Texas Senate Bill SB1858

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 184; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

Impact

The creation of Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 184 amends local governance regarding utility services and infrastructure development in the designated area. By granting zoning and regulatory powers to this district, it aims to streamline the management and financing of essential services and infrastructure projects. This potentially enhances local development and improves public utilities, particularly in rapidly growing areas affected by urbanization.

Summary

SB1858 establishes the Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 184 with the authority to impose a tax, issue bonds, and grant limited powers of eminent domain. The district is intended to serve a public purpose, particularly focusing on the construction and maintenance of road and drainage projects. This new district is framed under the Special District Local Laws Code, necessitating the consent of local municipalities before it can hold elections for the confirmation of its establishment and selection of its board of directors.

Contention

A significant aspect of SB1858 is the provision regarding eminent domain. While the district is granted various powers, it includes a clause that restricts its ability to exercise eminent domain unless specifically outlined. This point could lead to concerns about how local governance balances infrastructure development with individual property rights, sparking debate among stakeholders regarding the implications for community members and property owners within the district. The issuance of ad valorem taxes and the need for voter consent concerning tax imposition and bond issuance also indicate potential points of contention among local residents.