Former Harris County Judge Robert Eckels submitted a letter of resignation at the Commissioner’s Court meeting on March 6, 2007. Harris County Commissioners appointed Mr. Eckels’ replacement, Harris County Judge Ed Emmett by a unanimous vote. Harris County Judge Ed Emmett is the presiding officer of Harris County Commissioners Court. In his position, Judge Emmett serves as the director of the Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and represents the county on numerous boards, committees, and regional councils of governments. Harris County, with a population of 3.6 million, is the third most populous county in the United States. There are 34 municipalities within the county, including the City of Houston. Over 1.2 million people live in unincorporated Harris County and rely on the county to be the primary provider of basic government services. Harris County Website Contact Judge's Office