Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB3887

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Fulshear Municipal Utility District No. 2; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or taxes.

Impact

The creation of the Fulshear Municipal Utility District No. 2 signifies a notable shift in local governance mechanisms, providing a structured approach to manage utility services in a growing area. The bill contains specific guidelines regarding the issuance of bonds that allow for financing infrastructure projects while also imposing limits to protect taxpayer interests. The authority granted to the district to impose assessments introduces a financial mechanism that enables local government to fund projects vital for community development. With these powers, the district aims to improve public utility management while complying with Texas laws concerning municipal utility districts.

Summary

House Bill 3887 proposes the establishment of the Fulshear Municipal Utility District No. 2 in Texas, aimed at providing specific municipal services and authority for the issuance of bonds. The bill outlines a number of provisions that empower the district to impose assessments, fees, and taxes as part of its operational framework. This municipal utility district is designed to ensure sustainable utility services, including road construction and maintenance, which are critical as the area develops further. The bill also includes provisions for the temporary appointment of directors until permanent elections can be held, ensuring initial governance of the district.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3887 appears to be generally supportive among local stakeholders who anticipate that the utility district framework will facilitate stronger management of public utilities and infrastructure in the Fulshear area. Local residents and businesses are likely to appreciate the streamlined governance structure which can address community needs more efficiently. However, concerns may arise regarding the implications of eminent domain powers and the potential financial burdens from assessments and taxes imposed by the district, presenting a need for transparency and accountability in its operations.

Contention

A notable point of contention within the discussions around HB 3887 pertains to the granting of limited eminent domain powers to the district. This provision may lead to concerns over property rights among local residents. Questions about how these powers will be exercised and the processes for transparency in decision-making must be addressed to alleviate fears regarding potential overreach. Additionally, the requirement for a local ordinance from municipalities in which the district operates adds an extra layer of governance that could lead to complexities when balancing interests among involved parties.

Companion Bills

TX SB1843

Very Similar Relating to the creation of the Fulshear Municipal Utility District No. 2; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

Similar Bills

TX HB3924

Relating to the creation of the Comal Trinity Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or surcharges.

TX SB1360

Relating to the creation of the Aransas County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds and impose a tax; providing general law authority to impose fees and surcharges.

TX HB2640

Relating to the creation of the Western Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing general law authority to issue bonds and exercise the power of eminent domain; providing general law authority to impose assessments, fees, surcharges, or taxes.

TX HB4207

Relating to the creation of the Aransas County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds and impose a tax; providing general law authority to impose fees and surcharges.

TX HB4038

Relating to the creation of the Western Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing general law authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees.

TX HB1523

Relating to the creation of the Southwest Travis County Special Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose fees and assessments.

TX HB4327

Relating to the creation of the Southwest Travis County Special Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose fees and assessments.

TX HB4743

Relating to the creation of the Terrell County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds.