Relating to the powers, authorities, duties, and responsibilities of certain conservation and reclamation districts and to notice a person who proposes to sell or convey real property located in any of certain conservation and reclamation districts must provide to a prospective purchaser of that property.
Impact
The provisions in HB 2815 fundamentally alter the way conservation and reclamation districts communicate and operate concerning property transfers. By mandating that sellers provide clear disclosures regarding district taxes and assessments, the bill seeks to protect potential buyers from unexpected financial burdens. Furthermore, the modifications to election and governance structures within these districts—such as new rules on the election of directors—are aimed at facilitating more democratic and responsive district management. This could lead to increased accountability and efficiency in governing these districts, positively affecting both residents and local government entities.
Summary
House Bill 2815 introduces numerous amendments to the local government and water codes, particularly targeting the operations of conservation and reclamation districts. The bill modifies the powers, authorities, duties, and responsibilities of these districts, intending to enhance their efficiency and cost-effectiveness for taxpayers. A significant focus of the bill is on the sale or conveyance of real property situated in these districts, requiring that prospective purchasers be informed of potential taxes or assessments associated with the district before finalizing real estate transactions. This measure aims to promote transparency and ensure that buyers remain aware of the financial obligations they may inherit.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 2815 appears largely positive, particularly among advocates of local governance reform and transparency. Supporters, including officials from the Association of Water Board Directors, have expressed gratitude towards the bill as a beneficial step towards operational improvements in these districts. They highlight its potential to reduce inefficiencies and burdens on taxpayers. However, there is a cautious sentiment regarding the thoroughness of the notice requirements implemented for real property sales, as ensuring complete compliance and understanding among district residents and prospective buyers remains a critical task.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its objectives to enhance operational integrity, some concerns revolve around the additional administrative responsibilities it places on conservation and reclamation districts related to real estate transactions. Critics may argue that the increased complexity in property disclosures could potentially deter investment or create confusion among buyers unfamiliar with district assessments. This underscores a central contention: balancing transparency with practical implications for all stakeholders involved, particularly in regions with a high density of such districts.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Local Government Code
Chapter 375. Municipal Management Districts In General
Section: 022
Section: 025
Section: 0645
Section: 065
Section: 022
Section: 025
Section: 0645
Section: 065
Section: 067
Section: 068
Section: 071
Section: 161
Section: 208
Section: 022
Section: 0645
Section: 065
Section: 068
Section: 071
Section: 161
Section: 208
Section: 022
Section: 025
Section: 0645
Section: 065
Section: 068
Section: 071
Section: 161
Section: 208
Section: 0645
Section: 161
Section: 208
Water Code
Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
Section: 452
Section: 4521
Section: 060
Section: 065
Section: 102
Section: 181
Section: 23602
Section: 271
Section: 316
Section: 011
Section: 060
Section: 065
Section: 102
Section: 106
Section: 23602
Section: 181
Section: 271
Section: 011
Section: 060
Section: 102
Section: 106
Section: 181
Section: 23602
Section: 316
Section: 011
Section: 060
Section: 065
Section: 102
Section: 106
Section: 181
Section: New Section
Section: 316
Section: New Section
Chapter 51. Water Control And Improvement Districts
Section: 7131
Section: 7131
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: 7131
Section: 714
Chapter 53. Fresh Water Supply Districts
Section: 029
Section: 029
Chapter 54. Municipal Utility Districts
Section: 234
Section: 728
Section: 030
Section: 032
Section: 033
Section: New Section
Section: 016
Section: 234
Section: 728
Chapter 57. Levee Improvement Districts
Section: 053
Section: 059
Section: 053
Section: 059
Section: 053
Section: 059
Section: 053
Section: 059
Section: 059
Special District Local Laws Code
Chapter 3919. Old Celina Municipal Management District No. 1
Relating to the powers and duties of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and other entities regarding water and sewer utilities and certain conservation and reclamation districts.
Relating to the creation of the Southwestern Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees.