Texas Senate Bill SB2491

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/28/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/15/09

Caption

Relating to the powers and duties of certain public improvement districts.

Impact

The implications of SB2491 on state laws primarily revolve around local governance and taxation powers. The bill revises existing provisions in the Local Government Code to establish clear procedures for land annexation and exclusion. In particular, it mandates a consent process which strengthens the authority of local governments to participate in such decisions, potentially altering how districts interact with municipalities and counties. This could also affect how public improvement districts are managed and how they can extend their boundaries.

Summary

SB2491 addresses the powers and duties of certain public improvement districts, particularly regarding the annexation or exclusion of land within those districts. The bill stipulates that for a district to annex or exclude land, it must first obtain consent from the county commissioners court as well as from the municipality's governing body if applicable. This introduces a formal requirement for local government involvement in decisions that affect district boundaries, potentially enhancing accountability and local control over land management.

Contention

While the bill is likely intended to improve regulatory clarity and local oversight, it may also produce points of contention among stakeholders. Some proponents argue that requiring consent from local governments can prevent overreach by public improvement districts and safeguard community interests in land use decisions. However, critics may express concerns that additional bureaucratic processes could hinder timely development or complicate infrastructure projects, potentially creating delays in public service enhancements that districts are designed to facilitate.