State Rep. Bennie Cook welcomed constituents from Texas County to the Missouri State Capitol on March 5 for an exclusive day dedicated to their honor: Texas County Day.
The inaugural event provided the opportunity for friends, neighbors and constituents to engage with the state’s legislative processes, connect with elected officials and showcase the pride of Texas County.
The day’s agenda included a front-row seat to official House proceedings, offering attendees an immersive experience into the inner workings of the state government. Cook said he desires fostering a deeper understanding of the legislative process by engaging with constituents and providing insights into how proposed laws and policies can impact Texas County and its municipalities.
In addition to observing House proceedings, residents from Texas County had the chance to meet with elected officials that included Sen. Karla Eslinger, Speaker Dean Plocher, Representatives Cody Smith, Travis Smith and Brad Hudson, and the staff from the Department of Economic Development. Cook made sure his constituents were able to discuss pressing issues for Texas County, such as the closure of the South Gate at Fort Leonard Wood, the Initiative Petition Legislation, Career and Technical Education Expansion in Houston, and funding for projects.
Cook, R-Houston, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing the importance of connecting constituents with their government.
“This day is all about sharing with our constituents and connecting them to their government,” he said. “My hope is that those in attendance were able to visit and walk away with an inside look at what we do as their elected representatives.”
Cook said he hopes that making this an annual event will help bridge the gap between the Capitol and the community, providing constituents with valuable insights into the legislative process.
Cook can be reached by phone at 573-751-2264 or by email at Bennie.Cook@house.mo.gov.
