ENGROSSED SENATE BILL NO. 2037 - Summary

• Creates comprehensive procedures for water resource districts to calculate and present costs and benefits of assessment projects, including mandatory cost-benefit analyses for projects costing $1 million or more before holding public hearings.

• Establishes new public informational meeting requirement where boards must present proposed projects, preliminary designs, benefit methodology, and cost-benefit analysis to affected landowners at least 30 days before formal project hearings.

• Defines direct benefits (market value increases, agricultural production improvements, drainage outlets, flood damage reduction) and indirect benefits (public safety, utility protection, reduced service costs, recreational value) for assessment purposes.

• Prohibits boards from assessing any property an amount exceeding the dollar value of benefits anticipated to accrue to that property, with benefits calculation required before the formal hearing under section 61-16.1-18.

• Repeals section 61-16.1-01 (legislative intent) and provides an expiration date of July 31, 2027 for all amendments made by this Act.