Brownsville advances drainage utility plan, but $6.6M fee awaits approval

Brownsville moved a step closer to overhauling how it funds drainage improvements after city commissioners this week approved the creation of a municipal drainage utility system, although proposed fees that could generate $6.6 million annually still require final approval.

The action advances a proposal previously considered by the Brownsville City Commission to establish a dedicated funding source for stormwater infrastructure, maintenance and flood prevention projects throughout the city.

Under the plan, Brownsville would replace the existing $6.25 monthly resaca charge on Brownsville Public Utilities Board bills with a broader drainage utility fee.

The change would allow the city to direct revenue toward drainage improvements beyond its resaca system, including maintenance, equipment purchases and work in neighborhoods prone to flooding.