Homeowners and businesses are struggling under the weight of Texas’ property tax. In 2015, more than 4,100 taxing jurisdictions levied $52.2 billion in property taxes, an increase of almost $12 billion over the past five years. On a per-capita basis, Texas’ property tax imposed a burden of $1,900 on every man, woman, and child in the state and cost a family of four nearly $8,000. It's time for a property tax trigger.
Property Rights
Housing Is Too Expensive. Blame Your Local Tree Ordinance.
Matthew Bernard wanted to build a home. He bought a small lot in Oakland, California, and began clearing several diseased and fallen trees that the local fire department had identified as hazards. The result was a $915,000 “mitigation fee” from the city of Oakland—nearly five times the value of the lot itself. Under Oakland’s tree ordinance,...
August 27, 2026