Proposition B: Annexation and Relinquishment Aligned with State Law

Proposition B proposes amending Section 2.05 of the Harker Heights City Charter to ensure any annexation or relinquishment of territory is conducted in compliance with Texas state law, including changes introduced by Senate Bill 2038.

Key Changes:

• Streamlined Process: The amendment removes previous requirements, such as publishing in a local newspaper and giving citizens 30 days to contest annexations or relinquishments. These changes align local procedures with state law but reduce transparency and opportunities for public input.
• Removal of Consent Requirements: The updated language allows the City Council to annex or relinquish territory without requiring consent from landowners, as long as state procedures are followed.
• Reduced Local Control: By deferring entirely to state law, the city relinquishes some of its procedural safeguards, making the annexation process faster but giving residents fewer chances to contest or participate.

Implications:

• Less Public Input: Residents lose the ability to contest annexation efforts through petitions or hearings, limiting public oversight.
• State-Law Compliance: Ensures Harker Heights stays aligned with state law and avoids legal conflicts, but future state changes could affect the city's ability to manage its territory effectively.

For more information, visit the official Harker Heights Election Page.