get approval before downloading new software.
Special Services
To ensure that our conference is ADA accessible to all, please contact Deanna Auert or Rachel Kucera at (800) 456-5974 if you need assistance.
THANK YOU TO OUR CONFERENCE SPONSORS!
Fairmont Hotel (SOLD OUT)
101 Red River St.
Austin, TX 78702
(512) 600-2000
$205 single/double, plus applicable tax
Check-in: 3pm | Check-out: Noon
Overflow Hotel (SOLD OUT)
Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown
500 N Interstate 35
Austin, TX 78701
$199 single/double, plus applicable tax
If you need to cancel your room or be added to the waitlist, please contact Deanna Auert or Rachel Kucera.
- The host hotel and overflow hotel are SOLD OUT.
- Once your online registration is complete, your confirmation email will include a list of surrounding hotels to make hotel reservations at*. Emails will be sent to the address on the registration form.
- Conference registration is required to reserve a hotel room in the conference block. The hotel will not accept any call-in reservations.
- To be added to the waiting list, please email Rachel Kucera or Deanna Auert.
- Hotel reservations made without conference registration are subject to cancellation or an increased hotel rate.
Surrounding Hotels:
Hyatt Place Austin Downtown
211 E. 3rd St.
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 476-4440
Hyatt House Austin/Downtown
901 Neches St.
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 391-0000
Hampton Inn & Suites Austin
Downtown/Convention Center
200 San Jacinto Blvd.
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 472-1500
Overnight Parking (Prices* shown include a 25% discount for attendees.)
*Prices may change.
| |
Valet Parking |
Self-Parking |
| 0-3 Hours |
$18 |
$11.25 |
| 3-6 Hours |
$24 |
$18.75 |
| Daily – Overnight |
$36.75 |
$27 |
Internet
Due to popular request, TAC has negotiated to have WiFi available in the meeting space. A conference password will be given out onsite.
High-speed internet access in guest rooms and all areas of the hotel is complimentary for all Fairmont President Club Members. Membership is free! Sign up at www.fairmont.com/fpc.
| Wednesday, Aug. 24 |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Welcome Reception (in-person only) |
| Thursday, Aug. 25 |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Legislative Reception (in-person only)
A celebration in recognition of the Core Legislative Group and those county officials who've volunteered their time and expertise to advocate on behalf of counties before the Legislature and protect local government. Thank you for your efforts! |
| Wednesday, Aug. 24 |
| 8 a.m.-5 p.m. |
Registration and Information Desk Hours |
| Noon-2 p.m. |
Meet and Greet Exhibitors |
| 12:45-1:45 p.m. |
Private Meeting: Core Legislative Group Networking and Training
Core Legislative Group members will have an opportunity to network and receive training in the legislative process from TAC's Legislative Services Director Noe Barrios before the General Session begins. This event is for Core Legislative Group members only. If you are not a member but would like to attend, please register for the Core Legislative Group here.
Speaker: Mr. Noe Barrios, Director of Legislative Services, Texas Association of Counties
|
| 2-4:30 p.m. |
Opening General Session (in-person and live online)
Welcome Presiding: Mr. Nathan Cradduck, Tom Green County Auditor and President, Texas Association of Counties
Ms. Susan M. Redford, Executive Director, Texas Association of Counties
Legislative Overview
Mr. Noe Barrios, Director of Legislative Services, Texas Association of Counties
State of Texas Economy
An Update on the Texas Economy. Join Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar as he discusses his latest revenue projections for the state and his outlook for the Texas economy. As Texas and the nation grapple with inflation and recession warning signs, will the Lone Star State continue its recent tremendous economic growth?
Comptroller Glenn Hegar, Texas State Comptroller of Public Accounts
|
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Welcome Reception |
| Thursday, Aug. 25 |
| 7 a.m.-5 p.m. |
Registration and Information Desk Hours |
| 7-7:50 a.m. |
Breakfast |
| 8-9:05 a.m. |
Legislative Discussion Sessions (1-5) (in-person and live online)
-
Bail Bond Reform: Past, Present and Future
It's been a year since the Legislature passed Senate Bill 6, the Damon Allen Act. Join legislators and agency staff for a robust look at how implementation has gone, the now up-and-running Public Safety Report System and potential changes during next year's legislative session.
Moderator: Ms. Amy Befeld, Legislative Consultant - Texas District & County Attorneys Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Representative Reggie Smith, Texas House of Representatives
Ms. Megan LaVoie, Administrative Director, Texas Office of Court Administration
Mr. Bronson Tucker, Director of Curriculum & Staff Attorney, Texas Justice Court Training Center
-
The Intercept of Behavioral Health and the Courts
Mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and substance use are broad-reaching issues that have significant impacts on the court system. The court system historically is where most criminal justice responses to mental health issues occur. Join us for an in-depth look at how behavioral health affects our courts and counties and what the Legislature is considering next session.
