Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2681

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

Caption

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

Impact

The creation of the Blaketree Municipal Utility District No. 2 has specific implications for state laws regarding the establishment and operation of such utility districts. It serves to streamline processes for utility provision, enabling faster development of necessary public infrastructure such as roads and storm drainage systems. The district will be governed by a board of directors elected by property owners within the district, ensuring that local stakeholders have a voice in decision-making. The bill also sets forth provisions for public hearings and compliance with municipal consent, reinforcing accountability and local governance.

Summary

House Bill 2681 relates to the establishment of the Blaketree Municipal Utility District No. 2 in Montgomery County, Texas. The bill provides the district with the authority to issue bonds and impose assessments, fees, and taxes, aimed at financing necessary infrastructure and services. By granting limited powers of eminent domain, the district can acquire land deemed necessary for public utilities and related projects. This legislative measure emphasizes the importance of utility provision in supporting local growth and development, ensuring efficient management of resources and services in the region.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2681 appears to be largely positive among local developers and property owners, who view the establishment of a municipal utility district as beneficial for facilitating growth and infrastructure improvements. Proponents argue that having local control over utility services helps address specific community needs effectively. However, there may be concerns regarding the potential for increased taxes to fund the district's activities, which could lead to dissent among some local residents or taxpayers who may feel burdened by new assessments.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding HB 2681 is the provision of eminent domain, which, while limited, may prompt concerns among property owners regarding the potential for compulsory acquisition of land. While the bill aims to promote public benefit, opponents may argue that such powers could lead to disputes over property rights and individual autonomy. Additionally, the financial implications of issuing bonds and the governance structure of the district could raise questions about transparency and accountability in managing the district's funds and projects.

Companion Bills

TX SB1118

Identical Relating to the creation of the Blaketree Municipal Utility District No. 2 of Montgomery County; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

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 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 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 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 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 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 HB922

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