Local Officials: Stronger, Together Podcast

Episode 9F: October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month – The Pool’s Cyber Squad Can Help You Avoid an Attack! Sep 27, 2024

This year marks the 21st annual Cybersecurity Awareness Month and the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) encourages every American to take steps to “Secure Our World.”

In this episode, host Scott Houston – and the Risk Pool’s Cyber Squad – discuss ways to help you avoid being the victim of a cyberattack. The squad consists of Cyber Risk Services Manager Ryan Burns and Senior Cybersecurity Advisor Mike Bell. Ryan and Mike are an experienced team that offers Pool Members no-cost preventative services like: (1) cybersecurity best practices; (2) information security policy review/development; (3) incident response plan review; and much more.

The Cyber Squad’s YouTube Video Log provides up-to-date information you need to know. We’ll drop a new vlog each week of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, starting with “The Current Cybersecurity Threat Landscape” on October 1.

Is your world secure? Find out now by scheduling an on-site or virtual Cyber Squad visit today through your Risk Management Advisor, by calling 512-491-2300, or by emailing cybersquad@tmlirp.org.

Further Information

Episode 37: New State Law and Pool Coverage: First Responder Illness or Injury Leave of Absence at Full Pay Sep 20, 2024

In this episode, host Scott Houston – and guest TML General Counsel Bill Longley – explain H.B. 471 (effective September 1, 2023) and TML Risk Pool coverage designed to assist Members with compliance costs. The bill enacted a new state law (Local Government Code Chapter 177A) that requires a city (and any other political subdivision) to provide a firefighter, police officer, or emergency medical services employee a leave of absence for an illness or injury related to their line of duty. The leave is with “full pay” for a period “commensurate with the nature of the line of duty illness or injury,” up to at least one year. The complex bill also requires a city to provide additional benefits, including a light-duty return to work option.

The benefit required by the bill appears to be offset by indemnity benefits provided by the city’s workers’ compensation benefits. In other words, the bill doesn’t seem to require a city to pay a first responder’s full salary in addition to workers’ compensation income benefits. It presumably requires only that the city make up the differential or “gap” between workers’ compensation benefits and the first responders’ “full pay.”

Beginning October 1, 2024, the TML Risk Pool will provide a line of coverage that can assist Members with some of the costs to offset the pay gap. More specifically, a Pool Member with Workers’ Compensation and General Liability Coverage can elect to purchase the “Reimbursement of First Responder Injury/Illness Leave Supplemental Income Gap Expenses” Endorsement.

The Endorsement is designed to help a Member offset some of the “gap” using a pre-set formula based on workers’ compensation benefit calculations. To emphasize, the payment is to the Member entity, not the individual first responder. Depending on a first responder’s pay, how a city implements H.B. 471, and other factors, the endorsement may not fully cover the “gap” between a first responder’s workers’ compensation benefit and their “full pay.”

Further Information

Episode 36: What's Your Head Worth - Are First Responders Wearing the Right Head Protection at Roadway Incidents? Sep 13, 2024

On January 11, 2020, in Lubbock, a driver from the opposing lane of travel crossed the median while emergency crews were working the scene of an accident. Firefighter Lieutenant Eric Hill and Police Officer Nicholas Reyna were killed. Firefighter/Paramedic Matt Dawson suffered many broken bones across his legs, arms, and torso, a cracked skull along with multiple orbital fractures, and a traumatic brain injury. After working tirelessly to recover, Dawson also ultimately passed away in 2024.

In this episode, Scott visits with Lubbock Firefighter Brady Robinette about the use of specialized helmets by first responders working roadway incidents. “If those involved were wearing helmets constructed according to standards designed to protect their heads against the impacts they experienced, would the results have been different? Would the head injuries have been less serious?” Those questions have led Robinette to make it his mission to educate local officials on the issue.

Interested Members are encouraged to reach out to him at brady.d.robinette@gmail.com for more information.

Further Information

Episode 35: The Opioids Crisis – A Tragedy Close to Home and One City’s Prevention Efforts Aug 09, 2024

In this episode, Scott first speaks with Arkansas Municipal League Executive Director Mark Hayes. Mark lost his son Wells in 2020 to a drug overdose. Mark and his wife Allison decided to share Wells’ story as publicly as they can in the hopes that doing so helps others avoid such a tragedy. Mark is also a co-founder of the Arkansas Opioids Recovery Partnership, which uses millions in drug company settlement funds to fight the opioid epidemic in Arkansas.

Scott then explains the TML Risk Pool’s Partnership Award, which was given to the City of Laredo for its outstanding efforts to fight overdoses locally. The city’s efforts run the gamut from prevention campaigns and treatment centers to overdose response and law enforcement operations. Scott interviews Laredo Police Chief Miguel A. Rodriguez, Jr., who highlights the city’s efforts.

This episode is so compelling it goes longer than a typical 15-minute STP episode. Every city official will want to listen to and learn from Wells’ story and Mark’s efforts, as well as those of the City of Laredo.
Further Information

Episode 9e: Cybersecurity: The Evolving Threat Landscape Jul 19, 2024

Cybersecurity threats are changing, emerging, and growing every day to include city funds, government websites, and water systems and other infrastructure. Local officials should stay aware of the changing cybersecurity landscape and evolving hacker tactics. In this episode, Scott interviews Dr. Michael Ramage, Director of Cyber Education and Research Center at Murray State University, to learn about the most important issues to know. Dr. Ramage will also present a more in-depth version of this discussion at the 2024 TML Annual Conference and Exhibition in October. Don’t miss this episode or the presentation, both of which provide an overview of the dangers facing your communities, while highlighting steps and governance necessary to protect your network, data, and, ultimately, your people.

Further Information:

Murray State University Cyber Program Home Page
Murray State Cyber Center YouTube Channel (Including 10 @ 10)
2024 TML Annual Conference Cyber Presentation – Friday Agenda (see 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.)
TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Bytes #3: Preventing Fraudulent Instruction
TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Liability Home Page

Episode 16b: The 2024 Hurricane Season is Upon Us - Are You Ready? Jul 03, 2024

In this episode, Scott explains the predictions for the 2024 hurricane season and visits with a special guest – Matthew Rosencrans, the Climate Testbed Director at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center – to get his top three things a local official should know about this season. Unsurprisingly, being prepared is one thing. Local officials from almost every part of the state should tune in to learn about one you might not know!

Further information:

National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration’s Hurricane Preparedness Website and 2024 Season Predictions

Colorado State University Climate Prediction Center 2024 forecast

Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hurricane Preparedness and Evacuation Planning Website

Texas Department of Emergency Management’s Preparedness Website

TML Risk Pool’s Hurricane Resources Web Page

Episode 34: Communicating During a Crisis: A Local Official’s Primer Jun 28, 2024

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 assist Risk Pool Members during a qualifying crisis that leads to intense media scrutiny.
Further Information

Episode 33: The Pool’s Role in Supporting Excellence in Law Enforcement Jun 21, 2024

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 Charles “Chase” Stapp, the Pool’s Law Enforcement Consultant, about how he can assist departments with risk management efforts that save lives, prevent injuries, and protect property. Members are encouraged to reach out to Chase at chase.stapp@tmlirp.org or 512-491-2440 for a no-cost consultation designed to promote excellence in law enforcement.
Further Information

Episode 32: STP Special Report: 2024-2025 Rerates May 31, 2024

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 Information

Episode 9D: DIR-Certified Cybersecurity Training - Featuring the Cyber Guy and Hacker Hank! Apr 08, 2024

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. Instead, join the Risk Pool Cyber Guy – Ryan Burns – and his buddy – Hacker Hank – as they discuss ways that “Hank Hacks” trick local government employees into sending money, downloading ransomware, and more!

A local government has two ways to track and report completion of the training: (1) a local government can keep track of participants internally and certify its compliance by August 31, 2024, using the Cybersecurity Training Certification for State and Local Governments form; or (2) DIR has developed an optional tool, Texas by Texas (TxT), for a local government to track compliance of participant’s training compliance.

Episode 31: Servant Leadership: Leading with Trust, Respect, and Honesty Mar 01, 2024

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 Information

The Servant as Leader Download (Robert K. Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership - $4.99)

Ten Principles of Servant Leadership from Indeed

Business Insurance New Names TML Risk Pool to 2020 “Best Places to Work” List

TDIndustries “What Does Servant Leadership Mean?”

Strategic Government Resources

Episode 30: Remote Employees: Practical Challenges and Legal Pitfalls Feb 16, 2024

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

Episode 9c: You’ve Been Cyber-Attacked: When Nothing Works at All Five Things Every City Manager Should Know Feb 09, 2024

In this eye-opening episode, Scott interviews City of Tomball Assistant City Manager Jessica Rogers. Cyber-criminals hacked Tomball at the end of 2022, and the city is still – one year later – dealing with the aftermath. In this episode – which should be required listening for every city manager in Texas (and beyond) – Jessica explains exactly what it’s like to have essentially every computer system go down, including 9-1-1 dispatch, utility metering and billing, permitting, and everything in between. She’ll also describe the long road to getting everything up-and-running. Don’t miss this chill-inducing story.

Further Information:

Texas City Management Association’s “TCMA Messenger” Newsletter article: “There and Back Again, An ACM’s Journey”
Center for Internet Security’s 2022 Nationwide Cybersecurity Review
TML Risk Pool’s Cyber Liability Home Page

Episode 11a: January is R.O.A.D. Ready Month: Protect Those Who Work in and Around Roadways Dec 08, 2023

The year 2023 has seen multiple city employee struck by fatalities on Texas roadways. The TML Risk Pool’s goal is to reduce that to zero in 2024, and we’ve developed a program to do just that. R.O.A.D. Ready is a Risk Pool program designed to save lives, prevent injuries, and protect property by raising member awareness of dangers on and near roadways, and January is R.O.A.D. Ready month. Listen in to learn how you can participate and stop one of your employees from being a statistic.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

R.O.A.D. Ready Web Page

Find You Safety and Loss Control Consultant

Safety @ Your Fingertips Sign Up

Episode 29: Employee Drug Testing: An Interview with Dripping Springs City Attorney Laura Mueller Nov 10, 2023

In this episode, Scott interviews Dripping Springs City Attorney and Texas City Attorneys Association Board Member Laura Mueller. In it, Laura explains how the law limits the circumstances in which a city or other local government can drug test its employees. Lots of entities are improperly drug testing employees, and this short interview can help set them straight. Check out the podcast as usual or watch the interview by clicking on the video to the left of this episode.
Further Information:

“Weeding Out Bad Employees: Random Drugs Testing and Cities 2023 Update” prepared by Laura Mueller and recently presented to the Texas City Attorneys Association.

Episode 28: The TML Risk Pool’s 50th Anniversary: Here’s What You Need to Know Oct 06, 2023

In this special, abbreviated episode, Scott welcomes you back from the TML Annual Conference and Exhibition and explains more about the TML Risk Pool and what we offer our Members. He describes a few of the Pool’s most important Member benefits and encourages elected officials to learn more by reviewing the 50th Anniversary Pamphlet. In it, you’ll learn about why TML created the Pool, why we’re the best value proposition for cities, and our coverages and loss prevention services. Reach out to Scott at scott.houston@tmlirp.org with questions or comments!

Further Information:

TML Risk Pool’s 50th Anniversary Pamphlet

Episode 9b: “Cyber Bytes #2 – Welcome Back Hacker Hank!” Sep 15, 2023

In this episode, Scott introduces the second of several short cyber security training videos. This isn’t some boring webinar. No way. Instead, join the Risk Pool Cyber Guy, Ryan Burns, and his buddy Hacker Hank as they continue to educate you about all sorts of cyber perils. These videos are hilarious! You can listen in traditional podcast format, but you’ll be missing out if you don’t watch the nine-minute YouTube video version linked here! If you can identify which pool employee plays Hacker Hank, email Scott at scott.houston@tmlirp.org for the chance to win a prize!

Further Information:
DIR Cyber Incident Reporting Requirement

Episode 27: Code Enforcement Officers: Certification and Training, Practical Challenges, and Legal Pitfalls Aug 04, 2023

In this episode, Scott explains State of Texas code enforcement officer certification and training and he interviews City of Irving Assistant City Manager Teresa Adrian, Code Enforcement Director Shain Diller, and Deputy City Attorney Janet Spugnardi about practical and legal challenges related to code enforcement.

Further Information:

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation New Code Enforcement Officer in Training Registration.
Texas Department of State Health Services Code Enforcement Certification and Training Website.
Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service Basic Code Enforcement Officer Training.

Episode 26: Podcast en Espanol: Mantente segura en el trabajo! (Stay Safe at Work!) Jun 30, 2023

Únase al anfitrión invitado especial Víctor Flores, abogado de la ciudad de Mission y miembro de la Junta de Síndicos del Grupo de Riesgos de TML, mientras explica en español: (1) que el Grupo de Riesgos de TML proporciona propiedad, responsabilidad civil, compensación laboral y cobertura cibernética; (2) que el departamento de prevención de pérdidas del Pool puede proporcionar capacitaciones para mantener seguros a los empleados mientras trabajan.

Join special guest host Victor Flores, Mission City Attorney and TML Risk Pool Board of Trustees member, as he explains (in Spanish): (1) that the TML Risk Pool provides property, liability, workers’ compensation, and cyber coverage; (2) that the Pool’s loss prevention department can provide resources to keep employees safe while at work.

Episode 25: 2023 Reinsurance Discussion: What it Is, Why the Pool has it, and how the Pool Uses It Jun 09, 2023

In this special episode, Scott interviews Pool Deputy Director and C.O.O. Lindsey Fields about reinsurance – what it is, why the Pool has it, and how the Pool uses it.
Further Information:

· A Message from the TML Risk Pool: TML Risk Pool Board of Trustees Adopts 2023-2024 Rates

Episode 24: 2023 Rerates, the State of the Pool, and More Jun 02, 2023

In this special episode, Scott interviews Pool Executive Director Jeff Thompson about the major rate drivers and their effect on your 2023 rerates, the state of the Pool, and more.

Further Information:

A Message from the TML Risk Pool: TML Risk Pool Board of Trustees Adopts 2023-2024 Rates

Episode 16a: "Lessons from Hurricane Ian: Are You Prepared?" Mar 31, 2023

Explains preliminary forecasts, lessons from Florida’s Hurricane Ian last year, SynergyNDS (one of the Pool’s turnkey recovery partners), and more.
Further information:
Are You Prepared: Before, During and After the Storm Workshop Recording
Are You Prepared: Before, During and After the Storm PowerPoint Presentation
Top 10 Components of a Continuity of Operations Plan
Individual Building Continuity of Operations Plan Worksheet (PDF)
Individual Building Continuity of Operations Plan Worksheet (Excel spreadsheet)
SynergyNDS Flyer
Synergy/TML Risk Pool Hurricane Harvey Recovery Video
Synergy’s TML IRP Website
TML Emergency Management Resources
TDEM Preparedness
TML Risk Pool Member Portal
TML Risk Pool's Preparing for Natural Disasters and Emergencies

Episode 23: “An Interview with Risk Pool Assistant Director Mike Rains: Lessons Learned from 37 Years” Mar 03, 2023

Posted March 3, 2023

In this episode, Scott interviews Mike Rains. Mike is retiring after 37 years of service to the Pool and its Members. Listen to Mike’s insights about the Pool’s growth over his almost four-decade tenure.

Episode 9A: “Cyber Bytes #1 – Hank’s Hacks!” Mar 03, 2023

Posted March 3, 2023

In this episode, Scott introduces the first of several short cyber security training videos. This isn’t some boring webinar. No way. Instead, join the Risk Pool Cyber Guy, Ryan Burns, and his buddy Hacker Hank as they discuss “Hank’s Hacks,” which are the most common ways a hacker tricks local government employees into sending money, downloading ransomware, and more. This video is hilarious! You can listen in traditional podcast format, but you’ll be missing out if you don’t watch the nine-minute YouTube video version linked next to this episode! If you can identify which pool employee plays Hacker Hank, email Scott at scott.houston@tmlirp.org for the chance to win a prize!

