Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'water rates'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part I) May 22nd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- working as a denied their well permit, citing local ordinances and the fact that they already had water
- Concerned about water quality and contaminants, they were
- If the same veteran had died after the PACT Act, they likely would have been rated 100% disabled, and
- This ensures that utility rate information is centralized, accessible, and easy to find.
- ...bond language used for bond and tax rate proposals, the
Keywords:
property tax exemption, utility charges, transparency, public testimony, legislative efficiency, community service
Summary:
The meeting focused on several important bills, including discussions around HB2508, which aims to clarify property tax exemption conditions for surviving spouses of veterans. Additionally, HB1991 was discussed, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding utility charges in municipally owned systems. The chair recognized public testimonies detailing both support and concerns associated with these bills. Comprehensive discussions took place regarding the implications of utility charges on residents, highlighting the importance of accessible information for community members to understand their billing. The committee urged efficiency in reporting mechanisms that relate to municipal operations and accountability to constituents.
In addition to the legislations described, the committee was informed of the significant number of bills pending review and decisions were made to prioritize those that were urgent. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing discussions and a streamlined approach to handling forthcoming bills. Members appeared engaged and responsive to public input, showcasing a collaborative commitment to legislative transparency and community service.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Environmental Regulation Apr 24th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Environmental Regulation Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- So it's impossible to overstate the importance of the water quality for this short 27-mile stretch of
- water.
- Its clear waters are sustained by spring-fed flows and it is almost untouched by contaminants.
- The goal is to reach a 75% recycling rate by 2035.
- Our members value clean bays, beaches, and gulf waters while other people, other witnesses are...
Bills:
HB1730, HB1823, HB2048, HB2266, HB2440, HB3333, HB4086, HB4271, HB4413, HB4839, HB4841, HB5151
Keywords:
concrete crushing, hospital safety, environmental regulation, construction industry, permitting process, recycling, beverage containers, environmental protection, refund program, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, rock crushing, concrete, permit processing, environmental regulation, priority applications, motor vehicle, air quality, energy source, engine, state implementation plan
Summary:
The committee meeting was focused on several key legislative matters, including the discussion of HB1904 concerning littering associated with balloon releases, which was presented favorably and passed unanimously. Additionally, the elimination of the Motor Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program was discussed within the context of HB5033, with a substitute motion adopted and passed. The meeting featured public testimony, allowing interested parties to share their views during a structured testimony period, ensuring all voices were heard within the limited timeframe. Overall, the members expressed a cooperative spirit aimed at addressing community concerns through legislation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Mar 7th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- marker="250" data-time="1494">HB 16 by Harris, relating to the oversight and financing of certain water
- infrastructure matters under the jurisdiction of the Texas Water Development Board, is referred to the
- taxing units in the year following the year in which a disaster occurs to adopt an ad valorem tax rate
- which exceeds the voter approval tax rate without holding an election to approve the adopted tax rate
- in a manner that damages the property of another due to overflow from the diverted or impounded water
Keywords:
legislation, public safety, education, witnesses, confidentiality, economic development, marriage license
Summary:
The committee meeting was robust, focusing on a wide array of bills that addressed various issues including education, public safety, and economic development. Members took turns presenting and questioning several proposed laws, with active participation from both committee members and invited witnesses. Notably, HB1193 received critical attention as it aimed to reinforce the confidentiality of certain information on marriage licenses, drawing significant debate about privacy and transparency. Witnesses presented their supports and concerns, leading to a rich dialogue about the balance between public knowledge and personal rights.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- They file their rates.
- Note that on page 15, the rate filing history shows one rate increase of 5% implemented since Hurricane
- It was about, if I recall, about a quarter of the rate, as opposed to half of the rate.
- Those are rates; those are...
- , but those rates...
Summary:
The meeting involved extensive discussions on various topics, although specific bills or motions were not highlighted. The members engaged in a dialogue surrounding the financial aspects of policies under review, particularly referencing rate components and reserves. Questions were raised regarding the allocation of premiums and the implications for future budgets, but no concrete resolutions were made. The Chair, after guiding the discussion, indicated the conclusion of the agenda and called for any additional business before moving to adjourn.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- the Texas Municipal Retirement System with greater flexibility in determining employee contribution rates
- /span>
Under current law, a city may set member contribution rates
- It does not mandate an increase in contribution rates.
- bill also preserves key historical protections for municipalities that adopted different contribution rates
- Cities that adopted different contribution rates for different
Keywords:
Texas Future Fund, investment review board, economic stabilization, innovative technology, national defense, retirement, service credit, Employees Retirement System of Texas, employee benefits, pension reform, salary supplement, county judges, judicial functions, state law, government compensation, public retirement systems, municipality pensions, firefighters, police officers, retirement age
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several house bills, notably those concerning environmental conservation, tax incentives for local businesses, and public safety. Key discussions revolved around HB3486, which introduces a sales and use tax incentive for restaurants purchasing Texas farm-raised oysters. Testimonies highlighted the importance of supporting local oyster farming to mitigate the decline of natural oyster reefs, and several witnesses praised the initiative for its potential environmental benefits. HB2688 also received attention, where representatives emphasized its role in enhancing public safety through improved support for police officers, echoing the community's need for stable recruitment and retention strategies in law enforcement.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- It's estimated that Texas' glass recycling rate is only at 12%.
- , where we work with Texans for Clean Water.
- So for glass, we have a 16% recycling rate, while the national average is 27%.
- For PET bottles, we have a 17% rate, when the national average is also 27%.
Americans for Clean Water, you mentioned 60%.
Keywords:
Gulf Coast Protection District, navigation safety, special districts, state governance, Texas legislation, Gulf Coast, flood protection, storm risk management, coastal restoration, natural resources, prescribed burns, self-insurance, fire management, liability protection, rural land management, recycling, environment, sustainability, economic development, Texas Recycling Fund
Summary:
The committee meeting focused primarily on several significant legislative proposals, particularly detailing the plans for the Gulf Coast Protection District and various recycling initiatives. Notable discussions were led by Senator Alvarado regarding SB795, which is aimed at establishing a dedicated Gulf Coast Protection Account to secure funding for coastal infrastructure projects critical for flood protection. Stakeholders expressed gratitude for ongoing legislative support, emphasizing the potential for this project to become the largest civil works project in U.S. history. Additionally, testimony was heard on recycling bills including SB2689, which seeks to improve Texas's recycling infrastructure without imposing fees, and SB410 which manages the Gulf Coast Protection District’s operations to ensure safety and navigability within Houston's waterways. Public and expert witnesses contributed insights that highlighted the economic implications and community benefits of these initiatives, demonstrating the state's commitment to sustainable development.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Jul 31st, 2025 at 09:07 am
House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- water levels.
- So water will hit and run off. There's not as much ground for absorption of water.
- It doesn't let that water flow.
- No matter how many buckets of water you pour into that ice chest, as long as the rate is constant, that
- much water.
Keywords:
flooding, disaster response, Kerr County, emergency management, community resilience, legislation, flood control, public safety
Summary:
This meeting, held in Kerr County, focused on the recent flooding disaster that affected the area. Lieutenant Governor Patrick and Speaker Burroughs spearheaded discussions, emphasizing the need for improved emergency response and flood management. Various testimonies highlighted the community's resilience while revealing critical gaps in communication and the effectiveness of evacuation strategies during the flooding. The commitment from state leaders to address these issues was evident, as they assured the local populace that legislative action would follow to prevent future tragedies. Overall, the meeting served as both a reflection on the recent disaster and a clarion call for enhanced preparedness measures across Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Agriculture & Livestock Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
House Agriculture & Livestock Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Water is our limiting factor. It's not land; it's water.
- So there's got to be some changes that they can start charging a fair rate for water.
- I'm not a water engineer.
- of water.
- these water challenges.
