Historically, resaca operations were funded by water rates. In 2022, BPUB conducted a cost-of-service study, leading to the introduction of the Resaca Fee.
Initially set at $4.50 per month, the fee was planned to gradually increase. However, in September 2023, BPUB recommended maintaining the fee at $6.25 per month, a decision approved by the City Commission on November 13, 2023.
How Your Fee Supports Brownsville's Resacas
Your monthly Resaca Fee directly funds critical projects, including:
- Dredging and Flood Protection
- Ongoing dredging at Resaca de la Guerra, increasing raw water storage capacity for Water Plant 2.
- Projects like the RESTORE Act Town Resaca Watershed Project aim to remove sediment and stabilize banks to protect areas from flooding.
Ecosystem Restoration
- Removing invasive plants and reintroducing native vegetation along resaca corridors.
- Providing improved habitats for federally protected species such as turtles and migratory birds.
Long-Term Sustainability
Supporting a comprehensive 75-year maintenance plan, ensuring resacas remain healthy for future generations.
Financial Transparency and Future Planning
As of January 31, 2025, the Resaca Fee fund balance was approximately $7.16 million. These funds are currently allocated toward:
- RESTORE Act projects
- Bureau of Reclamation initiatives
- US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Contract 1
- Equipment needs for dredging and sediment removal operations
In March 2025, BPUB presented five strategic options to the Board of Directors regarding future fund allocation—including potential adjustments to ongoing projects or fee reductions. The Board's decision will guide future actions.
