Senate Bill 3044 aims to increase groundwater board representation for Marfa and Presidio

Senate Bill 3,044, aimed at enhancing groundwater management in Presidio County, is currently pending after a recent Senate Committee on Local Government meeting. The bill, introduced by Senator Blanco, seeks to increase the board of directors for the Presidio County Underground Water Conservation District from five to seven members. This change will allow the cities of Marfa and Presidio to appoint their own representatives, ensuring that local interests are better represented in groundwater management decisions.

The bill also proposes an exemption from a specific section of the Texas Water Code, which has previously limited the district's ability to effectively monitor and manage water resources. By granting this exemption, the district will gain the authority to regulate groundwater production more effectively, which is crucial for the long-term sustainability of water supplies in the region.

During the meeting, Ty Embree, representing the Presidio County Underground Water Conservation District, emphasized the importance of this bill. He noted that the exemption would allow the cities to obtain necessary permits, facilitating better management of groundwater resources.

In addition to Senate Bill 3,044, the committee discussed Senate Bill 2,367, which aims to extend the authority of park commissioners in Waller County to prevent misuse of public facilities and save taxpayer money. This bill is also pending further consideration.

Senate Bill 2,523, introduced by Senator Bettencourt, is designed to clarify the process for municipalities to reduce their extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) through petitions or elections. This bill aims to provide landowners with more control over their property and ensure they are notified of any removal petitions.

Lastly, Senate Bill 2,521 addresses issues related to property ownership after the death of a homeowner. It requires local registrars to report monthly on death certificates filed, helping appraisal districts identify properties that may need adjustments to their homestead exemptions.

These legislative efforts reflect a commitment to improving local governance and resource management in Texas, with a focus on community representation and accountability. The committee will continue to review these bills, with further discussions expected in upcoming sessions.