House Bill 4059 amends the legal framework governing the Sunbridge Stewardship District in Florida, expanding its boundaries to include areas of the City of Orlando and Orange County. The bill introduces several key changes, including the requirement for district governing board elections to involve officials from both counties and mandates that general obligation bond elections occur in both jurisdictions. It also allows for the levy and collection of non-ad valorem maintenance taxes in both counties and emphasizes that the district will not have comprehensive planning or zoning powers, ensuring compliance with the comprehensive plans of Osceola County and the City of Orlando. Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for amending the act, particularly regarding water and wastewater services, and aims to promote sustainable growth while preventing urban sprawl.
Furthermore, the bill modifies the governance structure by increasing the population thresholds for transitioning from landowner-elected board members to those elected by qualified electors. It establishes that all five governing board members must be elected by qualified electors if the district completes the construction of 30,000 residential units. The bill also mandates that elections be held during the general election in November and requires the district to maintain a permanent record book of proceedings accessible for public inspection. Other provisions include the establishment of interlocal agreements for new services, the issuance of general obligation bonds, and the expansion of special assessments and procurement processes, ensuring transparency and compliance with local regulations. Overall, HB 4059 aims to enhance the operational efficiency and governance of the Sunbridge Stewardship District while clarifying property management and rights in Orange County.