E91- The Rise of Texas MMDs with Ross Martin of Winstead PC (Part 1)

On Episode 91 of the Land to Lots Podcast, Part 1 of a two-part conversation, Carter interviews Ross Martin, Shareholder at Winstead PC and one of Texas' leading public finance attorneys advising developers on MUDs, MMDs, PIDs, TIRZs, and other district financing tools. Ross explains the rise of Municipal Management Districts in Texas, why they were created, and how they function within the state's broader district framework.

Carter and Ross discuss the statutory foundation for MMDs, the problems they were designed to solve, and the ways in which they can provide meaningful advantages for both cities and developers. Ross also outlines the structural differences between MMDs and MUDs, key governance considerations, and the issues practitioners must account for during formation.

In this episode you'll learn:

• What an MMD is, why the statute was adopted, and the challenges it was designed to address.
• How MMDs and MUDs differ in authority, governance, eligible public improvements, bond types, and long-term responsibilities.
• How cities view MMDs within their boundaries and when an MMD may be preferred over a PID, PID/TIRZ, or in-city MUD.
• Considerations when evaluating an MMD versus a MUD in unincorporated county areas.
• Key advantages and limitations of MMDs from a developer's perspective.
• Examples of innovative financing structures using MMDs and why they were effective.
• Common formation and issuance pitfalls and how to avoid them.
• The most significant changes Ross has seen in the private sector's use of special districts over the past 20 years.

Show Notes
Ross Martin – Contact Information
O – 214.745.5353
W – https://www.winstead.com/People/Ross-Martin
E – [e-mail]

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Carter Froelich hosts the Land to Lots™ podcast powered by Launch Development Finance Advisors. Carter shares how he and his team help their clients finance infrastructure, reduce costs, and mitigate risks all with the goal of enhancing project profitability Land to Lots™ is a registered trademark of Launch Development Finance Advisors