ETCOG Introduces New Public Engagement Website
East Texas Council of Governments • September 20, 2021
We Want Your Feedback!

The East Texas Council of Governments
(ETCOG) announces the launching of www.LetsTalkETCOG.org, an engagement website devoted as a space for our members and East Texas residents to share ideas, discuss important topics, and provide feedback on our programs, services, regional planning, and contributions to the region. ETCOG is the program administrator of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas.
Join the Conversation
This online platform offers various interactive tools, including discussion forums, polls, surveys, and crowdsource mapping. Use Let's Talk ETCOG to contribute your ideas and ask questions about featured projects such as:
- Aging in East Texas
- Economic Development
- Enhancing the Environment
- Regional Transportation
- Safety in East Texas
- Workforce Development
- Regional Grants
- East Texas Broadband Initiative
- ETCOG Board and Executive Committee Decisions
"Public engagement usually involves attending a public meeting or providing a letter to ETCOG. To enhance in-person engagement efforts, we've launched Let's Talk ETCOG to help reach a broader audience for those who may not have the chance to participate in person, gather more member feedback, and offer the community a new way to provide input on projects," said ETCOG's Director of Communications, Lindsay Vanderbilt.
To engage on Let's Talk ETCOG, visit the website to submit input using the online options relevant to each of the projects currently open for discussion. To provide feedback, participants must create a login and be signed in. All input and ideas are compiled and sent to the relevant project manager to make recommendations.

Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) will join organizations nationwide in celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM). This month-long observance honors the contributions of seniors in our communities. To mark the occasion, AAA will host and collaborate with local organizations for four special celebration events across East Texas, held at senior centers and community hubs. These events will highlight the importance of connection and the role strong relationships play in maintaining a vibrant, healthy senior population. OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” challenges outdated perceptions and encourages a fresh perspective on aging. It promotes a shift in how society talks about, understands, and supports older adults, empowering communities to embrace aging in a more positive and inclusive way. Join Us for These Community Celebrations! The following OAM events are open to the public and will feature food, entertainment, door prizes, and valuable information about services available to East Texas seniors: 📅 May 7 – Henderson Community Building, 302 Fair Park, Henderson | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM 📅 May 15 – First United Methodist Church, 225 Lovers Ln, Athens | 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM 📅 May 16 – Jefferson Senior Center, 111 W. Broadway, Jefferson | 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM 📅 May 21 – Harrison County Agrilife Extension Office, 2005 Warren Drive, Marshall | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM The AAA advocates for seniors and provides essential services, including benefits counseling, case management, health education, nutrition programs, referrals, and Ombudsman support for those in assisted living. These services promote independence and dignity, helping seniors remain in their communities. For event inquiries, call (903) 218-6500.