Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Waller County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in taxes budget
Tax Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) exploration
A 53.87-acre zone near Brookshire is proposed to support the Race Rock/Orizon steel pole plant — a project with more than $68 million in planned investment. The abatement deal depends on this zone being created first.
Proposed IDV QOZB 2023 tax abatements
Four new warehouses totaling over a million square feet could come to Brookshire if the county approves tax abatements worth an estimated $63.6 million in construction.
Tesla/Empire West tax abatement assignment
The county's 2025 tax abatement deal tied to Tesla's Brookshire-area facility could be assigned to a new owner, Brookshire Commerce Center ILP, LLC. The court's consent keeps the abatement terms in place under new ownership.
Tesla tax abatement agreement assignment
Tesla's abatement deal on the Empire West facilities moves to the new property owner, Brookshire Commerce Center ILP, LLC. The county's consent keeps the abatement terms in place under new ownership.
GIS Program and Support Department Investment
Johnson Development wants to name a collector road in memory of Brittlee Hildebrand, but it conflicts with the county's naming policy because of a similar road name to the north. The engineer sees no emergency-response risk but tabled it to avoid setting precedent without the precinct commissioner present.
Courthouse project spending transparency
A Monaville resident delivered a petition asking the court to share cost breakdowns and renderings for the courthouse/justice system project, arguing a certificate of obligation spends money without voter approval while a bond would require a vote.
Precinct 3 building design contract amendment
Amendment No. 2 to the LDD Blueline contract would continue design work on the new Precinct 3 building.
Commercial Property Appraisal Concerns
Online chatter claims the appraisal district may raise the ag exemption minimum to 20 acres. Judge Duhon says the chief appraiser has no such plan, and points residents to the appraisal district's May 5 and May 8 meetings — not the tax office — for input.
2027 Legislative Agenda
The county is drafting its legislative agenda, including funding for the detention pond and jail expansion, a new district court, commercial vehicle parking restrictions for neighborhoods, and changes to county assistance district law.