Purpose of a Texas County

Before I dive into what I can bring to Ochiltree County, let's all get on the same page with what the purpose of a Texas County is.

The purpose of a Texas county is to provide state-mandated services at the local level, acting as the "functional arm of state government". 

Key responsibilities include:

• maintaining public records

• administering elections

• providing public safety and justice through courts and jails

• building and maintaining roads and bridges

• issuing vehicle registrations

• collecting property taxes

The State of Texas provides numerous codes, statutes, rules, and regulations that instruct counties on how to carry out these responsibilities and what we can and cannot do. With a combination of elected officials and interlocal agreements with local agencies and organizations as well as other counties, Ochiltree County helps to maintain the health and safety of the community.

Counties can fund and provide various local quality-of-life services, such as parks, libraries, airports, museums, and community centers.  Although not mandated, Ochiltree County has been able to fund Wolf Creek Park, Lake Fryer, Perry Memorial Library, Museum of the Plains, and the Perryton Ochiltree Airport for many years.