MS HB1743

Authorizes the Lafayette County Board of Supervisors to create the Lafayette County Utility Authority, a public body corporate to provide storm water, water, and wastewater systems within Lafayette County and support economic development projects.

Establishes a seven-member Board of Directors appointed by the Mayor of Oxford, Chancellor of University of Mississippi, and County Board of Supervisors, with members serving staggered terms of one to five years and one member representing rural water associations.

Grants the Authority broad powers to acquire, construct, operate and maintain utility systems; enter into contracts with public agencies and private entities; establish rates and fees; and use eminent domain (except for existing certificated utilities or municipal systems).

Authorizes the Authority to issue revenue bonds and interim notes with terms up to 40 years, secured by revenues from contracted public agencies and system operations, and allows temporary advances from counties and municipalities to cover start-up costs.

Permits existing water, sewer, and wastewater service providers to transfer their certificates of public convenience and powers to the Authority through joint petition to the Public Service Commission if the transfer is determined to be in the public interest.