Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'urban planning'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Local GovernmentAudio only. Aug 26th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Even if you're not planning on raising the tax rate?
  • Chairman, members, Adam Haynes, Conference of Urban Counties, here to testify.
  • And mailing this out for an urban county is 0.2 to 0.25 percent of our tax rate, and if y'all strap me
  • Because I know in an urban area, it's, you know, $13,000.
  • You know, this information just on the tax look in urban counties is about half where the tax rolls are
Bills: HB17, HB23
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government focused primarily on two bills, HB23 and HB17. HB23, which clarifies existing tax exemptions for charitable organizations, particularly concerning the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, received unanimous support from committee members and was reported out without opposition. Meanwhile, HB17 sparked more robust discussions surrounding transparency in property tax notifications. Proponents argued the necessity of providing clear, direct information to taxpayers about rate changes, while opponents raised concerns about the financial burden this would impose on school districts and local governments, asserting that the bill could lead to significant mailing costs and create an unfunded mandate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Mar 4th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span> Our work is guided by the State Higher Education Strategic Plan
  • span marker="163" data-time="972">Finally, I'd like to turn to the third goal: the State Strategic Plan
  • Our strategic plan includes goals to increase sponsored research by $1 billion a year and to increase
  • We're offering good value to these students who then plan to transfer.
  • Our campuses are located in large urban centers as well as in rural communities. We range from...
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the transformative impact of House Bill 8, which restructured community college funding to emphasize outcomes that align with workforce needs. Dr. Brenda Kays highlighted the importance of community colleges in building Texas's economy, discussing successful partnerships that have emerged from the new framework provided by the bill. Testimonies from various representatives underscored the effectiveness of dual credit initiatives and workforce training, pointing out that increased enrollment and program development directly address regional skill gaps in high-demand fields such as healthcare and technical trades. The discussions revealed a commitment to ensuring that community colleges adapt to changing economic landscapes by equipping students with the skills necessary for sustainable employment.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I have urban areas in Fort Worth and Arlington.
  • It's not such an issue in the urban areas or in the areas closer to the urban areas because we can meet
  • Even a quick look at the plan, and we put maps up.
  • , the current plan, and it complies with all applicable law.
  • You obviously have to draw districts that reach into urban areas.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Congressional Redistricting focused primarily on the discussion of HB4 and SB4, concerning the redistricting process based on the 2020 Census data. Chairman King opened the session, expressing gratitude to the committee members for their attendance and emphasizing the importance of completing redistricting within the special session's 30-day timeframe. Public testimony was a major component, with numerous individuals voicing their opinions both in favor and against the proposed redistricting maps, emphasizing issues of representation and concerns of racial injustices inherent in the process. The majority of witnesses highlighted the need for immediate attention to pressing issues such as flood relief instead of focusing solely on redistricting.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • 119th Congress is Plan C-2193.
  • And that's on the revised congressional redistricting plan?
  • So you're not here to testify on a specific plan.
  • Like you, we have not seen a plan.
  • ...districting plan?
Summary: The meeting of the House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting primarily focused on public testimony regarding the proposed revisions to the congressional redistricting plan known as C-2193. Various members of the public expressed their concerns about potential racial implications of the redistricting process, particularly the impact on black and brown communities. Testimonies highlighted the urgency for the legislature to prioritize flood relief and infrastructure instead of redistricting mid-decade, arguing that it undermines representative fairness and could disenfranchise many voters. The session saw active engagement from constituents who emphasized the importance of public input and transparency in a potentially transformative legislative process. The chair outlined a two-phase hearing plan to gather comprehensive public feedback before moving forward with legislative drafts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Keeping him nine hours away isn't something we planned or hoped for, plus having to pay out-of-state
  • Currently, we support 26 students with IDD and plan

  • But as we grow in the Victoria area and the Coastal Bend area, we feel that the degree plan and those
  • You know, one thing that I might also leave you with is you've heard rural versus urban...
  • ...And A&M is in a lot of urban areas, but we feel like
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on several bills related to education and public safety. Notable discussions included HB1105, which seeks to provide EMS employees with tuition exemptions similar to those received by firefighters and police officers, thus addressing educational parity among first responders. Representative Ward-Johnson presented the bill and highlighted the growing responsibilities of paramedics in the changing landscape of emergency services. Witnesses from the Austin EMS Association spoke in support, emphasizing the importance of quality education for EMS workers in enhancing public safety and service delivery. The committee also discussed HB1705 and HB2290, which aim to improve educational accreditation and health benefits for students, respectively, indicating a broad focus on enhancing the educational framework within the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health

