Chairman's Letter

Hello Friends,

The Greater Houston Partnership released its 2023 Houston Facts publication, providing a wealth of information about our city’s economy and industries. The research team, led by Chief Economist Patrick Jankowski, does an excellent job highlighting key indicators of the region’s economy. This latest report summarizes the Houston region as an “economic powerhouse” that is attracting new companies, investment, and talent.

A particular highlight is the Houston region’s goal to position itself as the leader in global energy transition. And it is happening! Houston has seen constant growth in annual energy transition investments during the last five years, according to the report. Houston-based energy transition startups, businesses, and companies secured $6.1 billion in financing from private-market investments in 2022, which is a 61.9 percent increase compared to the previous year.

There were more than an estimated 71,000 workers across multiple clean energy sectors last year and that is the highest since before the pandemic.

The report also cites that our region remains the second most affordable major metro among the 20 most populous cities in the U.S.

And it’s about to get better.

Legislation that passed this month would raise Texas’ homestead exemption to $100,000, lower schools’ tax rates, and put an appraisal cap on residential and commercial properties, among other measures. Some commercial property owners could find relief  in a lower tax bill plus protection over unexpected appraisal hikes. This legislation amounts to $12.7 billion in property tax cuts and it will be on a ballot later this year for voters’ approval.

On the BoyarMiller home front, I am very proud that the 2024 edition of The Best Lawyers of America©  has recognized eleven of our attorneys in their respective practice areas. In addition, five attorneys have been named to the 2024 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch listing.

We also welcome three new members of our team. Claire Fernandez Bahney joins us as Of Counsel in the real estate group, Associate Jenna Shorter joins the litigation group focusing on probate litigation and Erica Moreno is a new probate litigation legal assistant.

Lastly, we invite you to visit our refreshed website relaunched this month. Our goal is to provide a better user experience as you navigate the pages and articles posted. I hope you will browse it at your convenience and let us know your thoughts.