Texas Senate Bill SB1902

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of the LaSalle Municipal Utility District No. 4; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or taxes.

Impact

The bill significantly alters the landscape for municipal utility districts in Texas by clarifying the powers and responsibilities of such entities. Specifically, it allows the newly formed district to operate within its defined geographical boundaries, facilitating better management of local infrastructure projects. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the requirement for municipal consent before the creation of the district, ensuring that local communities have a say in such developments. This addition keeps local governance in check and promotes collaboration between the district and municipalities.

Summary

SB1902 provides for the creation of the LaSalle Municipal Utility District No. 4 in Texas. This bill grants the district limited powers, including the ability to levy assessments, fees, and taxes to fund its operations and projects. The district is established to serve a public purpose, primarily focusing on infrastructure improvements, particularly in relation to road construction and maintenance. It empowers the district to issue bonds to finance these improvements, which are essential for community development and resource management.

Contention

A notable point of contention in the discussions surrounding SB1902 relates to the power of eminent domain. Although the bill allows for various administrative and financial powers, it explicitly states that the district cannot exercise the power of eminent domain unless it receives a two-thirds majority vote in each house of the legislature. This stipulation has raised concerns among some stakeholders about potential overreach and the need for more stringent limitations on such powers, reflecting the delicate balance between infrastructure development and property rights.