Relating to the directors and administration of the Hidalgo County Water Improvement District No. 3.
Impact
The modifications proposed by SB1056 include stricter criteria for director eligibility, which aim to eliminate conflicts of interest and increase transparency in governance. Under the bill, potential directors are disqualified if they have substantial financial connections to entities that receive funds from the district. This approach aligns with broader initiatives to foster accountability within local governments and their respective water management systems.
Summary
Senate Bill 1056 seeks to address the governance and administrative structure of the Hidalgo County Water Improvement District No. 3. This local bill introduces reforms aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of the district by ensuring fair elections and improving management practices. The bill builds upon previous legislation that sought to reform the administration and operation of the district, particularly concerning director qualifications and election processes.
Sentiment
Legislative sentiment regarding SB1056 showcased a strong sense of support within the committee, as evidenced by the unanimous votes in favor of the bill during its passages in both the Senate and House. However, there were also dissenting voices, particularly from some local directors who expressed concerns about the reinstatement of previously excluded properties and questioned the necessity of the reforms presented in the bill. Nevertheless, the general tone of discussions leaned towards appreciation for the increased measures of transparency and integrity.
Contention
While SB1056 received broad support, points of contention arose during the discussions, particularly around its potential implications for local governance. Critics, including some members of the district's board, highlighted concerns regarding changes to director eligibility and the perception that the bill might overlook sufficient accountability measures already in place. These debates underscored an ongoing tension between striving for operational efficiency and maintaining local governance autonomy.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Water Code
Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
Section: 052
Section: 105
Section: 106
Section: 108
Section: 309
Section: 3181
Section: 105
Section: 052
Section: 110
Section: 111
Section: 309
Section: 3181
Section: 191
Section: 110
Section: 111
Section: 110
Section: 111
Section: 191
Section: 197
Chapter 51. Water Control And Improvement Districts
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: 052
Section: New Section
Election Code
Chapter 31. Officers To Administer Elections
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 41. Election Dates And Hours For Voting
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 11. Qualifications And Requirements For Voting
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 63. Accepting Voter
Section: New Section
Chapter 141. Candidacy For Public Office Generally
Section: New Section
Section: 040
Section: New Section
Tax Code
Chapter 23. Appraisal Methods And Procedures
Section: 51
Section: New Section
Chapter 26. Assessment
Section: 18
Special District Local Laws Code
Chapter 9054. Hidalgo County Water Improvement District No. 3
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Local Government Code
Chapter 140. Miscellaneous Financial Provisions Affecting Municipalities, Counties, And Other Local Governments
Section: 005
Government Code
Chapter 551. Open Meetings
Section: 1283
Section: 1283
Chapter 403. Comptroller Of Public Accounts
Section: 0241
Chapter 1201. Public Security Procedures Act
Section: New Section
Chapter 573. Degrees Of Relationship; Nepotism Prohibitions
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 572. Personal Financial Disclosure, Standards Of Conduct, And Conflict Of Interest
Relating to the powers and duties of the Hidalgo County Water Control and Improvement District No. 18; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees and taxes.