While those smaller cities are welcoming their new neighbors, they’re concerned about a drain on resources following state lawmakers passage of a property tax reform bill.

Elected officials in several Texas cities and counties are considering property tax rate hikes and an end to certain tax exemptions before a new property tax limit takes effect on Jan. 1. “This is basically the cities and counties’ last bite of the apple before the 3½ percent limit takes effect,” Dale K. Craymer, president…

Homeowners across the state have seen the amount of taxes owed on their property increase year after year. Complaints of appraisals, confusing statements and rising taxes have made ownership less desirable.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law Wednesday Senate Bill 2, legislation aimed at slowing the growth of Texans’ property tax bills. The bill was one of the top priorities for Texas lawmakers this legislative session.

Currently, local governments can increase collections by 8 percent before the public can petition for a rollback election. Houston is under different rules because of a voter referendum and can only go to 4 percent….