Transcript Highlights:
  • span> There is a lack of affordable property for large grocers in urban
  • The problem is similar for low-income residents in urban areas where fresh produce...
  • programs focused on women's health and preventative health care: Healthy Texas Women, the Family Planning
  • Our network includes FQHCs, public health departments, hospitals, and freestanding family planning clinics
  • ...and we're looking towards discharge planning for you to
Summary: The meeting revolved around critical discussions regarding health-related bills, particularly focusing on women's health and food access issues highlighted in HB1786 and HB231. Representative Howard proposed HB1786 to reinstate the Women's Health Advisory Committee, emphasizing its necessity to address women's healthcare challenges in Texas due to the dissolution of the committee, which had previously facilitated valuable collaboration among healthcare providers. The discussions included testimonials from various stakeholders including health professionals and representatives from advocacy groups, all supporting the need for an advisory body that could effectively address women's health concerns. Additionally, there was strong support for HB231, which aims to study the impact of food deserts on vulnerable populations, as articulated by Representative Morales, making a case for equitable access to nutritious food across the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Jul 21st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I would not even plan on looking at a map myself until after we get through the information gathering
  • That provides a revised congressional redistricting plan
  • I'm just trying to make a plan for the people back home, that's all.
  • Chairman, you do know that in rural areas and urban areas the digital divide is real, correct?
  • Meaning that a lot of people in urban Texas and rural Texas don't have access to virtual capacity.
Summary: The meeting centered around the discussion of congressional redistricting, where the committee established the procedures to ensure a fair and transparent process. Led by Senator King, the session focused on adopting a resolution that authorized a special committee dedicated to congressional redistricting and allowed for regional hearings to gather public input via videoconferencing. Concerns were raised about ensuring adequate notice for public participation, especially from marginalized communities potentially affected by proposed changes. Disagreements emerged regarding the timeline for regional hearings and how to address the implications of the redistricting process on minority districts. Overall, participants acknowledged the complex nature of redistricting and the importance of engaging constituents in the legislative process.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • At its core, it's rural versus urban, because most of

  • the water resources are urban.
  • data-time="252">Most of the resources that will be moved will come from rural areas to the benefit of urban
  • Are you planning on exporting this?
  • I mean, but when they did their DFC and they engaged in joint planning, they, by design, decided and
Summary: The meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation, including HB20, which aims to address disaster fraud in Texas by enhancing protections for victims during emergencies. The committee substitute for the bill was adopted without challenge and moved forward for a favorable recommendation. Public testimony was closed with no registered speakers, indicating strong support or little opposition to the measures being discussed. Additionally, the committee addressed HB27, sparking a significant debate about groundwater management and local regulations, reflecting growing concerns about resource allocation in Texas. Members engaged in discussions surrounding the need for scientific studies before imposing moratoriums on water permits, highlighting the complexities of balancing ecological concerns with community needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 2nd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • of the ones that plan ahead, developing robust infrastructure
  • span> To welcome entrepreneurs to come to the table with their plans
  • The five-year strategic plan is focused on targeting key industries.
  • and engage them early in the unemployment plan would improve
  • So this urban-rural distinction is not as clear as I think
Summary: The meeting convened to discuss HB2214, a bill aimed at clarifying notification requirements regarding flood risks for tenants. Chairman Wallace articulated the bill's intent, discussing how it adjusts previous legislation to alleviate duplicative notifications for temporary leases or short-term rentals. The committee engaged in vibrant dialogue about the implications of this legislation, with representatives expressing support and raising questions about its implementation and effectiveness. Public testimony included insights from realtors and stakeholders, which highlighted the balance between tenant rights and landlord responsibilities in the wake of flood events.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • announced a plan to charge customers a fine of $2,500 for users
  • However, PayPal did decide to retract the plan after there was widespread criticism.
  • The city's plan was an attempt to thwart and breach the will of its citizens and voters.
  • A responsible, well-planned local infrastructure investment is crucial.
  • We show you registered as Adam Haynes on behalf of the Conference of Urban Counties.
Bills: SB512, SB1024
Summary: The meeting focused on the discussion of two significant pieces of legislation: SB512 and SB1024. SB512 aims to protect users of money transmission services by preventing penalties imposed by service providers for violating terms of service. Representative Hayes explained that this bill responds to troubling practices observed among money service businesses. Public testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the bill, highlighting concerns over First Amendment rights and the implications for consumer protection. The committee ultimately left the bill pending for further consideration. In contrast, SB1024 addresses public finance issues, specifically the misuse of voter-rejected projects through certificates of obligation and tax anticipation notes. Senator Betancourt described instances where municipalities have circumvented voter will by issuing debt for projects previously rejected in elections. The committee heard extensive public testimony critiquing the proposed restrictions in the bill, with arguments centered around the potential unintended consequences for local governments and necessary infrastructure projects. Both bills generated lively discussions among committee members, leading to wider considerations of public finance ethics and the relationship between voters and local governments.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Adam, we have you registered as Adam Haynes, Policy Director for the Conference of Urban Counties, and
  • It's to allow the county government and commissioners court to come up with their plan permissively.
  • Is Adam Haynes, policy director for the Conference of Urban
  • data-time="2158"> Again, for the record, registered is Adam Haynes, Policy Director, Conference of Urban
  • Adam Haynes, Conference of Urban Counties, we are testifying against the bill, as my colleague, Mr.
Summary: The meeting focused on various bills concerning law enforcement and budgetary practices in the state. Discussions highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, particularly in Harris County, regarding staffing shortages and funding gaps. Representatives presented bills such as HB2413 and HB2014, which aim to address pay parity and improve law enforcement capabilities within the local jurisdiction. Witness testimonies underscored the urgency of ensuring that law enforcement agencies have the necessary resources to meet the demands of their communities, especially in light of rising crime rates and public safety concerns.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • To implement an effective comprehensive plan, other types

  • Deborah Scott, and I'm a certified wildlife biologist representing myself as a manager of a large urban
  • This bill will allow for more practical and responsible deer management in urban settings where it is
  • There's often this disconnect between urban folks and how
  • But just tentatively plan on 8 o'clock Friday morning.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs was marked by critical discussions surrounding several agricultural bills aimed at addressing the challenges faced by the farming community in Texas. Notably, House Bill 43 was presented, which seeks to update the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority to improve financial support for farmers experiencing crisis due to extensive agricultural losses, exacerbated by drought and supply chain issues. The committee heard testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the urgent need for these reforms to help secure the agricultural industry’s future and ensure support for farmers during these trying times. Another significant topic was House Bill 4163, which aims to relieve agricultural operations from excessive municipal regulations concerning land management along public roadways, highlighting the burdens placed on farmers by local governments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII

Transcript Highlights:
  • Do we have a plan on testing? Are we...
  • And that is our planned program of funded projects over the next 10 years.
  • areas, and that's what we're talking about—these urban and rural areas.
  • So, right now, my projections... there's what's called a floor plan.
  • planning issues across the state.
Summary: The meeting of the Texas Lottery Commission centered around vital discussions regarding the regulatory framework and operational issues related to the lottery and charitable bingo systems in Texas. The committee reviewed financial appropriations, focusing on the need for infrastructure improvements to the Charitable Bingo Operations Division and highlighted the ongoing work with the Sunset Advisory Commission to enhance operational efficiency and compliance. Significant attention was given to the unregulated activities of lottery ticket couriers, which have raised concerns about integrity and fairness in lottery games, prompting the commission to consider appropriate measures to stop such activities.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Planning, and I'll talk about that in a little bit more detail.
  • And there are 15 regional planning groups for flood.
  • that flood plan.
  • We have an initiative to sync up our planning rules.
  • We have a management plan, an adaptive management plan.
Summary: The meeting, led by Chairwoman L'Oreal Stepney, covered several crucial topics focusing on Texas water management and the associated legislative priorities. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) presented its initiatives including the implementation of a 50-hour workweek for Texas Game Wardens, the Cultivated Oyster Mariculture Program, and enhanced funding requests aimed at improving water infrastructure and conservation efforts. Notably, discussions centered around the integration of innovative practices in oyster farming to ensure sustainability and boost coastal resources. Chairwoman Stepney also highlighted the need for improved infrastructure to address water quality and supply challenges given Texas's growing population demands. In addition to water management, there was a significant emphasis on expanding the biosecurity program to combat recent agricultural threats and the establishment of a suicide hotline for farmers, reflecting the committee's commitment towards the well-being of agricultural stakeholders. The meeting concluded with a strong sense of collaboration among committee members and commitments to addressing the pressing needs concerning water resources, conservation, and agricultural safety in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part II) Mar 27th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and events, especially communication plans.
  • James Quintero, TPPF, and Adam Hayes, Conference of Urban Counties.
  • The urban centers. Now, I'm not suggesting...
  • Companies that plan to locate here because of...
  • We plan to continue making significant capital investments here.
Summary: The meeting included discussions primarily focused on energy and insurance-related legislation. Senator Schwartner led the committee in reviewing multiple bills, with a notable emphasis on SB819, which faced opposition from various stakeholders, including energy providers and advocacy groups. Testimonies highlighted concerns about regulatory burdens potentially stifling renewable energy projects, which are crucial to Texas's energy needs. Furthermore, the committee examined SB458, aimed at improving the appraisal process for insurance claims, which garnered support from industry representatives for promoting fairness and transparency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Local Government Aug 1st, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They're appreciative of, but they also are looking for, you know, what's our plan long-term.
  • And that's why it's SB1 as that ultimate plan above it. Because there was no bigger supporter of...
  • In urban counties, it's about 50-50 where people sleep and where they work.
  • We're doing our part to plan responsibly.

