Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4643

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Wood Trace Water Control and Improvement District of Montgomery County, Texas; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Impact

This legislative initiative could significantly impact local laws regarding water management and infrastructure improvement. By creating the Wood Trace Water Control and Improvement District, the bill facilitates a structured approach to managing community resources, especially as the area continues to develop. The authority bestowed upon the district includes the ability to issue bonds and impose operational taxes, which might lead to a more efficient allocation of fiscal resources towards pressing infrastructure needs, such as drainage systems and road improvements.

Summary

House Bill 4643 establishes the Wood Trace Water Control and Improvement District in Montgomery County, Texas. The bill empowers the newly created district to exercise certain functions typical of such districts, including managing water resources, controlling stormwater, and planning for local infrastructure improvements. Furthermore, the bill allows the district to impose assessments, fees, and taxes to finance its operations, along with the capacity to issue bonds necessary for funding these activities. This grant of powers is intended to promote better water management and infrastructure development within the area, thereby serving public interests.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 4643 seems cautiously optimistic. Supporters argue that the establishment of the district will lead to improved water management and infrastructure, addressing current deficiencies that could potentially harm the community. However, there are potential concerns expressed regarding the implications of issuing bonds and taxes, as local residents may fear increased financial burdens. Ultimately, the bill aims to balance the need for development with the necessity of protecting community interests.

Contention

A notable point of contention revolves around the district's granted powers, specifically the limited power of eminent domain. While the bill permits the district to control water resources and improve local infrastructure, it also restricts the district from using eminent domain outside its boundaries to acquire land. This limitation aims to address concerns from local residents about potential overreach and ensure that property rights are respected. The debate on the effective balance between public benefit and private property rights will likely shape the district’s operational framework and community interactions.

Companion Bills

TX SB2460

Same As Relating to the creation of the Wood Trace Water Control and Improvement District of Montgomery County, Texas; 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 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 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 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 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 HB922

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