Texas Senate Bill SB978

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/25/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/28/11
• Voted on by Senate: 4/7/11
• Refer: 3/8/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/28/11
• Report Pass: 3/28/11
• Voted on by House: 5/25/11
• Engrossed: 4/7/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/14/11
• Report Pass: 4/18/11
• Enrolled: 5/27/11
• Vetoed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to procedures for the dissolution of the Hidalgo County Water Improvement District No. 3.

Impact

The legislation establishes that the district will automatically dissolve based on the enactment of the bill or upon the approval of a transfer ordinance by the city council. The bill mandates that before any dissolution can occur, the city must evaluate and confirm its capability to assume the district's obligations and work towards providing a stable water supply to existing customers. This change represents a significant shift in local water management strategies and could lead to improved service delivery for residents in Hidalgo County.

Summary

SB978 focuses on the procedures surrounding the dissolution of the Hidalgo County Water Improvement District No. 3. The bill provides a defined process for a municipality, specifically a city with a population greater than 100,000 that contains a substantial portion of the District's territory, to manage the district's dissolution. At its core, the bill aims to enable local governance to take over the responsibilities and assets of the water district under specified conditions, enhancing management efficiency for water supply in the region.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB978 may involve debates about local control versus state regulations regarding water management. Stakeholders may express concerns regarding the adequacy of city management capabilities and whether dissolving the district will truly benefit residents by enhancing operational efficiencies or if such actions could lead to disruptions in water service or loss of local oversight. The bill requires a public hearing and citizen petitioning before a transfer ordinance can take effect, indicating an intention to ensure community involvement and approval in the decision-making process.