Texas House Bill HB93

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to compensation to be paid to an emergency services district for a municipality's annexation of the district's territory.

Impact

The implementation of HB93 is expected to have significant implications on how municipalities balance their growth with the interests of existing emergency service districts. By clearly delineating compensation calculations, the bill serves to mitigate potential conflicts arising from annexation processes. It aims to protect ESDs from potential financial repercussions that could arise from losing territory, ensuring that they receive a fair compensation that reflects their financial commitments at the time of the annexation. However, it may also influence how municipalities approach annexation agreements and could lead to increased negotiations concerning the terms of such arrangements.

Summary

House Bill 93 addresses the compensation protocols for emergency services districts (ESDs) facing annexation by municipalities. The bill proposes modifications to the existing provisions within the Health and Safety Code that specify how compensation for such annexations is calculated. Particularly, it outlines a formula based on the ESD’s total indebtedness, assessed property value to be annexed, and sales and use tax revenue collected from businesses within both the annexed area and the ESD territory. This change aims to ensure fair compensation for ESDs, thereby promoting their financial stability as their service areas are altered by municipal annexation.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding HB93 may arise based on concerns from both municipalities and ESDs regarding the adequacy of the compensation calculations. Municipalities might argue that the compensation obligations could hinder their ability to efficiently expand services and develop infrastructure. Conversely, ESDs could contend that the proposed compensation does not sufficiently account for their ongoing fiscal responsibilities, especially if the formula yields a lower compensation than expected. The balance between municipal growth and the financial security of emergency services will be a key point of contention as stakeholders assess the long-term effects of this bill.