Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'utility district'
Page 19 of 52
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- makes three changes:
Number one, it adds municipal utility
- districts as eligible to receive the grant.
- Organizations, public institutions of higher education, school districts
- , municipal utility districts, and other political subdivisions.
- districts in qualifying counties for water infrastructure grants under the governor's grant program.
Keywords:
House Appropriations, committee substitute, water infrastructure, HB188, HB265, HJR35, HJR47, SB1901, bipartisan support
Summary:
The House Appropriations Committee convened to discuss several significant legislative bills, including HB188, HB265, HJR35, HJR47, and SB1901. During the session, each bill was presented, and members engaged in lively discussions about their implications. Notably, the committee adopted a committee substitute for HB188, which expanded eligibility for grants related to water infrastructure. The substitute aimed to prioritize municipal utility districts, garnering a generally positive reception among committee members. Both HJR35 and HJR47 were reported favorably for consideration by the full House, demonstrating strong bipartisan support despite some dissenting votes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- My district stretches from Laredo to Austin.
- My district stretches from Laredo to Austin.
- We've utilized that in some of the apprenticeship programs.
- While not every legislative district has a port, every district benefits from ports, whether it's energy
- has a port, every district benefits from ports.
Bills:
SB1
Keywords:
appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, transportation funding, highway projects, housing programs, legislative support, public testimony, driver education, homeless youth, infrastructure development
Summary:
The committee meeting addressed various pressing issues, notably the funding and appropriations for transportation and housing programs. Presentations focused on $40.4 billion in funding for highway projects, which is directed towards construction, maintenance, and infrastructure development for the upcoming biennium. Discussions highlighted the importance of addressing the capacity for project delivery amid increasing demands due to population growth and increased vehicle miles traveled in Texas. Additionally, Senator Hinojosa pushed for clarifying the funding available for driver education programs, especially for homeless and foster youth, which underscored a need for legislative support to ensure adequate resource allocation. Public testimonies lent depth to these discussions, presenting the human impact of legislative decisions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Intergovernmental Affairs Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- , and the hospital district.
- You brought up the water districts.
- So municipal utility districts are one of the vehicles...
- districts, and special districts are legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Tepper's district, were voted down.
Keywords:
housing finance, multifamily residential, low income, tax exemption, audit requirements, affordable housing, local government, development bonds, housing assistance, financial assistance, low income housing, community support, affordability, veterans housing, housing assistance, financial assistance, low income housing, community involvement, air conditioning, tenant support
Summary:
The meeting highlighted significant issues regarding housing funding mechanisms, particularly surrounding the complexities of Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs). Members voiced their concerns about the financial impacts these HFCs have on local government revenues, given that many property tax exemptions are given while maintaining market-rate rents. This discussion was sparked by alarming statistics indicating a rapid increase in tax dollars removed from local jurisdictions due to HFC activities, stressing the need for regulatory reforms to preserve affordable housing without financially jeopardizing municipalities.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Mar 7th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- by Harris, relating to the funding mechanisms of the Office of the Governor and the Texas Public Utility
- Commission of Texas and the Public Utility Commission of
- p>
HB 1030 by Shaheen, relating to the reduction of school district
- of conduct that demonstrates habitual violence, harmful behavior, or destructiveness in a school district
- ">HB 1115 by Van Dever, relating to the employment of honorably retired peace officers as school district
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
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- A lot of your districts rely heavily on groundwater.
- As you know, groundwater districts throughout the state vary.
- They could apply for grant funds from the district to use for that science research type efforts.
- 1,080 locally elected district directors.
- With these funds, local districts employ conservation planners.
Keywords:
Texas House, Natural Resources, water management, conservation, legislative proposals, administrative processes
Summary:
During this meeting of the Texas House Natural Resources Committee, critical discussions centered on various legislative proposals impacting water management and conservation in the state. Chairman Harris emphasized the importance of balancing economic growth with conservation efforts, noting the urgency of addressing Texas's finite water resources. Several members raised concerns about the administrative processes governing water laws, and a variety of bills were presented, including a definition cleanup bill and modifications to reporting requirements. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders who provided insights on existing issues and proposed solutions to enhance water management in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Article III
Transcript Highlights:
- Department of Education on ESSER II and ESSER III COVID funding, school districts can continue to utilize
- Either the school districts can pay for it, or if the school districts decide not to pay for it, it's
- Some school districts passed on money to their teachers, and some districts did not when they implemented
- Lindum from the School District.