Moderator: Ms. Kelsey Bernstein, Legislative Consultant - JPCA and Core Legislative Group Coordinator, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Mr. Lee Johnson, Deputy Director, Texas Council of Community Centers
Hon. J.R. Woolley, Waller County Justice of the Peace
Hon. Drue Farmer, Lubbock County Court at Law Judge
-
Your Voice in D.C.: Bringing Taxpayer Dollars Back to Your County
The 117th Congress has allocated a historic amount of funding to address issues affecting counties. We'll bring you up to date on available funding as we hear from the leadership of the National Association of Counties about their efforts in Washington, D.C., and how we can continue to work together to benefit Texas counties.
Moderator: Ms. Megan Molleur, Legislative Consultant - Federal Issues, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Mr. Matthew D. Chase, CEO/Executive Director, National Association of Counties (NACo)
Hon. J.D. Clark, Wise County Judge
-
Property Tax: What's The Legislature Got to Do With It?
Join us for a big-picture discussion of what we expect the Legislature will do next session with property taxes.
Moderator: Ms. Katy Estrada, Legislative Consultant - Tax Assessor - Collectors' Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Hon. Christina McMurray, Randall County Tax Assessor-Collector
Mr. Mike Amezquita, Bexar County Chief Appraiser
Mr. Dale Craymer, President, Texas Taxpayers and Research Association
-
Elections: Implementing New Election Practices and Procedures
In this session, we will discuss recent changes to election laws, including early voting by mail and personal appearance procedures, and new video surveillance and security requirements at central counting stations. We'll also consider the need to educate voters about new mail-in ballot rules.
Moderator: Ms. Nanette Forbes, Legislative Consultant - County & Districts Clerks' Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Mr. Keith Ingram, Director of Elections Division, Texas Secretary of State
Ms. Christina Adkins, Legal Director, Elections Division, Texas Secretary of State
Hon. Joyce Hudman, Brazoria County Clerk
Ms. Trudy Hancock, Elections Administrator, Brazos County
|
| 9 a.m.-3 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Hours
Open during lunch, noon-1:30 p.m. |
| 9:05-9:30 a.m. |
Refreshment Break
Virtual attendees visit the TAC Booths |
| 9:30-10:35 a.m. |
Legislative Discussion Sessions (repeat 1-5) (in-person and live online)
- Bail Bond Reform: Past, Present and Future
- The Intercept of Behavioral Health and the Courts
- Your Voice in D.C.: Bringing Taxpayer Dollars Back to Your County
- Property Tax: What's The Legislature Got to Do With It?
- Elections: Implementing New Election Practices and Procedures
|
| 10:35-10:55 a.m. |
Refreshment Break
Virtual attendees visit the TAC Booths |
| 10:55 a.m.-noon |
Legislative Discussion Sessions (6-10) (in-person and live online)
-
Communities, Law Enforcement and Mental Health Diversion
Explore county and state efforts to balance the need to serve individuals in a mental health crisis while protecting their communities at large. The panel will discuss diversion programs through courts and state services, and the capabilities and challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with mental health issues.
Moderator: Mr. Austin McCarty, Legislative Consultant - Sheriffs' Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Hon. Kelly Rowe, Lubbock County Sheriff
Hon. Jennifer Tharp, Comal County Criminal District Attorney
Ms. Trina Ita, Association Commissioner, HHS
-
Emergency Management: Response and Recovery Funding
As we move into the legislative session, a topic that remains at the forefront is how our state prepares, responds, and recovers from the impact of natural disasters. Over the years, we have seen an increase in disasters due to extreme weather conditions. The goal is to protect Texas citizens through building more resilient communities and mitigating potential damages caused by future events. Citizen participation is essential to disaster recovery. Join us to hear how lessons learned and best practices in citizen outreach and communications can help you serve your constituents during disasters and how citizen participation post-disaster can translate to federal funding for the state.
Moderator: Ms. Aurora Flores, Legislative Consultant - Treasurers' Association & Core Legislative Group Coordinator, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker: Ms. Heather Lagrone, Senior Deputy Director, Texas General Land Office
-
Grant Funds for Counties: What You Need to Know About State and Federal Grant Resources
Find out how to locate, plan and write grants for county projects. County officials will provide examples of grant awards for county roads, specialty courts, body-worn cameras and other law enforcement projects, among many other county needs.
