Community Development Districts; provide general law for the creation and comprehensive regulation; authorize General Assembly -CA
If ratified, the proposed amendment would empower the General Assembly to enact general laws governing the operation, management, and authority of community development districts. This would include the power to levy taxes, fees, and assessments within these districts and the ability to incur debt for development purposes. However, the amendment explicitly states that the establishment of community development districts doesn’t limit the existing authority of local governments to provide services and facilities in those districts. Essentially, while these districts would be a new governance framework, local governments would maintain their regulatory control over existing facilities and services.
Senate Resolution 533 (SR533) proposes an amendment to the Constitution of Georgia that would authorize the General Assembly to create and regulate community development districts. These districts are intended to facilitate the provision and expansion of community development services and infrastructure. To establish a community development district, the approval of the governing authorities of each county and municipality involved is required, ensuring that local authorities have a say in the creation of these districts.
There may be points of contention regarding the balance of power between the state and local governments. Proponents of SR533 argue that it allows for more structured and comprehensive management of community development, potentially leading to improved infrastructure and services. Critics may express concerns that centralizing regulation could undermine local control and responsiveness to community-specific needs. Additionally, the wording regarding the General Assembly's regulatory powers may lead to debates about the potential for overreach or insufficient local input in decisions affecting local communities.