Texas Senate Bill SB1205

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/6/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/16/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/18/09

Caption

Relating to community land trusts.

Impact

This legislation amend local government code and tax regulations to facilitate the establishment of community land trusts, which are required to operate as nonprofit organizations. The core objectives of these trusts include providing affordable housing opportunities for families earning at or below 80% of the area median family income while mandating that at least 25% of units serve families earning below 60%. Moreover, the bill introduces taxation exemptions for land owned by these trusts, streamlining their operations and capacity to maintain affordability amidst rising housing costs.

Summary

SB1205 introduces a set of provisions establishing community land trusts within local government frameworks aimed at increasing access to affordable housing. The bill defines the parameters for creating such trusts and underscores their role in acquiring land to develop and preserve long-term affordable housing options for low-income and moderate-income families. Under this framework, municipalities and counties can designate or create community land trusts that serve the dual purpose of promoting resident ownership and ensuring the affordability of housing for future generations.

Contention

While proponents argue that SB1205 addresses the pressing need for affordable housing and offers a sustainable model for its provision, critics may voice concerns about the reliance on government entities to oversee these trusts. There could be apprehensions regarding the regulatory burden placed upon local governments in managing these programs and questions around the viability and effectiveness of trust operations in maintaining long-term affordability without mismanagement. Furthermore, it could spark debates on whether such structures adequately respond to the housing crisis or if they present an insufficient solution without robust oversight mechanisms.