BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center                                                                                                     H.B. 3569

79R11512 SGA-D                                                                                          By: Guillen (Zaffirini)

                                                                                                               Intergovernmental Relations

5/20/2005

Engrossed

AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

In 1954, the Zapata water and sewer plant was built by the federal government during the relocation of the town of old Zapata to its existing location near Falcon Dam. The primary purpose of this plant was to provide water and sewer services for the Air Force radar installation and to provide the same services as the new town of Zapata developed for the local residents.  Since that time, control has been turned over to the county government and the plant has been operated as a department of the county.

Due to age, growth in population, increased demand and new standards for water and sewer utility services, a separate municipal water district with all the powers attached is required to fund and operate the system in the future. The district being formed will take over the same area covered by the current certificate of convenience and necessity. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Subtitle F, Title 6, Special District Local Laws, by adding Chapter 8152, as follows:

CHAPTER 8152.  ZAPATA COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 2

Sets forth standard language for the creation of the Zapata County Municipal Utility District No. 2 (district) in Zapata County.  Sets forth standards, procedures, requirements and criteria for:

Creation and approval of the district (Sections 8152.001-8152.004);

Size, composition, election, and terms of the board of directors of the district (Sections 8152.021, 8152.051-8152.052);

Transfer of assets from Zapata County Waterworks to the district (Section 8152.025);

Powers and duties of the district (Section 8152.101); and

General finance provisions and authority to issue bonds and obligations for the district (Sections 8152.151 and 8152.201).

Does not authorize the use of eminent domain.

SECTION 2.  Provides that all requirements of the constitution and the laws of this state and the rules and procedures of the legislature with respect to the notice, introduction, and passage of this Act are fulfilled and accomplished. 

SECTION 3.  Effective date: September 1, 2005.