Louisiana House Bill HB475

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/11
• Refer: 4/25/11
• Report Pass: 6/6/11
• Engrossed: 6/13/11
• Report Pass: 6/19/11
• Enrolled: 6/23/11
• Chaptered: 6/29/11
• Passed: 6/29/11

Caption

Provides relative to membership of the Non-Flood Protection Asset Management Authority and the sale of non-flood assets

Impact

The implementation of HB 475 expands the jurisdiction of the levee districts and establishes clearer guidelines about asset management and financial responsibilities. Significant revenue mechanisms from ad valorem taxes are adjusted to provide for maintenance and operational costs of the affected districts. The provisions allow for the authority to sell, lease, or otherwise manage properties identified as non-flood assets, which in turn could facilitate better accountability and enhanced management within these districts.

Summary

House Bill 475 amends existing Louisiana statutes to address the governance and management of levee districts, specifically the membership and operations of the Non-Flood Protection Asset Management Authority. This bill reorganizes the composition of various levee districts, specifically the West Jefferson Levee District and the Lafitte Area Independent Levee District, while also detailing procedures for the management and sale of non-flood assets. The amendments are intended to streamline operations and clarify the roles and responsibilities of the authority tasked with managing these assets.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 475 seems primarily positive among advocates for levee district reforms, who view the measure as a way to improve governance and accountability in local asset management. However, there are concerns from local officials regarding the potential impacts of centralized governance on local operations. Critics fear that changes might limit local agency and adaptation in response to community-specific needs, arguing for the importance of maintaining local control in asset management decisions.

Contention

Notably, one point of contention is the authority's ability to manage the sale and leasing of properties without extensive local input, which could lead to conflicts between state mandates and local governance. The centralization of power within the Non-Flood Protection Asset Management Authority and the specific structure of the new appointed positions have raised questions about transparency and representation of local interests. This ongoing debate highlights the balance needed between effective asset management and community autonomy.