The House Committee on County Affairs

83rd Legislature

October 20, 2014

10:00 a.m.

E2.016

Pursuant to a notice posted on October 13, 2014, revised on October 16, 2014, the House Committee on County Affairs met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Coleman, at 10:06 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Coleman; Farias; Kolkhorst; Krause; and Simpson.

A quorum was present.

The Chair laid out interim charge #6. Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 83rd Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should:

a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens;

b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate;

c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and

d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.

Under the charge, the Committee heard testimony regarding counties emergency response preparedness.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative González, Mary now present.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

The Chair laid out interim charge #1. Examine population growth in Texas counties and the impact the growth has had on housing, available land resources, businesses in Texas, as well as the impact of growth on the state's economy. Evaluate Texas's preparedness to respond to future growth and ensure economic stability.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Farias in chair.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Coleman in chair.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

The Chair laid out interim charge #3. Monitor the health advisory panel stemming from HB 3793 (83R).

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

The Chair laid out interim charge #2. Continue oversight of the Texas Commission on Jail Standards and issues jails currently face, including the mental health of those in jail, and make recommendations for refinement or improvement of processes and programs.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

At 5:31 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. Coleman, Chair

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Katy Reagan, Clerk