Texas House Bill HCR16

Texas 2011 - 82nd 1st C.S.

Caption

Granting William James Stroman, Jr., permission to sue the State of Texas and the board of regents of The University of Texas.

Impact

The resolution permits Stroman to seek a judicial determination of the rightful boundary between his property and the university lands. Importantly, he may not seek monetary damages but can obtain a court order clarifying his properties' boundary rights. This legal allowance could establish a precedent for future cases involving disputes about land ownership and state authority over property management, particularly in conflicts involving public universities and adjoining private landowners.

Summary

HCR16 is a concurrent resolution that grants William James Stroman, Jr., the authority to sue the State of Texas and the board of regents of The University of Texas. This action stems from a dispute over the boundary of the university lands in Pecos County, Texas. Stroman claims that the board unlawfully entered his property, known as the Stroman Ranch, when it removed a fence and erected a new one based on an allegedly erroneous survey. The resolution underscores the complexities involved in ownership and management of land adjoining state-owned properties, which could have ramifications for how similar disputes are resolved in the future.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR16 appears to be neutral, as it primarily facilitates a legal process without taking a definitive stance on either party’s claims regarding ownership. Nevertheless, the background and implications of the dispute may elicit varying perspectives, particularly among stakeholders who are motivated by interests in land rights and state versus private property control. The engagement in legal remedies suggests a serious approach to resolving disputes which can resonate with both supporters and critics of property management practices by state entities.

Contention

A notable point of contention is the survey conducted by Frank F. Friend, which is claimed by Stroman to be inaccurate, resulting in the university's board attempting to construct a fence on what he asserts is his property. This resolution highlights the intricate challenges faced in land surveying and boundary determinations, which often require expert assistance and can involve lengthy legal battles. The outcome of the authorized suit may significantly impact the relationship between state land management authorities and private landowners, potentially influencing future legislation around state boundary disputes.