Texas County Voice

The Midland County jail is becoming more than a place to serve time. Sheriff David Criner and the Pathways to H.O.P.E. team are helping inmates confront the choices and challenges that led them to jail — and prepare for life after release. In this episode of Texas County Voice, hear from program leaders, mentors and participants about accountability, second chances and why helping people successfully reenter their communities can be a powerful tool for public safety.

In this episode of Texas County Voice, we catch up with County magazine Managing Editor Mary Huber for a preview of the latest issue. The cover story explores how recovery and rehabilitation programs in Midland County are giving people second chances. It's part of the Texas Association of Counties' ongoing Texas County Storytellers campaign. We also discuss how Texas counties are helping families prepare for the new school year, and we look at new state parks opening around Texas and what state parks mean for local economies. Related Information: Summer 2026 County magazine Texas County Storytellers

"Every county has a story." That message guided Wise County Judge J.D. Clark throughout his year as president of the National Association of Counties. Fresh from NACo's Annual Conference in New Orleans, Judge Clark joins Texas County Voice to reflect on a year spent representing counties across the country and highlights the insights and experiences he brings back home to Texas.

Choosing a Medicare plan can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode of Texas County Voice, TAC Employee Benefits Consultant Rashawn Collins and Employee Benefits Specialist Casha Hill break down your Medicare options, explain what to expect during the enrollment process and share practical guidance for choosing coverage that fits your health needs and budget.

In the latest episode of Texas County Voice, we travel to Galveston County for an inside look at Gulf Coast Center, a new mental health facility helping restore critical services lost since Hurricane Ike nearly two decades ago. This episode is part of our Texas County Storytellers initiative, highlighting the people, partnerships and projects shaping communities across Texas. Related Information: Galveston County's call for compassionate care Texas County Storytellers