- Those don't go to school districts.
Keywords:
education funding, basic allotment, public testimonies, school districts, legislative recommendations
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on reviewing updates and recommendations related to education funding and legislative measures for public schools. Significant discussions included the implications of the new educational budget proposal, as well as public testimonies advocating for increased funding to support school districts facing financial difficulties. Notably, there was a strong emphasis on adjusting the basic allotment to accommodate inflation and ensure that school funding is based on student enrollment rather than attendance, to better support districts struggling with deficits and operational challenges.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Mar 24th, 2025 at 10:03 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- They don't really utilize...
- District Chief Financial Officer for the El Paso County Hospital District. Good morning.
- I serve as the District Chief Financial Officer for the El Paso County Hospital District, doing business
- from utilizing Certificates of Obligation.
- A school board, hospital district, we're all accountable for our...
Keywords:
local governments, anticipation notes, certificates of obligation, public works, flood control, local governments, anticipation notes, certificates of obligation, public works, flood control, financial management, local government, anticipation notes, certificates of obligation, municipal financing, public works, private activity bonds, closing definition, real estate finance, bond issuance
Summary:
The meeting of the committee involved discussions surrounding multiple bills focusing on financial legislation, including crucial developments related to certificates of obligation (COs). Representative Tepper presented HB1453, which aimed to increase voter input regarding local government debt issuance and address growing concerns about financial accountability. The discussions highlighted the recent trends in CO debt, particularly in areas like El Paso, which has seen a dramatic rise in local government debt without direct voter approval. Several members voiced their support and concerns regarding the bill's implications for taxpayer rights and community involvement in financial decision-making.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We all have HCS homes in our districts.
- utilizers that's based on actual data served.
- Is this data being utilized effectively?
- So, those were the utilizers, but only 132 were served.
- And as I understand it, school districts were...
Bills:
SB1
Keywords:
appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, child welfare, kinship care, community-based care, foster care, Senator Alvarado, Senator Hinojosa, legislative budget
Summary:
The meeting focused on various topics related to child welfare, particularly emphasizing the importance of kinship placements in the foster care system. Senators Alvarado and Hinojosa engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the benefits of kinship care, highlighting better outcomes for children and the financial implications for the state. They emphasized a need for continued investments in kinship care as a strategy to improve child welfare outcomes, encouraging the legislature to consider this approach moving forward. Additionally, the committee reviewed community-based care programs, which aim to keep children in their communities to promote stability and familial connections.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We just want to make sure that that investment is fully utilized.
- However, we don't employ these technologies to utilize that additional capacity.
- That information is transmitted back to the utility.
- There is currently a utility-grade BESS located just 10 yards from a residence.
- community, including our utility providers.
Bills:
HB551, HB1281, HB1378, HB1617, HB2868, HB2881, HB3374, HB4439, HB4726, HB4732, HB4878, HB4914, HB4921, HB4958, HB5200, HB5318, HB5360, HB5402, HB5568, HB5573, HB5623, HJR218
Keywords:
political contributions, address privacy, Texas Ethics Commission, election transparency, campaign finance, international organizations, World Health Organization, jurisdiction, state law, enforcement, United Nations, World Economic Forum, attorney general, international organizations, jurisdiction, World Health Organization, United Nations, World Economic Forum, state law, enforcement
Summary:
The committee meeting covered a wide range of bills, highlighting legislative efforts to address energy efficiency, border security, and public safety. Notably, the discussions surrounding HB3824 focused on establishing fire safety standards for battery energy storage systems, inciting concerns about their proximity to schools and hospitals. Members expressed varying opinions on the technology while considering public safety and infrastructure requirements. The meeting also saw the passage of multiple bills, including HB1554, which prohibits the use of public funds for legal services for unlawfully present individuals, showcasing a strong political consensus on border-related issues. Overall, the session was marked by substantial public engagement and the intent to address critical legislative priorities effectively.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Natural Resources Aug 21st, 2025 at 02:08 pm
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I do think they have authority, more than some districts are doing.
- navigation districts, groundwater conservation districts.
- There are other districts doing a great job of it.
- The other purpose of groundwater districts...
- You've got a single county district and a same county district
Keywords:
groundwater, conservation, water permits, sustainability, resource management, groundwater, permitting, conservation, Texas Water Development Board, aquifer, hydrological impact, groundwater, House Bill 24, House Bill 27, water conservation, public testimony, scientific study, moratorium, East Texas
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on House Bill 24 and House Bill 27, which pertain to groundwater management in Texas. Representative Ashby expressed appreciation for the committee's efforts and emphasized the significance of these discussions, given the ongoing concerns around groundwater conservation in East Texas. The committee engaged in detailed dialogue regarding the implications of groundwater exports and the need for scientific studies to understand the potential impacts on local water resources. House Bill 27 aims to conduct a scientific study on the aquifers, requiring a temporary moratorium on new export permits to facilitate better data-driven decision-making. Public testimony included a wide range of stakeholders who shared perspectives on the importance of maintaining a balance between urban growth and rural water needs.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It's surprising to me that a district attorney would say — a district attorney that has investigators
- District by school district by school district.
- They were talking to the district attorney there, somebody in the district attorney's office, and they
- with another district.
- I mean, imagine school districts; school districts fundraise as well.
Keywords:
government efficiency, accountability, public hearings, cybersecurity, state agencies, taxpayer dollars, oversight, modernization, legislative proposals
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency marked the beginning of a new era focused on holding government agencies accountable and eliminating inefficiencies. Chairman Capriglione emphasized the committee's role in modernizing state government, implementing rigorous oversight, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. The committee plans to address waste, mismanagement, and corruption, aiming for an ambitious agenda over the next 22 months. Discussions included the establishment of public hearings to foster transparency and the development of legislative proposals to drive reform. Several state agencies provided insights into their operations, with a particular focus on how they can better serve the public through increased efficiency and enhanced cybersecurity measures.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- And I know our school districts have a history...
- In the four districts of the Austin District, Brownwood
- District, San Angelo, and San Antonio District, we have 420 low water crossings.
- So, tell us how the PUC coordinated with the electric utility.
- Was that their municipal utility alone or was that multiple utilities?
Keywords:
flooding, disaster relief, emergency response, Senate Select Committee, flood risk management, public testimony, flood planning, community input
Summary:
In this meeting of the Senate Select Committee on Disaster Relief and Flooding, the focus was on the recent severe flooding that caused significant casualties and property damage across Texas. The committee heard invited testimony from various state agencies and river authorities regarding their responses to the flooding emergency. It was noted that over 135 Texans lost their lives during this disaster, and numerous families were displaced, prompting a united effort from emergency responders and volunteers across the country to assist those affected. The committee emphasized the importance of constructive policy solutions rather than assigning blame, aiming to enhance future flood response and mitigation strategies.
Key discussions revolved around flood risk management, with presentations on the newly established processes following the passage of several bills related to flood infrastructure and planning. The committee emphasized a bottom-up approach to regional flood planning involving local community input, and they highlighted the need for additional resources to improve emergency response capabilities. Public testimony reinforced the necessity of developing improved communication systems and flood warning mechanisms to mitigate the risk of future flooding incidents.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Energy Resources Mar 31st, 2025 at 02:03 pm
House Energy Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Utilizing the data that the Commission has and determining different types of strategies that some of
- Public Utility, and you are for House Bill 3125?
- Committee members, Mark Vega, McAllen Public Utility General Manager, just wanted to make sure that I
- I mean throughout Texas, but specifically for us in district 74. I'm a big proponent for it.
- Show you registers Marco Vega, general manager, McAllen Public Utility, and you're for House Bill 3240
Keywords:
carbon sequestration, environmental policy, Texas, energy, climate change, regulatory council, geothermal energy, workforce development, education and training, energy industry, apprenticeship, geothermal energy, energy production, Texas, energy policy, renewable energy, state council, administrative law, public information, transparency
Summary:
The meeting of the Energy Resources Committee was marked by extensive discussions on several key legislative bills, particularly those concerning carbon capture, geothermal energy, and oilfield theft. Representative Zwiener laid out HB2612, aimed at creating a carbon dioxide sequestration policy council under the Railroad Commission. The bill's supporters emphasized its potential economic benefits while addressing safety concerns raised by witnesses regarding existing underground injection practices. Notably, there was a strong consensus among proponents that addressing these complex issues proactively is essential for Texas to maintain its leadership in the energy sector. The committee also heard testimony on HB1647, focused on combating petroleum product theft, which remains a growing concern within the state. Witnesses highlighted the pressing need for improved coordination among law enforcement and the establishment of a dedicated task force to tackle this issue effectively.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session May 19th, 2025 at 10:05 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- And that process is for the district clerk to notify all district judges when a request for bail review
- Next, once the district clerk receives that request, the district judge has to review the original bail
- clerks to notify district judges when a request to review a decision is received, and district judges
- Senate Bill 2145 would allow public improvement districts and tax increment financing districts (TIFs
- in the Speaker's district?
Bills:
SB664, SB40, SB9, SJR1, SJR5, SB27, SB207, SB2938, SB1901, SB1227, SB1248, SB912, SB1321, SB2143, SB2145, SB1497, SB1239, SB2180, SB1388, SB1762, SB1662, SB1951, SB1537, SB493, SB378, SB1020, SB1018, SB992, SB958, SB920, SB1350, SCR25, SB687, SB1332, SB2185, SB552, SB664, SB40, SB9, SJR1, SJR5, SB458, SB482, SB927, SB984, SB651, SB1620, SB2124, SB2448, SB841, SB843, SB402, SB2662, SB2053, SB2332, SB2112, SB745, SB1247, SB1789, SB27, SB207, SB2938, SB1901, SB1227, SB1248, SB912, SB1321, SB2143, SB2145, SB1497, SB1239, SB2180, SB1388, SB1762, SB1662, SB1951, SB1537, SB493, SB378, SB1020, SB1018, SB992, SB958, SB920, SB1350, HCR76, HCR127, HCR9, HCR40, HCR118, HR559, HCR59, HCR135, HCR141, HCR46, HCR109, HCR10, SCR25, HB2525, HB142, HB140, HB29, HB451, HB3809, HB3307, HB1130, HJR1, HB9, SB17, SB260, SB509, SB1506, SB1637, SB2308
Keywords:
bail bonds, public funds, political subdivision, injunctive relief, taxpayer rights, bail reform, defendants, pretrial detention, public safety, criminal justice, charitable bail organizations, bail denial, illegal aliens, felony offenses, constitutional amendment, law enforcement, bail, felony offenses, criminal justice reform, public safety
Summary:
The committee's meeting was marked by several key discussions surrounding numerous bills and resolutions. Notably, HCR 9 and HCR 40 were adopted, with representatives urging Congress for reimbursement related to border security under Operation Lone Star. Additionally, HCR 118 showed expressions of support for the warship manufacturing industry, reflecting a strong emphasis on local economic development. Senate Bills 1321, 2143, and 2145 passed various readings, which included provisions regarding law enforcement authority and the adaptability of public improvement districts to conduct meetings virtually. The meeting was well attended and featured numerous votes on significant legislative items, showcasing active participation from both members and the public.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Rodriguez because of important business in the district. On motion of Mr.
- attorney for the 365th Judicial District and the duties of the district attorney for the 239th Judicial
- District for the Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence.
- Proceedings of the Municipal Utility District for the Committee
- districts in the extraterritorial jurisdiction of a municipality.
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
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Finance (Part II) Jan 28th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- I think you can better utilize facilities like MARC and those 300 beds can be utilized more effectively
- like MARC, and those 300 beds can be utilized more effectively.
- I think you can better utilize facilities like MARC, and those 300 beds can be utilized more effectively
- Costs have increased in materials, repairs, utilities, and services.
- Costs have increased in materials, repairs, utilities, and services.
Keywords:
Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Juvenile Justice Department, budget recommendations, staffing, facility construction, public safety, juvenile justice
Summary:
The meeting of the committee centered around discussions on the budgets for the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Significant recommendations included a proposed budget of $3.7 billion for the Department of Public Safety, which reflects a decrease of $199.6 million from the previous cycle. Key topics included customer service enhancements and the increase of staff to improve operations and reduce wait times. Additionally, the Juvenile Justice Department's funding was discussed, including adjustments related to staff salary increases and facility needs.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- for Texas 18th Congressional District.
- data-time="180">The Senate moves to excuse Senator Miles on account of important business in the district
We have our District Attorney, Carlos Omar.
- Navigation District to Transportation.
- to transport district students or employees to or from a polling place to state affairs.
Keywords:
SB703, SB21, Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, SB790, criminal implications, license reform, tenant disputes, financial strategy, Senator Zaffirini
Summary:
The meeting focused on several significant bills, including SB703, which addresses the criminal and licensing implications for various massage establishments and was aimed at aligning state laws with federal regulations by closing existing loopholes. Senator Zaffirini played a vital role in facilitating discussions on multiple bills, including SB21, which proposes the establishment of the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, emphasizing the need for Texas to explore forward-thinking financial strategies amidst federal monetary inflation concerns. Additionally, SB790, aimed at streamlining the resolution process for tenant-landlord disputes regarding water and wastewater billing, was also presented, drawing attention to due process concerns but ultimately supported for its efficiency improvements.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- This is simply utilizing the utility, the line that's already been paid for.
- He came to a chamber banquet in my district, which I was grateful for.
- I know from some of my restaurant owners in my district...
- We're the trade association for the 72 municipally owned electric utilities.
- or private utilities continue to be able to verify standards.
Bills:
SB264, SB542, SB924, SB1008, SB1029, SB1036, SB1057, SB1058, SB1185, SB1202, SB1358, SB1364, SB1376, SB1569, SB1664, SB1697, SJR50
Keywords:
property owners' association, water conservation, residential watering restriction, fines, drought management, video services, regulation, public right-of-way, franchise authority, telecommunications, food safety, regulations, permitting, local authority, food service industry, used vehicles, advertising regulations, dealerships, consumer protection, vehicle identification
Summary:
The committee meeting was marked by a series of discussions regarding several bills aimed at improving local regulations, particularly around food service operations. Members discussed the challenges of regulatory inconsistencies affecting restaurants and the food industry, emphasizing how Senate Bill 1008 could alleviate some financial burdens. Various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Restaurant Association, testified in support of this bill, highlighting the need for clearer and more predictable regulations. The discussions included provisions that would cap local permit fees, preventing duplicate charges that hinder small businesses' operations. Notably, there was strong bipartisan support demonstrated as numerous bills were reported favorably with unanimous votes.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Joint Hearing: Senate and House Select Committees on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding Jul 23rd, 2025
Texas Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- So, I believe I do have that number in the four districts: the Austin District, Brownwood District, and
- Same for the County and the Public Utility Commission.
- Was that their municipal utility alone, or was that with multiple utilities?
- Flood districts were added in response to public comments, along with electric generation utilities,
- We utilize a workforce of about 230 operators and staff.
Keywords:
flooding, emergency response, communication systems, first responders, disaster management, Texas Water Development Board, regional planning, public safety
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on discussions around the recent floods in Texas, specifically addressing emergency preparedness, response coordination, and recovery efforts. Officials from various agencies provided testimonies on the challenges faced during the emergency, including issues with communication systems among first responders. Notably, the need for improved inter-agency communication and technology integration was emphasized, with recommendations for establishing regional communications units for better coordination during disasters. The audience included local government representatives and emergency management partners, who shared insights and experiences from the recent flooding events.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Chairman, that you mentioned that since I have part of Allen in my district.
- The town of Addison is wholly located in House District 115 and is home to 17,000 people.
- We need tools like this, so cities in my district need tools like this.
- So moving forward, we'd like to utilize that hotel occupancy tax to be able to pay that.
- Harlingen arguably made a mistake a number of years ago that instead of utilizing...
Bills:
HB1039, HB2289, HB2370, HB2404, HB3066, HB3076, HB3117, HB3118, HB3169, HB3178, HB3179, HB3182, HB3196, HB3241, HB3377, HB3500, HB3567, HB3715, HB3954, HB4098, HB4109, HB4222, HB4226, HB4412, HB4659, HB4682, HB4683, HB4755, HB4926, HB5165, HB5562, HB5596
Keywords:
hotel occupancy tax, municipal revenue, tax authority, border counties, tax legislation, municipalities, hotel tax revenue, convention centers, economic development, local government authority, hotel occupancy tax, county authority, tax revenue, economic impact, Oklahoma border, municipal tax revenue, hotel projects, convention centers, state tax code, economic development
Summary:
The committee meeting involved a range of discussions focused on local economic development through various House Bills primarily related to hotel occupancy taxes. Noteworthy was the presentation of House Bill 2370, which aims to allow municipalities like Harlingen to use hotel occupancy tax revenue retroactively for convention center expenses, facilitating fiscal responsibility and community involvement via voter approval. Representative Lopez encouraged support for the bill, highlighting its potential benefits for the city's budget and operational flexibility. Testimonies from local leaders, including Harlingen's Mayor, reinforced the need for this legislative change to support vital city projects.