In 1995, the Legislature passed the Texas Real Private Property Rights Preservation Act, providing compensation to property owners for loss of value due to new regulations on land use. Unfortunately, the act exempts municipalities. Since cities, due to re-zoning activities, are the largest condemnors, this exemption practically renders the act ineffective.
Economy
Austin’s Simple Fix for Soaring Housing Costs
After years of watching home prices skyrocket out of reach for first responders, nurses, and young families, in December 2023, Austin city council voted to rewrite its zoning code. The first phase of its HOME Initiative—known as HOME-1—effectively allowed up to three homes on most lots that previously could host only one. A year later,...
December 9, 2025