HOUSTON -- "Ethics Reform" tops the list of priorities for 2008, according to Harris County Judge Ed Emmett on Wednesday.

In his first "state of the county" speech since being appointed county judge, Emmett told a crowd of more than 1,000 business leaders and elected officials that he is concerned about public perception in light of some recent scandals.

Without making direct reference to any one person or issue, Emmett said he believes that "open, transparent government is a necessity and that is the only way the public will have confidence."

The county judge said he plans to appoint a citizens task force, and this week is sending letters to the Texas attorney general's office and the office of the Texas Ethics commission.

"Come in and tell us what can we do better, what laws need to be changed," he said.

Later, he told reporters that issues concerning alleged sexist and racist e-mails found on the work computer of Harris County District Attorney Chuck Rosenthal, and questionable campaign finance reports filed by public officials, should serve as a wake-up call.

In addition to ethics reform, Emmett outlined his other challenges for the remainder of the year.

He said Harris County needs to focus on transportation issues, building new jails, flood control and the rising costs of health care provided to uninsured people who are either illegal immigrants or non-residents of Harris County.