Texas Senate Bill SB2514

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 222; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Impact

The creation of the Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 222 is anticipated to bring significant changes to local infrastructure and services. By granting the power to impose taxes and issue bonds, the district is positioned to finance necessary improvements to utilities and roadways, facilitating the development of the area. However, the bill also includes specific stipulations that prevent the exercise of eminent domain unless a two-thirds legislative vote is obtained. This condition aims to mitigate potential concerns from property owners regarding land acquisition without adequate oversight and consent.

Summary

Senate Bill 2514 relates to the establishment of the Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 222. This legislation creates a utility district that is authorized to exercise certain powers, including the limited right to use eminent domain, issue bonds, impose assessments, and levy taxes. The bill formalizes the procedures for establishing this district and lays out the governance structure, which will include a board of elected directors tasked with managing the district’s activities and financial operations. The bill defines the initial territory of the district, which spans approximately 1,309.2 acres and includes provisions for elections to confirm the district's creation and elect its directors.

Contention

While many in the community may support the establishment of the utility district due to potential infrastructure enhancements, there are concerns about the implications of the district's powers, particularly regarding eminent domain. Heavy scrutiny may arise from property owners and local advocacy groups fearing that the district could overreach in its authority and infringe on private property rights. Discussions surrounding the balance of necessary utility services against the risks of potential abuse of eminent domain are noteworthy points of contention that may arise during the district's formation and initial operational phases.