We may be experiencing a building boom but it is not producing affordable housing…and that’s what municipal leaders desperately need. The lack of affordable housing has become a national problem. The Urban Institute reports that for every 100 low-income American households seeking affordable apartments, fewer than 30 units are available.
Now that the rhetoric and the debate over passage of the federal tax bill have subsided, one component of that legislation is getting lots of attention. That would be “Opportunity Zones.”
In June, the U.S. Department of the Treasury approved the final round selection efforts for designated opportunity zones. This new program allows investors to avoid capital gains tax by socking away profits by investing opportunity funds in designated zones throughout the country.
We may be experiencing a building boom but it is not producing affordable housing…and that’s what municipal leaders desperately need.
The lack of affordable housing has become a national problem. The Urban Institute reports that for every 100 low-income American households seeking affordable apartments, fewer than 30 units are available. And the National Apartment Association reports 4.6 million new units will be needed by 2030. City leaders need homes near the heart of the city for people who are employed by law enforcement, fire departments, emergency response units, school districts and healthcare facilities… and in most urban areas, affordable homes simply don’t exist.
In its newest 21st Century reorganization effort, the U.S. Army has announced that Austin—known as a hub for innovation, technology, research and academia—has been chosen as its base for the country’s new high-tech, four-star Futures Command.
Many intelligent people still blink with confusion when someone mentions blockchain technology. That won’t be the case for long though, because it appears this new technology has reached the “tipping point.” Its upward trajectory indicates universal acceptance. Because of that, it’s now incumbent on all of us to understand more about blockchain. It promises to be a very significant part of our future.
Returning from a July 4 break, members of Congress found themselves facing a number of high-priority issues with no quick resolutions. With an omnibus funding bill still in limbo, lawmakers are now trying to pass individual funding bills.
On Wednesday, October 17, 2018, the LBJ School of Public Affairs and Strategic Partnerships, Inc. (SPI) will host the 10thbiennial Texas Legislative Communication Conference (TLCC). The conference brings together executive directors, board members, senior state agency representatives, business leaders, educators, and local government officials. The daylong event will feature three outstanding Keynote Speakers and panels of legislators, agency directors and other state officials will discuss budget issues, legislative priorities, contracting and procurement processes, Hurricane Harvey ramifications and how to work successfully with the offices of elected officials.
Since 1998, the TLCC has been highly successful with hundreds in attendance, but seating is limited and registration will close once the maximum number of attendees has been reached. All sessions will be at The University of Texas J.J. Pickle Research Campus in Austin. Registration information will be on SPI’s website by mid-July.
Legislative leaders have always been key presenters. Their remarks, advice and guidance add immeasurably to TLCC’s success. The conference is interactive as audience members are encouraged to ask questions. Once all speakers are confirmed, the agenda will be posted on the website. The agenda topics will be important, timely and of significant interest to all in attendance.
Organizers believe this year’s TLCC will be the best yet! Interested parties are advised to register early.
