Texas House Bill HB2317

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/4/11

Caption

Relating to granting Hill Country counties regulatory authority and the authority to impose development fees for roadway infrastructure; providing penalties.

Impact

Should HB2317 be enacted, it would significantly modify existing state laws regarding local governance and development regulations in the Hill Country counties. The counties will have the power to regulate the density of new developments, establish building lines, and impose fees directly tied to the roadway infrastructure necessary to support increased traffic prompted by new developments. This illustrates a shift toward enhancing local-level regulatory capabilities, which emphasizes community-specific environmental considerations and infrastructure needs rather than relying solely on state-level mandates.

Summary

House Bill 2317 aims to grant regulatory authority to counties in the Texas Hill Country—specifically Bandera, Comal, Gillespie, and Kendall—to impose development fees for roadway infrastructure related to new developments. The bill recognizes the unique environmental and ecological characteristics of these counties, which serve as popular recreational and tourism sites. By giving counties the authority to manage local growth and financial contributions towards infrastructure improvements, the bill seeks to align development activities with environmental sustainability and public health needs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2317 appears to be largely supportive among local stakeholders who recognize the importance of maintaining the ecological integrity of the Hill Country. Proponents argue that the bill is a positive step toward preserving the area's natural resources, aiding in public health, and managing local growth effectively. However, there may be concerns from developers regarding additional fees and regulatory burdens that could arise from the new authority granted to counties, potentially leading to a divided opinion on the bill.

Contention

One notable point of contention within discussions about HB2317 is the balance between facilitating development and maintaining environmental protections. Opponents of the bill may argue that imposing fees could serve as a deterrent to necessary development projects, ultimately affecting economic growth in the region. Additionally, there are concerns regarding how effectively the counties might implement and manage these new powers without overregulating or creating barriers for developers. The requirement for voter approval for regulatory authority also highlights a democratic element in the regulatory landscape, potentially complicating the fast-tracking of projects.