Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1333

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

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Cotton Belt Rail Improvement District; providing authority to impose an assessment and issue bonds.

Impact

The establishment of the Cotton Belt Rail Improvement District is a significant departure for local governance in the involved areas, as it introduces a statutory framework that allows municipalities to share governance of transportation projects. The bill aims to support not only transportation improvements but also to spur related economic development initiatives, including real estate and commercial activity along the rail corridor's path. Given the project's breadth, it impacts transportation statutes and local development regulations, which could lead to more holistic planning efforts across cities and counties.

Summary

SB1333 establishes the Cotton Belt Rail Improvement District, which aims to enhance transportation infrastructure within an expanse of several municipalities and counties in Texas. The bill authorizes the district to impose assessments and issue bonds to finance various improvements, focused primarily on the development of the Cotton Belt Commuter Rail Corridor, a pivotal transportation link designed to better connect the region. By facilitating public-private partnerships and enabling municipalities to collaborate with the district, the bill seeks to improve access to transportation and promote local economic growth through enhanced infrastructure.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment towards SB1333 appears to be mixed, reflecting both optimism about the potential for improved transportation options and skepticism about the efficacy of further taxation through assessments. Proponents argue that the bill represents a necessary investment in infrastructure that could alleviate traffic congestion and improve the quality of life for residents. Conversely, critics caution against the possible financial burdens assessments could impose on local property owners, emphasizing the need for careful financial and project management practices without compromising local governance.

Contention

Some notable points of contention surrounding SB1333 include concerns about governance structure, financial accountability, and the prioritization of projects within the district. Opponents have raised issues regarding how assessments will be levied and used, stressing the need for transparency in decision-making processes. Moreover, questions around how economic benefits will be shared among the municipalities involved, as well as potential implications for local autonomy, form a crucial part of the ongoing discussions and debates regarding the bill's future.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5282

Relating to the creation of the Dallas Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

TX HB2449

Relating to the creation of the Dallas Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

TX SB2598

Relating to the creation of the Honey Creek Improvement District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

TX HB5356

Relating to the creation of the Honey Creek Improvement District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

TX HB196

Relating to the creation of the Honey Creek Improvement District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

TX HB51

Relating to the creation of the Honey Creek Improvement District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

TX HB5400

Relating to the creation of the Presidio International Port Authority District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2614

Relating to the creation of the Presidio International Port Authority District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5395

Relating to the creation of the Fort Bend County Water Control and Improvement District No. 11; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2154

Relating to the creation of the West Plains Municipal Management District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Similar Bills

TX HB4798

Relating to the creation of the League City Improvement District; providing authority to impose an assessment, impose a sales and use tax, and issue bonds.

TX SB2528

Relating to the creation of the League City Improvement District; providing authority to impose an assessment, impose a tax, and issue bonds.

DC B25-0149

Friendship Heights Business Improvement District Amendment Act of 2023

TX SB1098

Relating to the creation of the Padre Isles Management District; providing authority to issue bonds.

TX SB2214

Relating to the creation of the Moore's Crossing Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

FL H1173

Collier Mosquito Control District, Collier County

FL H0509

Collier Mosquito Control District, Collier County

ND SB2338

Legislative districts; and to provide for application.