In a May 28 meeting, Fort Bend County commissioners approved the county’s intent to create a county assistance district within the extraterritorial jurisdiction, or ETJ, near the Sienna area and began the process by submitting a letter to the city of Missouri City.
The decision will now need to be placed on the November election ballot to determine whether the district will be created, according to agenda documents.
The overview
The primary role of the county assistance district would be to provide construction, maintenance and improvements to roads, bridges and drainage facilities, according to agenda documents.
The district would also take on responsibilities including:
- Law enforcement and detention services
- Maintenance or improvements of libraries, museums, parks and other recreational facilities
- Public health services and welfare
- Firefighting and prevention
- The promotion of economic development and tourism
With the state collecting 6.25% in sales tax, counties are able to collect 2% to be used specifically in unincorporated parts of the county, including Missouri City’s ETJ, to provide specific infrastructure and services to the area, said Carlos Guzman, director of the county’s internal economic opportunity and development department.
“Especially when [an area] is undeveloped, it's a win-win for everyone,” Guzman said. “If you know the development you bring is going to bring revenue and it's going to get invested into the area, then you as a property owner are happy to see that because it's money that is going to stay in together.”
Looking ahead
To be placed on the Nov. 5 election ballot, Fort Bend County commissioners will need to call an election no later than Aug. 13, according to agenda documents.
A map of the exact boundaries wasn't provided as of press time, but Community Impact will update the story with more information when it's available.
