Foreign ownership of land in Texas has become an increasingly hot-button issue, especially as consumption grows. “In Texas, foreign ownership of ag land is at about 5.3 million acres or 3.41%, which is slightly higher than the national average of 3.1%,” according to the Texas Farm Bureau (2023). This trend has raised concerns among lawmakers, agricultural organizations, and local communities, as many are concerned about the potential impact that foreign ownership could have on food security, economic stability, and national security. Texas, with its vast and fertile land, remains a prime target for foreign investment, attracting buyers from countries like China, Canada, and the Netherlands. As the debate over foreign landownership intensifies, policymakers are considering stricter regulations and transparency measures to ensure that Texas remains safeguarded for future generations. House Bill 191 (2025) seeks to prevent certain foreign entities from purchasing real property here in Texas.
Assessing Tax Trends in Fort Bend County
Does history suggest that property taxes are too high in Fort Bend County? And, if so, have local decision-makers actively helped or hurt the situation? To help answer these questions, let’s review the county’s 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and gather four types of data—i.e., tax levies, local population, total tax rates, and taxable values—over a 10-year time...