As the 89^th Legislative Session convenes, Texas lawmakers are prioritizing initiatives designed to create a more business-friendly climate for 2025. Key proposals aim at providing tax relief, boosting economic incentives, and introducing financial strategies that benefit both businesses and homeowners across the state. Several key bills center around tax reduction and incentive creation, including Senate Bill 1 (SB1), Senate Bill 4 (SB4), House Bill 1508 (HB1508), and House Bill 3291 (HB3291). These bills aim to implement targeted tax reforms that could significantly shape the economic landscape, providing businesses with more favorable tax structures, promoting job growth, and potentially stimulating consumer spending. If passed, these bills have the potential to drive economic growth and further strengthen Texas’ position as a leading state for business development.

SB1 – Business Tax Relief

Referenced in the Senate’s Budget for Texas, authored by State Sen. Joan Huffman (District 17), SB1 proposes allocating $500 million from the General Revenue Fund to provide tax relief for businesses. However, lawmakers are still discussing how these cuts will be implemented. As the General Appropriation Bill, this legislation will undergo several rounds of revisions before it progresses from the Senate Finance Committee to the Senate floor for a vote.

Both the Texas House and Senate have demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting targeted tax relief for businesses in 2025, with both governing bodies actively working to pass legislation that will ease the tax burden on businesses. This bipartisan support reflects a shared, business-friendly approach as the state looks to create a more favorable environment for businesses throughout the upcoming legislative session.

Texas has a rainy-day fund that is projected to have more than $28 billion, and the state’s budget has a nearly $24 billion surplus, which is money left over from the last budget cycle.

SB4 – Expanding Homestead Exemptions

As Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Government, State Sen. Paul Bettencourt (District 7) oversees SB4, which seeks to raise the homestead exemption from $100,000 to $140,000 for homeowners and $150,000 for seniors. This means eligible homeowners will see more of their home’s value exempt from school district property taxes, reducing their tax liability. With bipartisan support, the bill will ease property taxes while making sure schools do not lose funding. SB4 has already passed the state senate unanimously and is now headed to the state house for a vote. If passed, eligible homeowners could save over $500 a year—great news for local businesses, since more money in people’s pockets means more spending in the community.

HB1508 – Repealing the Franchise Tax

House Bill 1508 (HB1508), authored by State Rep. Will Metcalf (District 16), aims to repeal Texas’ franchise tax, currently mandated under Chapter 171 of the Tax Code. If passed, businesses subject to the tax as of December 31, 2025, will no longer be required to file franchise tax reports or remit payments. However, the Texas Comptroller will maintain the authority to audit and collect outstanding tax liabilities accrued before the repeal. Eliminating the franchise tax could reduce operational costs for businesses, improving Texas’ attractiveness as a business hub. HB1508 is in the early stages of the legislative process and will be allocated to the relevant house committee for further review.

HB3291 – Economic Development Incentives for Type A EDCs

Authored by State Rep. Cole Hefner (District 5) and filed on February 25, 2025, HB3291 aims to improve the financial viability of projects developed by Type A Economic Development Corporations (EDCs), authorized to use sales tax revenue to fund economic development projects. Currently, businesses leasing property from EDCs are subject to property taxation, which can be a significant burden on operational expenses. HB3291 proposes to designate properties owned by Type A EDCs and leased to private entities as serving a “public purpose,” making them exempt from ad valorem (property) taxes.

Eligible cities must have a population of at least 25,000 to form a Type A EDC, while counties with populations of 500,000 or more may also be eligible. This exemption would eliminate property tax obligations for businesses leasing from Type A EDCs, lowering operational costs. HB3291 aims to foster a more favorable environment for economic development, encouraging further investment in projects that benefit both the local economy and the state’s broader business climate.

HB9 – Texas Business Property Tax Exemption Bill

 The Texas Business Property Tax Exemption Bill (HB9), sponsored by Rep. Morgan Meyer (R), aims to provide tax relief for businesses by increasing the exemption for tangible personal property. This bill, introduced on February 24, 2025, proposes raising the exemption from $2,500 to $250,000 for business-related personal property used to generate income. If passed, businesses will only need to report their taxable personal property if its value exceeds the new exemption threshold. The bill’s provisions are contingent on voter approval of a related constitutional amendment in November 2025. If approved, the changes would take effect starting with the 2025 tax year.

The Broader Economic Impact of Texas’ Tax Reforms

If passed, these bills would lead to lower tax liabilities for businesses and reduced property taxes for homeowners—key drivers of economic growth.

