WHA Supports Proposition 1

Proposition 1 is a constitutional amendment that will allow a portion of the revenue from the oil and natural gas production tax to be transferred to the State Highway Fund for the sole purpose of constructing, maintaining, and purchasing right of way for public roads. The proposed constitutional amendment is the first critical step towards fully funding our road infrastructure system.

The West Houston Association Board of Directors has passed a resolution in support of Proposition 1, and encourages all of our members to vote FOR Proposition 1 on November 4th. For more information on Proposition 1 click here. A PDF of the resolution is available for download: WHA Resolution- Proposition 1

WHA ALERT

EPA has recently released a proposed Waters of the U.S. Rule that will redefine the landscape and scope of water regulation in the United States. Going so far as to even contemplate the regulation of puddles, this proposed rule, once finalized, could have significant adverse effects on the real estate and development industry.

At a recent Wetlands Issue Forum, Sharon Mattox of Sharon M. Mattox, P.L.L.C., a recognized expert on Texas Wetlands and the Clean Water Act provided an overview of the proposed rule, its possible impacts, and possible paths forward. Click Here for copy of her presentation.

WHA Opposes Anti-Mud SB/HB 14 in Texas Legislature

The Association strongly opposes SB/HB 14 and all of their derivates bills for the extremely negative impact on the ability of MUDs’ and local governments ability to finance infrastructure needed to support new growth.

WHA Supported HCC Bond Election passes

The Houston Community College plays a role of growing importance in our education system. It is important as well to the West Houston Association that HCC is focusing significant attention on West Houston through expanded facilities and educational programs at its Northwest College campuses. Their collaborative, bridge-building approach in higher education with the University of Houston and the University of Texas at Tyler brings significant benefit to both our business community and the public. These efforts will benefit from HCC’s newly authorized $425 million bond program.

WHA Supported Metro Nov. 6th Election

The WHA Board of Directors strongly supported the November 6 Metro referendum continuing Metro’s funding of roads to participating jurisdictions. More at this WHA Link.

City of Houston Expands of Development Ordinance, Chapter 42

Changes to Chapter 42 expand to the Houston city limits, alternative, urban building standards that now apply only to areas inside Loop 610. This in part allows reduced building line requirements along major thoroughfares, lot size performance standard, and reduced compensating open space. Also changed are guest parking requirements. Click on the following links for additional information (PDF). Changes are now being proposed to Houston Council.

CITY OF HOUSTON’S NEW Residential Buffering STANDARDS

Houston City Council adopted a new Residential Buffering Ordinance in December, 2011 which establishes buffers between single family and new commercial development. Exempted are developments along major thoroughfares, transit corridors and in major activity centers (MACs). Greater West Houston has three MACs: Energy Corridor, Westchase and Memorial City/Town & Country. The ordinance and presentation are available at this external website.