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HB 495

EMPLOYMENT-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

HB 495 reshapes the Marion County Public Water Authority's board, ensuring local representation and accountability, enhancing community-focused water management.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 495

Summary of HB 495: Marion County Public Water Authority

Bill Number: HB 495
Title: Marion County, board of Marion County Public Water Authority further provided for
Status: Enacted
Introduced: April 01, 2025
Effective Date: October 1, 2025

Purpose and Intent

HB 495 aims to amend the governance structure of the Marion County Public Water Authority by redefining the composition and appointment process of its board of directors. The bill seeks to enhance local governance and ensure that the authority is managed by representatives who are closely connected to the community.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Section 45-47-250.04 of the Code of Alabama 1975, introducing several significant changes:

  1. Board Composition:

    • The board will consist of nine directors:
      • Three initial incorporators.
      • Six additional directors appointed within 45 days after incorporation.
    • Specific appointments include:
      • One incorporator serving a six-year term.
      • The Chair of the Marion County Commission will appoint the county engineer as an ex officio director.
      • The Marion County Firefighters Association will appoint one member for an initial term of one year.
      • Elected mayors of incorporated municipalities will appoint one director for a two-year term.
      • Members of the House and Senate representing Marion County will appoint directors for terms ranging from three to six years.

  2. Appointment Authority:

    • If appointments are not made within the specified timeframe, the Governor will have the authority to make the appointments.

  3. Director Terms and Compensation:

    • Directors will serve terms of four to six years depending on their initial appointment.
    • Directors will be compensated for their attendance at meetings, with the amount determined by a majority vote of the board.

  4. Removal and Recall:

    • Directors can be removed for absenteeism (missing three consecutive meetings) or through a recall process initiated by the appointing authority after providing written notice.

  5. Impeachment Process:

    • Directors may be impeached and removed following the procedures outlined in the Alabama Constitution.

  6. Operational Support:

    • The Marion County Commission may provide office space and staff for the authority.

  7. Ratification of Prior Payments:

    • Any compensation paid to board members before October 1, 2025, is affirmed and ratified.

Impact

The enactment of HB 495 will affect the governance of the Marion County Public Water Authority by ensuring that its board is composed of local representatives with a vested interest in the community's water management. This change is expected to enhance accountability and responsiveness to local needs.

Procedural Timeline

  • April 1, 2025: Bill introduced and read for the first time.
  • April 9, 2025: Passed in the House.
  • April 10, 2025: Referred to the Senate Committee on Local Legislation.
  • May 14, 2025: Delivered to the Governor for signature.
  • May 22, 2025: Bill enacted and set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

This summary provides an overview of HB 495, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the expected impact on the Marion County Public Water Authority and its governance.

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

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