As the 89^th Legislative Session advances, Texas remains focused on fostering a business-friendly environment. These measures will strengthen Texas’s economic foundation and position businesses of all sizes to thrive in 2025. As lawmakers refine these proposals throughout the legislative session, businesses, property owners, and economic developers should stay engaged to navigate the evolving financial landscape in Texas.

Caitlin Glenn leads a seasoned team of Credits & Incentives professionals with over 75 years of combined experience and industry knowledge. Since its inception, the KE Andrews Credits & Incentives Practice has saved companies over $2.5 billion. Caitlin’s team assists companies to maximize business incentives at the federal, state, and local levels. She specializes in decreasing the cost of capital for companies establishing new facilities, consolidating or expanding facilities, increasing employment, or incurring costs associated with sustainability and training.

Caitlin is a member of the KE Andrews Women’s Leadership Board, creating and implementing curriculum for professional women’s development to guide women through their careers, maximizing their potential and becoming leaders. Caitlin holds a business administration degree in Finance and Marketing from Texas Christian University and an MBA from the University of Texas at Dallas.

The post Texas Legislative Efforts to Promote a Business-Friendly Environment in 2025 appeared first on Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce.

Submitted by Janette Wold, Alchemy & Soul Coaching

As we step into 2025, the energy of new beginnings is all around us. It’s the perfect time to tap into your inner wisdom and set intentions that align with your true purpose. Success isn’t just about business goals—it’s about growth in all areas of life: personal, professional, and spiritual. Here’s how you can achieve success this year in a way that honors both your ambitions and your soul’s calling.

1. Set Clear Intentions (Not Just Goals)

While goals are important, intentions are the energetic force behind them. Intentions help you align your actions with your higher self. Instead of focusing on rigid outcomes, ask yourself: What do I want to feel in 2025? Is it abundance? Balance? Freedom? Once you’ve identified your core desire, create intentions that reflect that energy.

Action Step: Write down your top three intentions for 2025. Use words that resonate deeply with you, such as “I am attracting abundance,” or “I am creating harmony in my life.” Let these intentions guide you.

2. Break It Down into Tangible Actions

Intentions set the energy for your goals, but visualizing your outcomes as if they have already happened aligns your mind with your desired reality. By seeing yourself already living your desired outcome, you create a powerful magnetic pull that draws those results toward you. Breaking down your vision into actionable steps keeps you grounded, focused, and moving forward with clarity.

Action Step: Visualize your goals as already achieved. If financial freedom is your goal, imagine yourself living debt-free, managing investments, and enjoying the fruits of passive income. Then, break it down into steps: review your budget, cut unnecessary expenses, and start learning about investing. Take action by earning extra income or making small investments. Over time, grow your savings, invest in retirement, and build your passive income. Track your progress, adjust your plan as needed, and always give yourself grace.

3. Practice Consistency and Flexibility

Consistency is the bridge between intention and manifestation. But remember, life happens and being flexible is just as important.  Flexibility allows you to stay grounded and adaptable without losing sight of your path.

Action Step:Set aside a small time each week to reflect on your progress. If something needs adjusting, don’t be afraid to course-correct. Use life’s ups and downs as curriculum not inner criticism.  The key is to keep going, no matter how small the steps might seem. Do what you can with what you have!

4. Cultivate a Positive Mindset

Success begins in the mind. If you believe you can achieve your goals, you’re already halfway there. A positive mindset shifts your energy to attract opportunities that align with your desires. Daily affirmations, meditation, and visualization are powerful tools that can keep your mindset aligned with your goals.

Action Step: Start each day with a few affirmations that align with your success. Examples: “I am capable of achieving everything I set out to do,” or “The universe is always guiding me towards success.” This will set the tone for your day and keep you on track.

5. Celebrate the Wins (No Matter How Small)

The journey to success is just as important as the destination. Every step forward, no matter how small, deserves celebration. Acknowledging your progress not only boosts your confidence but also attracts more of what you want into your life.

Action Step: At the end of each month, take time to reflect on what you’ve accomplished. Celebrate every win—whether it’s completing a project, making a new connection, or simply staying committed to your intentions.

In 2025, success isn’t just about external achievements; it’s about inner growth and alignment. By setting clear intentions, taking action, staying adaptable, and living

life by design… you’ll be well on your way to achieving the success you desire.

Remember, this is YOUR year—make it count with confidence, clarity, and balance.

Janette Wold is a Life Mastery Consultant and Transformational Coach at Alchemy & Soul Coaching. She helps individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from their true potential regain clarity, confidence, and emotional resilience.