Summary:
The meeting covered various topics and was characterized by in-depth discussions among the members. There were significant dialogues about the implications of recent legislation and its impact on community services. The chair facilitated input from multiple members, allowing for both support and opposition to be voiced regarding key issues. Additionally, there were several public testimonies that added to the discourse, reflecting diverse perspectives on the matters at hand.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Energy Resources Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am
House Energy Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Aqua Water Supply is a member-owned utility that provides water to all of Bastrop County and a portion
- While SAWS is very engaged in proactive efforts to reduce water loss, of the total amount of water loss
- Well, that should notify the contractor that there is a water asset or a water utility asset that is
- for water and wastewater.
- infrastructure and finding sources of water that we need to properly take care of the water we need.
Keywords:
pipeline, construction, cash bond, county authority, local government, education, funding, school district, teacher support, classroom resources, underground facility, safety, excavation, regulations, utility operators, underground facilities, construction safety, excavation, utilities, marker regulations
Summary:
The meeting focused on various legislative discussions, prominently featuring HB1285 and HJR107, which aimed to address significant issues around energy production and damage prevention. Key discussions involved providing the Railroad Commission with additional tools for inspection and responding to incidents, as articulated by proponents emphasizing the benefits for public safety and efficiency. Members voiced their concerns about balancing energy production with environmental protection, highlighting the ongoing tension between economic development and ecological sustainability. Testimonies from industry experts and environmental advocates framed the debate, with strong support for maintaining Texas's status as a leader in energy while ensuring public health is not compromised.
Throughout the meeting, several members expressed their intent to refine policies surrounding utility damage prevention and excavation standards, as current laws have reportedly not evolved to address modern challenges. There was a clear acknowledgment of the technological advancements that necessitate an update to existing regulations. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of optimism for proactive legislation and apprehension regarding potential impacts of energy-related developments. As discussions drew to a close, there was a commitment to revisit these topics in future sessions to ensure thorough consideration of both industry and community perspectives.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Energy Resources Apr 14th, 2025 at 11:04 am
House Energy Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- These companies are extremely efficient with the use of water.
- At that rate or a lower rate, it doesn't seem to have any guidelines on what that rate would be.
- in the Cactus Water case.
- to produced water, that's the really nasty, briny water
- private water wells or public water supply wells.
Keywords:
surface estate, well plugging, Railroad Commission, landowner rights, liability, strategic reserve, gas supply, petroleum products, disaster response, Railroad Commission of Texas, energy security, emergency planning, oil and gas waste, Railroad Commission, environmental regulation, waste management, mining pits, groundwater monitoring, oil and gas waste, regulation
Summary:
The meeting focused on a series of bills primarily related to oil and gas infrastructure, safety, regulatory issues, and the burgeoning hydrogen industry in Texas. Several bills were discussed and voted on, including HB3911 concerning voluntary plugging of orphan wells, HB3021 related to oil and gas emergencies, and HB5600 aimed at establishing Texas as a leader in the clean hydrogen market. The Chair and members debated the provisions of these bills, considering environmental implications and economic impacts, particularly in light of recent natural disasters like the winter storm Uri.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Transportation Funding Mar 10th, 2025 at 10:03 am
House S/C on Transportation Funding
Transcript Highlights:
- As we're showing the charts indicating a diminishing rate of return, that, too, begins to illustrate
- 1,000 times the rate of pavement that a regular car does.
- Which means our roads are consumed at a far greater rate,
- but we don't receive a greater rate of funding.
