Texas Senate Bill SB2494

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Harris-Waller Counties Municipal Utility District No. 4; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Impact

The legislation specifically outlines that this district will be created to serve a public purpose, primarily related to the construction, acquisition, improvement, operation, and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as roads and storm drainage systems. Importantly, this district's creation requires the consent of local municipalities within its proposed boundaries. If approved, it would allow local officials to maintain control over infrastructure development while adhering to broader state laws governing municipal utility districts.

Summary

SB2494, titled the Harris-Waller Counties Municipal Utility District No. 4 Act, focuses on the establishment of a new municipal utility district in the Harris-Waller region of Texas. The bill grants this district the authority to exercise limited powers of eminent domain and the ability to issue bonds, as well as the imposition of assessments, fees, and taxes to finance its activities. Furthermore, the establishment of the district includes provisions for the initial territory, the governance structure through a board of directors, and the responsibilities tied to municipal utility operations.

Contention

Notably, the bill also contains a provision that, if the act does not receive a two-thirds vote from both legislative houses, the district would be prohibited from exercising the power of eminent domain. This stipulation reflects ongoing debates about the legitimacy and extent of eminent domain powers in developing municipal infrastructure, reflecting broader concerns around property rights. The powers granted to the district suggest potential for conflicts of interest or disagreements among property owners affected by the district’s decisions, particularly in terms of assessments and tax implications.