Texas Senate Bill SB931

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/15/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/23/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/1/09
• Voted on by House: 5/15/09
• Governor Action: 5/27/09
• Enrolled: 5/18/09
• Passed: 5/27/09

Caption

Relating to the powers and duties of the Sienna Plantation Municipal Utility District No. 6; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

Impact

The enactment of SB931 would enhance the financial capability of the Sienna Plantation Municipal Utility District No. 6 regarding infrastructure development. By empowering the district to collect taxes and issue bonds, the bill aims to facilitate necessary road projects that otherwise might face financial constraints. The provision that bond issuance necessitates a two-thirds majority vote from the district's voters reflects a commitment to democratic oversight in fiscal matters, ensuring that residents have a direct say in significant financial decisions impacting their community.

Summary

SB931 addresses the powers and responsibilities of the Sienna Plantation Municipal Utility District No. 6. The bill grants this district the authority to impose taxes and issue bonds for the purpose of financing public infrastructure projects, particularly related to road construction and improvements. The allowed financing mechanisms may include ad valorem taxes, impact fees, and other associated district revenues. This legislation underscores the importance of local governance in managing utility and infrastructure projects efficiently.

Contention

An essential aspect of SB931 is its method of financing public projects through ad valorem taxes. Critics may express concerns about the potential financial burden this places on district residents, particularly in terms of the limits imposed on the total principal amount of bonds tied to property values. However, supporters assert that these measures are vital for maintaining and upgrading local infrastructure. The bill’s emphasis on adhering to construction standards and obtaining necessary approvals from relevant authorities reflects a balance between local autonomy and regulatory oversight, potentially mitigating some risks associated with unchecked local governance.