The City of Texas City Community Development Department is funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Community Development Department provides various services throughout the City, and supports other City departments.

Some of the service activities that Community Development is responsible for includes, but is not limited to:

• First-Time Homebuyer's Program
• Housing Rehabilitation Program
• Demolition of Sub-Standard Structures
• City Code Enforcement
• Rodent & Pest Control
• Street & Drainage Construction
• Community Policing

There are a few requirements that must be met for each program, and there is a waiting list in most cases. However, the Community Development Department is here to help you create a safe, clean neighborhood that you can be proud to live in.

Low and moderate income families who are eligible can receive up to $5,000 to assist with the down payment and closing cost towards their new home. Only Texas City residents are eligible for assistance and you must have been a Texas City resident for the past 12 months. Proof of residency is required.

The following table is used to establish and applicant's eligibility for the First Time Homebuyer's assistance, based on maximum gross family income and size. (Based on HUD 2007 requirements).

Income verification will be verified by obtaining a copy of the past 2 years W-2 annual wage forms and past 2 years income tax return, social security statement, retirement benefit, and/or any other form of documentation necessary. Applicant must also be fully approved by a mortgage lender.

The primary objective of the Housing Rehabilitation program is to aid in the development of viable neighborhoods and communities by providing emergency repair assistance to low and moderate income families and to ensure a decent, safe and sanitary living environment. Any resident of Texas City wishing to apply for Housing Rehabilitation assistance must complete an application. All information will be verified. Some of the documentation that is required:

• Proof of income for all household members over 18 years
• Copy of Ownership Deed
• Copy of past 2 years W-2 wage forms
• Copy of last 2 years income tax return

A sign agreement to NOT sell or alienate the property for a period of at least 2 years from the date of repair completion.

Condemned structures are sometimes demolished. Demolition of substandard structures can occur when a structure has been inspected and determined to be substandard from deterioration, dilapidation, or if the structure is an immediate threat to the health or welfare of the community. There are other reasons that a structure can be tagged:

• No running water
• No electricity
• Drug activity

Code Enforcement was designed to ensure the health and safety of each neighborhood and the community. If left alone, these areas would become chaotic, unhealthy and dangerous.

Here are a few things you can do to improve your neighborhood and ensure its safety.

Your Home

• Install your address so that it can be seen from the street, this is for emergency response purposes and your safety

Your Yard and Property

• Do not store vehicles, furniture, or allow trash & junk to accumulate on your porch or property.
• Keep grass & high weeds cut including the alley are behind your house where rats, mice and snakes can hide.
• Do not blow grass cuttings in storm drains.
• Trim your trees and bushes.

Your Vehicles

• Do not allow abandoned, junked or wrecked vehicles to remain on your property.
• Get current registration & inspection stickers.
• Make sure your vehicle is operable.

Your Garbage

• Securely containerize your garbage.
• Remove any scattered trash, junk, garbage or filth especially in your alley.

Your Community

• Do not post notices, yard sale or garage sale signs on trees, utility poles, and traffic signs or on city easement.

Contact Information

City of Texas City Community Development Department
928 5th Avenue North
Texas City, TX 77590