CONTRACTING AUTHORITY OF CERTAIN DISTRICTS; LEASE OF PROPERTY OR HOSPITAL FACILITIES

(a) This section applies only to a district created in a county with a population of more than 1.2 million that was not included in the boundaries of a hospital district before September 1, 2003. (b) Notwithstanding Sections 281.050 and 281.051, the board may contract with any person, including a private or public entity or a political subdivision of this state, to provide or assist in the provision of services. (c) Notwithstanding Section 281.050, the board may lease any property or hospital facility without the approval of the commissioners court. The board may enter into a lease under this subsection only after an open meeting in accordance with Chapter 551, Government Code, including Section 551.072, Government Code. (d) Notwithstanding any other law, the board may, with the approval of the commissioners court at a meeting subject to Chapter 551, Government Code, lease undeveloped or vacant real property for not more than 99 years to provide for the development and construction of facilities designed to generate revenue for the financial benefit of the district. The board, directly or through a nonprofit corporation, may contract or enter into a joint venture with a public or private entity as necessary to enter into a lease under this subsection.