The bill amends sections of the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the collaborative efforts of joint water resource boards, particularly for projects that affect multiple counties. It mandates the formation of joint water resource boards for such projects and outlines the procedures for their operation. Key provisions include the requirement for equal representation from each participating district on the joint board, the ability for districts to jointly exercise powers, and the establishment of a budget and tax levy to fund joint projects. Additionally, the bill allows for the disbursement of funds and the accountability of the joint board to the state water commission.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new procedures for assessing projects that benefit multiple counties, including the formation of a joint board and the requirement for mediation in case of disputes among board members. It also specifies that if a district conducts a reassessment of benefits and identifies properties in another county that benefit from the project, it must notify the other district to form a joint board. The bill includes provisions for judicial review of contracts and assessments, ensuring that water resource boards act in good faith and cooperate with one another.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 61-16.1-15.1
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Luick: 61-16.1-11, 61-16.1-15.1, 61-16.1-59
Enrollment: 61-16.1-11, 61-16.1-15.1, 61-16.1-59