Honorable Dennis Bonnen, Chair, House Committee on Special Purpose Districts
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB3397 by Bonnen, Dennis (Relating to comprehensive reviews of certain special districts.), As Introduced
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would add Chapter 2 to the Special District Local Laws Code to define “special district” as a political subdivision that has a limited geographic area created by local law or under general law for a special purpose, and is authorized to impose a tax, assessment, or fee. The term would not include a school or junior college district.
The bill would provide requirements for districts regarding comprehensive performance reviews; and self-evaluation reports and notices of hearings that must be made available for public inspection by the governing body of the district. The governing body of a special district must conduct a public hearing regarding the continuation or dissolution of the district. A special district would be required to maintain an Internet website to comply with the provisions of the chapter.
Local Government Impact
There could be costs to a special district for conducting a comprehensive performance review; publishing a self-evaluation report; and public notices and hearings; however, those amounts would vary depending on current procedures and a district's budget. Expenses for public notices and hearings could cost an estimated $15,000 to each special district.