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24-R-150 Legislative PlatformRESOLUTION NO. 24-R-150 A RESOLUTION BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS ESTABLISHING A LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM AND PRIORITIES FOR THE 89TH LEGISLATIVE SESSION IN TEXAS WHEREAS, the State of Texas 89a' legislative session begins January 14, 2025; and WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes the importance of partnering with the State of Texas to make our community even greater; and WHEREAS, the City Council believes that active legislative engagement is an effective way to work with our state partners to ensure the interests of Schertz residents and businesses are represented and protected; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that it is in the public interest to provide clear legislative direction and take positions on certain issues that may arise during the 89a` Texas Legislative Session; and WHEREAS, the City Council has identified the following priorities and issues of concern as being worthy of advocacy on behalf of the people of the City of Schertz. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS THAT: Section 1. The City of Schertz hereby adopts Attachment A as the 2025 Legislative Agenda for the City of Schertz. Section 2. The City Manager, along with other designated city officials, is directed to actively advocate for the priorities outlined in the 2025 Legislative Agenda. Advocacy efforts may include, but are not limited to, direct communication with state legislators, participation in relevant hearings and meetings, and collaborating with other municipalities and organizations. Section 3. This Resolution shall be in force and effect from and after its final passage, and it is so resolved. PASSED AND ADOPTED, this 3 day of N��-�t e-2024. CITY OF CHERT , TEXAS Ral utie , Mayor ATTEST: Sheree Courney, Deputy City Secretary Attachment A City of Schertz 2025 Legislative Agenda This agenda serves as a guiding document for advocacy efforts during the 2025 legislative session. Legislation the City of Schertz Supports A. FundiML for Disabled Veterans Homestead Exemption (DVHS) Program • Advocate for dedicated state funding to offset local revenue losses caused by the DVHS program, which, while essential for disabled veterans, has placed a financial strain on our community by reducing property tax revenue needed for critical services. B. Funding or Additional Resources for Local Transportation/Infrastructure Projects • Support enhanced transportation and infrastructure funding to support growth, economic development, and improved quality of life for residents. C. Funding or Additional Resources for Parks and Trails Development • Support increased state grants and expanded use of Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funds for park and trail improvements to foster community engagement and wellness. D. State Grant Funding for Water Resources • Support additional state funding to the Texas Water Development Board, as identified in the State Water Plan, to advance critical water conservation and infrastructure projects. Legislation the City of Schertz Opposes A. Unfunded Mandates • Oppose partially or full unfunded mandates that place additional financial burdens on local budgets and divert resources away from local priorities. B. Erosion of Zoninp- Authoritv and Local Development Tools • Oppose legislation that diminishes a cities ability to determine lot sizes, parking, and density requirements in the city limits. • Oppose legislation that restricts the city's ability to regulate land use, including short-term rentals. • Oppose legislation that limits the time or authority the City has to review site plans and plats. C. Measures that undermine Economic Development • Oppose legislation that would hinder local economic development tools, including incentives or other support mechanisms critical for attracting and retaining businesses. D. Preemption of Local Control • Oppose legislation that erodes local control or weakens the ability of locally elected leaders to address unique challenges and opportunities. • Oppose legislation that limits city authority over extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ), including boundary changes, annexations, and disannexations. • Oppose legislation that preempts local authority to regulate activities affecting density, zoning, permitting, and inspections E. Restrictions on advocacy • Oppose efforts to restrict advocacy by the Texas Municipal League or similar organizations that advocate on behalf of local governments in Texas.