Texas House Bill HB3857

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 4/18/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/27/11
• Voted on by House: 5/4/11
• Refer: 4/19/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/19/11
• Report Pass: 4/20/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/20/11
• Engrossed: 5/4/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/5/11
• Report Pass: 5/19/11
• Enrolled: 5/23/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Near Northside Management District.

Impact

The Near Northside Management District will be governed by a board of directors comprising residents of the district as well as ex officio members from various city departments. This structure is intended to ensure that the board reflects the community it serves. The district can enter into contracts with local municipalities for law enforcement services, thus enhancing public safety. Additionally, it is positioned to make financial improvements in the area through fundraising and approved expenditures on public projects including infrastructure improvements and neighborhood enhancements.

Summary

House Bill 3857 proposes the establishment of the Near Northside Management District in Houston, Texas. This special district is designed to enhance community welfare by promoting economic development, employment, commerce, transportation, and safety within its boundaries. The district's creation is aimed at supplementing city and county services as opposed to replacing them, enabling local governance to improve the quality of life for residents by addressing specific community needs. It is regulated under the Texas Constitution, which allows for the formation of special districts for various public purposes.

Contention

While the creation of the district is broadly framed as a positive step toward enhancing local governance and economic growth, the bill may also face scrutiny regarding the balance of power between the district and existing city or county services. Critics could argue that establishing such a district in addition to current municipal services could lead to overlapping jurisdictions and increased bureaucracy. Furthermore, a potential contention could arise over how effectively the district will address the needs of all community members, particularly those who may not have been involved in the initial petitioning process for its establishment.