  • Seven of the top 15 U.S. cities by percentage growth are in suburban and ex-urban Texas.
Bills: SB9
Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government met to discuss the implications of Senate Bill 9, which focuses on property tax appraisal reforms. The bill's primary goal is to lower the voter-approved tax rate from 3.5% to 2.5%. During the meeting, various stakeholders provided testimony, highlighting concerns about the potential impact of the cap on local governments, especially in rapidly growing areas. Senators engaged in extensive discussions about the balancing act between tax relief and the need for robust public services, emphasizing the need for local flexibility to meet constituents' needs. The bill faced opposition from local officials who argued that the cap could hinder essential services like police and fire departments, as well as infrastructure maintenance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • keeping a job, mental health, and physical health, and planning
  • Housing Voucher Program (EHV) was a one-time federal program administered through the American Rescue Plan
  • ...with 398 households across rural and urban Texas using
  • data-time="7506"> Managed by the Texas Housing and Community Affairs (THCA), the program serves both urban
  • This problem affects all areas of the state, both urban
Summary: The meeting of the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee featured significant discussions surrounding three key bills: HB158, HB1630, and HB3509. Representative Raymond presented HB158, a proposal to reutilize surplus government properties for veteran and low-income family housing, emphasizing the need for permanent housing solutions in Texas. The discussion also touched on the fiscal implications of the bill and potential housing resources. In another session, HB1630 was put forward to make social workers eligible for the Homes for Texas Heroes Home Loan Program, addressing the ongoing housing affordability crisis faced by many Americans, particularly younger generations. This bill garnered bipartisan support, showcasing the committee's collective awareness of the housing challenges impacting essential workers in the community. Lastly, Representative Enchia introduced HB3509, focused on Tourism Public Improvement Districts (TPIDs), which help collect revenue through hotel self-assessments to promote local tourism. This bill aims to enhance competitiveness for conventions in Texas and made clarifications for ease of creating and managing these districts. The committee received various public testimonies expressing support and concerns about the proposed bills. The meeting highlighted the committee's dedication to addressing housing and economic development challenges within Texas, closing with an invitation for further committee discussions and public input.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part II) Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , which is an adaptive plan.
  • to test those plans out.
  • ...water plan and our first-ever state flood plan.
  • Our plan is very...
  • You plan on actually using it all?
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting included a comprehensive discussion on various upcoming budget recommendations impacting the Railroad Commission and water funding allocations. Significant dialogue focused on Senate Bill 30, which addresses water funding appropriations crucial for developing and maintaining the state's water infrastructure amidst growing demand. Testimonies from various stakeholders emphasized the urgency of addressing water resource issues in Texas, given the state's increasing population and the forthcoming infrastructure needs. Additionally, climate change impacts and funding challenges were heavily underscored by the participants, showcasing a collective concern over future water supply and management. The committee also reviewed the implications of Senate Bill 8 and Senate Joint Resolution 75 regarding the creation of new funds and programs for water management and development. Importantly, the potential for a dedicated revenue stream was raised, echoing the sentiment that a historic investment in water infrastructure is critical. The meeting adjourned with plans for a follow-up to further evaluate and confirm budget appropriations, reflecting a strong commitment to tackle Texas's pressing water challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and those title plans have fixed costs.
  • We plan to retrain all our staff across the state.
  • Certain plans are earning more business.
  • health plans change around or areas switch.
  • Once they sign up for their Medicare Advantage plan, it shifts to the Medicaid plan that these patients
Summary: The meeting held by the committee involved significant discussions surrounding various bills, notably focused on transparency and budgeting processes. There were multiple testimonies from public citizens advocating for improved access to local budgets, emphasizing the need for transparency within governmental operations. One speaker highlighted that enabling public access to finalized budgets within three business days can ensure that community voices are heard prior to important votes, enhancing local governance and accountability. The committee members engaged actively, with questions posed to witnesses to clarify points made regarding public access to financial documentation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Mar 13th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Adam Haynes, on behalf of the Conference of Urban Counties.
  • out, and planned for how it bumps up to the city of Katy.
  • We love planning, and that...
  • We want to be careful about our planning.
  • The developer is the one that submits plats and plans, etc.
Bills: HB23, HB363, HB447, HB954
Summary: The meeting was convened by Chairman Gates, focusing primarily on discussions of several key bills including HB363, HB954, and others pertaining to municipal utility districts (MUDs). Notably, a public testimony highlighted the need for comprehensive reform in the MUD process, emphasizing the importance of pre-petition notices to counties to ensure transparency and effective community involvement. The committee members engaged in a dialogue about the necessity of legislative measures to improve notification processes, public safety, and county jurisdiction in these developments. Representative Bell presented HB363, detailing the need for timely notifications to affected parties, which was heavily supported during the discussions.

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