Texas Senate Bill SJR28

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/28/11
• Introduced: 2/25/11
• Voted on by Senate: 3/31/11
• Refer: 3/8/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/5/11
• Report Pass: 3/28/11
• Voted on by House: 5/11/11
• Engrossed: 3/31/11
• Sent toSOS: 5/16/11
• Refer: 4/28/11
• Report Pass: 5/3/11
• Enrolled: 5/12/11

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the provision of parks and recreational facilities by conservation and reclamation districts in El Paso County.

Impact

The adoption of SJR28 would allow conservation and reclamation districts in El Paso County to issue bonds that are repayable through ad valorem taxes to finance the construction and maintenance of parks and recreational facilities. This could lead to an increase in available recreational services and amenities, contributing to community development and environmental conservation in the county. It reflects an effort to address the growing need for public recreational spaces in the face of urban expansion.

Summary

SJR28 proposes a constitutional amendment to alter the provisions concerning parks and recreational facilities offered by conservation and reclamation districts specifically in El Paso County. The amendment expands the authority of the Legislature to provide for the development and financing of parks and recreational facilities that were previously not authorized to be funded by taxes before September 13, 2003. This change is aimed at enhancing the recreational infrastructure in the region, potentially improving the quality of life for residents.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention surrounding this bill may arise from fiscal implications and governance concerns. Critics might argue about the potential increase in local taxes to support the debts incurred by these bonds, which could be seen as an additional financial burden on residents. Furthermore, discussions may center around the legislative authority versus local autonomy in deciding on the priorities for public infrastructure development.

Additional_notes

The amendment emphasizes that its implementation does not limit pre-existing powers of the legislature or districts concerning parks and recreational facilities, which may be a critical point in ensuring both the legislature's authority and the local districts' operational flexibility.