Texas Senate Bill SB3030

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/19/25

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Travis County Municipal Utility District No. 40; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Impact

The establishment of this municipal utility district is expected to streamline service delivery in the region, allowing for more localized governance and efficiency in infrastructure projects. The authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes provides the district with the necessary financial mechanisms to fund its operations and projects. However, this could also lead to increased financial burdens on property owners within the district, as taxes and fees are part of the cost of receiving municipal services.

Summary

Senate Bill 3030 proposes the creation of the Travis County Municipal Utility District No. 40, a body designed to provide necessary municipal services for a specific area in Travis County. The bill grants the district the authority to issue bonds, impose assessments, fees, and taxes, and even take limited powers of eminent domain. These measures are intended to facilitate the construction and maintenance of key infrastructure, including roads and drainage systems, aimed at serving the needs of the local population and ensuring adequate facilities are in place as the area develops.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB3030 could revolve around the limited power of eminent domain provided to the district. While supporters argue that it is essential for effectively managing land acquisition for public projects, opponents may raise concerns about potential overreach and the impact on property rights. There is also a procedural safeguard included in the bill, stipulating that the district cannot exercise eminent domain without the appropriate legislative oversight, which might alleviate some of the concerns from property owners regarding their rights.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Special District Local Laws Code

• Chapter 8014. Willacy County Municipal Utility District No. 1
  • Section: New Section

Water Code

• Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
  • Section: 102
  • Section: 107
  • Section: 108

• Chapter 54. Municipal Utility Districts
  • Section: 601
  • Section: 602