Allowing counties and municipalities to create special assessment districts

SB 1002 allows West Virginia counties and municipalities to create "special assessment districts" for funding specific utility infrastructure improvements, such as water or sewer systems, that directly benefit new housing developments. Property owners within these defined districts would pay targeted annual fees to cover the costs of the infrastructure they directly use, rather than spreading costs across broader taxpayer bases. The bill requires public hearings, clear boundary definitions, and explicit limits - prohibiting fees from replacing existing services or reducing other public funds. It establishes district boards to oversee projects and ensures funds are used solely for the approved improvements. This policy directly affects property owners in new development areas and local governments seeking to streamline infrastructure financing.