The House Committee on Land & Resource Management

85th Legislature

October 3, 2018

9:00 a.m.

402 Harbor Drive, Corpus Christi, TX

Pursuant to a notice posted on September 19, 2018, revised on October 1, 2018, the House Committee on Land & Resource Management met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Herrero, at 9:11 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Herrero; Blanco; and Krause.

Representative Hunter was also in attendance.

The Chair delivered opening remarks and recognized Port of Corpus Christi Commission Chairman Charles Zahn, Jr. who welcomed the Committee.

The Chair opened up public discussion for the posted agenda.

Hurricane Harvey Response Interim Charge

The Chair brought up the following interim charge: Review the General Land Office's (GLO) role and efforts during the recovery period following Hurricane Harvey. Examine the state's readiness and protocols in response to storm-related natural disasters. Provide an assessment of public lands and make recommendations on future and ongoing mitigation strategies regarding state assets.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

Representative Clardy was also in attendance.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

Eminent Domain Interim Charge

The Chair brought up the following interim charge: Examine Texas’ eminent domain statutes to ensure a balance between necessary infrastructure growth and fair compensation for landowners. Review available public information and data relating to the compensation provided to private property owners. Make recommendations to improve the accountability, as well as successful development, of the entities granted eminent domain authority.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

GLO State Power Program Interim Charge

The Chair brought up the following interim charge: Study the State Power Program operated by the GLO, and interlocal agreements authorized under Government Code Chapter 791, to ensure accountability and transparency in program administration. Evaluate program offerings to public customers as compared to those available in the retail electric market, as well as the State Power Program's contribution to other state programs. Make reform recommendations and analyze potential impacts to program beneficiaries.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

At 3:32 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the Chair.

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Rep. Herrero, Chair

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Miguel Liscano, Clerk