TRZ Proposal Tabled Indefinitely

TYLER — At the request of County Judge Joel Baker, the Smith County Commissioners Court has essentially tabled the proposal to establish a Transportation Reinvestment Zone (TRZ) in the county for now, pending further review by the court. A county spokesperson says the judge and commissioners want to give themselves time to further study and review the proposal. Baker mentioned that he still has questions that are unanswered, and several of the commissioners concurred that they did as well.

No specific date was set for the court to address the TRZ issue, but it was mentioned as “later” in 2014. Baker did say that he and the commissioners don’t want to rush into a major decision such as this. He added that he wants to ensure that whatever action the court takes will be in the best interest of the citizens of Smith County. Baker also mentioned that five public hearings have been held regarding this matter, and there have been both supporters and opponents at all meetings. The project would capture 50% of future property taxes along a designated Toll 49 corridor for construction on Toll 49 and adjoining highways.