Texas Senate Bill SB3048

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 4/16/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/6/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/14/25
• Out of House Committee: 5/23/25
• Voted on by House: 5/28/25
• Governor Action: 6/20/25

Caption

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

Impact

The bill alters state laws concerning municipal management districts by allowing this specific district to operate under a new set of regulations. It can impose ad valorem taxes, assessments, and fees, subsequently providing foundational support for various local public works and services. The district is intended to supplement, rather than supplant, existing city services, thereby enhancing service delivery in the area while promoting economic development.

Summary

SB3048 relates to the establishment of the Bluebonnet Hills Municipal Management District No. 1. This special district aims to enhance employment, commerce, transportation, housing, tourism, and overall public welfare in the specified geographic area. To finance district operations and services, the bill grants authority for the issuance of bonds and the imposition of assessments on properties within the district, which are necessary for funding improvements and maintaining facilities.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB3048 reflects a significant level of support for creating a framework that promotes local economic development and improves public services. However, there are underlying concerns from some stakeholders regarding the implications of power shifts, especially related to the district's limited powers of eminent domain, which could affect local governance and property rights. The nature of this bill fosters discussions about the balance between state authority and local needs, presenting a mixed reception among various community members.

Contention

Key points of contention include the authority to exercise limited powers of eminent domain. While the bill explicitly states that the district may not exercise traditional eminent domain powers unless explicitly defined, debates arise around the implications this may have on property owners within the district. Additionally, discussions revolve around the potential tax burden on residents, as the district can impose assessments and taxes, which some critics argue could lead to financial strain on local property owners.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Water Code

• Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
  • Section: 222
  • Section: 222
  • Section: 222
  • Section: 222
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 004
  • Section: 107
  • Section: 222

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

Local Government Code

• Chapter 375. Municipal Management Districts In General
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 243
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 243
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 380. Miscellaneous Provisions Relating To Municipal Planning And Development
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

Tax Code

• Chapter 311. Tax Increment Financing Act
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 312. Property Redevelopment And Tax Abatement Act
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

Government Code

• Chapter 1509. Obligations For Other Municipal Purposes
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

Transportation Code

• Chapter 431. Texas Transportation Corporation Act
  • Section: New Section