Local Officials: Stronger, Together Podcast Scott Houston

In this episode, Scott visits with a public relations/communications expert about what a city or other local government official should know about communicating with the public and media during a crisis. Be it severe weather, an act of violence, or any other catastrophic event, elected officials, city managers, and city attorneys need to know the basics. This episode also mentions the Pool’s new qualifying crisis incident coverage, which can provide the services of a crisis management firm to...

In this episode, Scott explains the Pool’s internal efforts to ensure appropriate resources are provided to the approximately 800 law enforcement departments covered by the Pool. The efforts began with a July 2023 preliminary report that was presented to the Board of Trustees for their consideration. The Board's comments were then incorporated into a summary of actions, which serves as a roadmap for the Pool’s loss prevention and other efforts. After explaining the summary, Scott interviews C...

In this special report, you’ll hear from Jeff Thompson (Executive Director) and Aaron Hardiman (Risk Services Manager) as they explain the state of the Pool, the major rate drivers, and their effect on your 2024–2025 rerates. Further InformationTML Risk Pool Board of Trustees Adopts 2024-2025 RatesTML Risk Pool Board of Trustees Adopts 2024-2025 Rates (Housing Authority Edition)

Texas Government Code Section 2054.5191 mandates cybersecurity training for local government employees, elected officials, and appointed officials who have access to a local government computer system or database and use a computer to perform at least 25 percent of their duties. The training must be certified by the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) – both this podcast and the YouTube video linked to the left are DIR-approved. This episode isn’t some boring episode. I...

In this episode, Scott talks about Robert Greenleaf’s seminal essay “The Servant as Leader.” Servant leadership is not about a personal quest for power, prestige, or material rewards. Instead, from this perspective, leadership begins with a true motivation to serve others. Scott is joined by a special guest – his Dad (hey, the price was right) – who speaks about one man’s experience practicing the philosophy over 50 years in business. Further InformationThe Servant as Leader Download (Ro...

In this episode, Scott explains some of the practical and legal issues related to hiring remote employees, whether in Texas or out-of-state, and interviews several Risk Pool employees with expertise in the subject. Further Information:Department of Labor Employee v. Independent Contractor FAQ