Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB363

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to the election dates for directors of the Bandera County River Authority and Groundwater District.

Impact

The passage of SB363 signifies a significant shift in the management and governance of water resources within Bandera County. By aligning election dates with uniform statewide election dates, the bill is intended to enhance voter participation in local governance. This change may also facilitate better planning and coordination of elections, improving the overall governance of the Bandera County River Authority, which is essential for overseeing local water management.

Summary

SB363 modifies the election dates for directors of the Bandera County River Authority and Groundwater District. The bill establishes that elections for the board of directors will occur on the uniform election date in November every two years, following a confirmation election. Each director will serve staggered four-year terms, with two directors elected from each commissioner precinct and one director elected at large. The modifications aim to streamline the election process for the local governance of water resources within Bandera County.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB363 appears to be neutral to positive, with support primarily from local officials and governance advocates who see the restructuring of election dates as beneficial. There is a general recognition of the importance of effective water management and governance, especially in regions relying heavily on these resources. However, there are also concerns about ensuring adequate local engagement and representation in the process, with some advocates emphasizing the need to maintain a community-centric approach.

Contention

While SB363 received broad support evident from its voting history, potential contention may arise regarding the implementation of the new election dates. Critics may argue that aligning local elections with state-wide dates could diminish the locality's ability to maintain distinct governance procedures tailored to the community's specific needs. Additionally, concerns about low voter turnout in local elections may persist, as aligning with larger, more contested statewide elections could overshadow local issues.

Companion Bills

TX HB1207

Similar Relating to the election dates for directors of the Bandera County River Authority and Groundwater District.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3731

Relating to the Bandera County River Authority and Groundwater District.

TX SB2116

Relating to the Bandera County River Authority and Groundwater District.

TX HB2912

Relating to the election of the board of directors of the San Jacinto River Authority.

TX SB2570

Relating to the creation of the Webb County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to impose fees.

TX HB5401

Relating to the creation of the Webb County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to impose fees.

TX HB1535

Relating to the San Antonio River Authority, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering the terms of office of the members of the board of directors of the authority.

TX HB2250

Relating to the selection and authority of the board of directors of an appraisal district in certain counties; authorizing a fee.

TX SB2592

Relating to the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority, following the recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering terms of the board of directors; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.

TX HB1525

Relating to the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority, following the recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; altering terms of the board of directors; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.

TX HB5025

Relating to the boundaries of the single-member districts for and vacancies on the board of directors of the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District.

Similar Bills

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CA AB918

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CO HB1447

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CA AB591

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OR HB4067

Relating to the urban flood safety and water quality district; and prescribing an effective date.

CA AB1021

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CA SB1070

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CA SB692

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