This is the first in a three-part series to summarize takeaways from the West Houston Association’s Quality Planned Development symposium entitled “Building Tomorrow Together” that took place on June 21, 2024.
The panel Prosperous Partnerships explored success stories and playbooks for fostering positive outcomes between developers and decision makers. Led by moderator Diana Miller, Partner at Schwartz Page and Harding, the panel included Anne Sung, Chief Policy and Innovation Officer for Harris County Precinct 4; Joe Zimmerman, Mayor of Sugar Land; and Lisa Clark, Senior Land Consultant at W Land Development. They delved into concrete examples, pilot projects, and strategies for keeping land in a city’s ETJ. With a focus on QPDs, MUDs, and collaborative efforts, attendees discovered how to create thriving communities built to last for generations to come.
Anne Sung, Harris Co. Pct. 4
The panel began with Anne Sung introducing the Places 4 People partnership program spearheaded by Commissioner Lesley Briones of Harris County Precinct 4. “When Commissioner Briones took office, she evaluated past investments in Precinct 4 and saw an opportunity to utilize some of the accumulated fund balance for further investments,” explained Sung.
This initiative focuses on enhancing community infrastructure resilience through collaborative efforts with Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) and developers. Since its inception in 2023, the program has mobilized $170 million in investments, leveraging $88 million from Precinct 4 funds and $82 million from partners. These funds are allocated towards parks, connectivity enhancements, and drainage improvements, aimed at fostering sustainable and resilient urban developments across Harris County. Sung noted, “We are excited about this project and are launching our 2024 call for projects. We’re one week away from the deadline. To learn more, visit the Harris County Precinct 4 website.”
Mayor Joe Zimmerman elaborated on Sugar Land’s approach to Quality Planned Development amidst rapid growth and expansion. Highlighting the city’s historical embrace of master-planned communities like First Colony, Zimmerman discussed recent expansions facilitated by Senate Bill 2038. This legislation has redefined the dynamics of land use control, enabling Sugar Land to negotiate complex development agreements with entities such as Pulte Homes. These agreements extend Sugar Land’s boundaries and integrate regional water and wastewater plans, ensuring sustainable growth while maintaining community standards.
Lisa Clark, W Land Development
Lisa Clark provided insights into navigating development projects under Senate Bill 2038, emphasizing the importance of early engagement with city officials and stakeholders. Drawing on her experience in developing large-scale projects like the 3,000-acre Alvin community, Clark highlighted collaborative strategies involving charrettes and detailed developer agreements. Senate Bill 2038, she noted, has facilitated flexible zoning and infrastructure planning, crucial for aligning development goals with community needs and preferences.
The panel also discussed effective strategies for building productive relationships between developers and municipalities. Emphasizing the role of transparent communication and early engagement, Mayor Zimmerman underscored Sugar Land’s approach to honest dialogue and flexibility in negotiations. Clark echoed these sentiments, advocating for initial engagement with city staff to establish trust and align project goals with community interests.
Furthermore, the discussion addressed challenges and opportunities in urban development, particularly concerning density and community acceptance. Clark emphasized the importance of educating stakeholders on the benefits of mixed-product types and dispelling misconceptions about density. “It’s crucial to start by explaining that a smaller home doesn’t mean lower quality. It’s about the lifestyle that the community and future residents will enjoy,” said Clark.
Joe Zimmerman, Mayor of Sugar Land
Mayor Zimmerman also shared his insights on navigating public perception and balancing community aesthetics with the need for diverse housing options. “The focus should be on the quality of the product… To support restaurants, retail, and a walkable environment like The Woodlands, higher density is necessary.”
The panel concluded with reflections on the future of urban development in Harris County and Sugar Land. Ann Sung highlighted ongoing partnerships with MUDs and governmental entities, essential for advancing infrastructure projects funded through federal grants and local investments. “From a county perspective, our call for projects aligns with core precinct values such as equity, resilience, sustainability, community support, healthy places, and buildings,” said Sung.