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Change is inevitable but in Houston, it can be controlled.  Changes to certain parts of Houston, specifically six neighborhoods -  have gone through major changes the last several years. Most of the sections consist of older homes that need repair or need to be demolished. Investors and most homeowners have enjoyed taking part of this but not all. Remaining homeowners encounter higher taxes due to the new construction and to the high price sales of homes. This makes it difficult for homeowners to remain in their beloved neighborhoods. 

The City Council of Houston will help six pilot neighborhoods labeled as the Conservation Districts, as a tool to preserve historic character. The six pilot neighborhoods are Independence Heights, Feedmen's Town (aka Fourth Ward), Acres Home, Magnolia Park/Manchester, Pleasantville and Piney Point (not Piney Point Village).

According to the press release of Houston's Planning & Development department the Conservation District designation will allow the residents in these specific neighborhoods to identify the important aspects of their community, to promote new compatible development, and to encourage the harmonious, orderly, and efficient growth and redevelopment of the city neighborhoods.

Additionally, the residents and property owners will have many other opportunities to give input. The process will begin with community meetings.  Property owners will then receive a response form by regular mail to indicate their support or opposition for the proposed district. To move to the next phase of approval, the proposed district must receive approval from 51% or more of the property owners.

It will be interesting to see if this approval of guidelines will benefit the pilot neighborhoods or hinder them from evolving. It will be up to the residents and property owners to approve or disapprove new development.

If you are a resident of any of these communities, do you like this idea? Leave a comment.

If you are a developer or investor, will you be willing to go through the necessary steps to gain 51% approval of the neighborhood?