The Houston City Council approved placement of a $3.5 million bond on the June ballot to pay for required improvements to the community’s wastewater treatment plant. At the same time, residents will be asked to okay a 20-year extension to a quarter-cent utility tax that is already on the books. It is set to expire in July 2010. If approved, one-half of the proceeds would go toward debt retirement on the sewer bond issue.
The city began studying the issue with its financial consultants and engineers after mandates to meet state and federal standards require improvements to the 1970s-era sewer plant.
If the measure is improved, sewer rates also would be expected to increase, but the city says the community’s structure will still be below those of many in the region.
With the approval of the ballot issue, the city will begin work on a detailed plan that will be presented to residents regarding the need for the improvements and the financing.