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Relating to the territory and board of the Canyon Regional
Water Authority.
SB 855, if passed, would make small changes to a number of
legal aspects regarding the Canyon Regional Water Authority. There are three
changes; clarification of “member entities” and territory included, rules
regarding the governing body, and eminent domain authority.
The first set of changes is essentially clerical, noting
that the Canyon Regional Authority includes the entire territory, and all the
administrative entities located within the service area. (These member entities
are explicitly named in the bill for reference.) The second change is more
substantive and would prohibit a trustee who serves on the governing body from
also serving on the board. The third change clarifies where the authority
derives its eminent domain authority from. (Namely section 49.222 of the Water
Code.)
SB 855 is mostly a clerical bill which clarifies current statute. That member entities and territory is more clearly defined and
that eminent domain authority is clarified (not granted or expanded) are not
serious issue. Prohibiting individuals from holding two positions simultaneously
is prudent policy but does not affect our liberty principles. As such, we are
neutral on SB 855.