Branson seeks Taney County sewer-sales-tax dollars for $4.15M of 2026 improvements

The Branson Board of Aldermen voted 5-0 Sept. 23 to authorize staff to apply to the Taney County Commission for sewer sales-tax funds to support several planned 2026 sewer improvements.

Public Works and Utilities staff outlined a multi-project request that would fund small- and large-scale repairs and upgrades across the system. Projects highlighted include replacement of three emergency generators at the Compton Drive wastewater treatment facility (roughly $1.7 million), sewer main lining work (about $500,000), engineering on Lift Station 30 and an equalization basin (engineering ~$1.2 million with projected future construction of approximately $12 million), and replacement of a private collection system in Spring Creek North (about $750,000). Staff estimated the applications would request around $4,150,000 in sewer sales-tax proceeds for 2026.

Utilities Director Kendall Powell told the board the work is intended to reduce emergency repairs, avoid environmental violations and buy capacity for planned growth. Powell described a recent force-main break that required continuous pumping and outside pump-truck rentals, saying the city spent "well over $100,000" in pumping costs and is still pushing towards $300,000 in repair costs for a single event — a concrete example of the cost of deferring capital work.

The board approved the resolution to submit applications and directed staff to answer any follow-up questions from the Taney County Commission during the county review process.

No public speakers opposed the request during the hearing.

Staff will return with grant-submission documentation and project prioritization as funding decisions progress.