Whether you’re navigating career transitions, seeking personal growth, or overcoming limiting beliefs, Janette’s coaching empowers you to break free from what’s holding you back and create a life you’re excited to live.

Janette offers both group coaching and 1:1 coaching sessions. Connect with her today to tap into your highest self, find your direction, and accomplish your intentions!

If you’re ready to explore how coaching can help you achieve your goals, fill out this form and let’s start the conversation

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Rockwall County Days

We are thrilled to share the highlights from our recent Rockwall County Days at the Texas Capitol in Austin, held from January 28 to January 30, 2024. This eventful trip was a fantastic opportunity for our members to engage with state leaders, explore key state departments, and strengthen our ties with the broader Texas community.

We kicked off our trip with a delightful dinner at Iron Cactus, sponsored by Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP, where we were joined by State Senator Bob Hall and State Representative Justin Holland.

Monday, we captured memorable moments with Representative Justin Holland and Senator Bob Hall on the House and Senate floors, respectively.

Informative Sessions: Our day was packed with enlightening presentations from leaders such as Bryan Collier, Executive Director of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and Brooke Paup, Chairwoman of the Texas Water Development Board.

 In an effort to maximize our time in Austin, we had a Networking Lunch in the Legislative Conference Center, followed by engaging discussions with Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham and other notable figures.

 Our final day began with an insightful breakfast session featuring Dr. David Yoskowitz of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, Eric Beverly of the Sunset Advisory Commission, and Amanda Crawford of the Department of Information Resources.

This trip provided us with invaluable insights into the workings of our state government and the opportunity to discuss issues critical to our community’s growth and prosperity. The connections and knowledge gained will undoubtedly contribute to our ongoing efforts to advocate for and support our local businesses and community.

We are committed to building upon the relationships and knowledge acquired during this trip to continue advocating for the best interests of Rockwall County. Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to engage in our government affairs initiatives.

Thank you to all our members who participated and made this trip a success. Your involvement is key to our community’s continued growth and prosperity.

Kicking Off our 95th Winning Season

The Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a dazzling and momentous 95th Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet on February 29th, 2024 at the AmeriSports Rockwall. The event, themed “Leaders and Legends” marked a milestone year for the Chamber and brought together community leaders, legends, and dedicated partners for an unforgettable celebration.

Creating a unique blend of elegance and sporty spirit, AmeriSports was transformed into a vibrant hub of sequins and sneakers. Attendees embraced the theme with enthusiasm, showcasing their finest sequins and stylish sneakers as they gathered to honor outstanding Chamber community leaders.

The evening featured a dynamic program that highlighted the Chamber’s 95-year legacy of fostering business growth, community engagement, and collaboration. From recognizing milestone achievements to unveiling this year’s award recipients, the event showcased the remarkable contributions of businesses and individuals to the Rockwall community.

And the Winners are:

• Best Practices in Community Involvement and Impact: All Care Comfort Solutions
• Excellence in Customer Focus: Providence Place Bridal
• Emerging Business of the Year: Rockhopper Apparel and Designs
• Small Business Partner of the Year: Avidea Social
• Medium Size Business Partner of the Year: Hanks Handyman Services
• Large Partner Organization of the Year: Orthopedic Specialists of Dallas
• Destination Partner of the Year: The Downing Bottles and Bites
• Chairman’s Award: Jason Linscott, Texas Health Hospital – Rockwall
• Chamber Partner of the Year: Chef Zach and Occasions at Stone River

 

Key sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Frost Bank, played a pivotal role in making the event a resounding success. Their unwavering support underscores the strong partnerships that drive the Chamber’s initiatives and community impact.

The awards ceremony, led by an engaging emcee and vibrant walk-up music, added an extra layer of excitement. Winners were celebrated with flair, and the audience experienced the thrill of a sports-themed celebration right in the heart of Rockwall.

As the event concluded, Rockwall Chamber Board of Director Chairman, Shane Hollas, expressed their gratitude, saying, “What a great night! It was wonderful to see so many hard working business Leaders come together to celebrate 2023 successes. Congratulations to all the award winners. Thank you to all our sponsors for making the night happen. Our theme for 2024 is Attend, Engage, and Contribute. I look forward to seeing our partners attend events, engage with their peers, and contribute to helping each other achieve record success in 2024.”

