Texas House Bill HB4273

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

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

Impact

The establishment of the North Hays County Municipal Utility District No. 2 is significant as it introduces a new layer of local governance aimed at managing public utilities and infrastructure. The ability to impose assessments and fees means that the district can fund essential services and developments in the area, potentially leading to enhanced infrastructure and quality of life for residents. It also allows for the issuance of bonds, enabling the district to gather necessary funding for various projects aimed at community development and sustainability.

Summary

House Bill 4273 establishes the North Hays County Municipal Utility District No. 2, granting it a limited power of eminent domain, the authority to issue bonds, and the capability to impose assessments, fees, and taxes. This new municipal utility district is intended to serve public purposes, primarily centered around the construction, improvement, operation, and maintenance of roads and storm drainage systems. The district will be governed by a board of directors elected by the residents of the community it serves, with specific protocols in place for confirming the district's creation and integrating it into existing municipal frameworks.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 4273 may arise from the district's limited power of eminent domain. The bill specifies conditions under which the district may not exercise this power, potentially leading to concerns about property rights and local land use decisions. Additionally, the need for municipal consent for the district's creation underscores the importance of local governance and community engagement in the decision-making process, which may provoke debate among stakeholders who feel either included or excluded from the governing authority.