Enrolled Bill Summary

            House Bill 2959 validates a maintenance tax authorized in 1961 by voters of the Brookshire-Katy Drainage District and requires a district election to approve other provisions of the bill. If approved, those provisions take effect on the 45th day after the election date.

            The provisions subject to the election make findings as to the boundaries and validity of the district and clarify its powers and authority. They allow the exercise of eminent domain powers outside the district if the municipality or county where the condemned property is located consents. The provisions prohibit construction of drainage facilities or improvements on or to serve a land tract in the district unless plans and specifications have been approved by the district and in some cases by an affected municipality. Other provisions related to construction projects grant the district rulemaking powers, adopt surety bond and security safeguards, and exempt agricultural and other minor activities from the approval requirement. Provisions subject to the election also establish criminal and civil penalties relating to violations of the district's enabling law or rules.