Episode 22: "Texas Town & City Magazine: How Cities Work" Feb 03, 2023

Explains: (1) that the Texas Municipal League prepares an outstanding edition of Texas Town and City Magazine in January of legislative years called “How Cities Work;” and (2) reviews ways a city official can use the magazine to educate legislators and others.

Further materials links:

Texas Town & City Magazine (January 2023 Edition)

Episode 3 Redux: Sewage Backups: Know Before You Go Dec 22, 2022

Updated and Reposted December 23, 2022

Explains: (1) the law related to a local government’s liability for raw sewage backups into customers’ homes or businesses; and (2) the Pool’s opt-out and supplemental sewage backup coverage.
Further information:
Sewage Backups: Know Before You Go (Q&A)
Sewage Backups: Know Before You Go (Cheat Sheet)

Episode 12 REDUX: An Interview with Craig Barnes – the Risk Pool’s Human Resources Trainer: Top Three Human Resources Challenges and Opportunities Dec 02, 2022

Explains: (1) the three most common human resources challenges and opportunities for local government employees; (2) training provided by the Pool to address behaviors that cause unhealthy conflict in the workplace.
Further materials links:

Risk Pool Loss Prevention Department (Training and More)

TML Risk Pool’s “Call Before You Fire Program”

Employment Law Manual for Texas Cities

Texas Municipal Human Resources Association

Episode 21: “An Interview with Board of Trustees Chair Mary M. Dennis” Nov 11, 2022

In this episode, you’ll get to know City of Live Oak Mayor Mary M. Dennis, who was recently chosen to lead to Pool’s Board of Trustees. Scott and/or Mary would love to come speak at your event about the benefits of Pool Membership.

Episode 20: Crimes and Coverage Oct 21, 2022

Explains: (1) several criminal offenses for which a local official can be indicted; (2) criminal offenses that can be perpetrated against a local government; and (3) various crime coverages offered by the Pool.

Further materials links:

Understanding Your Liability as a City Official: A Primer

Legal Q&A – Bribery and Prohibited Gifts

Episode 19: Member Service Managers: Your Gateway to the Pool Sep 02, 2022

In this episode, special guest host Tamara Chafin, the Risk Pool’s Communications Officer, explains: (1) the role a Member Services Manager (MSM), plays at the Pool; and (2) interviews 2 of our MSMs: Linda Morvant and Marc Rodriguez.

Further information:

Episode 18: The Texas Public Information Act: “The Information Business” Aug 19, 2022

Posted August 19, 2022

In this episode, Scott: (1) explains the basics of the Public Information Act; and (2) interviews three city secretaries and an open government analyst for practical tips and advice.

Further information:

· Texas Attorney General’s Public Information Act Handbook

· Texas Attorney General’s Mandatory Public Information Act Training

· Texas Municipal League Public Information Act Resources

· Texas Attorney General’s Charges for Public information Resources

Episode 10c: First Responder Workers’ Compensation Benefits — The Facts Jul 29, 2022

Mentions a recent Texas Observer assertion that the Pool mistreated three first responders and explains that: (1) the Pool never tries to claw back benefits already received in a benefits determination appeal; (2) the workers’ compensation beneficiary determination process can seem calloused; and (3) appeal lawsuits are about determining who is the appropriate beneficiary.

Further information:
First Responder Workers’ Compensation Beneficiaries: The Facts

Episode 17: Temporary Custodians — Public Information on Private Devices and Accounts Jul 29, 2022

Explains: (1) that work-related local government information held on private devices or in private accounts is public information; and (2) that a local government official or employee is a “temporary custodian” responsible for maintaining that information according to certain procedures.

