Texas County Voice

From patching asphalt as part of a county work crew to elected official, De Witt County Commissioner Ryan Varela knows what it takes to keep rural roads moving. In this episode of Texas County Voice — part of our Texas County Storytellers initiative — he shares how the Eagle Ford Shale oil boom tests South Texas infrastructure, and the lessons of responsibility, resilience and service he's learned along the way. See also:County magazine: Dust, pavement and the price of progress Texas County Storytellers

Take a first look inside the newest issue of County magazine. In this episode of Texas County Voice, host Jody Seaborn talks with Managing Editor Mary Huber about the cover story on De Witt County and the Eagle Ford Shale, plus other standout stories ranging from rodeos to drones to the marriage capital of Texas. Along the way, they spotlight TAC's Texas County Storytellers and County Best Practices Awards. But wait! There's more. Don't miss a preview of the upcoming Healthy County Boot Camp. Press play and catch it all.

Counties across Texas are finding smart, practical ways to serve their communities, and TAC's County Best Practices Awards are designed to highlight those successes. In this episode of Texas County Voice, TAC County Relations Officers Rhita Koches and Jay Mayden explain how the awards program works, why it matters and how an innovative idea in one county can benefit all 254. If your county is doing something worth sharing, this episode is your invitation to tell that story.

Related information:

• TAC County Best Practices Awards Program
• TAC County Relations Officers

Denton County Treasurer Cindy Yeatts Brown began her two-year term as President of the Texas Association of Counties Board of Directors on Jan. 1. In this episode of Texas County Voice, she reflects on a journey that started with a part-time county job in high school and grew into nearly four decades of public service. Listen as she shares the experiences that shaped her passion for county government.

November is Men's Health Awareness month. In this episode of Texas County Voice, we sit down with TAC's Senior Director of Health Benefit Services Quincy Quinlan and Senior Wellness Consultant Mark Zollitsch to explore why men often avoid care, the barriers they face and how reaching out can make a difference. From vital stats to practical tips, we shine a light on why speaking up is the first step toward a healthier life.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, we catch up with Mary Huber, managing editor of County magazine, for a look inside the latest issue. Hear why Texas counties should already be getting ready for the 2030 census and get a sneak peek at Texas County Storytellers, a new feature celebrating the people who bring county government to life. You'll also meet Rockwall County Justice of the Peace Mark Russo, the first storyteller in the new series. He shares what inspires his work and his connection to the community he serves.

Happy Halloween! Newton County Judge Ronnie Cochran tells us about getting the courthouse ready to pass out candy for local school children, and why he hopes the impact of this event will leave a lasting impression on the community.

This episode of Texas County Voice, we feature highlights from the 2025 Legislative Conference session on Cybersecurity. Dallas County Clerk John Warren and Texas Association of Counties Deputy Director of Technology Services Peter Crary talk about the newly formed Texas Cyber Command, plus how counties can use AI to serve their communities.

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:

• Texas leadership at the National Association of Counties
• Travis County's Men as Allies program

Once known as the "toughest little town in Texas," 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.