Brookshire City Council addresses drainage issues for new Texan Structures site

The City of Brookshire Council convened on April 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM to address various community concerns, with a significant focus on drainage issues related to new business developments.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding the allocation of $18,000 for drainage improvements. A local business owner raised questions about the specific work completed under this budget, seeking clarity on whether any drainage ditches or sewage systems had been installed. The owner expressed frustration over the lack of permits for his proposed truck park, which he claimed was causing financial losses due to engineering costs.

City officials responded by explaining that improvements were necessary to manage stormwater runoff effectively. They indicated that the proposed business site, which spans approximately one acre, would require a detention pond to handle excess water runoff. This requirement was highlighted as a potential barrier to the business's development, as the necessary infrastructure could occupy a significant portion of the property.

The conversation shifted to the existing drainage systems, with officials noting that the city had already excavated a ditch adjacent to the property. However, concerns were raised about the capacity of this ditch to handle runoff from the new development, particularly as it would eventually flow into a shallow ditch managed by TxDOT.

In response to the business owner's experience with underground detention systems at another property in Houston, city officials suggested exploring this option further. They encouraged the owner to collaborate with the Brookshire Drainage Katy Drainage District and the engineering firm LJA to develop a feasible plan for managing drainage on his property.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from city officials to facilitate communication between the business owner and the relevant engineering representatives, aiming to provide guidance on the next steps for his project. This collaborative approach reflects the city's intent to support local business development while ensuring compliance with necessary drainage regulations.