Further information:
Temporary Custodian Q&A
Attorney General Public Information Act Handbook Excerpts
Texas State Library and Archives Commission Records Retention Website

Episode 15e (STP Special Video Report Series: 2022 Rerates) Jun 23, 2022

An Interview with Executive Director Jeff Thompson

Posted June 24, 2022

In this special five-episode series, you can either watch or listen in the traditional podcast format. The series provides an explanation of the major rate drivers and their effect on your 2022 rerates.
In this episode, Scott interviews Jeff Thompson (Risk Pool Executive Director) to get Jeff’s thoughts on the state of the Pool, rerates, and more.
Further Information:
A Message from the TML Risk Pool: Increasing 2022–2023 Member Rates and Contributions

Episode 15d (STP Special Video Report Series: 2022 Rerates) Jun 17, 2022

The Risk Pool’s Finances and Reinsurance

Posted June 17, 2022
Please join me for a special five-episode series that allows you to either watch or listen to explanations of the major rate drivers and their effect on Members’ 2022 rerates.

In this episode, Scott interviews: (1) Tito Villegas (Risk Pool CFO and Chief Investment Officer) about the structure of the Pool’s finances; and (2) Lindsey Fields (Risk Loss Deputy Executive Director and COO) about how reinsurance works and relates to your rates.
Further Information:
Risk Pool Financial Strength (including 2021-2022 Annual Report

Episode 15c (STP Special Video Report Series: 2022 Rerates) Jun 17, 2022

"Cybersecurity and the Risk Pool’s Loss Prevention Efforts"

Posted June 10, 2022

Please join me for a special five-episode series that allows you to either watch or listen to explanations of the major rate drivers and their effect on Members’ 2022 rerates.

In this episode, Scott interviews: (1) Ryan Burns (Risk Pool Cyber Risk Services Manager) about the increasing threat of cyberattacks, phishing, and other cyber threats, and (2) Irvin Janak (Risk Loss Prevention Manager) about how Risk Pool Loss Prevention Representatives serve you and the Pool’s loss prevention efforts.
Further Information:
Contact Your Loss Prevention Representative
Upcoming Risk Pool Training and Other Risk Management Resources
R.O.A.D. Ready Initiative
Cyber Resources

Episode 15b (STP Special Video Report Series: 2022 Rerates) Jun 17, 2022

“Workers’ Compensation First Responder COVID-19 Disease Presumption and Liability”

Posted June 3, 2022

Please join me for a special five-episode series that allows you to either watch or listen to explanations of the major rate drivers and their effect on Members’ 2022 rerates.

In this second episode (15b), Scott interviews: (1) Phil English (Risk Pool Worker’s Compensation Claims Manager) about the workers’ compensation first responder COVID-19 disease presumption; and (2) Claudia Poblano (Risk Pool Member Services Manager) about the role of an MSM and liability issues.

Further Information:
Contact Your Member Services Manager

Episode 16: Are You Prepared: Before, During and After the Storm Jun 16, 2022

Explains: (1) the most important aspect of preparing for and recovering from damage caused by a hurricane; and (2) links below to a video of a comprehensive workshop presentation on the subject.
Further information:

Episode 15a (STP Special Video Report Series: 2022 Rerates) Jun 14, 2022

“Introduction and Property Rate Drivers”

Posted May 25, 2022

Please join me for a special five-episode series that allows you to either watch or listen to explanations of the major rate drivers and their effect on Members’ 2022 rerates.

In this episode, Scott explains the purpose of these special report videos/podcasts and interviews: (1) Randy Criswell (Risk Pool Board of Trustees Chair and Wolfforth City Manager) about the broad rate issues faced by the Pool, and (2) David Goldston (Risk Pool Property Claims Supervisor) about property coverage rate drivers.

Episode 14: Special Edition: My Three Most Compelling Episodes Jun 14, 2022

In this Episode you’ll hear: (1) about the STP Series and how it can help elected officials and other local officials and employees keep their citizens, employees, volunteers, and property safe, all while saving public dollars; (2) from a podcast fan and the Pool’s Executive Director about the benefits of the series; and (3) segments from three special episodes.

Further Materials:

Texans Helping Texans Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lG2URrYQpjw&t=131s

Episode 13: Contractual Risk Transfer Mar 04, 2022

Explains: (1) the importance of shifting risk to the appropriate parties to a contract; and (2) the essential provisions that should be included in any major or high-exposure contract.

