Liberal local governance has flourished under a misguided interpretation of local control, and, if left unchecked, it threatens to turn the Texas miracle into a California nightmare.
Local officials should understand that local control is not a blank check, nor is it an excuse for tyrannical policies, like oppressively high property taxes and involuntary annexation. Instead, it’s a tool to further the primary purpose of government, i.e.,the promotion of life, liberty and property rights.
In cases where local control is being used to justify oppression and over reach, state lawmakers have every reason to step in and take action. After all, local governments are creatures of the state, and the Texas Legislature plays an important oversight role. Getting control of Texas’ runaway local governments should be a top priority for incoming lawmakers.
James Quintero, Austin
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