Brazos County discusses ITS contract extension amid public concerns

The Brazos County Commissioners Court convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on the proposed five-year extension of a contract with Innovative Transportation Solutions (ITS). The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the contract's implications and the role of ITS in managing county infrastructure projects.

The session began with public comments expressing skepticism about the necessity and transparency of extending the contract with ITS. One speaker raised concerns about the potential for conflicts of interest, suggesting that the extension could limit the incoming commission's ability to make independent decisions after the upcoming elections. This sentiment was echoed by another participant who questioned the lack of competitive bidding for the contract, emphasizing that the last request for qualifications (RFQ) was issued five years ago, and many qualified firms could potentially offer similar services.

Further discussions revealed apprehensions about the contract's financial implications, including the possibility of price increases and the absence of guarantees for cost reductions if project demands fluctuate. Questions were also raised regarding the appropriateness of continuing a partnership with a firm that had previously supported a political action committee (PAC) associated with misinformation campaigns.

In response to these concerns, Prathana Banerjee, the county engineer, defended the necessity of ITS's involvement, citing their expertise in managing complex projects that require compliance with state and federal regulations. Banerjee emphasized that canceling the contract could jeopardize approximately $67 million in state projects, potentially leading to costly delays.

The court ultimately moved to approve the contract extension, but not without significant debate and public input. The discussions underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in government contracts, particularly in light of upcoming elections and the need for effective project management in the county.

As the meeting concluded, the court acknowledged the need for ongoing dialogue about the role of ITS and the management of infrastructure projects, indicating that further evaluations and public engagement would be essential moving forward.