In preparation for the 89th Session of the Texas Legislature, Johnson City Mayor Stephanie Fisher hosted a key meeting of the Hill Country Leadership Coalition on Monday, December 9th. The coalition, a growing network of Mayors, County Commissioners, and County Judges from the Highland Lakes region, meets quarterly in cities across the area to coordinate efforts and address shared priorities.
This latest gathering, co-hosted by Pedernales Electric Cooperative and held at the Science Mill, brought together leaders from Llano, Burnet, and Blanco Counties. The meeting aimed to foster collaboration and outline a legislative strategy for addressing pressing issues affecting their communities.
Mayor Fisher opened the meeting at 11 a.m. with a warm welcome, followed by an introduction to the Science Mill’s role in supporting STEM education for students in rural Texas. Attendees then heard from Joyce Yanuzzi, District Director for Senator Donna Campbell, and Ciara Hall, Chief of Staff for Representative Ellen Troxclair, who provided a joint presentation on navigating the legislative process and engaging effectively with state lawmakers.
After breaking for lunch, generously provided by Pedernales Electric Cooperative, the coalition delved into discussions on critical issues including the future of local government’s regulatory authority, property taxation, infrastructure funding, and the role of lobbying in advancing regional interests.
“During the 88th Legislative Session, I realized that, alone, Johnson City is too small for lawmakers to hear”, said Mayor Stephanie Fisher. “I think most of us feel that way. In reality, though, we hold so many cards. We represent the most desirable place to live in the United States. We represent the people who vote for these legislators. I have so much local support here in Johnson City, and I know that many other local officials enjoy that same level of support. We might be very small, but if we can unite with one message, we will be able to accomplish our goal of being left to govern in the way that is best for our homes.”
In addition to sharing legislative priorities, the group reviewed bills that have already been filed, con ducted a roundtable to discuss the best way to engage citizens from the grassroots, and explored opportunities and ways to actively participate in the process. Attendees left with a renewed commitment to maintaining open communication and set a tentative date for a group trip to the Capitol Buildingto meet with lawmakers face to face.
The Texas Legislature will convene at Noon on January 14, 2025, with lawmakers expected to file a record-setting number of bills that will affect the future of rural Texas
