Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB3045

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Hills of Walnut Creek Municipal Utility District of Parker County; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Impact

The bill's provisions to grant limited power of eminent domain are particularly notable, allowing the district to acquire private property if necessary for the public purpose of utility and infrastructure development. However, such power is accompanied by strict requirements for public consent and oversight. Additionally, the district may impose taxes or assessments to fund its operations and capital costs, which could impact local residents financially, making it essential for the board of directors to manage these resources judiciously.

Summary

SB3045 establishes the Hills of Walnut Creek Municipal Utility District in Parker County, providing the district with authority to oversee essential services within its designated area. The district will hold powers related to the construction, improvement, and maintenance of roads and related infrastructure, as well as the ability to issue bonds for financing these projects. These measures aim to enhance local infrastructure, which is critical for accommodating growth and improving the quality of life for residents in the region.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SB3045 seeks to facilitate local governance and infrastructure development through the establishment of the Hills of Walnut Creek Municipal Utility District. By balancing the need for enhanced services with the rights of property owners and the responsibilities of local government, the bill addresses critical issues facing Parker County. The implications of its provisions will need to be monitored closely to ensure compliance with public standards and community needs.

Contention

While proponents of SB3045 highlight the benefits of improved infrastructure and enhanced local services, concerns may arise regarding the implications of granting eminent domain authority. Critics might view this as a potential overreach that could lead to disputes over property rights and local autonomy. Moreover, the financial obligations tied to bond issuances and tax assessments could be contentious topics among residents, who may fear the long-term economic impacts of higher local taxes.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Water Code

  • Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
    • Section: 102
    • Section: 316
    • Section: 107
    • Section: 108
  • Chapter 54. Municipal Utility Districts
    • Section: 016
    • Section: 0165

Companion Bills

TX HB5679

Identical Relating to the creation of the Hills of Walnut Creek Municipal Utility District of Parker County; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

Similar Bills

TX HB3924

Relating to the creation of the Comal Trinity Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, or surcharges.

TX HB2640

Relating to the creation of the Western Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing general law authority to issue bonds and exercise the power of eminent domain; providing general law authority to impose assessments, fees, surcharges, or taxes.

TX SB1360

Relating to the creation of the Aransas County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds and impose a tax; providing general law authority to impose fees and surcharges.

TX HB4207

Relating to the creation of the Aransas County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds and impose a tax; providing general law authority to impose fees and surcharges.

TX HB4038

Relating to the creation of the Western Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing general law authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees.

TX HB1523

Relating to the creation of the Southwest Travis County Special Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose fees and assessments.

TX HB4327

Relating to the creation of the Southwest Travis County Special Utility District; providing authority to issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose fees and assessments.

TX HB922

Relating to the creation of the Southwestern Travis County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees.