Rockwall Voices Op-Ed
Yesterday, testifying at the state capitol was frustrating, to say the least. I understand that some in our community believe state preemption of local decision-making is a good thing. That is your First Amendment right, but it’s not how I believe local government should function
A key discussion in Austin right now centers on property rights. Republican policy groups like the Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF), Texas Scorecard, and Americans for Prosperity-Texas, along with influential organizations such as Texas 2026 and Texans for Reasonable Solutions, are advocating to shift land development and certain local zoning decisions to the state level. Their testimony argues that local governments are restricting property rights and failing to exercise their authority in a reasonable manner.
Anyone claiming that the Governor and Lieutenant Governor fully support local governments having absolute control over property rights is wrong. In reality, this argument is fueling efforts in the legislature to further preempt local authority over zoning and development decisions.
What does this mean for us? Local governments play a critical role in ensuring safe, high-quality development. Stripping away local decision-making will lead to long-term issues that affect property values, infrastructure, and overall community standards. While some argue this is about protecting property rights, in reality, it weakens local control and places more risk on homeowners.
Texas House Bill 23 preempts our ability to ensure well-built neighborhoods. While the bill removes city liability, it shifts the burden onto homeowners. If construction quality or neighborhood standards fail, it is the homeowners—not the city—who will bear the consequences. I will continue working with Representative Pierson’s office to minimize the impact on HD 33 and Rockwall County.
As I have stated, I will continue the fight—whether in Austin or anywhere else—to ensure that local decision-making remains in our hands. It is the people of our community, not the federal or state government, who should determine our destiny.
Mayor David Billings
For Fate & Freedom
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this Op-Ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of The Rockwall Times. We encourage a respectful exchange of perspectives to enrich our community dialogue.