Further information:

TML Risk Pool’s Risk Transfer and Contract Strategies
Thomson Reuters (Westlaw): Contract Drafting or Review for Local Governments
Public Risk management Association Insurance Requirements in Contracts: Tips for Effectively Transferring Risk Podcast

Episode 11: Are You R.O.A.D. Ready? Jan 11, 2022

R.O.A.D. Ready is a Risk Pool program designed to save lives, prevent injuries, and protect property by raising member awareness of dangers on and near roadways. The Pool will provide participating members with: (1) specifically-designed resources and training to mitigate roadway risks; and (2) promotional materials to show they are R.O.A.D. Ready.

The Pool launched the program in January 2022 and has designated each successive January as R.O.A.D. Ready month. To participate, a member should: (1) make a commitment to becoming R.O.A.D. Ready by providing internal roadway safety training or using the Pool’s resources to do so; and (2) participating in national roadway, vehicle, or work zone programs.

In this episode, you’ll hear more about why this initiative came about and why it’s so important.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

R.O.A.D. Ready home page

http://info.tmlirp.org/road-ready

Episode 10b Part 2: Workers' Compensation: First Responder Disease Presumption Nov 09, 2021

The TML Risk Pool provides workers’ compensation coverage for thousands of first responders. State law provides a special workers’ comp benefit to those employees, known as the disease presumption law. Simply put, the law “presumes” that first responders contracted certain diseases on the job for purposes of workers’ comp benefits. In this episode, you’ll hear about the presumption, how it’s administered, and how the Pool partners with Members to help guide them through the complex process.

Texas Department of Insurance - Division of Workers’ Compensation First Responder FAQ

https://www.tdi.texas.gov/wc/employee/firstresp.html

Texas Government Code Chapter 607

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/GV/htm/GV.607.htm

Episode 10a - Part 1: Workers' Compensation: Taking Care of Your Employees Oct 13, 2021

The TML Risk Pool provides workers’ compensation coverage for more than 200,000 local government employees, and receives around 10,000 claims per year. The Workers’ Compensation Department is the largest of all the Pool’s departments, largely because the workers' compensation process is highly-regulated by the Workers’ Compensation Division of the Texas Department of Insurance. In this episode, you’ll hear from key Pool staff about the process and how it’s administered, most importantly how we partner with Members to help guide them through the complex process.
Resources:
Texas Political Subdivision Workers’ Compensation Alliance

https://www.pswca.org/

Texas Department of Insurance - Division of Workers’ Compensation

https://www.tdi.texas.gov/wc/index.html

Division of Worker’s Compensation – Performance-Based Oversight Results

https://www.tdi.texas.gov/wc/pbo/pboresults.html#icrslts

Lubbock Firefighter Matt Dawson Receiving Risk Pool Worker’s Compensation Benefits:

https://www.everythinglubbock.com/video/matt-dawson-honored-with-brand-new-home-community-welcomes-him-in/6407637/

https://www.kcbd.com/app/2021/08/25/matt-dawson-family-will-receive-keys-mortgage-free-home-thursday/

Episode 9: Cybersecurity: Are You Prepared? Sep 01, 2021

Local governments, in addition to the nuts-and-bolts services they provide, are actually just as much in the business of providing and maintaining information, and local officials should recognize that they should work at it just as hard at protecting that information as they do providing law enforcement and maintaining streets and water lines.

You’ve got to think of cybersecurity as part of your daily work serving and protecting your residents. In today’s world, you just can’t afford to be unprepared – that’s true whether your population is 250,000 or 250.