Moderator: Ms. Zelma Smith, Financial Analyst, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Ms. Ginny Lewis Ford, Executive Director, Texas Association of Regional Councils
Hon. David Blackburn, Bell County Judge
Ms. Michele C. Valadez, MPA, Grants Administrator, Comal County
-
ARPA, Year Two: We Have The Rules, We Have The Money — What's Next?
An expert panel offers advice to optimize your county's use of American Rescue Plan dollars, comply with reporting requirements, meet deadlines and deliver value to your constituents.
Moderator: Mr. Pete Winckler, Legislative Consultant - Auditors' Association, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Hon. Dale Carruthers, Terrell County Judge
Mr. Tramer Woytek, Judicial Resource Liaison & County Relations Officer, Texas Association of Counties
Mr. Jose M. Landeros, Director of Strategic Development, El Paso County
-
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, enacted in November 2021, authorizes $1.2 trillion for transportation and infrastructure spending. This session will include a discussion with a federal transportation expert about accessing grants.
Moderator: Mr. Rick Thompson, Legislative Consultant - CJCA, Texas Association of Counties
Speaker: Ms. Jessica Jennings, Legislative Director - Transportation, National Association of Counties (NACo)
|
| Noon-1:30 p.m. |
Networking Lunch
Dine with your fellow attendees, then take a tour of the exhibit hall and visit with vendors. |
| 1:30-2:35 p.m. |
Legislative Discussion Sessions (repeat 6-10) (in-person and live online)
- Communities, Law Enforcement and Mental Health Diversion
- Emergency Management: Response and Recovery Funding
- Grant Funds for Counties: What You Need to Know About State and Federal Grant Resources
- ARPA, Year Two: We Have The Rules, We Have The Money — What's Next?
- The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
|
| 2:35-3 p.m. |
Ice Cream Social Break
Virtual attendees visit the TAC Booths |
| 3-4:30 p.m. |
Meeting of County Affiliate Organizations (in-person only)
County associations organize and host a 1.5-hour meeting to discuss legislative issues or association business during the conference |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Legislative Reception (in-person only)
A celebration in recognition of the Core Legislative Group and those county officials who've volunteered their time and expertise to advocate on behalf of counties before the Legislature and protect local government. Thank you for your efforts! |
| Friday, Aug. 26 |
| 8-10:30 a.m. |
Registration and Information Desk Hours |
| 8:30-9 a.m. |
Breakfast |
| 9-10:30 a.m. |
Closing General Session (in-person and live online)
Welcome and Introductions
Opening Remarks and Events in Washington
Senator John Cornyn, United States Senate
Broadband Expansion in Texas: How Do Counties Access Funding
This session will take a deep dive into steps counties can take to prepare themselves for grant opportunities with the development of broadband access. The discussion will include Broadband Development Office information for accessing the grant process, helpful hints for best practices from a national expert and an overall update of the state effort.
Moderators: Mr. Rick Thompson, Legislative Consultant - CJCA, Texas Association of Counties
Ms. Megan Molleur, Legislative Consultant - Federal Issues, Texas Association of Counties
Speakers: Mr. Greg Conte, Director, Broadband Development Office
Hon. Marty Lucke, Floyd County Judge
Mr. Andy Berke, Special Representative for Broadband, Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth, NTIA | U.S. Department of Commerce
Jennifer Harris, Federal Program Officer for Texas, Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth, NTIA | U.S. Department of Commerce
|
*Agenda subject to change
Applications for continuing education credit are submitted to each governing body listed below. Upon approval, the number of continuing education hours will be posted. Please check back often for updates.
| Continuing Education Type |
Virtual Hours |
In-Person Hours |
| CPA/Auditors |
8 |
10.5 |
Commissioners
(*Please note that authorization of online attendance must be approved by commissioners court order. Online attendance cannot be used for the mandatory education hours by a new commissioner in the first year of service.) |
8 |
10.5 |
| County and District Clerks |
8:20 |
10:50 |
| County Judges |
Not approved by Texas Judicial Academy |
Not approved by Texas Judicial Academy |
| Justices of the Peace |
8 |
10.5 |
PHRs and SPHRS
(Reviewed on individual basis; self-report to HRCI) |
8 |
10.5 |
Purchasing Agents
(Self-report to Texas State Board of Public Accountancy) |
8 |
10.5 |
| Sheriffs and Constables (TCOLE) |
Not approved |
10 |
| Tax Assessor-Collectors |
8 |
10.5 |
| Treasurers |
8 |
10.5 |
| Attorneys (MCLE) |
8 |
10.5 |
Conference Cancellation
All cancellation and refund requests must be received in writing (fax or email acceptable). Refunds requested before Aug. 3 are subject to a $10 processing fee. Refunds after Aug. 3 will be subject to an administrative fee equal to one-half of the registration fee. No refund requests will be honored after Aug. 24. Please email Rachel Kucera or fax (512) 477-1324 to cancel your conference registration.
