Bill Caption

Relating to the creation of the Gulf Coast Protection District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees; providing authority to impose a tax; granting the power of eminent domain.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

SB 1160 would create the Gulf Coast Protection District composed of the territory in Brazoria, Chambers, Galveston, Harris, Jefferson, and Orange Counties. The district would have the power to manage and build coastal barriers or storm surge gates, defer granted authority to counties, build and maintain public recreational facilities, and provide interior drainage remediation or improvements to reduce additional flood risk for certain projects.

The bill would require a public vote for an ad valorem tax or to issue bonds payable from ad valorem taxes.

The board of the district would be able to enter into cooperative agreements with relevant parts of government, enter into contracts, and acquire and dispose of property. This district would also have the power to exercise eminent domain and to grant tax abatements. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

Texas Action opposes SB 1160 as this bill would expand government and infringe on property rights by creating another special purpose district with the power to tax and exercise eminent domain.