Relating to the eminent domain authority of the Crosby Municipal Utility District.
Impact
The passage of SB 2583 will empower the Crosby Municipal Utility District to utilize eminent domain to acquire land needed for infrastructure improvements, effectively allowing it to expand its services and improve utility access for residents in the surrounding areas. This legislative change aims to enhance the district's ability to respond to the demands of landowners who rely on its services, thereby facilitating better water and sewer infrastructure in the district's jurisdiction.
Summary
Senate Bill 2583 pertains to the eminent domain authority of the Crosby Municipal Utility District. Historically, this district was established as a water control and improvement district in 1965, and in 2018, it transformed into a municipal utility district. The bill seeks to amend current laws by repealing an outdated provision that restricts the district's ability to exercise eminent domain necessary for expanding retail water and sewer services to newly requested areas adjacent to its original boundaries. The intention is to enable the district to better serve landowners by removing regulatory barriers that limit its operational capacity.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment around SB 2583 appears to be supportive, particularly from stakeholders who advocate for the expansion of utility services in the Crosby area. Legislators recognized the utility district's need for enhanced authority to facilitate growth and better service provision for its constituents. However, there was some opposition voiced during discussions regarding the implications of eminent domain, reflecting a concern that this power could lead to potential conflicts with property owners.
Contention
Key points of contention primarily rested on the decision to repeal the restrictive provision on eminent domain. Opponents may have raised concerns about the impact on individual property rights, fearing that increased eminent domain authority could result in aggressive land acquisition practices that undermine local property ownership. Nevertheless, supporters emphasized that the bill would only serve to promote community welfare by enabling much-needed infrastructure development in the Crosby Municipal Utility District.
Relating to the Mustang Ridge Municipal Utility District, the Wildwood Municipal Utility District, the Creedmoor Municipal Utility District, and the Williamson County Municipal Utility District No. 40; granting limited powers of eminent domain.
Relating to the creation of the Crosswinds Municipal Utility District; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or taxes.
Relating to the creation of the Crosswinds Municipal Utility District; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or taxes.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Denton County Municipal Utility District No. 4 and the Denton County Municipal Utility District No. 5; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain.
Relating to the creation of the Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 533; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds.