AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Regional councils assist governmental entities in responding to the needs of constituents by providing a statewide, multifunctional network for determining the most effective and efficient way to meet local needs and overseeing the delivery of needed services. Generally, the purpose of a regional council is to study and create plans to guide the unified, pervasive development of a region, eliminate duplication, and promote economy and efficiency. A regional council is a useful instrument that enables local government to implement public policy and provide essential services.
H.B. 2160 amends current law relating to the governing bodies of certain local planning organizations.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Section 391.006, Local Government Code, by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (c), as follows:
(a) Authorizes participating governmental units, except as provided by Subsection (c), to by joint agreement determine the number and qualifications of members of the governing body of a regional planning commission, council of governments, or similar regional planning agency created under this chapter (commission).
(c) Requires the governing body of a commission of a region that is consistent with the geographic boundaries of a state planning region shall offer an ex officio membership on the governing body to a member of the legislature who represents a district located wholly or partly in the region of the commission.
SECTION 2. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2011.