Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB5674

Filed
4/14/25  
Out of House Committee
5/7/25  
Voted on by House
5/10/25  
Out of Senate Committee
5/23/25  
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the creation of the River Ranch Municipal Utility District No. 1; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Impact

The bill significantly influences local governance and state law concerning the creation and operation of utility districts. By establishing this district, it allows for dedicated management and oversight over specific areas, thereby ensuring that infrastructure projects can be executed effectively within the district's boundaries. This could lead to improved public services in the area, specifically focusing on utilities and road maintenance, which are essential for fostering regional growth and development.

Summary

House Bill 5674 pertains to the establishment of the River Ranch Municipal Utility District No. 1 in Texas. This legislation facilitates the creation of a municipal utility district, granting it the authority to issue bonds, collect assessments, impose taxes, and exercise limited eminent domain powers. The bill's provisions aim to fulfill public utilities needs, including infrastructure such as roads and storm drainage improvements critical for community development and public benefit.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 5674 appears to be generally supportive among proponents, primarily local business interests and community members who see value in enhanced infrastructure and utility services. However, there are potential concerns raised regarding the power of eminent domain, as opponents fear that this could lead to misuse or adversely affect landowners within the district. Overall, the discussions suggest a balance between the benefits for community service and the rights of individual property owners.

Contention

One notable point of contention relates to the limited power of eminent domain granted to the district under HB 5674. While it is intended to streamline necessary infrastructure projects, detractors argue that any invocation of eminent domain must be approached cautiously to prevent negative impacts on local property owners. Additionally, the provisions regarding bond issuance and tax assessments present challenges for obtaining voter approval, thus raising concerns about the potential financial implications for residents.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Special District Local Laws Code

  • Chapter 8004. Lakewood Municipal Utility District No. 2
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Water Code

  • Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
    • Section: 004
    • Section: 004
    • Section: 004
    • Section: 316
    • Section: 102
    • Section: 316
    • Section: 107
    • Section: 108
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 54. Municipal Utility Districts
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 016
    • Section: 0165
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 016
    • Section: 0165
    • Section: 016
    • Section: 0165
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX SB3057

Identical Relating to the creation of the River Ranch Municipal Utility District No. 1; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Similar Bills

TX SB3057

Relating to the creation of the River Ranch Municipal Utility District No. 1; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5383

Relating to the creation of the River Ranch Municipal Utility District No. 1; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB4817

Relating to the creation of the Goodwater Municipal Utility District No. 1; providing authority to impose taxes and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

TX HB4800

Relating to the creation of the San Gabriel Municipal Utility District No. 1; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

TX HB4638

Relating to the creation of certain municipal management districts; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5344

Relating to the eligibility of certain retired firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical services providers to purchase continued health benefits coverage; the creation of certain special purpose districts and the name, powers, and duties of the 3 B&J Municipal Utility District; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB4178

Relating to the creation of the Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 31; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.