Who We Are Running a city is not easy. As municipal law becomes increasingly complex, city officials need expert training and continuing education. Simplicity is an educational program provided through the Bojorquez Law Firm, PC. The firm is dedicated to exclusively serving Texas municipalities. The firm was founded in 2002 by Alan J. Bojorquez, who proudly served as Assistant General Counsel for the Texas Municipal League and is the author of the Texas Municipal Law and Procedure Manual. Our team of lawyers and consultants are prepared to conduct training for city councils, staff, boards, and commissions. You can book our speakers for your seminar, or our team can plan a seminar for you.
Contact Us Phone: 512.250.0411 Email:
[email protected] Web: TexasMunicipalLawyers.com
"Alan Bojorquez has provided outstanding training and educational services to the Texas State University Certified Public Manager (CPM) Program for almost 20 years. Alan has taught both in our CPM classes and in our Statewide CPM Conferences. He is without a doubt one of our most dynamic and informative educators! He truly is a positive influence for our public and not for profit participants!" – Howard Balanoff; Professor and Director of the Hobby Center for Public Service “We love their workshops.” – Barbara; City Secretary Liberty Hill, Texas “It was an honor to have been mentored by such a subject matter expert. I now have an improved understanding of Open Government.” - Chief Carlisle; Roman Forest, Texas “The Open Meetings and Open Records class was such an excellent class. Much more information was gained through discussion than you can get in any online class. ” - Liz Mullane: City Secretary Roman Forest, Texas
Because informed officials make better decisions… ©Bojorquez Law Firm, PC (September 2015)
TRAINING
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Municipal Court 101 (1 – 4 hrs) Credit toward the Municipal Court Certification Program The Court Consulting Program (CCP) provides experienced, professional expertise in case flow management, court community communication, leadership, education, training and development aimed at increasing productivity and efficiency and compliance with the law.
Integrity at City Hall: Ethics & Codes of Conduct (2 hrs) In conjunction with the Texas Center for Municipal Ethics™, this course covers matters such as: conflicts of interest, dual office holding, incompatibility, nepotism, revolving door, confidential-privileged Information, abuse of office, official oppression and misconduct, financial disclosure statements, gifts & honoraria, and electioneering by cities.
Open Meetings/Open Records (2 hrs) Senate Bill 286 requires public officials to receive training on the Open Meetings Act and Public Information Act within 90 days of taking oath. This course has been approved and certified by the Attorney General. (Also encouraged as a refresher course for experienced officials).
City Hall Essentials (4 – 7 hrs) A customized workshop covering Open Meetings/Open Records and other municipal topics requested by the client. Suggested topics are Ethics, Regulation of Land Use & Development, Social Media & Government, and Municipal Court 101.
Municipal Regulation of Land Use & Development (2 – 4 hrs) Covers ZBA, P&Z; historic preservation; local rules; subdivisions, signs, and development agreements.
SIMPLICITY
Downtown Revitalization (1 – 2 hrs) Learn about the infrastructure, goods, and services that have helped cities draw people into their communities. This session covers historic preservation, land use, signage, funding, and lighting. Employment Law (2 hrs) Texas is an Employment at will state. Discover the difference between state and federal law regarding employment and learn about FMLA, FLSA, ADA, Whistleblower, and the Texas Workers’ Comp Act.
Municipal Regulation of Signs (1.0 hr) The regulatory elements of signage including: administrative procedures, variances & appeals, sign specifications, inspections, enforcement, electronic signs, political signs, and billboards. Economic Development Toolbox (1 – 1.5 hrs) This course examines the basic features of several common development vehicles including EDCs, 380s, HOT funds, rebates, abatements, and TIRZs.
Permit Processing: Are You Really Grandfathered? (1.0 hr) Essential elements of Texas Local Government Code Ch. 245 and nonconforming uses. Social Media & Government (2 hrs) Think before you post! With implications ranging from Open Meetings/Open Records to Employment Law, it is important to have a social media policy for your organization. This course provides information on regarding what you may think is private but may cost you your job! Zoning Board of Adjustments (2 hrs) Covers the key players – public and private; variances, special exceptions, and appeals; duties; due process; substandard buildings; Building Code Appeals; and records. *Courses can be combined and/or customized to fit your city’s needs. Please contact the Firm for more information.
