Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1305

Filed
2/28/23  
Out of Senate Committee
3/29/23  
Voted on by Senate
4/12/23  
Out of House Committee
4/24/23  
Voted on by House
4/28/23  
Governor Action
5/13/23  

Caption

Relating to the transfer of the ownership rights of the City of Nacogdoches in the Central Heights Water System to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts how public utilities are managed within the state. By transferring ownership to the Angelina and Neches River Authority, it centralizes regulatory power and potentially enhances the efficiency of water service delivery in the region. This move may alter the regulatory landscape by providing a more unified management structure under the authority, which could lead to improved oversight and service reliability. Additionally, it allows local government to divest itself from ongoing operational responsibilities and the financial burdens tied to the water system.

Summary

Senate Bill 1305 facilitates the transfer of ownership rights for the Central Heights Water System from the City of Nacogdoches to the Angelina and Neches River Authority. This transfer is prioritized to occur within 180 days of the bill's effective date. The legislation aims to ensure that the water system is efficiently managed under the authority, which received ownership of the infrastructure, service areas, and associated rights. This transfer comes after the city had previously invested significant resources in upgrading the water system, showcasing a shift in management strategy to enhance operational stability.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB1305 appears to be largely supportive within legislative discussions. Observers noted the importance of having a dedicated authority in charge of the Central Heights Water System, especially given the city's previous investment and intention to maintain service quality. However, there may also be underlying concerns regarding local governance and control, particularly among those who advocate for community-based management of public utilities.

Contention

While the bill has gained traction without notable opposition, its passage entails some contention regarding local autonomy. Some concerns may arise about the ramifications for local oversight and the community’s ability to influence essential services like water supply. The process outlined in SB1305 also restricts rights to protest or seek administrative review of the ownership transfer, which might draw criticism from stakeholders who wish to retain a degree of influence over local resource management. As this bill progresses into law, it will serve as a crucial case study for how similar future transfers of public utility management may unfold.

Companion Bills

TX HB2819

Identical Relating to the transfer of the ownership rights of the City of Nacogdoches in the Central Heights Water System to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX SB1121

Same As Relating to the transfer of the ownership rights of the City of Nacogdoches in the Central Heights Water System to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX SB1121

Same As Relating to the transfer of the ownership rights of the City of Nacogdoches in the Central Heights Water System to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2819

Relating to the transfer of the ownership rights of the City of Nacogdoches in the Central Heights Water System to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX SB1121

Relating to the transfer of the ownership rights of the City of Nacogdoches in the Central Heights Water System to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX SB2476

Relating to transfer of the ownership rights of the Woodlawn Water Supply Corporation to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX HB4646

Relating to transfer of the ownership rights of the Woodlawn Water Supply Corporation to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX HB4286

Relating to the territory of the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX SB2621

Relating to the territory of the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX SB1058

Relating to the transfer of certain state property from the Department of Aging and Disability Services to the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

TX SB2262

Relating to the dissolution of the Central Colorado River Authority.

TX HB1520

Relating to the Angelina and Neches River Authority, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.

TX HB4302

Relating to the dissolution of the Central Colorado River Authority.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.