Development of Priority List for Texas Water Development Board Funding Projects.

Staff Report & Agenda Item Details

Development of Priority List for Texas Water Development Board Funding Projects. Mr. Marez provided a list of 53 projects included in the 2025 PIF Application. He stated that the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) selected STWA for an award of approximately $60,000,000 in funding and the Authority will be required to develop a prioritized list from among the 53 projects and any others that are identified. At least two meetings are anticipated in January and I.C.E. will make a presentation including costs. Ivan Luna from I.C.E. explained that a list of selected projects will need to be submitted to TWDB. Rogelio Rodriguez of Water TFinance Exchange explained that under this funding award, STWA can select whatever amount within the limit and suggested asking for the maximum and then reducing the amount if needed. The forgivable portion of funding is 70% of the total or $10,000,000 whichever is less. He reminded the Board that at this point, they can choose whichever projects they want to pursue and how much funding to pursue. Mr. J. Morales pointed out the importance of selecting projects carefully. Bobby Villarreal, representing Estrada-Hinojosa, said once the Board decides on the projects and the dollar figure, then a decision to go before the voters will be needed. If approved by the voters, the amount can be reduced but cannot exceed the voter approved amount. Mr. Marez noted that at this point the costs are not included because there will be upcoming meet

This motion is scored as RESTRAINS_GOVERNMENT (Impact Weight: 2.8/10). Under the Bastiat Liberty Watchdog Index, voting YES on measures that cap or reduce ad valorem tax burdens, expand taxpayer exemptions, retire debt early, enforce competitive bidding caps, or remove regulatory/zoning barriers to private property rights earns a positive Pro-Liberty score.