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Economic Revitalization

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In 2006 I pointed out that the use of TIRZ (tax increment reinvestment zones) were being considered (and now utilized) to develop "raw" land in our ETJ (extra-territorial jurisdiction). In my view, this is an inappropriate use of this particular tax construct. This allows the existing low ad valorem rate to be utilized for the purpose of funding city services, while the dramatic increase of the actual rate is being utilized to "refund" the property developer. This is but another example of corporate welfare.

Additionally, and available through public records, I suggested that a TIRZ be utilized to "redevelop" the Cartwright and Texas Parkway corridors. I was derided by the entrenched special interest incumbents who stated that it "couldn't be done," that I was "misinformed" and that I was disseminating "misinformation" when taking this very idea to the public.

In 2007 our elected officials either had a change of heart, or they "educated" themselves in the proper function of this tax construct. I attended the "charrette" hosted by the city. Many of our neighbors attended this meeting and all expressed very similar concerns. Many, if not an overwhelming majority, expressed a desire for a "town center" type of development within the core of the city to provide entertainment and shopping opportunities for the majority of our residents. To my astonishment, our city officials expressed the same desire. However, they projected that the time frame for planning and development would be 10 to 15 years in the future. Projects such as this tend to come up during the election cycle only to be shelved once the election is over. It is a "bait and switch" tactic used to pacify the voters.

A TIRZ was established in 2006 for a similar project ,but is being used to provide amenities to those that live in our ETJ and is projected to be completed in another 3 years. These residents do not pay city taxes nor vote in our elections. Why then are we providing abatements and tax incentives to develop this area of town? Could it be that campaign contributions by special interest groups are overriding the desires of our community? Could it be that providing amenities in this area of town will increase new home sales in this area?

As an alternative, lets talk about a project and provide incentives for redevelopment within the core of our city which has been neglected. Let us establish a TIRZ to insure that our tax money remains within this zone. Let us offer temporary abatements similar to Stafford as an enticement to locate businesses in our community. Contrats this with current policy of providing multi-generational abatements (30-50 years) to select businesses which may, or may not remain with our community in the long term.

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