The Port Arthur City Council meeting on September 9, 2025, focused on several key issues, including the implementation of electronic billing for utility services and the approval of emergency repairs to a sewer line.

During the meeting, a council member raised concerns about the lack of electronic billing options for residents, highlighting that many utilities offer the ability to receive bills via email instead of paper. This change could potentially save the city significant costs, as it would reduce the need for printing and mailing expenses. City officials acknowledged that there had been electronic billing capabilities in the past but indicated that current issues were likely due to programming problems. They committed to working with the IT department and the billing software provider, Tyler Munis, to resolve these issues and provide a solution by the next council session.

Additionally, the council discussed the possibility of eliminating return envelopes included with utility bills, which could further reduce costs. While some council members expressed a preference for retaining the envelopes for convenience, the discussion indicated a willingness to explore cost-saving measures.

In other business, the council ratified a resolution authorizing emergency repairs to a 12-inch sewer line on Jimmy Johnson Boulevard, approving a partial payment of $349,340.43 to Global Drilling Incorporated for the work. The council also approved a change order for the Port Acres Waste Water Treatment Plant improvements, increasing the contract amount by $7,458.46.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the electronic billing issue in the upcoming session, reflecting the council's responsiveness to citizen concerns and its focus on improving city services.