Texas House Bill HB894

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Van Alstyne Municipal Utility District No. 2 of Collin County; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

Impact

The creation of this municipal utility district will likely have significant implications for local governance and infrastructure development in Collin County. By allowing the district to impose taxes and issue bonds, the bill facilitates a means to finance essential public improvements such as roads and drainage systems without placing the financial burden directly on taxpayers. If approved, these measures could assist in directing funds toward critical infrastructure that supports community growth and development.

Summary

House Bill 894 proposes the establishment of the Van Alstyne Municipal Utility District No. 2 within Collin County, Texas. This utility district will have the authority to impose taxes and issue bonds to fund its operations and infrastructure projects. The bill is structured to provide the district with the necessary powers to manage utilities effectively, including the development of roads and other essential services to benefit the area. A key element of the bill is that it grants the district a limited power of eminent domain, necessary for acquiring land required for public projects.

Contention

There could be points of contention surrounding the utility district's ability to exercise powers of eminent domain. This provision may raise concerns among property owners about the possibility of land acquisition against their will. Furthermore, the financial implications of increased taxes for residents to support the financing of the district's projects could also generate debate. Stakeholders may have varied opinions on the equity of imposing taxes versus the anticipated benefits of enhanced utilities and infrastructure.

Regulatory aspects

The bill stipulates that the establishment of the district necessitates the consent of the municipality involved, ensuring that local governance plays a role in the district's formation. Additionally, there are measures concerning the management and election of the board of directors that signify an effort to maintain local involvement in the utility district's operations, which may help mitigate some concerns regarding bureaucratic overreach.