Texas Insider Report: AUSTIN Texas Even though the Legislative Session is over my staff and I have not stopped working. We are continuing to request Interim Studies from the Speaker in order to better represent our constituents. We have asked to review the following:
- UILs current impact on private and parochial schools and the organizations membership requirements.
- The land use issues resulting from Eagle Ford Shale exploration including the adequacy of counties and other local governments to regulate the development of needed infrastructure.
- Current laws on municipal extra-territorial jurisdiction their adequacy and their effect on private property rights.
- The current obligations of municipalities who perform involuntary annexations and the options for residents who have been involuntarily annexed.
- Alternatives to the requirement of a unanimous vote to alter deed restrictions within housing developments of a substantial size.
- The state of volunteer fire service in Texas including the effectiveness of Emergency Services Districts and recommended changes to improve their ability to deliver emergency services.
- The cost necessity and implementation of a Habitat Conservation Plan (HAP) by the Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program (EARIP) for the preservation of the natural habitats of certain aquifer-dependent endangered and threatened species as required by the states Edwards Aquifer Authority Act and the federal Endangered Species Act.
- The Edwards Aquifer Authority recently announced a series of public hearings on a proposed increase in aquifer management fees from $32 per acre foot to $116 per acre foot an increase of over 300. Such an increase in fees places tremendous financial strain on water providers particularly small and mid-sizes municipal water supplies and water supply companies. These cost increases will certainly result in dramatic rise in water rates. A study would focus on the necessity of the HAP its estimated cost and financing its impact on water providers and users and possible alternatives.
I value each of you and am always happy to hear your opinions. If you have any comments or concerns about the work Im doing or the issues facing District 117 please contact one of the following new district offices:
