Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1137

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

Caption

Relating to improvement projects of the Sabine-Neches Navigation District of Jefferson County, Texas; providing authority to issue anticipation notes and time warrants.

Impact

The bill amends existing laws to enhance the district's capacity to manage improvement projects without necessitating approval from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for related contracts or financing. This change has the potential to expedite project completion and streamline operations within the district. Furthermore, since these improvements involve substantial infrastructure development, they are expected to have long-term positive effects on local commerce and trade, elevating the region's economic profile.

Summary

SB1137 focuses on the Sabine-Neches Navigation District of Jefferson County, Texas, providing the district with the authority to execute various financing mechanisms such as anticipation notes and time warrants for improvement projects. This legislation aims to facilitate the deepening and enhancement of the Sabine-Neches Waterway, which is essential for local economic development and shipping efficiency. The ability to issue these financial instruments allows the district to leverage future revenue and addresses immediate funding needs without requiring immediate tax revenue.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1137 appears primarily supportive from local government officials and business leaders who recognize the necessity of improving the waterway for sustained economic growth. However, concerns may arise regarding the risks associated with increased debt levels and the management of public funds, as these improvements and the resultant contracts may lead to calls for greater accountability and oversight.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates on fiscal responsibility, as critics may argue that allowing the district to bypass certain regulatory checks could lead to mismanagement of funds. Additionally, although the bill aims to promote development, some stakeholders might express apprehensions about the environmental impacts of deepening the waterway and the necessity for rigorous assessments to protect local ecosystems.

Companion Bills

TX HB2819

Identical Relating to improvement projects of the Sabine-Neches Navigation District of Jefferson County, Texas; providing authority to issue anticipation notes and time warrants.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4711

Relating to improvement projects of the Sabine-Neches Navigation District of Jefferson County, Texas.

TX SB1914

Relating to improvement projects of the Sabine-Neches Navigation District of Jefferson County, Texas.

TX HB5359

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.

TX HB5318

Relating to the creation of the Montgomery County Water Control and Improvement District No. 6; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5375

Relating to the creation of the Montgomery County Management District No. 2; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2594

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.

TX HB5351

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.

TX HB5361

Relating to the creation of the Denton County Municipal Management District No. 2; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

TX HB5395

Relating to the creation of the Fort Bend County Water Control and Improvement District No. 11; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5405

Relating to the conversion of the Legacy Water Control and Improvement District to the Legacy Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Similar Bills

TX HB2819

Relating to improvement projects of the Sabine-Neches Navigation District of Jefferson County, Texas; providing authority to issue anticipation notes and time warrants.

IL HB2390

SCH CD-SPECIAL ED JT AGREEMENT

TX HB4711

Relating to improvement projects of the Sabine-Neches Navigation District of Jefferson County, Texas.

TX SB1914

Relating to improvement projects of the Sabine-Neches Navigation District of Jefferson County, Texas.