Texas Senate Bill SB932

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. 7; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

Impact

This legislation will likely strengthen the capabilities of the Sienna Plantation Municipal Utility District by empowering it to fund and execute significant infrastructure projects via bond issuance and taxation. The requirement for a two-thirds majority vote from district voters to approve bond issuance adds a democratic layer to the financing processes, engendering local control over fiscal decisions. Moreover, by adhering to state laws regarding construction and project management, the bill ensures compliance with broader Texas regulatory standards, promoting safety and effective governance in infrastructure development.

Summary

SB932 relates to the powers and duties of the Sienna Plantation Municipal Utility District No. 7, emphasizing its role in the construction and maintenance of infrastructure, particularly road projects. The bill grants the district the authority to impose taxes and issue bonds for financing road projects including the construction, acquisition, and improvement of roads, as well as necessary drainage provisions. The bill aims to enhance the operational capacity of the district to meet the needs of the community it serves, ensuring that infrastructure developments keep pace with growth demands.

Contention

One notable area of contention during discussions around SB932 involves the limited power of eminent domain. While the district is granted authority to issue bonds and finance projects, there are explicit restrictions preventing the use of eminent domain outside the district's boundaries. Critics may argue that this limitation could impede the timely execution of necessary infrastructure projects, depending on neighboring jurisdictions for support and cooperation. Additionally, any debate surrounding taxation and bond measures often raises concerns among constituents about potential financial burdens, necessitating a delicate balance between essential project funding and taxpayer considerations.