From where do Texas home-rule cities derive their power?

• A. From their own charters as long as not inconsistent with state law.
• B. From state statutes only.
• C. From the federal government.
• D. From the city mayor's decree.

Answer: (A)

Texas home-rule cities derive their power from their own charters, as long as those charters do not conflict with state law. Once a city adopts a home-rule charter (typically after reaching a certain population), the charter becomes the city’s governing document, outlining its structure, powers, and procedures for local matters like zoning, ordinances, and services. The charter gives the city broad authority, but it operates within the framework of the Texas Constitution and state statutes, which set the upper limits and can preempt conflicting local rules. So the source of local power is the charter, with state law providing the boundaries.