Texas Senate Bill SB3047

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 4/14/25

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Pura Vida Municipal Management District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes; granting a limited power of eminent domain.

Impact

The bill's passage will enable the district to collect property assessments and levies that generate revenue for public capital improvements and maintenance of essential services. Essentially, the funds will support the district's efforts in promoting economic growth, reducing unemployment, and enhancing the overall public welfare within its assigned territory. Supporters argue that this will lead to better-managed resources and increased investment opportunities within the area. However, the bill has engendered discussions regarding the implications of creating such a bureaucratic entity, particularly concerns about accountability and the efficiency of the funds allocated.

Summary

SB3047 proposes the establishment of the Pura Vida Municipal Management District No. 1 in Texas. This legislation seeks to provide the district with the authority to issue bonds and impose taxes and assessments to finance various public projects and services within its boundaries. The creation of such districts is aimed at enhancing local economic development by facilitating infrastructure improvements and community services including transportation, housing, tourism, and recreational facilities. The bill designates the City of Mustang Ridge as the governing city for the district, which allows the district to include territory under its jurisdiction for the purposes defined by the legislation.

Contention

Notable points of contention focus around the district's power to impose eminent domain, which could draw criticism from property owners and local residents who may fear the potential for forced acquisition of land for development purposes. While the bill currently includes provisions for limited eminent domain, there are calls from various stakeholders for tighter constraints to safeguard property rights. Furthermore, there are apprehensions about the transparency of financial operations within the management district and how effectively community interests will be represented against potential privatization or partnerships that prioritize profit over public benefit.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Water Code

• Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 222

• Chapter 54. Municipal Utility Districts
  • Section: New Section

Local Government Code

• Chapter 375. Municipal Management Districts In General
  • Section: New Section

Tax Code

• Chapter 151. Limited Sales, Excise, And Use Tax
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 321. Municipal Sales And Use Tax Act
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 352. County Hotel Occupancy Taxes
  • Section: New Section

Government Code

• Chapter 791. Interlocal Cooperation Contracts
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 1509. Obligations For Other Municipal Purposes
  • Section: New Section

Transportation Code

• Chapter 431. Texas Transportation Corporation Act
  • Section: New Section