SR 05:127 - Laserfiche WebLink

A GHAD is authorized to finance improvements through the Improvement Act of 1911, the Municipal Improvement Act of 1913, and the Improvement Bond Act of 1915. A GHAD may also accept financial or other assistance from any public or private source and may borrow funds from a local agency, and the state and federal governments. A GHAD may assess landowners for operation and maintenance of improvements acquired or constructed under the GHAD law. These assessments, which attach as liens on property, may be collected at the same time and in the same manner as general taxes on real property. Advantages of Forming a GHAD GHADs are public agencies that operate locally for the sole and specific purpose of addressing geologic concerns. As such, they offer several dist'mct advantages. 1. Focus on Prevention. Through the development and implementation of a Plan of Control, a GHAD acts to prevent damage result'rog from earth movement by identifying and monitoring potential geologic hazards and undertaking improvements as appropriate. 2. Ability to Respond to Unforeseen Events. When unforeseen hazards arise, GHADs, as existing agencies, are in place with the technical and organizational resources and funding capability needed to respond quickly and effectively. 3. Improved Method of Collecting Assessments. GHADs are authorized to collect assessments along with the general property tax. This avoids requiring separate collection by a private entity, such as a homeowners' association. 4. Concerns Over Liability Less Likely to Discourage Needed Actions. In addition, under state law (Government code sections 865 et seq.), GHADs are given a degree of immunity from liability for actions they undertake. The State Legislature intended that this provision encourage local public entities to take remedial action to abate earth movement. SR:05:127 Page 3 of 32