In this episode, you’ll hear why local governments are frequently targeted by cyber-criminals, how the Risk Pool can help you avoid trouble on the front end, and that we’ve got your back should you get hacked.
Resources:
TML Risk Pool’s Cyber-Liability Home Page

https://www.tmlirp.org/risk-management/cyber-liability/

TML Risk Pool’s State-Mandated Cyber-Security Training

http://info.tmlirp.org/cyber-security-training-program

Texas City Attorneys Association: Cyber Security is a Risky Business

PowerPoint Presentation

Paper

Cyber-Breach Checklist

Will Trevino’s Cybersecurity Blog

https://txcybersecuritygov.com/

CPM Applied Research: Steps in Building a Successful Cybersecurity Protocol

https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/cpmar/vol2/iss1/5/?mc_cid=c0bcd4671e&mc_eid=2ea2677c7d

Episode 8: First Responders and COVID-19 Vaccines Aug 19, 2021

Provides COVID-19 statistics and the story of Roger Dean – as told by his surviving family. Roger was a healthy 31-year-old Seguin firefighter who passed away after a months-long battle with COVID.

Episode 7: "Disciplining and Terminating Employees: Liability and the Pool’s ‘Call Before You Fire’ Hotline" Aug 06, 2021

Explains: (1) that you may be liable for improper employment actions; and (2) the availability to speak with one of the Pool’s attorneys prior to taking action.

Further information:
TML Risk Pool’s “Call Before You Fire Program”
Employment Law Manual for Texas Cities
Texas Municipal Human Resources Association
Ask a Texas Municipal League Attorney

Episode 6: “The storm has passed, now what? The Pool's SynergyNDS Turnkey Recovery Program" Aug 06, 2021

Explains: (1) the legalities of purchasing and rebuilding requirements after a hurricane or other disaster; and (2) how the Pool uses Synergy to assist member recovery.
Further information:
SynergyNDS Flyer
Synergy/TML Risk Pool Hurricane Harvey Recovery Video
Synergy’s TML IRP Website
TML Emergency Management Resources
TDEM Preparedness

Episode 5: “Keep Your Police Officers Safe: TPCA’s Vincible Program” Aug 06, 2021

Explains the officer safety and risk management benefits when a member’s law enforcement agency used the Vincible Training Program.

Further information:
Vincible Promotional Video
Vincible Website
Texas Police Chiefs Association

Episode 4: “The storm has passed, now what? The Pool’s BEST Roofing and Enhanced Property Damage Recovery Programs” Aug 06, 2021

Explains how the Pool uses the BEST Roofing Program (Scott Franklin and 4T Partnership) to assist member recovery.

Further Information:

Texas Municipal Procurement Made Easy
Texas Municipal Procurement Cheat Sheet
TML Risk Pool Building Envelope Systems Team (BEST) Roofing Program Flyer
City of Del Rio Article

Episode 3: “Sewage Backups: Know Before You Go” Aug 06, 2021

Explains: (1) the law related to a local government’s liability for raw sewage backups into customers’ homes or businesses; and (2) the Pool’s supplemental sewage backup coverage.

Further information:
Sewage Backups: Know Before You Go (Q&A)
Sewage Backups: Know Before You Go (Cheat Sheet)

Episode 2b: “Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam” Aug 06, 2021

The information in this episode becomes effective on September 1, 2021. In this episode, we talk about whether local governments can prohibit — or allow — employees to actually carry a gun while at work, and how that can affect your workplace and your risk of a lawsuit.

Further information:

The following are effective until August 31, 2021
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam (Comprehensive Paper in Q&A Format)
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam (Cheat Sheet)

The following become effective on September 1, 2021
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam V2 (Comprehensive Paper in Q&A Format)
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam V2 (Cheat Sheet)

Episode 2a: “Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam” Aug 06, 2021

The information in this episode becomes effective on September 1, 2021. Explains the authority of a local government to prohibit or allow employees with a license to carry a handgun at work, the potential liability for doing so, and basics of the Pool’s coverage.

Further information:

The following are effective until August 31, 2021
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam (Comprehensive Paper in Q&A Format)
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam (Cheat Sheet)

The following become effective on September 1, 2021
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam V2 (Comprehensive Paper in Q&A Format)
Local Governments and Firearms: Avoiding a Jam V2 (Cheat Sheet)

Episode 1: “What’s the Local Officials: Stronger, Together Podcast Series and Why I Should be Listening?” Aug 06, 2021

Explains: (1) why the Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool was started and the services it provides; and (2) the STP Series and how it can help elected officials keep their citizens, employees, volunteers, and property safe, all while saving public dollars.

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