In this episode of the Think Brazos Podcast, Mayor John Nichols of College Station joins us to discuss various challenges and legislative issues affecting housing affordability in Texas. The conversation delves into the implications of impact fees, local control versus state legislation, and the unique housing demands caused by Texas A&M University's large student population. Mayor Nichols also explains the city's efforts to adapt to market pressures, including allowing accessory dwelling units and considering smaller lot sizes. Tune in to understand the complexities of housing policies and their impact on local communities.

You can find a list of housing bills we’re watching here: https://thinkbrazos.org/2025/03/13/texas-housing-legislation-2025-bills-were-tracking/

Mentioned in the episode

SB15 on minimum lot sizes

ADU bills

HB5489 on impact fees

SB 844 on the valid petition process (“tyrant veto”)

SB1567 on occupancy limits by familial status

College Station’s Housing Action Plan: https://www.cstx.gov/departments___city_hall/commserv/development/housing_action_plan

College Station Impact Fees: https://www.cstx.gov/departments___city_hall/pds/engineering/impact_fees

The Think Brazos Podcast is a policy conversation platform produced by staff at Bryan/College Station Habitat for Humanity. As a 501c3, we do not make endorsements of any candidate or political party.

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Addressing Housing Affordability with Rep. Paul Dyson

In this episode of the Think Brazos Podcast, host Charles Coats welcomes Representative Paul Dyson of House District 14 in Texas to discuss the current legislative session. The conversation delves into the pressing issue of housing affordability in Texas, exploring proposed bills and solutions like House Bill 5489, which aims to impose a moratorium on impact fees to ease housing costs. Dyson also shares insights into his experiences as a freshman representative, his committee work, and other legislative efforts around water infrastructure. The episode provides a comprehensive look at the challenges and potential policies affecting housing and growth in Texas. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on how local and state governments are navigating these crucial issues.

The Think Brazos Podcast is policy conversation platform produced by staff at Bryan/College Station Habitat for Humanity. As a 501c3, we do not make endorsements of any candidate or political party. Full disclaimer: https://thinkbrazos.org/about/#disclaimer

Learn more at thinkbrazos.org

We sit down with Salim Furth, Senior Research Fellow and Director of the Urbanity Project at the Mercatus Center, George Mason University. We dive deep into state-level housing bills and explore what's being proposed in Texas’ 89th Legislative Session to enhance housing affordability and attainability. Discover the impact of HB878, the benefits of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and the broader implications of zoning reforms on property rights and local communities. Additionally, Salim provides comparisons to other states like California, Montana, and Florida, shedding light on successful housing policies and their outcomes. Don't miss this detailed discussion on how Texas can navigate legislative reforms to ensure housing remains within reach for its growing population.