Relating to the creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Impact
The bill's enactment will enable the district to undertake significant public projects funded through the issuance of bonds and imposition of taxes. This financial structure allows for the development of necessary infrastructure, including water, wastewater, and drainage facilities, which can intrinsically support residential and commercial growth in Williamson County. The new development district aims to diversify the local economy while targeting sectors that could attract visitors, thus contributing to job creation and economic stability.
Summary
House Bill 5359 focuses on the establishment of the Williamson County Development District No. 1, which serves as a special district with powers outlined primarily under Texas constitutional provisions. The bill provides the district authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes to finance public improvements within its jurisdiction. Specifically, it emphasizes the development of infrastructure aimed at enhancing community amenities and boosting tourism and employment opportunities throughout the district.
Sentiment
General sentiment surrounding HB 5359 appears to be positive as it receives bipartisan support from legislators emphasizing infrastructure development and economic growth. Local stakeholders, particularly those representing Pearson Ranch, have expressed support for the bill, highlighting its potential benefits for the community in terms of improved services and economic opportunities. However, some concerns may arise regarding the implications of tax assessments and the accompanying financial responsibilities placed on property owners within the district.
Contention
Notably, while the bill empowers the district to levy taxes and collect assessments, it also explicitly prohibits the district from imposing an ad valorem tax or exercising the power of eminent domain. These restrictions are designed to address potential pushback from local property owners concerned about tax burdens and loss of property rights. The governing board of the district, comprised of five directors, will have significant powers in managing the financial and operational affairs of the district, which will necessitate transparency to maintain public trust.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Local Government Code
Chapter 383. County Development Districts
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 375. Municipal Management Districts In General
Section: New Section
Section: 004
Tax Code
Chapter 351. Municipal Hotel Occupancy Taxes
Section: New Section
Chapter 321. Municipal Sales And Use Tax Act
Section: New Section
Chapter 311. Tax Increment Financing Act
Section: New Section
Chapter 312. Property Redevelopment And Tax Abatement Act
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Water Code
Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
Relating to the creation of Waller County Improvement District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or taxes.
Relating to the creation of industrial development districts in certain counties; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or taxes.
Relating to the creation of Montgomery County Improvement District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or taxes.
Relating to the creation of Waller County Improvement District No. 2; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or taxes.
Relating to the creation of the Fort Bend County Improvement District No. 24; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the creation of the Harris County Improvement District No. 28; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to creation of the Bolivar Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to creation of the Bolivar Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the creation of the Liberty County Management District No. 2; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the creation of the Liberty County Management District No. 2; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the approval and creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; and to the administration, powers, duties, operation, and financing of the district, including the authority to impose an assessment, a tax, and issue bonds.
Relating to the creation of certain municipal management districts; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the authority of the Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 21 to extend the time limit for holding a confirmation and initial directors' election and to divide into two districts.
Relating to the creation of the Northwest Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 1; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.
Relating to the creation of the Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 49; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.