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HB 5679

Relating to the creation of the Hills of Walnut Creek Municipal Utility District of Parker County; 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 Charlie Geren and 1 co-sponsor

Texas creates Hills of Walnut Creek Municipal Utility District in Parker County with powers to tax, issue bonds, levy fees, and exercise eminent domain for utility infrastructure.

Effective on 9/1/25
#hillsofwalnutcreekmunicipalutilitydistrictofparkercounty(df4d7) #parkercounty(g1358) #specialdistricts&authorities--municipalutilitydistricts(i0009) #specialdistricts&authorities--water&utility(i0755)
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Bill Summary · HB 5679

Legislative bill overview

HB 5679 creates the Hills of Walnut Creek Municipal Utility District in Parker County, Texas, establishing a new special-purpose government entity. The bill grants this district powers to issue bonds, impose assessments and fees, levy taxes, and exercise limited eminent domain authority to acquire land for utility infrastructure and services.

Why is this important

Municipal utility districts (MUDs) are common mechanisms in Texas for providing water, wastewater, and drainage services to developing areas. This bill enables infrastructure development in a specific Parker County region by creating a dedicated taxing entity that can finance and manage utilities without relying solely on county or municipal resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Eminent domain concerns: Granting limited eminent domain power allows forced property acquisition, which raises questions about landowner protections and fair compensation in the district boundaries
  • Tax burden clarity: The bill authorizes multiple revenue streams (assessments, fees, and taxes) without specified rate caps, potentially creating uncertainty for property owners about their actual tax obligations
  • District governance accountability: As a special district, questions may arise about public oversight, transparency of operations, and how directors are selected to represent constituent interests

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

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