ROWLETT, TX – In a move to safeguard local tax revenues, Rowlett Mayor Jeff Winget announced that the City Council recently reached an agreement to file two lawsuits, in partnership with Garland ISD, seeking temporary restraining orders (TROs) against the Pleasanton Housing Finance Corporation and Pecos Housing Finance Corporation. This action aims to address concerns over tax exemptions that could divert crucial funds away from Rowlett.
The Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs) have acquired properties in Rowlett, including The Station Apartments and a planned development in the North Shore district. These properties, once developed, would become exempt from ad valorem property taxes at all levels—city, county, and school district—while still benefiting from municipal services provided by Rowlett.
HFCs are non-profit entities designed to partner with developers to create affordable housing opportunities. While they generally serve a beneficial purpose—such as providing down payment assistance and home repair programs—certain HFCs have begun to operate outside their intended scope, purchasing properties and seeking tax-exempt status without local approval.
Mayor Winget shared his concerns, stating, “Tax dollars being pulled out of the city’s pocket means that the city must either collect more revenue from other properties (i.e. you pay more taxes) or service cuts must be implemented (i.e. we reduce programming or headcount). Neither of these is acceptable to me as Mayor, nor to me as a taxpaying citizen of this community, and I don’t believe it would be to you either.”
The City of Rowlett remains committed to protecting its residents and their quality of life. A hearing regarding the request for a temporary injunction is scheduled for June 4. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about this issue by following Mayor Winget’s updates on social media.
