This week, Texas faces significant urban sprawl, driven by population growth in search of jobs and affordable housing. While the state boasts no income tax and business opportunities, rising housing costs and property taxes pose challenges. Urban sprawl displaces wildlife, strains local infrastructure, and leads to increased traffic and safety concerns. A meeting on September 8 at Reno City Hall invites residents to discuss smart development and preservation of community character, emphasizing the importance of using native plants to enhance local ecologies. Community engagement is crucial in shaping an approach that balances growth with the preservation of open spaces and quality of life.