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Bill

HB 685

Bartow County Community Improvement Districts Act; enact

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matthew Gambill and 1 co-sponsor

The Bartow County Community Improvement Districts Act allows for creating districts to enhance infrastructure and services, improving quality of life for residents.

Effective Date
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Bill Summary · HB 685

Summary of HB 685: Bartow County Community Improvement Districts Act

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HB 685
  • Title: Bartow County Community Improvement Districts Act
  • Status: Effective as of May 13, 2025
  • Introduced: February 28, 2025

Purpose

The Bartow County Community Improvement Districts Act aims to establish one or more community improvement districts (CIDs) within Bartow County and its municipalities. These districts are intended to enhance local infrastructure and services through targeted governmental initiatives.

Key Provisions

The Act includes several important provisions:

  1. Creation of Community Improvement Districts:

    • Allows for the establishment of CIDs to provide various governmental services and facilities.
  2. Services and Facilities:

    • CIDs may focus on:
      • Street and road construction and maintenance (including curbs, sidewalks, and traffic control devices).
      • Development of parks and recreational areas.
      • Storm-water and sewage collection and disposal systems.
      • Water development, storage, treatment, and distribution.
      • Terminal and dock facilities, as well as parking facilities.
      • Other services as permitted by law.
  3. Governance:

    • Each CID will have a governing board responsible for its administration.
    • Members of the board can be appointed or elected by local electors.
  4. Financial Provisions:

    • CIDs can levy taxes, fees, and assessments to fund their operations.
    • They are authorized to issue general obligation bonds and other financial instruments to finance projects.
    • The Act specifies that no public notice, proceeding, or referendum is required for the issuance of bonds.
  5. Definitions:

    • The Act provides clear definitions for terms such as "board," "bonds," "district," and "cost of the project," ensuring clarity in its implementation.
  6. Dissolution:

    • Procedures for the dissolution of a CID are included, allowing for flexibility in governance.

Impact

The establishment of CIDs in Bartow County is expected to:
- Improve local infrastructure and public services.
- Facilitate community development and enhance quality of life for residents.
- Provide a structured approach to funding and managing local projects without the need for extensive public referendums.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 28, 2025: Introduced in the House.
  • March 10, 2025: Passed by the House.
  • March 27, 2025: Favorably reported by the Senate Committee and passed by the Senate.
  • April 10, 2025: Sent to the Governor.
  • May 13, 2025: Signed by the Governor and became effective as Act 160.

Conclusion

The Bartow County Community Improvement Districts Act represents a significant step towards enhancing local governance and infrastructure in Bartow County. By enabling the creation of CIDs, the Act aims to streamline the provision of essential services and foster community development.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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