Friendswood residents heard a detailed financing plan on Nov. 2 as the City Council considered a $22.55 million Series 2027 Water and Sewer Revenue Bond issue. Financial Advisor John Robuck presented the proposal, which would be sold in February and earmarked for a quarter of the more than $100 million in capital‑improvement projects identified as critical in a 2024 study.
Key projects slated for bond funding
- $8.5 million for a water‑line expansion along Friendswood Parkway
- $8.7 million for a new waterline along FM 518
- $2.3 million to remove inflow and infiltration that drains system efficiency
- $2 million for water‑main replacement in aging sections of the network
These improvements are designed to stabilize system pressure, reduce the frequency of line breaks, and protect essential services. Council members heard a resident’s concern about an October line break that forced a local elementary school to close, underscoring the urgency of the upgrades.
How the bonds will be repaid
Revenue bonds are repaid through impact fees and the water and sewer fees that customers pay. Finance Director Rhonda Bloskas explained that those fees are scheduled to increase in January 2027, providing the cash flow needed to service the bond debt.
Next steps for the bond sale
Robuck’s team will finalize the bond sale details, including interest rates, and present the results to the City Council in February. Council members will then vote on final approval, moving the city closer to completing the critical water‑system upgrades.
Why this matters to Friendswood families
Reliable water service is a cornerstone of safe homes, schools and businesses. By investing in new lines and modernizing the network, the city aims to prevent future disruptions that can affect daily life and learning environments. The proposed bond issue reflects a proactive approach to infrastructure, ensuring that Friendswood’s growth is supported by a resilient water system.
Residents who wish to learn more about the bond proposal or provide input can attend the upcoming February council meeting, where the final terms will be discussed.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.
