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HB 5648

Relating to the creation of the Fort Bend County Water Control and Improvement District No. 13; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Gary Gates

Creates Fort Bend County water district with eminent domain, bonding, and taxing authority to manage flood control and drainage infrastructure in designated area.

Referred to Natural Resources
#fortbendcountywatercontrolandimprovementdistrictno.13(dg34s) #specialdistricts&authorities--water&utility(i0755) #specialdistricts&authorities--watercontrolimprovedist.(i0012)
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Bill Summary · HB 5648

Legislative bill overview

HB 5648 establishes Fort Bend County Water Control and Improvement District No. 13 as a new special district with authority to manage water infrastructure and flood control in a designated area. The bill grants the district powers to exercise eminent domain (with limitations), issue bonds for financing projects, and impose assessments, fees, and taxes on property owners within its boundaries.

Why is this important

Water control districts are critical infrastructure entities in Texas, particularly in flood-prone areas like Fort Bend County, which has experienced significant flooding in recent years. The creation of this district enables localized management of stormwater, drainage, and flood mitigation while distributing costs through assessments and taxes on affected property owners rather than relying solely on county or state resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Eminent domain concerns: Property owners may object to a new district's power to seize private land for water infrastructure projects, even with "limited" restrictions
  • Tax burden: New assessments and taxes on property owners in the district could face opposition, particularly if benefits are perceived as unevenly distributed or if rates are considered excessive
  • Local governance: Questions about district board composition, transparency, and accountability to residents versus serving primarily development interests in the area

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

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