2024 Education and Policy Conference
Registration Rates
Texas Conference of Urban Counties, is committed to providing quality training and educational events on topics relevant to the needs of urban county officials.
Regular
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November 1 through December 31, 2023
Early
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Now through November 1, 2023
The Westin Dallas Downtown
Situated within the One Main Place building in downtown, the Westin Dallas Downtown provides a haven of wellness near some of the city’s most compelling sites. Visit the popular attractions near our hotel near Dallas Love Field Airport, including the Arts District, Dealey Plaza, the Reunion Tower, the American Airlines Center and the Texas State Fair.
Registration opens
Collect your nametags, conference program and materials.
Exploring Choice and Responsibility: Lessons from the Holocaust for Legal & Political Professionals
Registration for this pre conference event will be sent separately, There are a limited number of seats. This training delves into the historical context of the Holocaust to examine the concept of choice within the legal and political profession. Participants engage in discussions surrounding the roles and impacts of their professions in Nazi Germany, alongside an exploration of unconscious bias in the workplace. Through reflective exercises, judicial officials and politicians are challenged to assess their professional and ethical responsibilities in society.
Board Meeting
CUC executive board meeting
CUC Policy Meeting
Policy meeting, all members are welcome to attend. Only members of the policy committee will be allowed to vote.
Welcome
Welcome by CUC Executive Director, John Dahill. Chairwoman, Theresa Daniel and Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins.
Keynote speech: Unleashing the Potential of ChatGPT on Local Governance
Uncover the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in local governance during our Keynote Session, "Envisioning the Future: AI in Government with Heather Benoit." Heather's expertise in future research converges with practical AI applications, offering strategic insights into decision-making processes and ethical considerations. Explore the promises and perils of AI implementation.
Heather Benoit
Registration
Collect your registration materials, including nametag, conference program and continuing education form.
Breakfast
Legistlative Update
In her capacity as Chair of the County Affairs Committee, Representative Neave Criado led discussions and consideration of legislation during the 88th session that illuminated critical issues relevant to counties and Texas communities.
Victoria Neave Criado
Federal Policy Matters: NACo's Legislative Update and Advocacy Efforts
Join us for an informative discussion with Mr. Matt Chase, CEO of the National Association of Counties (NACo), in "Federal Policy Matters: NACo's Legislative Update and Advocacy Efforts." Gain a practical legislative update, offering clear insights into recent federal policy developments impacting county governance.
Matt Chase
Navigating Economic Landscapes: Insights from the Federal Reserve
Join us for a comprehensive session that delves into the intersection of current economic landscape, workforce patterns, and the impact of immigration policies. Gain a nuanced understanding of the intricate relationship between immigration and labor markets.
Emily Kerr
Improving justice system efficiency: Alternatives to incarnation and hospitalization
Engage in a dialogue on criminal justice reform with our session, "Exploring Alternatives to Incarceration: Rehabilitation and Diversion Programs." Delve into evidence-based approaches, collaborative administration, and the voluntary nature of these programs, offering personalized rehabilitation plans and facilitating a smoother return to society.
Ryan Adams
Tod Citron
Felicia Jeffery
Doug Denton
Urban Counties Membership Luncheon and Keynote speaker
All members of the Conference of Urban Counties are welcome to attend the membership lunch, regardless of conference registration. RSVP to ensure there is lunch available.
Tony Sauerhoff
Smart growth strategies for urban development and environmental responsibility
Navigate the nexus of urban development and environmental responsibility in "Smart Growth Strategies for Urban Development and Environmental Responsibility." Join speakers Mr. Sam Kieschnick and Mr. Nathan Drozd as they explore sustainable urban growth, ecological perspectives, and innovative transportation solutions.
Nathan Drozd
Sam Kieschnick
Legislative Update
Texas State Senator Nathan Johnson will give a brief update on legislative matters as they relate to the electrical grid, healthcare, governmental transparency and criminal justice.
Nathan Johnson
Managing urban growth: Effective development strategies
Join Hays County Commissioner Walt Smith and Geoffrey Tahuahua, president of the Associated Builders and Contractors of Texas , in "Empowering Urban Expansion: Strategies and Challenges in Growth." Gain insights into responsible urban development, sustainable construction practices, and collaborative solutions to challenges, emphasizing community engagement.
Geoffrey Tahuahua
Walt Smith
Revitalization: The rebirth of Dallas County administrative building
Embark on a walking tour to witness the revitalized Dallas County Administration Building—a symbol of renewal and modernization. Experience the seamless blend of contemporary design, historical significance, and sustainability, reflecting Dallas County's commitment to progress.
Screening 'Echos of History: The Texas school book depository and the Kennedy assassination"
Celebrating community at the Dallas County courthouse: Evening Reception
Thank you to our sponsors
Breakfast
Exploring innovative competency restoration services
Explore mental health innovation Learn about groundbreaking ideas addressing delays in competency restoration and offering accelerated evaluation, stabilization, and personalized treatment in various programs throughout our counties.
Krystin Holmes
Ramey Heddins
Shana Dallas
Planning for leadership continuity and effective governance transitions
Join Dr. James Harrington and Mr. Teodoro Benavides in "Developing Tomorrow's Leaders and Planning for Effective Governance Transitions." Explore strategies for identifying and nurturing leadership potential, coupled with meticulous planning for seamless governance transitions in the evolving public sector landscape.
Teodoro Benavides
James Harrington
Round table discussion: Commissioners court
Please come prepared with questions for your fellow elected officials. This is an interactive session, driven by your questions.
Interested in sponsoring?
Sponsorship opportunities are available