Texas Senate Bill SB2223

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Travis County Municipal Utility District No. 27; 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 Travis County Municipal Utility District No. 27 will impact state laws concerning municipal utility districts, specifically under Chapter 7950A. Key provisions include the right to impose ad valorem taxes and the authority to issue bonds. Under this act, the district will be required to conduct elections for tax imposition and bond issuance when necessary, thus ensuring voter involvement in significant financial decisions affecting the district.

Summary

SB2223, known as the Travis County Municipal Utility District No. 27 Act, proposes the establishment of a new municipal utility district within Travis County. This bill grants the district authority to exercise limited powers of eminent domain, issue bonds for financing, and impose assessments, fees, and taxes to support its operations. The goal of this bill is to enhance local utility services and infrastructure management through a dedicated governance structure while ensuring compliance with municipal regulations.

Contention

Notably, there are points of contention regarding the bill's allowance of eminent domain powers. Many stakeholders, including local residents and city officials, may harbor concerns about potential overreach in land acquisition for district projects. The requirement for municipal consent before the district can hold elections to confirm its establishment or for land inclusion aims to mitigate conflicts but does not entirely eliminate opposition regarding the powers vested in the district board. The ensuing debates on tax implications and the effectiveness of the district’s governance may further define the bill’s reception among local communities.