- You're getting water and other effects underneath the pavement, and it becomes much more expensive to
Keywords:
transportation funding, Proposition 1, Proposition 7, TXDOT, Cameron County, transportation infrastructure, public testimony, funding shortfall, state transportation
Summary:
The meeting of the Standing Subcommittee on Transportation addressed crucial issues relating to state transportation funding, focusing primarily on Propositions 1 and 7. The discussions, led by Chairman Canales, highlighted the significant contribution these propositions make to Texas's transportation budget and the impending challenges tied to a projected funding shortfall of $15 billion. Mark Williams, Executive Director of TxDOT, along with Stephen Stewart, CFO, emphasized the importance of sustained funding to support Texas’s growing infrastructure needs amidst rising costs and diminishing revenue sources, notably due to changes in vehicle fuel efficiency and increased reliance on electric vehicles. Notable public testimony from Pete Sepulveda from the Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority provided insights into local funding mechanisms and their role in enhancing the regional transportation networks.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 18th, 2025 at 12:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Legislature regular session that authorizes subdivisions to reduce impact fees for builders who include water
- assessment infrastructures and public school indicators and achievement, public school performance ratings
- The approval tax rate for certain taxing units refers to the
- ="172" data-time="1026">HB number sixty-eight by Lopez O'Cameron relates to the study by the Texas Water
- No. 149 by Isaac relating to the reduction in the maximum compressed tax rate of school districts, making
Keywords:
disaster preparedness, youth camp safety, flood response, public safety, emergency communications, abortion legislation
Summary:
The committee meeting addressed a range of legislation aimed at addressing public safety and emergency preparedness, particularly focusing on the aftermath of recent storms in Texas. A noteworthy aspect of the discussions involved several bills related to youth camp safety, disaster preparedness, and the establishment of emergency communication systems. Members actively debated the merits of various proposals, with particular attention on HB80, which addresses abortion-related liabilities, indicating a contentious atmosphere surrounding personal rights and public health issues. Testimonies from public witnesses reinforced the urgency of implementing stronger flood response measures and safeguarding vulnerable populations during emergencies.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- 1201" data-time="7200">HB 4478 by Turner relates to the determination of a district capitalization rate
- Bonner relates to the eligibility of certain permanent general permits for discharging waste into water
- rights placed in the Texas Water Trust Fund.
- of certain counties and the procedure for the adoption of such rates.
- Of a tax rate that exceeds that rate, making conforming
Keywords:
ad valorem taxation, intangible property, tax exemption, property tax reform, economic implications, missing children, law enforcement, national reporting, investigation, public safety, ad valorem taxes, tax collector, delinquency date, tax payment, office closure, legislative matters, committee members, transparency, public education, proceedings
Summary:
The meeting included discussions surrounding various legislative matters, however, specific bills did not generate notable dialogue or challenges among the committee members. The members appeared to unanimously agree on the proceedings, which was reflected in the smooth running of the meeting. Members engaged in general commentary about the current legislative landscape and the importance of transparency and public education regarding new policies. While no specific testimony was gathered from the public, the atmosphere remained cordial and focused on advancing talks.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Improvement Districts, and Water Control Improvement Districts (WCIDs).
So what's that got to do with fresh water?
- We know that we have the highest uninsured rate in the United States.
- Having that in our taxable base allows us to provide the wastewater treatment and water supply.
- I'm actually testifying on behalf of the Association of Water Board Directors today.
Bills:
SB434, SB844, SB898, SB1177, SB1214, SB1454, SB1920, SB1927, SB1935, SB1965, SB2010, SB2046, SB2068, SB2073, SB2183, SB2260, SB3034, SB907
Keywords:
housing authorities, tax exemptions, local government code, multifamily residential development, municipal housing authority, municipal regulation, tree removal, Ashe juniper, military base, property protection, property owners' association, board governance, homeowner regulation, declarant control, assessment limits, guaranteed income, financial assistance, local government, public funds, employment programs
Summary:
The meeting covered several significant bills, primarily focusing on enhancing transparency and accountability within local government and homeowners' associations. Notably, Senator Hinojosa introduced SB1935, aimed to reform the operations of Property Owners Association Boards, addressing concerns over insufficient representation and transparency for homeowners. The bill drew a mix of support and opposition, with testimonies highlighting the need for greater homeowner engagement in decisions affecting their communities. Additionally, SB2046 was discussed, which would enhance penalties for public officials engaging in bid rigging, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of competitive bidding processes to curb misconduct within government contracts.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Aug 22nd, 2025 at 08:08 am
House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- ...As the water is coming into their house, a foot of water
- Instead, we have straws in the limestone that soak up water and take that water directly down into our
- We have a 17% growth rate.
