HB0446 Summary

• Requires authorization petition signed by at least 51% of taxpayers before any special service area can be created, enlarged, or have taxes levied, imposed, or increased.

• Mandates publication of names and addresses of individuals and entities receiving notice of public hearings for special service area establishment at the time notice is given and availability at the hearing.

• Prohibits special service area commission members from being owners or board members of the service provider agency, and prohibits businesses owned by commission members or municipal employees from providing goods or services to the special service area.

• Requires at least one special service area commission member to be a homestead property owner within the area for commissions established after the bill's effective date.

• Establishes 10-year expiration for new special service areas with option to renew once for up to 15 additional years if authorized by petition of at least 20% of electors and 20% of property owners.

• Prohibits special service area commissions from establishing loans or lines of credit and mandates annual audits submitted to municipal authorities.