Fate, TX – A recent analysis by the Fate Tribune has uncovered a pivotal event in August of 2023 where Fate City Council Member Jim DeLand, along with his supporters David Billings, Heather Buegeler, Mark Harper, and Lance Megyesi, took a controversial step by proposing and approving Resolution No. R-2023-061. This resolution has now become law in Fate, TX, and reshapes zoning regulations in Fate.
DeLand, acting as the primary proponent, made the motion to approve the ordinance change, which subsequently garnered enough support from his colleagues for passage. The resolution, aimed at amending the Zoning Protest statute established in 1927, introduces significant alterations to the zoning process. Notably, it mandates a supermajority vote of the council if 50% of landowners who own property within 200 feet of the proposed land for zone change, as opposed to the previous 20%, object to a zoning change. In effect, they stole the property rights from one land owner to give it to another … who proposes development desirable by the city.
Championed and supported by texansforhousing.org, the resolution is rooted in the ethos of democratizing zoning decisions and fostering community growth. However, concerns have arisen regarding the motivations behind the proposed reforms, particularly considering Texansforhousing.org’s association with the Texas Municipal League (TML), which crafted the legislation and continues to support this legislation at the State level. This linkage raises questions about potential outside influences on local governance and decision-making processes.
Moreover, it’s important to note that the City of Fate is a member of the TML and provides financial support to that organization, underscoring the intertwined nature of local politics and statewide advocacy efforts.
Texansforhousing.org’s is a leftist organization run by Charles Blain, Charles Coats, and Dan Keshet. While proponents argue for increased community involvement and economic development, opponents raise valid concerns regarding property rights, local control, responsible development, and affordability.
In light of the upcoming elections, where DeLand and Buegeler are likely to face replacement by Mark Hatley and Codi Chinn, as the new council members come into power, they will inherit the responsibility of reconsidering this ordinance and possibly restoring it to its historical status.
Critics of the resolution contend that the increased threshold for a valid petition infringes upon property rights of the minority, and undermines local control. They argue that the previous version of the law provided residents with a meaningful voice in zoning matters, ensuring decisions align with community preferences and rightfully increase the burdon necessary to made changes to zoning which will affect the community for generations.
As the community grapples with the implications of Resolution No. R-2023-061 proposed by Jim DeLand, it is imperative for residents to engage in open dialogue and participate in the democratic process by going to the polls in May to select new representation.