Texas Senate Bill SB930

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the sale and use of certain land used for a world exposition.

Impact

The bill is expected to have a considerable impact on state laws by allowing municipalities to more easily capitalize on land used for world expositions. This change could facilitate the construction of commercial improvements, such as hotels, which may contribute to local economies and enhance tourism opportunities. However, the bill also imposes restrictions on the amount of hotel development that can occur on such sites, limiting it to no more than 20 percent of the total improvements built after June 2013. This balance aims to preserve a portion of the land for public use while simultaneously promoting economic growth.

Summary

SB930 proposes amendments to the Local Government Code, specifically addressing the sale and use of land used for world expositions. The bill aims to provide municipalities with more flexibility in selling or leasing public squares or parks that are part of an exposition site recognized by the Bureau International des Expositions. Notably, the bill stipulates that these sales can occur without the restrictions typically associated with the sale of public lands, provided the relevant exposition site has at least 18 acres of dedicated public squares or parks remaining. This represents a significant change in how municipalities can manage and leverage these public lands for economic development and tourism purposes.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding SB930 primarily revolve around the potential impacts of the bill on local community spaces and the future of public parks. Critics may argue that allowing municipalities to sell these lands could threaten the availability of public parks and recreational areas. However, proponents argue that this bill provides municipalities with necessary tools to revitalize areas, generate revenue, and enhance the local economy. The process for judicial review of any sale under this new provision also indicates a structured approach to addressing concerns over transparency and community impact.