Relating to approval by voters prior to the issuance of revenue bonds by the San Jacinto River Authority.
Impact
If enacted, HB 5004 would significantly alter the financial decision-making process of the San Jacinto River Authority. By requiring voter approval, the bill aims to protect taxpayers' interests and ensure that community members have a direct say in large financial undertakings, particularly those involving substantial funds potentially affecting local water resources and environmental management. This could lead to increased civic engagement in local governance, as residents would need to consider the implications of such bond elections on their property taxes and local services.
Summary
House Bill 5004 is a legislative proposal aimed at enforcing voter approval before the issuance of revenue bonds by the San Jacinto River Authority. The bill amends existing sections from Chapter 426 of the Acts of the 45th Legislature to specify that revenue bonds can only be issued if they receive a favorable vote from the qualified property taxpaying voters within the Authority's service area. This reform is intended to enhance local governance and accountability regarding financial decisions that might impact community resources.
Contention
A potential point of contention surrounding HB 5004 lies in the implications it may have for swift action during emergencies or urgent infrastructure projects. Critics might argue that requiring voter approval for revenue bonds could delay necessary funding for essential projects, thereby negatively affecting the Authority’s ability to manage water resources, particularly during drought conditions. Proponents, however, contend that such checks are necessary to prevent burdensome debt and to ensure taxpayers are not unduly subjected to financial obligations without their consent.
Relating to the approval and creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; and to the administration, powers, duties, operation, and financing of the district, including the authority to impose an assessment, a tax, and issue bonds.
Relating to the creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the funding of projects by the Public Utility Commission of Texas to promote the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Stanley Lake Municipal Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees and taxes.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Stanley Lake Municipal Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees and taxes.
Relating to the creation and operation of a development zone by and the tax revenue received by The Woodlands Township; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and taxes.
Relating to the creation of the Presidio International Port Authority District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.