Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HR2470

Caption

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction, H.B. No. 5344.

Impact

The bill is anticipated to significantly affect local governance and infrastructure development. By establishing these districts, the legislation allows for the mobilization of resources aimed at enhancing public services, infrastructure, and community amenities. Notably, the districts are empowered to collect taxes and assessments to fund projects, which could provide essential services such as water, wastewater management, and road improvements while enhancing local economies in the designated areas.

Summary

House Resolution 2470 addresses the creation and governance of several municipal utility districts in Texas, particularly focusing on Denton County. It establishes the Denton County Municipal Management District No. 2 and the Jarrell Estates Municipal Utility District No. 1, both created to enhance the region's public welfare through various projects and improvements. The bill outlines the powers and responsibilities of these districts, highlighting their focus on promoting economic growth, improving infrastructure, and fostering community development.

Sentiment

The sentiment among legislators regarding HR2470 seems generally favorable, as evidenced by its adoption with a significant majority. Supporters see the creation of utility districts as a vital step toward addressing local needs and boosting economic activity. However, there may be concerns among specific community members regarding the long-term implications of such districts on local taxation and governance powers, which could lead to discussions about the balance between local control and special district authority.

Contention

Although generally supported, HR2470 does invite debate regarding its governance structure, especially concerning the powers allocated to these newly formed districts. Some legislators and community advocates may express apprehension about potential overreach in district powers, especially regarding eminent domain. This could lead to discussions on the need for checks and balances as these districts carry out their plans to ensure they act primarily for public benefit and do not infringe on private property rights.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Special District Local Laws Code

  • Chapter 8221. Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 51
    • Section: 202
  • Chapter 7962. Jarrell Estates Municipal Utility District No. 1
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 8010. Liberty County Municipal Utility District No. 1
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 4001. Denton County Municipal Management District No. 2
    • Section: 0101
    • Section: New Section

Local Government Code

  • Chapter 175. Right Of Employees Of Certain Political Subdivisions To Purchase Continued Health Coverage At Retirement
    • Section: 001

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

TX SR710

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction, H.B. No. 5344.

TX HB5344

Relating to the eligibility of certain retired firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical services providers to purchase continued health benefits coverage; the creation of certain special purpose districts and the name, powers, and duties of the 3 B&J Municipal Utility District; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB5404

Relating to the creation of the Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 49; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB4638

Relating to the creation of certain municipal management districts; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB971

Relating to the creation of the Leander TODD Municipal Utility District No. 1 of Williamson County; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

TX SB1883

Relating to the creation of the Leander TODD Municipal Utility District No. 1 of Williamson County; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

TX HB5357

Relating to the creation of the Liberty Hill Municipal Utility District; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.