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In support of all amendments to the State Con
Staff Report
Published October 24, 2009
On the recommendation of the area’s three state legislators — state Sen. Kevin Eltife, R-Tyler; state Sen, Bob Duell, R-Greenville and state Rep. Mark Homer, D-Paris, — The Paris News supports all 11 proposed amendments to the Texas State Constitution in the upcoming Nov. 3 election.
However, we understand the concerns of those who disagree on several of the amendments and encourage everyone to do their own research and come to a conclusion. The most important thing is to vote.
Proposition 1 gives a city or a county the authority to buy land as a buffer zone near a military base, something entities can not currently do under the Texas Constitution. A decision would be made at the local level, which we see as a plus.
Proposition 2 protects homeowners from residences being appraised at commercial values. This one is a no-brainer. State law currently requires property to be appraised on its highest and best use, which often causes homeowners to be forced from their homes or pay higher taxes.
Proposition 3 would establish uniform tax appraisal standards across the state. Right now a house in Lamar County and one in Dallas or Tarrant County might look the same, but be appraised by different standards.
Proposition 4 would take nearly $500 million that now sits in a dormant fund to encourage the state’s universities to beef up research programs, which attract grant money, venture capital and jobs. Universities would have to earn grants from the state by meeting rigorous criteria.
Proposition 5 would allow (not require) two or more county appraisal districts to form a single appraisal review board. This would be beneficial to sparsely populated counties that have trouble finding qualified persons to sit on boards. The Texas Constitution bars elected officials and employees of any government entity with the power to tax from sitting on boards. That makes it hard for some appraisal districts.
Proposition 6 would extend the Veteran Land Board’s ability to offer veterans access to low-interest loans to buy land or purchase homes. We owe this much and more to those who defend our freedom.
Proposition 7 allows a member of the Texas State Guard to serve in an elected paid capacity. The state constitution prohibits Texans from holding more than one paid civil office, but there are exceptions such as justices of the peace, county commissioners or members of the National Guard. The Texas State Guard should be added to the exception list.
Proposition 8 authorizes the state to contribute money, property and other resources for the establishment, maintenance and operation of veterans hospitals. Some areas of our state need to have facilities closer to home for veterans.
Proposition 9 strengthens the public’s right to access Texas beaches. It elevates the Open Beaches Act, which is continuously challenged by lawsuits, to constitutional level.
Proposition 10 extends terms of emergency services districts from two to four years. In many of the state’s unincorporated areas, these boards ensure that residents have fire and rescue services. Extended terms would provide more experience on these important boards.
Proposition 11 gives further constitutional protection for private property owners by making it clear that land can only be taken for public use, not commercial gain. The amendment may not go far enough, but at least property owners will have more protection than in the past.
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