Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2587

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the creation of Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 252; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Impact

If passed, this bill could significantly impact state laws concerning municipal utility districts. It expands the scope of existing governance structures by allowing the new district to impose assessments, fees, and taxes aimed at funding infrastructure projects and operational costs. This shift could potentially lead to increased local revenue streams, enabling better service delivery in the community. However, there are also concerns regarding the financial implications and responsibilities placed on district residents related to these assessments.

Summary

SB2587 proposes the creation of Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 252, granting it limited powers of eminent domain and authorizing the issuance of bonds. The bill aims to establish a framework for the district to provide necessary utilities and services in a specified area, enhancing local infrastructure and community development. Proponents of the bill argue that creating such utility districts is essential for managing growth and ensuring residents have access to necessary services.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB2587 appears to be generally supportive within the local governance circles, with many stakeholders advocating for the establishment of such districts as a means to facilitate growth. However, there is caution from some community members and local tax advocates who worry about the potential for higher taxes and fees without sufficient transparency or accountability in how these funds are utilized.

Contention

A notable point of contention in discussions surrounding SB2587 is the balance between local governance and state oversight. Critics may express concerns that the powers granted to the utility district could lead to overreach, affecting property rights and local control. The limited power of eminent domain included in the bill has also raised questions about the conditions under which land can be acquired, prompting debates on the rights of property owners within the proposed district boundaries.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Water Code

  • Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
    • Section: 102
  • Chapter 54. Municipal Utility Districts
    • Section: 601
    • Section: 602

Companion Bills

TX HB5333

Identical Relating to the creation of Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 252; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5333

Relating to the creation of Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 252; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Similar Bills

TX HB3924

Relating to the creation of the Comal Trinity Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or surcharges.

TX HB2640

Relating to the creation of the Western Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing general law authority to issue bonds and exercise the power of eminent domain; providing general law authority to impose assessments, fees, surcharges, or taxes.

TX SB1360

Relating to the creation of the Aransas County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds and impose a tax; providing general law authority to impose fees and surcharges.

TX HB4207

Relating to the creation of the Aransas County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds and impose a tax; providing general law authority to impose fees and surcharges.

TX HB4327

Relating to the creation of the Southwest Travis County Special Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose fees and assessments.

TX HB1523

Relating to the creation of the Southwest Travis County Special Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose fees and assessments.

TX HB4038

Relating to the creation of the Western Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing general law authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees.

TX HB4743

Relating to the creation of the Terrell County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds.