During the Clute Regular Council Meeting on June 26, 2025, a critical discussion emerged surrounding the urgent need for infrastructure improvements, particularly focusing on the city's sewage and drainage systems. Council members highlighted the pressing condition of the Bumpy Road lift station, which is currently undersized and struggling to handle the volume of sewage it receives.

The lift station, which services a significant portion of the city, has been a concern for years, with council members noting its inadequate capacity and the potential for future issues if not addressed. "If we replace that lift station, is it gonna operate properly?" one council member asked, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that any investment made would effectively resolve the ongoing problems.

In addition to the lift station, the council discussed the broader implications of aging infrastructure, including sewer lines that date back to the 1940s. These outdated pipes contribute to infiltration issues, where rainwater enters the sewage system, leading to unnecessary treatment costs. "We don't want sewage lines blowing up in our face," another member remarked, underscoring the urgency of prioritizing repairs and replacements.

The council also reviewed funding options, including the potential use of the enterprise fund, which currently holds approximately $6 million in unrestricted reserves. This fund could be tapped to finance the necessary upgrades, but members acknowledged the need for a strategic approach to budgeting and prioritizing projects over the next several years.

As the meeting concluded, the council agreed on the necessity of compiling a list of urgent infrastructure needs to guide future budgeting decisions. The focus will be on addressing the most critical areas first, ensuring that the city's sewage and drainage systems can adequately support its growth and prevent further complications. The discussions set the stage for a comprehensive plan aimed at revitalizing Clute's infrastructure, with an emphasis on long-term sustainability and community safety.