Texarkana · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Texarkana public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Texas Water Development Board grant application for water main replacement
The city is applying for up to $21 million in state grant funds to replace about 12.5 miles of leaky two-inch galvanized mains and recoup roughly $7.5 million spent on smart meters. Fewer leaks means better water service and pressure for residents.
Water conservation and drought contingency plan
The council was scheduled to consider adopting the city's Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan, which guides water-use restrictions during shortages.
Proposed AI data center at TexAmericas Center
Eight residents urged the council to scrutinize or reject the proposed 4,000-acre AI data center, citing water use of up to 5 million gallons a day, rising utility bills, air and noise pollution, and warnings that the AI investment boom is a bubble. One resident presented an online petition with 2,433 signatures. The council took no action but heard the concerns at length.
Water Billing Dispute
Texarkana residents are seeing their water bills skyrocket after a recent smart meter upgrade, and now everyone is demanding the city explain why. People are pushing for a full audit and some actual relief for these surprise charges.