Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1058

Caption

Relating to the election of members of the boards of directors of certain tax increment reinvestment zones.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1058 is expected to significantly alter the dynamics of local governance within large municipalities that have TIRZs. By ensuring that a majority of board members are elected by the community, the bill seeks to improve accountability and responsiveness to local needs. This change may attract more civic engagement in local government matters and could impact how financial resources are allocated in urban development projects.

Summary

House Bill 1058 focuses on reforming the governance structure for tax increment reinvestment zones (TIRZ) in certain populous municipalities. It amends the Tax Code to establish new provisions for the composition and election of the boards governing these TIRZs. Under the new rules, a TIRZ will require a board comprised of at least 11 and no more than 15 members, with a majority to be elected through nonpartisan elections. This shift aims to enhance democratic participation in local economic development decisions.

Contention

Notable contention around the bill centers on the balance of power between elected officials and appointed members. Critics argue that while increasing the number of elected positions may enhance representation, it could also complicate the decision-making process within TIRZ boards, as elected members may have diverse agendas that do not always align. Furthermore, the bill allows taxing units the option to waive their right to appoint a director, which could lead to disparities in representation among various stakeholders in the reinvestment zones.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

TX SB1947

Relating to the authority of two or more municipalities to designate a joint tax increment financing reinvestment zone.

TX SB1747

Relating to funding and donations for transportation projects, including projects of county energy transportation reinvestment zones.

TX HB4613

Relating to the creation, operations and financing of tax increment reinvestment zones.

TX SB313

Relating to the term of a reinvestment zone and to the assessment and payment of tax increments under the Tax Increment Financing Act.

TX HB3111

Relating to authorizing Bexar County to issue bonds or notes to finance the acquisition of real property and the construction of a building or facility on the property for use by an institution of higher education and to pledge for repayment of those bonds or notes increases in revenues from ad valorem taxes imposed by the county and other political subdivisions on property located in a designated area of the county.