Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2271

Caption

Relating to the creation of Port Neches Improvement District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or taxes.

Impact

The implications of SB2271 on state laws are significant as it establishes the legal framework for the attachment of the Port Neches Improvement District. The legislation empowers the district to impose taxes and assessments without requiring city funds, fostering a community-specific approach to meeting local needs and initiating development projects tailored to Port Neches. This means that the improvements supported by the district can directly benefit local residents and businesses while potentially mitigating the financial burden on the city and county services. The established board of directors will play a pivotal role in governing these initiatives, though the city retains a required consent for significant financial actions.

Summary

SB2271 establishes the Port Neches Improvement District in Texas, granting it the authority to issue bonds and impose assessments, fees, or taxes to finance various improvement projects. The legislation identifies the district's purpose as promoting economic growth, enhancing public welfare, and providing necessary services such as transportation, recreation, and public safety improvements. By creating an infrastructure-focused governance model, this bill aims to support the development and diversification of the local economy while ensuring that necessary services are maintained and enhanced in conjunction with state mandates.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment surrounding SB2271 appears to be supportive, with a unified recognition among legislators of the district’s proposed benefits for Port Neches' residents. However, there are foreseeable concerns regarding transparency and governance, particularly in how the board of directors operates and makes decisions that may heavily affect local property owners through assessments and tax implications. The success of the district will largely depend on effective management and oversight in deploying the bond proceeds and maintaining expected levels of service.

Contention

While the bill has garnered significant support, it also presents points of contention regarding the district's powers, especially concerning tax assessments and the potential for financial obligations placed on property owners. The bill explicitly prohibits the district from exercising the power of eminent domain, which could serve as a relief for some stakeholders but raises questions about the district's ability to manage its financial obligations effectively without imposing heavy burdens on the affected community. As the district begins its operations, stakeholder engagement and public participation will be crucial to balancing development goals with homeowner interests.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 HB5403

Relating to the creation of the Manvel Sports Facilities District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5363

Relating to the creation of the Jones Avenue Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5399

Relating to the creation of the Jones Avenue Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2615

Relating to the creation of the Jones Avenue Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2594

Relating to the creation of the Liberty County Management District No. 2; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5351

Relating to the creation of the Liberty County Management District No. 2; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

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.

Similar Bills

TX SB1056

Relating to the directors and administration of the Hidalgo County Water Improvement District No. 3.

TX HB5663

Relating to the authority of the Wood County Central Hospital District of Wood County, Texas, to provide brain and memory care services to residents of the hospital district through the creation and operation of brain and memory health care services districts.

TX HB2803

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning water and wastewater special districts, including conforming amendments.

TX SB1988

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning water and wastewater special districts, including conforming amendments.

TX HB3184

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning special districts, including conforming amendments.

TX SB1147

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning special districts, including conforming amendments.

TX HB2619

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning special districts, including conforming amendments.