The Senate Committee on Local Government convened on April 24, 2025, to discuss several significant legislative proposals aimed at improving local governance and housing conditions in Texas. The meeting featured key discussions led by Senator Blanco, focusing on two primary bills: Senate Bill 2608 and Senate Bill 3044.

Senate Bill 2608 seeks to expand the scope of low-income housing properties eligible for renovation through low-income housing tax credits (LIHTCs). Senator Blanco explained that the bill broadens the definition of "at risk" properties to include two federal housing programs—Section 8 and Section 8 substantial rehabilitation projects—that were previously ineligible. This change aims to increase the number of projects benefiting from tax credits, allowing public housing authorities to renovate aging properties that serve very low-income families. Support for the bill was voiced by Shelley Rivas, general counsel for the El Paso Housing Authority, who highlighted the urgent need for renovations in properties that have not seen new construction since 1983.

The second major proposal, Senate Bill 3044, addresses groundwater management in Presidio County. Senator Blanco introduced this bill to increase the number of directors on the groundwater conservation district board from five to seven, allowing the cities of Marfa and Presidio to appoint representatives. This change aims to enhance local governance and stakeholder participation in water management decisions, which are critical for the sustainability of water resources in the region.

Additional discussions included Senate Bill 2367, which extends the authority of a board of park commissioners to Waller County, and Senate Bill 2523, which clarifies the process for reducing municipal extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) through petitions or elections. Both bills were left pending after public testimony, which saw no opposition.

The committee's discussions reflect ongoing efforts to address housing and environmental management challenges in Texas, with a focus on enhancing local representation and resource accessibility. The next steps for these bills will involve further review and potential amendments before they can advance in the legislative process.