- Upstream water is going to go somewhere.
- This bill will help slow down water and floods.
Keywords:
disaster relief, grant program, loan program, infrastructure, recovery, Texas Division of Emergency Management, building standards, youth camps, floodplains, safety regulations, environmental policies, flood risk, campground, safety regulations, civil penalty, guest safety, county regulation, impervious cover, land use, unincorporated areas
Summary:
The committee meeting addressed multiple bills related to emergency preparedness and flood prevention, with significant discussions on HB48, SB3, and HB75. Representative Darby opened the meeting by advocating for the creation of a nine-member alert notification system to address public saturation with emergency alerts and to streamline the notification process by evaluating the effectiveness and coordination of existing systems. Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the necessity of reducing alert fatigue among residents while enhancing the state’s overall readiness for impending natural disasters. The meeting featured robust support for HB75, aimed at establishing stricter safety standards for youth camps located in flood-prone areas following recent tragic flooding incidents that highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- For example, we have the plant versus the water lily. The plant is the bluebonnet, but the...
- Water lily has a particular kind of water lily.
- That's just been my experience in the water world.
- ...focused on water reclamation from produced water out
- and the voter approval tax rate.
Keywords:
school safety, border security, fentanyl trafficking, public testimony, legislative funding, mental health resources, Texas Senate, safety protocols
Summary:
The meeting revolved around various critical discussions, primarily focusing on school safety and the challenges surrounding border security. Key testimonies highlighted the significant strides made in reducing illegal crossings but emphasized the need for continued vigilance against crime and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. Members expressed gratitude towards the Texas Senate's supportive role in funding for safety measures and strengthening resources to keep the state safe. Conversations also centered around the implementation of new safety protocols in schools, including the establishment of the Office of School Safety and Security, and how schools are addressing vulnerabilities identified from assessments. Furthermore, the importance of mental health resources was underscored as a complement to physical security improvements within educational institutions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 25th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Article III
Transcript Highlights:
- ERS premium rate.
- Our six-year graduation rate...
- Graduation rate last year was 69%.
- You know, without water...
- The six-year graduation rate yielded in FY21 was 23%.
Keywords:
mental health, loan repayment program, funding, Behavioral Health Innovation Grant, rural communities, higher education, testimony, legislative changes
Summary:
The meeting focused on key funding initiatives related to mental health and higher education in Texas, highlighting the importance of sustaining the loan repayment program for mental health professionals. Public testimony underscored a significant 600% increase in applications resulting from recent funding and legislative changes, positioning Texas as a critical area for addressing mental health provider shortages, particularly in rural communities. The discussion also touched on the Behavioral Health Innovation Grant Program, which remains unfunded despite its potential to further strengthen the state’s workforce pipeline.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Mar 31st, 2025 at 04:03 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- "250" data-time="1494">HB 4194 by Leo-Wilson relating to the calculation of the no new revenue tax rate
- > HB 4212 by Curry relating to the establishment of an administration in the use of Texas land and water
- HB 4231 by Greg Capriglione, relating to the cybersecurity for retail public utilities that provide water
- relating to the authority to impose municipal sales and use taxes, authorizing an increase in the rate
- Increases in that appraised value of the property for subsequent tax years based on the inflation rate
Keywords:
public safety, education, taxation, emergency power, constitutional amendment, infrastructure
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily addressed various proposed bills concerning public safety, education, and taxation. Notably, HB4250 was discussed, relating to emergency power sources for nursing facilities. During the session, several amendments were proposed, leading to an in-depth discussion on the adequacy of the current infrastructure to support emergency generators, especially in light of recent events. The committee members also engaged in conversations regarding H.J.R. 172, a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at tax exemptions for residential properties, which sparked considerable debate about its fiscal implications.