Ribbon Cuttings

We celebrated 22 ribbon cuttings and welcomed 40 new Chamber partners in the first quarter of 2024. We can’t wait to see what the rest of the year will bring the business community! Congratulations to the following businesses on their ribbon cutting:

Agua De Vida Alkaline Water
Atrium Legal Group
Avilacare Senior Living
Awestruck Design Co

Coldwell Banker Realty – Jerry A. Cook
Cross Country Mortgage – William Branch
Harbor Town Title
Heart to Heart Hospice
Home Shine Professional Cleaning Services
Ideal Dental
Nexus Pain Care
Pillar to Post Home Inspectors
Pokey O’s
Republican Party of Rockwall
Rockwall Elite Healthcare
Rockwall Sports Center
Roofs by Peterson
Sugar Llamas Sweet

The Snack Fridge
Truly Title
Wade’s Landing
Ziglar Realty Mary Ann Juarez

Partnership Luncheons: Stay in the Know!

We had fantastic attendance at our Q1 Partnership Luncheons.

January- Policy Perspectives: Navigating Advocacy in North Texas with Christopher Lee, the Director of State Relations at the North Texas Commission

February – State of the Workforce & Talent Development. Special guests, Alison Belliveau of Dr. Gene Burton College & Career Academy, Bryan Daniel of the Texas Workforce Commission, Dr. Brent Donham of Texas A&M University-Commerce, and Doug Willis, Collin College Wylie & Farmersville Campuses.

March – Community Champions, a Non-Profit Showcase. Joined by representatives from Boys and Girls Club of Northeast Texas, East Trinity Masonic Lodge, Grace Clinic, Kiwanis, Lonestar Casa, Texas Valor Project, Soroptimist, and the JER Chilton YMCA.

These topics are designed for everyone doing business in the Rockwall Area. Monthly topics range from the State of Education in our local ISDs, AI in Business, to current events. This is where you need to be each month to not only remain up to date on what’s going on in your community and how it affects your business, but to also network with other professionals. We’d like to thank all of our speakers and volunteers for their time to bring updates to our community each month.

Affiliate Groups

Professional Women's Alliance

February – Rendezvous in Red Mixer

March – Living Life with Zest Luncheon

Young Professionals of Rockwall

February – Valentine’s Day Card Making and Giveback

Senior Services Alliance

January – New Year Mixer

February – Valentine’s Day Card Giveback

March – Spring Cleaning Drive

Rockwall Veterans Business Alliance

February – Meet up at El Dorado Cigars

The post Q1 2024 Recap appeared first on Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a dazzling and momentous 95th Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet on February 29th, 2024 at the AmeriSports Rockwall. The event, themed “Leaders and Legends” marked a milestone year for the Chamber and brought together community leaders, legends, and dedicated partners for an unforgettable celebration.

Creating a unique blend of elegance and sporty spirit, AmeriSports was transformed into a vibrant hub of sequins and sneakers. Attendees embraced the theme with enthusiasm, showcasing their finest sequins and stylish sneakers as they gathered to honor outstanding Chamber community leaders.

The evening featured a dynamic program that highlighted the Chamber’s 95-year legacy of fostering business growth, community engagement, and collaboration. From recognizing milestone achievements to unveiling this year’s award recipients, the event showcased the remarkable contributions of businesses and individuals to the Rockwall community.

And the Winners are:

• Best Practices in Community Involvement and Impact: All Care Comfort Solutions
• Excellence in Customer Focus: Providence Place Bridal
• Emerging Business of the Year: Rockhopper Apparel and Designs
• Small Business Partner of the Year: Avidea Social
• Medium Size Business Partner of the Year: Hanks Handyman Services
• Large Partner Organization of the Year: Orthopedic Specialists of Dallas
• Destination Partner of the Year: The Downing Bottles and Bites
• Chairman’s Award: Jason Linscott, Texas Health Hospital – Rockwall
• Chamber Partner of the Year: Chef Zach and Occasions at Stone River

 

Key sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Frost Bank, played a pivotal role in making the event a resounding success. Their unwavering support underscores the strong partnerships that drive the Chamber’s initiatives and community impact.

The awards ceremony, led by an engaging emcee and vibrant walk-up music, added an extra layer of excitement. Winners were celebrated with flair, and the audience experienced the thrill of a sports-themed celebration right in the heart of Rockwall.

As the event concluded, Rockwall Chamber Board of Director Chairman, Shane Hollas, expressed their gratitude, saying, “What a great night! It was wonderful to see so many hard working business Leaders come together to celebrate 2023 successes. Congratulations to all the award winners. Thank you to all our sponsors for making the night happen. Our theme for 2024 is Attend, Engage, and Contribute. I look forward to seeing our partners attend events, engage with their peers, and contribute to helping each other achieve record success in 2024.”

The post Leaders and Legends Annual Banquet appeared first on Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce.

Texas Legislative Efforts to Promote a Business-Friendly Environment in 2025

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Q1 2024 Recap

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Leaders and Legends Annual Banquet

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Introducing the 2024 Board of Directors

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Small Business Season

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ROCO Dollars Details

The post Small Business Season appeared first on Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce.

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Achieving Business Success in 2025

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Leaders and Legends Annual Banquet

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The post 2023 First Responders Appreciation Luncheon appeared first on Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce.

Ribbon Cuttings

We celebrated 17 ribbon cuttings and welcomed 20 new Chamber partners in the second quarter of 2023 and can’t wait to see what the rest of the year will bring the business community!

Congratulations to the following businesses on their ribbon cutting:

A Affordable Storage
Alpine Dental
Armonia Chiropractic
Chakra Inner Peace
Edward Jones – Kenny McKelroy
Fate Dental Village
Gem MD
IC Surface Studio
Los Marquez Tacos
Meadow Lane Equestrian Center
Morning Star Storage
Northwestern Mutual Rockwall
Podleski Landscape and Construction, LLC
Rockwall Capital Group
The Royalton at Discovery
Venice Nail Bar
Bare Dermatology

Partnership Luncheons: Stay in the Know!

We had fantastic attendance at our Q3 Partnership Luncheons.

August- Lift Off to Success: Harnessing Leadership and Delegation for Business Growth. Special guest, Jake Brown, Certified Productivity and Business Coach.

September – Charting Our Course: Rockwall County Update. Special guests, Dana Macalik, Rockwall County Commissioner, and Frank New, Rockwall County Judge.

These topics are designed for everyone doing business in the Rockwall Area. Monthly topics range from the State of Education in our local ISDs, AI in Business, to current events. This is where you need to be each month to not only remain up to date on what’s going on in your community and how it affects your business, but to also network with other professionals. We’d like to thank all of our speakers and volunteers for their time to bring updates to our community each month!

Introducing the Leadership Rockwall Class of 2024! Join us in celebrating this exceptional group as they embark on a 9 month program that will sharpen the skills that leaders need to excel. It was so wonderful to see so many Leadership Rockwall Alumni at September’s mixer ready to welcome the Class of 2024. We are excited to see what this tremendous group accomplishes this year!

Texas Legislative Efforts to Promote a Business-Friendly Environment in 2025

March 12, 2025 No Comments

Read More »

Achieving Business Success in 2025

February 12, 2025 No Comments

Read More »

Q1 2024 Recap

April 9, 2024 No Comments

Read More »

Leaders and Legends Annual Banquet

March 4, 2024 No Comments

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Introducing the 2024 Board of Directors

December 8, 2023 No Comments

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Small Business Season

November 17, 2023 No Comments

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The post Q3-Recap appeared first on Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce.

We had an absolutely incredible time at the 2023 Annual Chamber Classic Clay Shoot held at the impressive Texas Gun Ranch. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our presenting sponsor, Rockwall Ford, whose support was instrumental in making this day unforgettable. A warm thank you also goes to our esteemed sponsors, whose contributions ensured the resounding success of the event.

Our team of dedicated volunteers deserves special recognition for their invaluable assistance in ensuring the seamless execution of the day’s activities. Without their unwavering commitment and hard work, this event would not have been possible.

Congratulations to our winners!
Red Course:
1st Place- K & S Insurance
2nd Place- Suddath Workplace Solutions
3rd Place- b1 Bank
Blue Course:
1st Place- Alliance Bank
2nd Place- Dixon Erosion
3rd Place-Chubs Towing
Top Shots:
Richard Triplett – Chubs Towing
Brady Wilson – K & S Insurance

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2023 Rockwall ISD New Teacher Welcome Expo

We were thrilled to be able to present and host our annual long-standing event that allows us to welcome the new teachers and employees of Rockwall ISD last week! This tradition brings business leaders together to welcome them to not only the District, but our community as well.

Thank you to these 400 SUPERHEROES who are educating our future leaders and shaping our community!  

We extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to our esteemed sponsors, donors, and special contributors. Your unwavering support has made a significant impact, enabling us to warmly welcome 400 talented teachers, dedicated staff members, and enthusiastic residents into our exceptional Rockwall community. Your belief in our mission and your dedication to empowering educators have truly set this event apart as something extraordinary.

As we move forward, we eagerly anticipate the positive influence these new educators and staff members will bring to our schools and community. Together, we are shaping the future of education and creating an environment where excellence and growth flourish.

The post Rockwall ISD Welcomes Over 400 New Teachers and Staff appeared first on Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce.