State water board to consider flood-warning programs, major grants and long-term funding tools at its Dec. 16 meeting
By Kingsville Independent News Staff
AUSTIN — The Texas Water Development Board will meet Tuesday, Dec. 16, to consider a wide range of water security, flood mitigation and infrastructure financing actions that could influence long-term planning statewide and affect how local providers — including those in the Coastal Bend — pursue future projects.
The agenda includes items tied to flood-warning systems, drought and conservation outreach, state bond financing and multimillion-dollar funding awards for water and wastewater systems. While no Kleberg County projects appear on this month’s docket, several items relate to issues facing Kingsville and the surrounding region: drought resiliency, long-term supply planning and the state funding mechanisms used by the South Texas Water Authority (STWA).
Flood-warning siren program advances
The meeting opens with a briefing on the implementation of Senate Bill 3, which authorizes grants for outdoor warning sirens in flash-flood-prone areas. Board members will discuss how the program will roll out and may authorize contracts for the first round of grants.
South Texas communities routinely experience fast-developing flood conditions, especially along rural roadways and in low-lying neighborhoods. This new program could eventually offer funding opportunities for local governments seeking enhanced early-warning systems.
Statewide water awareness campaign extended
The board is expected to extend its contract with the Texas Water Foundation for the Statewide Water Awareness Campaign. The program supports conservation messaging and drought-education resources often used by cities and utilities during dry periods and watering restrictions.
For South Texas, where drought conditions remain a persistent concern, statewide outreach helps reinforce conservation practices for households and businesses.
Bond authorization supports statewide water projects
The board will also consider authorizing the issuance and sale of State Revolving Fund revenue bonds. These bonds finance the low-interest loans and grants that utilities use for planning, design and construction of water and wastewater projects.
For systems such as STWA, which anticipates $60 million in state assistance for upcoming improvements, the availability of affordable financing is key to moving projects forward.
Large grants and funding awards statewide
The agenda includes more than 20 funding actions for water districts and local governments across Texas. They range from planning funds to full construction packages, including:
- A $20 million grant for the city of Amarillo
- $58.7 million for water system improvements in Mineral Wells
- $90 million for flood-mitigation work in Fort Worth
- $60 million for the Trinity River Authority
- $25 million for Waller County
Although none are in the Coastal Bend this month, they reflect an active statewide funding cycle, a point of interest for regional utilities preparing their own applications.
Flood Infrastructure Fund projects continue
Several entities, including Cameron County Drainage District No. 5 and the city of Taylor Lake Village, are slated to receive Flood Infrastructure Fund grants. These projects address drainage, stormwater upgrades and flood-prone areas.
For Kleberg County, where stormwater challenges persist, the awards provide a model for the types of projects that may be eligible for assistance in future cycles.
Lead service line replacement funding moves forward
The city of Duncanville is set to receive assistance for completing its lead service line inventory, a requirement under federal regulations. All water providers, including those in the Kingsville area, will eventually need to complete similar inventories and may qualify for technical or financial support.
State water project financing timeline approved
The board will adopt the 2026 timeline for the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas, known as SWIFT. The program helps finance large water supply projects, including regional pipelines, new water sources and desalination initiatives.
For South Texas, the timing matters as STWA and other providers explore long-term supply options beyond Corpus Christi.
What the Texas Water Development Board does — and why it matters
A Kingsville Independent News explainer
The Texas Water Development Board is the state agency responsible for long-term water planning and funding water infrastructure. Its decisions affect cities, rural water systems and utilities across Texas, including those serving Kingsville and Kleberg County.
It funds the projects local systems can’t afford alone
TWDB provides low-interest loans, grants and principal forgiveness for projects such as:
- Replacing aging pipelines
- Building new wells or water plants
- Improving wastewater systems
- Expanding stormwater drainage
STWA’s anticipated $60 million in funding, for example, comes through TWDB programs.
It oversees statewide drought and conservation efforts
TWDB manages drought reports, reservoir data, conservation outreach and climate modeling tools used by local officials.
It supports flood preparedness
Through grants and programs like the new flash-flood siren initiative, TWDB funds drainage improvements and flood-control infrastructure across Texas.
It shapes Texas’s long-term water supply
TWDB develops the State Water Plan, guiding how Texas will meet demand over the next 50 years and which projects should be prioritized.
Why this matters locally
TWDB’s decisions influence:
- Water reliability during drought
- Availability of funding for STWA and regional projects
- Local ability to replace aging lines or pursue new water sources
- Flood safety and stormwater improvements
- Requirements for lead service line inventories
Even when Kingsville isn’t on the agenda, the board’s actions guide the funding environment and regulatory expectations for South Texas utilities.
What’s next
The board meets Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. in Austin and via webinar. Members of the public may attend or register to comment.
Kingsville Independent News will continue monitoring statewide and regional water decisions that influence South Texas water planning, funding opportunities and long-term supply reliability.