Texas House Bill HB1619

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the powers and duties of the Collin County Water Control and Improvement District No. 3; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds.

Impact

The bill significantly expands the operational autonomy of the Collin County Water Control and Improvement District No. 3. By laying out clear powers related to water management and road improvement, it sets a foundation for local government to address infrastructure needs effectively. Particularly, the district can now impose taxes and issue bonds, which are vital for funding road projects and other engineering works necessary for enhancing local water control.

Summary

House Bill 1619 establishes the Collin County Water Control and Improvement District No. 3, granting it specific powers and duties to manage and improve water-related infrastructure. This includes the authority to design, construct, and maintain roads, as well as the ability to issue bonds for financing these projects. The framework for how this district operates is based on the existing general laws applicable to water control and improvement districts in Texas.

Sentiment

Discussions around HB1619 highlighted a positive sentiment from local stakeholders who view the creation of this district as a necessary measure for tackling infrastructure challenges in Collin County. The sentiment is largely supportive among members of the legislative body who recognize the importance of local governance in facilitating environmental and infrastructure improvements. However, there exists a cautious perspective regarding the implications of the district's tax authority and bond issuance, which some community members fear could lead to increased taxation without sufficient oversight.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1619 include the mechanisms for tax imposition and bond issuance. The requirement for a two-thirds majority vote from district voters for bond approvals suggests an effort to maintain local democratic controls. Critics may argue that the structure could potentially lead to financial strain on residents if new taxes are not approached thoughtfully. Overall, the measures in this bill are aimed at equipping local governance with essential tools to address urban planning and infrastructure development needs.