Monthly Archives: January 2021

What’s the deal? Atlanta is considering a ban on short term rentals. Why should we care? The conversation on short term rentals is changing to how short term rentals is causing a loss of community. Why does this matter to me? The pandemic led to an increase awareness of community. Expect to hear the refrain, […]

What’s the deal? Inglewood City Council has approved the use of eminent domain for a new Clippers Stadium. Why should we care? Local governmental entities are starting to look at how the use of eminent domain disproportionately against Black property owners. Why does this matter to me? Building stadiums is big business and controversial. Each […]

What’s the deal? A 5G rollout in Houston has property owners up in arms over the aesthetic appeal of 5G infrastructure. Why should we care? Everyone wants faster internet speeds. Everyone is trying to figure out how to increase access to internet, including access to broadband. Why should I care? Lots of stakeholders in this […]

What’s the deal? Rules for restaurants changed during COVID lockdowns. Permit processes were streamlined, outdoor roads and spaces were opened, alcoholic beverage code rules were relaxed, and parking rules moved. Why should we care? Restaurants have taken an economic hit, and are looking toward innovation. Relaxing old rules from an old regime looks a lot […]

Where: Memphis TN The project utilizing eminent domain: A pipeline Data supporting a disproportionate impact to Black land owners: Black landowners are 75% more likely to live near a polluting facility based on a 2017 report by the NAACP and the Clean Air Task Force MLK 50 | Eminent domain lets pipeline developers take land, […]

Prohibiting race based hair discrimination is coming to Texas thanks to HB 1113 (2021 | TX) What will the Texas bill require? Schools must have staff development in cultural competence and implicit bias Grooming policies cannot discriminate Employees cannot be discriminated against based on hair texture or protective hair Hair. Is Deeply Personal. Welcome to […]

According to Gov. Abbott tweets this week, Texas will sue the new administration concerning private property rights. The private property rights of the ranchers and churches on the border subjected to the border wall? We’ll see. WOAI | Gov. Abbott Says State May File Lawsuits Against Biden White House

SB 522 (2021 | FL) will preempt local regulations including specifically inspection and licensing. What will rental platforms have to do under this bill? Quarterly reports for tax purposes Comply with state tourism laws The Center Square | Revived vacation rental bill signals renewed Florida preemption push Florida Politics | Vacation rental preemption left Ron […]

One of the contractors of California’s high speed rail sent a letter to the states’s high speed rail authority explaining state delay in obtaining land (via eminent domain) is slowing down the rail. It’s years behind schedule and billions and billions above cost estimates. Los Angeles Times | Contradicting State, Bullet Train Contractor Reveals Delays

Study authors:  Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute, Texas Water Resources Institute and Texas Land Trust Council What’s a conservation easement? a voluntary agreement between a landowner and a qualified non-governmental organization or government entity the landowner still owns the land the landowner remains in charge of its day-to-day management the landowner commits to minimize or avoid certain types […]