The Senate Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs is taking a very close look at the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. TDHCA was addressed by Senate Bill 264 during the last session, and the committee, along with the House Committee on Urban Affairs, is considering what changes need to be made in the agency.

John Henneberger from the Texas Low Income Housing Information Service was the first witness. His group represents low-income Texans who are served by the agency. He said that the Legislature wants to make sure the limited funds that are available are fairly allocated based on regional needs. He recommended that no changes be made to the way the agency is currently allocating funds to urban versus rural areas.

Ms. Edwina Carrington from TDHCA testified that additional federal funds are scheduled for housing and that some areas have done "very well". She said her agency is offering additional assistance for developments in certain underserved areas.

Donna Chatham, Executive Director at the Association of Rural Communities in Texas, told the committee that tax credit deals have been effective in promoting development in rural Texas over the past few years.

The Senate Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs is chaired by Senator Frank Madla. Members include Senators Kim Brimer, vice-chair, Bob Deuell, Mario Gallegos and Jeff Wentworth. The committee recessed subject to call of the chair.

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