Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Weslaco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in water utilities with high priority
Sludge study and screw press at South Plant
An extra $108,000 of engineering work will finish the sludge study and design the pad for a new screw press; a commissioner pushed on the slow timeline, with completion eyed for early 2027.
Citywide water and sewer infrastructure assessment
Reservoir levels are historically low at 27%, but both plants passed TCEQ inspection at 100% compliance. Floodwater moving down from upstream could raise levels — and bring water into local levees.
Paisano Lane Drainage Deficiencies
The city is moving ahead with design on the Paisano drainage project without waiting on FEMA, which officials believe will help its funding application. If FEMA covers the roughly $8.6 million construction cost, that money could be redirected to other unfunded drainage projects.
North Water Treatment Plant reservoir rehabilitation grant
The city is applying for up to $21 million in state grant money — with zero local match — to rehab the North Water Treatment Plant reservoir, embankments, pumps, and piping.
Pleasantview drainage flooding
The area near CVS on Business 83 floods because a drain line was disconnected when Freedom Storage was built. The cheap $71,000 fix risks pushing water onto Camelot subdivision and the mobile home park downstream, so the commission ordered a full study of all three options before spending money.
Citywide drainage improvements and federal funding push
The city is lobbying Washington for $33 million for three major drainage projects (Paisano, Plaza, Agostadero) and has 2025 bond money for more. These projects aim to stop the repeat street and home flooding residents have seen since 2018.
Water treatment plant generator reliability
A $61,762 repair keeps the plant's backup generator ready — critical after recent power outages and with hurricane season here.
Inframark water and wastewater operations contract
The long-negotiated contract for Inframark to run the city's water and wastewater plants is nearly done; the Commission authorized finalization within days.
Rio Grande Valley Public Utility Agency
Weslaco will chip in $45,000 toward the new regional water utility agency — but only if every member city pays its share, a safeguard after San Benito's leadership change raised questions.