Relating to the creation of the Willacy County Drainage District No. 3; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or taxes.
If enacted, HB 2213 would amend existing special district laws under the Texas Special District Local Laws Code. The new drainage district would be governed by a board of directors consisting of five appointed members, with appointments made by the Willacy County Commissioners Court and the Raymondville City Council. This arrangement aims to ensure local governance and representation in managing drainage and flood mitigation projects. Importantly, the bill clarifies that the district will not possess the power of eminent domain, a point that addresses concerns about the appropriation of private property for public use.
House Bill 2213 proposes the creation of the Willacy County Drainage District No. 3 in Texas. This legislation is aimed at enhancing the management of drainage issues within Willacy County by establishing a dedicated drainage district. The bill stipulates that the district will have the authority to issue bonds for funding its activities as well as to impose assessments, fees, or taxes on property owners to fund drainage projects and maintenance. The creation of this district seeks to serve the public benefit by improving drainage infrastructure, which may be essential for flood control and environmental protection in the area.
Discussions surrounding the passage of HB 2213 revealed a consensus on the necessity of effective drainage management in the region; however, there may be differing opinions on how such a district should be managed and funded. While proponents argue that the establishment of a dedicated drainage district will lead to more systematic and regulated flood management, critiques focus on the potential financial burdens placed on local property owners through imposed assessments and taxes. The confirmation election mandated under the bill introduces an additional layer of democracy in deciding the district's establishment, ensuring that the voices of Willacy County residents are considered before final implementation.