Tennessee House Bill HB2071

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/29/24
• Refer: 2/7/24
• Failed: 3/5/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 6-51-104, relative to annexation.

Impact

The implications of HB2071 are notable, as the bill aims to modify how municipalities can annex territories and manage land use. By establishing a requirement for property owner consent and limiting the number of parcels involved, it grants property owners greater control over annexation decisions. This may result in more localized governance over annexation matters and impact the dynamics of community development and municipal planning throughout Tennessee.

Summary

House Bill 2071 seeks to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 6-51-104, regarding the process of annexation. The bill proposes that for an annexation to occur, two-thirds of the property owners within the territory must provide written consent, and the total area of the property owned by those consenting must be more than half of the territory proposed for annexation. Additionally, the annexation must consist of nine or fewer parcels, thereby streamlining the process for specific situations while potentially limiting wider annexations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill has been mixed among stakeholders. Proponents argue that it enhances property rights by ensuring that landowners have a say in whether their property is annexed by a municipality. They view it as a positive step toward protecting individual property interests. Conversely, opponents may view it as an additional hurdle for cities attempting to grow and manage resources effectively, expressing concern that it could complicate necessary urban development initiatives.

Contention

Some points of contention arise around the threshold for obtaining consent and the limitation on the number of parcels. Critics argue that requiring a supermajority of consent may impede necessary annexations that could benefit the community as a whole. Additionally, the restriction to nine parcels could disproportionately affect larger proposed annexations, potentially hindering urban expansion efforts and local government efficiency. The debate encapsulates a broader discussion on the balance between individual property rights and collective community interests.