the zactax blog

The earth's axis vs groundwater

In this (probably) final episode of 2024, Pat has a couple of water related articles to discuss. Join us as we talk about how groundwater use is affecting the earth's axis; how bottled water...

The case for public space

This week's episode centers on a Texas Monthly piece titled "Why does Texas have so little public land?" Pat and Chad talk about the article and discuss whether cities can improve...

The housing trap with Chuck Marohn

On this epic episode, we welcome Chuck Marohn, founder and president of Strong Towns. Chuck's bestselling new book, Escaping the Housing Trap, kicks off the conversation, which winds its way...

The tizzy

On this somewhat feisty episode of ZacCast, Patrick and Chad discuss the built-in assumptions behind our development patterns, compare development in DFW and Houston, talk traffic planning, and...

The appraisal district drama

In this episode, Patrick and Chad drop some hot takes on the appraisal changes recently approved by the Tarrant Appraisal District. We talk about addressing the symptoms of the property tax system...

What's the deal with the economy?

Summer break is over and ZacCast is back at full strength. Today's episode is all about the economy. From macro to micro, how can cities prepare for what's next?

01:04 - Dr Evil...

The Vacation Episode

Join us as we catch up and chat about life and cities in this grab bag episode:

00:10 - Patrick's waterpark excursions
02:53 - Patrick reviews Kalahari
01:40 - Is Schlitterbahn...

The kind of problem a city is

In this episode, Patrick and Chad look at the Scottie Scheffler arrest and subsequent dismissal of charges from the perspective of a city manager. What went wrong and how can you do better? Then we...

Liability Lane

In this episode, Pat and Chad talk about inflation remaining stubborn and how cities can/should better report their infrastructure liabilities.

00:00 - on pets
01:55 - on...

Introducing ZacNews

ZacNews is a curated news service featuring the most important news, opinion, and research pieces that the Zac team comes across. It's a free add-on for ZacTax users.