Texas Senate Bill SB609

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Waller County Municipal Utility District No. 17; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

Impact

The implementation of SB609 would enhance the infrastructure capabilities within Waller County, specifically by allowing the district to acquire funding through the issuance of bonds. This funding could be used for essential services such as water, sewage, and road improvements, potentially improving the quality of life for residents in the district. By creating a legal framework for a municipal utility district, the bill anticipates addressing utility service demands in developing areas of the county.

Summary

SB609 aims to create the Waller County Municipal Utility District No. 17, establishing a framework for the district's governance, tax authority, and financial operations. The bill grants the newly formed district the ability to impose taxes, issue bonds for financing projects, and undertake limited eminent domain powers. Its primary purpose is to manage municipal utility services and facilitate infrastructure projects, particularly road construction and maintenance, within its designated territory.

Contention

While the creation of the municipal utility district may offer numerous advantages, concerns regarding the powers of eminent domain may arise. The bill includes provisions that allow the district to exercise limited eminent domain powers, which could lead to conflicts with property owners and residents. This aspect of the bill may provoke debate about balancing the need for infrastructural development with the rights of individuals to their property and how the district can ensure fair and adequate compensation.

Administrative_details

The district is designed to be governed by a board elected by residents within the district, facilitating local representation. SB609 requires that municipalities within or near the district grant consent before any district elections are held. Thus, local governance and transparency are emphasized in the administration of the district's operations and projects.