A TAXING SITUATION IN HOUSTON

     TX State Rep. Kyle Janeck predicts the TX Legislature will
give Houston "many of the financial tools" needed to help build
new football, baseball and basketball facilities -- but will not
chip in any state money, according to the HOUSTON CHRONICLE.
Janeck, who chairs a House Business and Commerce committee
hearing on sports facilities Thursday, says the committee is
looking for ways to let city officials help themselves without
dedicating state money.  Janeck:  "If Houston wants to pay for
the stadiums, I don't sense that the Legislature will stand in
it's way."  Houston Mayor Bob Lanier, Harris County Judge Robert
Eckels and a representative from the NFL will be present.  Lanier
is expected to present an overview of a recent task force report
recommending at least $625M be spent on sports facilities.
Oilers Owner Bud Adams was invited, but declined (John Williams,
HOUSTON CHRONICLE, 6/25).