Texas Senate Bill SB813

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/17/11
• Introduced: 2/21/11
• Voted on by Senate: 3/31/11
• Refer: 3/1/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/14/11
• Report Pass: 3/17/11
• Voted on by House: 5/20/11
• Engrossed: 3/31/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Report Pass: 4/7/11
• Enrolled: 5/21/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 528; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

Impact

The bill provides a framework through which the district can carry out various functions, such as constructing and maintaining roads and managing storm drainage systems. The provisions also outline the requirement for the district to obtain voter approval to impose ad valorem taxes or issue bonds that are secured by ad valorem taxes. This requirement plays a crucial role in ensuring that local residents have a direct say in financial decisions that impact them, thereby enhancing democratic governance at the municipal level.

Summary

SB813 establishes the Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 528. This legislation is designed to facilitate local governance regarding the provision of municipal services and infrastructure within the district's defined boundaries. The district will have the authority to impose taxes and issue bonds to fund its operations, emphasizing the importance of cooperative agreements among local government entities. The creation of this district is aimed at addressing specific municipal utility needs in Harris County, particularly in the context of ongoing developments and increasing community requirements for infrastructure support.

Contention

A notable aspect of SB813 is the inclusion of limited powers regarding eminent domain. This provision restricts the district's capacity to utilize eminent domain beyond its geographic area, aiming to prevent overreach and protect private property rights. This limitation is likely to be a point of interest among community stakeholders, as it reflects a balance between necessary municipal development and individual rights. The condition requiring municipal consent before certain actions can be taken further adds a layer of accountability to the processes governed by this district.