ACD1 updates commissioners on Delta Reclamation Project; court approves Restore Act reimbursement for Rainbow Drain Phase 2

The Hidalgo County drainage district (ACD1) briefed commissioners March 18 on progress with a proposed Delta Reclamation Project and related advocacy in Austin, and the court approved a budget amendment tied to Restore Act funding for the Rainbow Drain Project phase 2.

ACD1 leadership told the court that Commissioner David Fuentes testified before the state Senate Committee on Water and Rural Affairs on March 10 to present the district’s water-producing Delta Reclamation Project. ACD1 staff said Senate Bill 1967 has been filed and includes information supporting the project’s eligibility for Water Development Board financing. The ACD1 general manager said the Delta Reclamation Project could ultimately serve as many as “up to a quarter million people,” a figure discussed as an estimate of potential beneficiaries.

The court also approved a budget amendment on the special revenue Restore Act subrecipient reimbursement contract related to the Rainbow Drain Project phase 2 (agenda item 6c on the docket). The clerk’s backup and the transcript show the amendment was moved, seconded and carried by the court; the item was described as subject to final legal review.

ACD1 staff noted other related items: an upcoming presentation at the South Texas All Hazard Conference and a Rainbow Drain workshop scheduled for April 3 where the project’s feasibility and path forward will be discussed with elected officials and the public. Staff thanked consultants and the board for assistance advancing the project and said they will continue advocacy to secure state financing.

The court recorded the actions as approved by voice vote and noted the budget amendment and procurement items were subject to final legal and financial review.