Hotel Cancellation
If you must cancel a room reservation, please notify Deanna Auert. In the event of a waitlist, this allows others opportunity to stay at the host hotel.
Your Connection to Texas Counties
You’re invited to the 2022 TAC Legislative Conference. Register today to strengthen your connections with county officials in your district and from across the state.
The conference takes a deep dive into the most pressing issues counties face today. Each county office will be represented at this premier event.
We offer you:
- Two complimentary registrations with an invitation to attend the conference reception on Thursday, Aug. 25, from 4:30‑6 p.m.
- Your constituents. Upon request, we’ll send you a custom list of your pre-registered constituents.
- Private meeting space. With your registration, we offer you the opportunity to visit privately with your constituents attending the conference. To host an exclusive meeting with attendees from your district, contact Deanna Auert. Space is limited. Choose the time and date most convenient to you and reserve it today.
- Three meeting rooms available, Aug. 24, 5-6 p.m. (Hospitality provided.)
- Three meeting rooms available, Aug. 25, Noon-1:30 p.m. (Lunch provided.)
Contacts
Deanna Auert, Manager of TAC Programs & Education Services
TAC Office, (512) 478-8753 or (800) 456-5974
Schedule of Events
| Wednesday, Aug. 24 |
| 2-4:30 p.m. |
Opening General Session (in-person only) |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Welcome Reception (in-person only) |
| 5-6 p.m. |
Exclusive Meetings for Legislators and County Officials
(3 rooms; hospitality provided) (in-person only) |
| Thursday, Aug. 25 |
| 8 a.m.-2:35 p.m. |
Legislative Discussion Sessions |
| 9 a.m.-3 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Hours (in-person only) |
| Noon-1:30 p.m. |
Exclusive Meetings for Legislators and County Officials
(3 rooms; lunch provided) (in-person only) |
| 3-4:30 p.m. |
Meeting of County Affiliate Organizations (in-person only)
County associations organize and host a 1.5-hour meeting to discuss legislative issues or association business during the conference. |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Legislative Reception (in-person only) |
| Friday, Aug. 26 |
| 9-10:30 a.m. |
Closing General Session |
Your Connection to County Government
Sponsors - Limited sponsorships available, contact Deanna Auert for more information.
Cancellations
Sponsorship cancellations must be made in writing before July 1, 2022, to receive a 50% refund. Any sponsorship that requires a company logo to be printed on a promotional item or on multiple print pieces will be final upon receipt of payment and cancellations are not permitted. Sponsors canceling after July 1 are responsible for payment in full or may jeopardize future sponsorship opportunities.
Vendors - SOLD OUT
Just a few sponsor designated spaces available in the exhibit hall.
Visit the County Progress website or contact Sarah Lazarowitz for vendor registration questions or to be placed on the waiting list.
Join us in Austin this August as 600+ Texas county officials and staff gather. This is a prime opportunity to display your goods and services to decision-makers in county government.
Booth Specifications
The $700 registration fee includes a standard booth, registration for two and access to two sleeping rooms at the host hotel.
Hotel reservations must be made through Sarah Lazarowitz when booth registration is complete. Company representatives are welcome to attend all conference activities.
Standard exhibit booths consist of 10'x10' exhibit spaces. Booth spaces are equipped with 10' back drape, 3' side dividers, 6' skirted table, 2 chairs and standard ID sign.
Schedule of Events
| Tuesday, Aug. 23 |
| 1-4 p.m. |
Vendor Move-in (in-person only) |
| Wednesday, Aug. 24 |
| 8 a.m.-noon |
Vendor Move-in (in-person only) |
| Noon-2 p.m. |
Dedicated Time with Exhibitors (in-person only) |
| 2-4:30 p.m. |
Opening General Session |
| 4:30-6 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Welcome Reception (in-person only) |
| Thursday, Aug. 25 |
| 8 a.m.-2:35 p.m. |
Legislative Discussion Sessions |
| 9 a.m.-3 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Open; Breaks Throughout the Day (in-person only) |
| 3-4:30 p.m. |
Meeting of County Affiliate Organizations (in-person only) |
| 3 p.m. |
Exhibit Hall Tears Down (in-person only) |