Texas Senate Bill SB2507

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the territory, powers, and administration of the Gulf Coast Water Authority.

Impact

This legislation grants the Gulf Coast Water Authority significant powers and rights commonly associated with municipal utility districts. These include the ability to conserve, store, treat, and distribute water, as well as the authority to issue bonds for capital projects. Importantly, the bill provides a mechanism for the Authority to acquire water resources beyond its original boundaries, thus improving its operational capacity to meet demand. Critics, however, might argue that the bill centralizes too much power within the Authority, limiting local governments' ability to manage water resources tailored to specific community needs.

Summary

SB2507 amends existing legislation that governs the Gulf Coast Water Authority, specifically regarding its territory, powers, and administration. This bill expands the district's territory to encompass the entirety of Brazoria, Fort Bend, and Galveston Counties, thus broadening the geographical scope of water supply provisions and services offered by the Authority. By extending these boundaries, the bill aims to enhance the management and delivery of water services in an area that has seen growing demands due to population increase and industrial developments.

Contention

During discussions around SB2507, stakeholders raised concerns regarding environmental implications and the potential for conflicts between the Authority's expanded powers and local governance. Opponents of the bill worry that it could lead to misaligned interests in water management, especially concerning local ecosystems and community water needs, which may not always align with the broader objectives of a larger utility district. Additionally, there were debates about the transparency and accountability of the Authority in managing the expanded territory and resources effectively.