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HB 2626

Relating to creating the Central Texas Water Alliance; providing authority to issue bonds; granting the power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose fees.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Brad Buckley and 3 co-sponsors

Creates Central Texas Water Alliance with bonding authority, eminent domain powers, and fee-collection rights to manage regional water infrastructure and supply.

Laid on the table subject to call
#bellcounty(g0130) #bellcountywatercontrol&improvementdistrictno.1(dc96s) #centraltexaswateralliance(dq5ze) #clearwaterundergroundwaterconservationdistrict(dp67u) #mclennancounty(g0164) #publicnotice(s0264) #specialdistricts&authorities--water&utility(i0755) #specialdistricts&authorities--watercontrolimprovedist.(i0012)
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Bill Summary · HB 2626

Legislative bill overview

HB 2626 establishes the Central Texas Water Alliance, a new regional water management entity authorized to issue bonds for water infrastructure projects, exercise eminent domain to acquire property, and collect fees from users or entities within its jurisdiction. The bill grants this alliance significant financial and regulatory powers to address water supply and management challenges in the Central Texas region.

Why is this important

Water infrastructure and supply planning are critical for regional economic development and public health, particularly in fast-growing Texas areas facing drought concerns and population pressures. The creation of a dedicated regional authority with bonding and fee-collection powers allows coordinated water management across multiple jurisdictions rather than fragmented local efforts, but concentrates substantial authority in a new government entity.

Potential points of contention

  • Eminent domain authority: Granting any new entity power to seize private property raises concerns about property rights protections and whether adequate compensation and public oversight mechanisms are included
  • Fee structure and burden: The authority to impose fees could shift water costs to consumers; unclear who pays, how rates are set, and whether this disproportionately affects low-income residents
  • Governance and accountability: Questions about board composition, local vs. regional control, transparency in decision-making, and whether this entity duplicates existing water authorities' functions

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

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