Copperas Cove council workshop hears 'Impact Fees 101' presentation

At a City of Copperas Cove workshop on Aug. 4, 2026, the council heard an "Impact Fees 101" presentation from Ben Platt, project manager with Kimley‑Horn, who described impact fees as a one‑time charge on new development to pay for future infrastructure. "The most simple terms, it's a it's a one time fee for new development," Platt said.

Platt told the council that eligible uses for impact fees include construction of capacity‑adding roadways and water lines, survey and engineering, planning, land acquisition and debt service for capacity projects. He said ordinary repair, operation and maintenance costs are not recoverable under state law and that administrative staff costs to run the program are generally not eligible. The presentation noted the program must be audited and funds must be spent within the service area within 10 years.

Platt emphasized the difference between impact fees and a street maintenance utility, saying the latter is a recurring monthly charge for upkeep of existing roads, while impact fees are one‑time charges tied to predicted growth over a 10‑year horizon. Bobby Lewis, Development Services Director, introduced the item and the Capital Improvements Advisory Committee (CIAC) process that will review the study.

No ordinance or fee adoption occurred at the workshop; Platt said the consultants will return with draft ordinances and a financial assessment in the fall for first readings. The workshop adjourned at 5:30 p.m. and the regular council meeting was scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m.