Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Municipal Utility Districts'

Page 22 of 53
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • It took away the ability of school districts to grant reinvestment zones and tax abatements.
  • I'm in your district, and I appreciate you hearing me out today.
  • We did that with school districts.
  • I am the Director of the Hamlin Municipal Development District
  • You can see each of you has a legislative district one-pager specific to your district, and between 71
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on various bills aimed at workforce development and economic growth, particularly in rural areas. Key discussions revolved around Senate Bill 2448, which aims to support rural small businesses and enhance technical assistance in workforce development. Testimonies from several stakeholders underscored the necessity of aligning education with local workforce needs, showcasing the lack of resources in rural regions. The testimony highlighted how the proposed bills could bridge the gap between education and employment opportunities for Texans, especially focusing on youth who are disconnected from education and the workforce.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="136" data-time="810"> Large energy transition projects, with Texas positioning itself to utilize
  • So if it is associated, I believe, with a municipality, then in certain cases those could...
  • mechanical or building trades, but it also could be utilized
  • passed HB1543, which added a notification process for the transfers located in public improvement districts
  • 2468 fixes this by establishing that the buyer is afforded the termination option only if the municipality
Summary: The meeting addressed several key pieces of legislation, with significant focus on bills related to property owners' associations and the Texas Workforce Commission's training programs. Representative Harris-Navila presented HB517, which aims to allow property owners' associations to impose fines for discolored vegetation during watering restrictions. The committee adopted a community substitute for this bill before moving it forward with a recommendation for passage. Meanwhile, HB2791, highlighted by Chairwoman Button, focusses on vocational rehabilitation programs for individuals with disabilities, with provisions that require efficient operation to avoid lapses in service.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 3rd, 2025 at 11:03 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Now, it could be a municipal utility district where they would qualify, or a hospital district that the
  • we are a municipally owned utility.
  • it pays for itself within the district.
  • So in between Corpus starts in your district.
  • It's in my district in the far west side of Bexar County.
Summary: The House Committee on Energy Resources held its inaugural meeting where members emphasized their commitment to addressing critical issues facing the energy sector in Texas. Chairman Darby initiated discussions focused on legislative priorities, notably the management of inactive and orphaned wells, which have become a significant economic and environmental concern. The committee also discussed the balance between regulatory oversight and industry growth, emphasizing collaborative efforts among members and stakeholders to create effective policy. Testimonies highlighted the importance of tackling concerns related to produced water and ensuring sustainable practices in Texas's vast energy landscape, including innovations in hydrogen production and recycling.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the elected district attorney in the 452nd Judicial District, which covers the five counties of Edwards
  • I represent the Texas Municipal Police.
  • Our special utility districts are a type of district that is non-taxing.
  • Members who are large special utility districts and

  • or consolidated school districts.
Summary: The meeting focused on a series of bills, notably HB2467, which aims to address pay disparities for peace officers in the state fire marshal's office. Representative Van Deaver highlighted the critical services provided by these officers, who perform essential law enforcement duties yet face compensation below their counterparts. Witnesses, including those from law enforcement, testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the need for equitable pay. The committee showed support for the bill, agreeing to leave it pending for further evaluation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Mar 4th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I know some school districts hire risk managers where they...
  • I've represented many school districts forced to arbitrate in New York.
  • This is just another tool that we can utilize to build our state.
  • utilities.
  • The load-serving entities, retail electric providers, municipals, and co-ops.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business included significant deliberations on multiple bills, specifically SB765, SB929, and SB455. Notably, Senator King advanced SB765 amid discussions on its committee substitute, clarifying issues related to confidentiality protections for law enforcement. The committee unanimously adopted the substitute, indicating broad support. Moving on, SB929 was similarly discussed, with minor amendments clarified before being favorably reported without objections. This reflects a positive atmosphere aimed at smoothing the legislative process for these initiatives. Senator Melton presented SB455, which addresses Texas law and arbitration for surplus lines of insurance that faced a veto in the previous session. This bill aims to establish arbitration processes that are more favorable to Texas policyholders by mandating that disputes be governed by Texas law and conducted within Texas. Stakeholders voiced strong support for this bill, emphasizing the importance of upholding Texas jurisdiction over such disputes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:30 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V

Transcript Highlights:
  • Costs have increased in materials, repairs, utilities

  • We utilize a combination of time series forecasting and discrete simulation modeling to project entry
  • Recommendations include $11.6 million from TDCJ and moving that to the Wyndham School District.
  • Costs have increased in materials, repairs, utilities, and services.
  • that the agency utilizes.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on comprehensive budget recommendations across various law enforcement and correctional agencies. Notable discussions included funding for the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and the Legislative Budget Board's educational and support initiatives for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Specific emphasis was placed on addressing staffing shortages and retention of personnel, particularly in parole and correctional officer positions, amid rising concerns regarding jail standards and operational efficiency. The meeting also saw testimonies from agency heads who outlined their needs and challenges, underscoring the importance of legislative support for public safety and corrections reform.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part I) Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is that a criminal district court or a civil district court?
  • Standalone, there's one district court, the 66th District Court in Hill.
  • I spoke to the district attorney, or the former district

  • I was told that the district attorney...
  • As the district attorney mentioned, it was...
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice, the focus was on various bills aimed at enhancing public safety and addressing issues within the criminal justice system. Notably, Senate Bill 2460 was discussed, which allows for rapid DNA analysis at booking stations to address delays in forensic testing. The bill received support from several witnesses, including law enforcement officials, who emphasized the importance of this technology in solving cases more efficiently. Another significant topic was Senate Bill 1573, intended to provide due process protections for law enforcement officers accused of misconduct, which sparked a debate on balancing accountability and protecting the officers' reputations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • authorizing elections for the recall of a member of the Board of Trustees of an Independent School District
  • constitutional amendment authorizing the property tax reduction to permit a reduction in school district
  • Anchia because of important business in the district. On motion of Mr. Rosenthal, is there any...
  • And so what do you suppose I should say to the people in my district who are suffering under property
  • HB 4411 by comments relates to school district hearings
Summary: The committee meeting highlighted significant discussions surrounding several key bills, including HB908, which aims to establish a required reporting protocol for missing children cases. The bill received robust support, with members emphasizing its potential to enhance child safety and streamline law enforcement responses. Another notable piece of legislation discussed was HB1392, which addresses delays in property tax payment due to unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters and other emergencies, ensuring Texans are not penalized for situations beyond their control. The meeting concluded with enthusiastic participation from both committee members and the public, showcasing the community's engagement in the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 24th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • When you're representing that portion of the district out in West Texas, it's important for us and for
  • These fires could have been avoided if either the utility
  • However, we utilize this treated product for beneficial reuse, it will benefit this state.
  • It's used in municipalities throughout the country.
  • They use brine mining to utilize the water that happens to be on the lease, on the property.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on the discussion and advancement of several key bills, notably HB1285, HB2890, HB1971, and HB1169. Chairman Darby opened the session by presenting HB2890, addressing the economic impact of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, particularly in light of recent federal pauses on LNG projects which have affected Texas significantly. The committee heard testimonies regarding the necessity of increasing communication between Gulf states to protect the industry, illustrating the importance of unified action against federal regulations that may harm Texas's LNG sector.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • District Attorney's Office, assigned to the 372nd District
  • And this came from my district.
  • It also utilizes an existing database...
  • So how does that judge, that municipal judge, or whoever's not a state district judge get, I'll use the
  • the district, likely to use the felony district judge or
Summary: The committee meeting centered around a range of bills, with significant focus on public safety and welfare issues. Discussions highlighted the implications of HB166, which aims to enhance protections for vulnerable populations against the dangers of fentanyl exposure. Witness testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the legislation. Representative Capriglione underscored the urgency of addressing this growing concern, as fentanyl's potency poses a lethal risk, particularly to children, elderly individuals, and disabled individuals. The session included a robust debate on how best to enforce these legal protections while balancing concerns about enforcement complexities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 13th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I've been the District Attorney for almost 17 years now.
  • This bill will require all municipalities and counties

  • to district.
  • I'm the Criminal District Attorney for Comal County.
  • ...that cell phones that are utilized.
Summary: During the meeting, multiple bills were reviewed and discussed, with the most prominent being HB33, known as the Uvalde-Strong Act. This bill aims to improve school safety and preparedness in active shooting situations by implementing stringent security measures and training requirements for law enforcement and educational institutions. The bill generated significant discussion about its provisions, the urgency for enhanced safety protocols, and the lessons learned from previous tragedies. HB1261, which allows for dual publication methods for public notices, was also reported favorably without objections, reflecting a growing need to adapt legislative processes to modern communication standards. The meeting concluded with several bills advancing to the full Senate for further consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 30th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is that our municipalities? Is that county? And then included in school districts?
  • And then, of course, we have all the special utility districts, which I would wonder if that is also
  • And then included in school districts?
  • And then, of course, we have all the special utility districts, which I would wonder if that is also
  • Local governments, water districts, school districts, and
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on several critical budget recommendations for various state agencies, including the Texas Facilities Commission, which proposed significant funding changes. Chair George Purcell highlighted a reduction in appropriations, along with the introduction of new funds aimed at refurbishing the Rudder Building and supporting facilities operations. Discussions also touched on border security, where it was reported that Governor Abbott formally requested congressional support to reclaim $11 billion in funding for Texas operations. The ongoing dialogue regarding the maintenance and responsibilities relating to border wall constructions was emphasized, noting the complexity and the need for clear allocation of responsibilities as discussions with federal authorities develop. Throughout the meeting, there were notable conversations about operational efficiencies, particularly in the context of expanding cyber threats and the need for improved cybersecurity measures at state agencies. Members engaged in deliberating the future hiring of staff and resources necessary for maintaining effective service delivery amidst increasing demand. The discussions concluded with a commitment to keeping an open line with constituents regarding the implications of these funding decisions and the overall strategic direction of the agencies involved.
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:
  • We have the municipalities and the county drainage districts
  • I know that the local municipalities and the counties set some of those regulations.
  • Additionally, you need to get the utilities out of the flood zone.
  • control improvement districts, drainage districts, or levee improvement districts, they all give the
  • situated districts around the state to utilize, when needed, the surface waters in the reservoir of
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:
  • However, we have around 26 to 27 water districts and irrigation districts that were created back in the
  • Many times, the city or the developer will negotiate with the water district, and the water district
  • Most of the water districts and irrigation districts cooperate
  • district.
  • Our district and why this is important to this district.
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed significant issues surrounding groundwater conservation, with a focus on several proposed bills aimed to enhance the management and sustainability of water resources in the region. House Bill 1633 was discussed, which seeks to strengthen criteria used by groundwater conservation districts (GCDs) when permitting, ensuring that they factor in potential impacts on neighboring exempt wells. Positive sentiments were expressed regarding the need for more stringent evaluations of groundwater permits to preserve resources effectively. This bill aims to reinforce accountability among GCDs, emphasizing the criticality of groundwater, especially in rural areas where access is essential for agricultural and domestic use. In addition, House Bill 1689 and Senate Bill 3058 were presented, both aimed at improving how GCDs utilize export fees and manage water conservation measures. Public testimony highlighted the concerns of landowners about excessive pipeline construction fees and a lack of adequate authority to collaborate with counties on water projects. The committee adopted several amendments to these bills to better align the interests of landowners with water conservation goals. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the pressing need to balance development and conservation, signaling a collective intent to move forward with actionable legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Tragically, municipalities with no licensure or regulatory
  • Or if we would hopefully be able to do it at a municipal level and not have to involve all the state
  • ...some of these homes in my district, as well as licensed
  • They're not trying to utilize them because of the fact that they just want to be on them.
  • I'm going to just use my district.
Summary: During this meeting of the committee, key discussions were held regarding various bills, particularly those concerning contract requirements related to the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Multiple bills, such as HB4129, HB4130, and HB4131, were unanimously reported favorably without any debate, showcasing a clear consensus among members about their importance in regulating contracts with single-source continuum contractors. Notable attention was also directed towards HB3750, which pertains to reimbursement for legal expenses incurred by DFPS employees, demonstrating acknowledgment of the need to protect staff operating in complex legal environments. Public testimony was welcomed, allowing voices from the community to add value to the legislative dialogue. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue examining the implications of these bills as they move forward in the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Local Government Aug 1st, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • For school districts, it's what's their levy, but less so because we're funding it now; we make up the
  • ...most school districts, what we've seen is that the state
  • Certain cities, counties, and special districts are subject to a 3.5% limitation.
  • Yes, so we actually utilize our sales tax to cash fund as many things as we can.
  • But I will tell you, since 2019, we have had to shift that, and we are now utilizing debt.
Bills: SB9
Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government met to discuss the implications of Senate Bill 9, which focuses on property tax appraisal reforms. The bill's primary goal is to lower the voter-approved tax rate from 3.5% to 2.5%. During the meeting, various stakeholders provided testimony, highlighting concerns about the potential impact of the cap on local governments, especially in rapidly growing areas. Senators engaged in extensive discussions about the balancing act between tax relief and the need for robust public services, emphasizing the need for local flexibility to meet constituents' needs. The bill faced opposition from local officials who argued that the cap could hinder essential services like police and fire departments, as well as infrastructure maintenance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Sunset Chair, then you had that unfortunate incident in your district
  • He paid utilities and he leased an apartment.
  • However, because some municipalities have not adopted all of the Health and Human Services standards,
  • This bill would require each county or municipality that's currently regulating boarding home facilities
  • They may argue that these human bodies can be utilized for research and teaching and can save lives with
Summary: The Senate meeting featured extensive discussions on significant legislative proposals, primarily focusing on the ethical treatment and regulation of unclaimed bodies in Texas. The committee addressed concerns raised by Senator Parker regarding the alarming misuse of unclaimed remains, urging the necessity for stricter guidelines and accountability for organizations involved in anatomical donations. Public testimonies illustrated harrowing experiences of families affected by these practices, prompting legislators to consider more robust regulatory measures, including possible criminal penalties for bad actors in the industry. The committee exhibited a unified stance in advocating for enhanced protections that would ensure the dignity of deceased individuals is respected.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Plum Creek Conservation District manages 28 flood control.
  • This bill would enable the qualified district to use a permit exemption either to divert water from the
  • districts in the state to utilize, when needed, the surface waters in the reservoir of the...
  • The Water Development Board shall require the appropriate municipality or county to install...
  • If the site of the installation is within the boundaries of the municipality, the municipality shall
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several critical bills related to disaster response and water conservation. Senate Bill 1, the Natural Disaster Omnibus Bill, was extensively discussed, with testimonies reflecting on recent flooding incidents in Texas. Senator Perry emphasized the need for policy solutions to prevent future tragedies following historic flooding that resulted in significant loss of life. The committee adopted the committee substitutes for both SB1 and SB13 without objection, highlighting the broad support for these initiatives aimed at water conservation and improved emergency response protocols. Additionally, members expressed the importance of training and educating officials involved in disaster management to ensure they are equipped to handle emergencies effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections May 8th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It simply helps cities align municipal elections with November elections by moving the date.
  • I would just make a couple of points that I think are important to underline the utility of this legislation
  • And even if this is not a panacea, it's not going to increase voter turnout to 90% in municipal elections—we
  • I have one request that this be extended to the Municipal
  • The chair offers a committee substitute that prohibits a state representative district from...
Summary: The committee meeting centered on various bills addressing election integrity and transparency. Key discussions included HB5256 which aims to regulate the number of polling places in representative districts, gaining favorable votes after the adoption of a committee substitute. Additionally, HB4288 was presented, focusing on the public inspection of election records, which unfortunately failed to gain support. Noteworthy was SB827, which sought to introduce a more robust auditing process for electronic voting systems, fostering a substantial public testimony segment with both support and opposition evident. The atmosphere was characterized by critical debates on ensuring the democracy and accountability of the electoral processes in the state, reflecting public concerns about election security and accessibility.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • to satisfy the requirement; however, the municipal.
  • , the school district and municipality cannot hold those joint elections.
  • This could place a district in violation of the Education Code.
  • You should have a Title IX officer within your school district.
  • Unfortunately, in Representative Frank's district, and it...
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Public Education involved significant discussions regarding several bills aimed at improving the functioning and quality of public education in Texas. Notably, Representative Tepper presented HB3627, which seeks to empower the State Board of Education to employ its own personnel to fulfill its responsibilities more effectively. Chairman Kinsey also provided testimony highlighting the continued commitment to enhancing educational materials and instructional quality following the successful passage of HB1605 in the previous session. The committee demonstrated active engagement as members reviewed the implications of these bills on teacher workload and administrative burdens associated with current educational regulations, indicating a desire to enhance the work environment for educators.

Research Filters

States
Terms / Sessions
Date Range
Chamber Records
Meetings / Events / Calendars