BEAUMONT, Texas — A state-wide proposition voters will see on the November ballot, Proposition 6, will create a $1 billion solution to the water infrastructure issues in Texas.
The Texas Water Development board would be given the green light to create the Texas Water Fund.
State representatives say the Texas Water Fund would consist of a $1 billion down payment in the State Treasury outside of the general fund.
That money will be put towards fixing deteriorating pipes and mitigating water loss.
"I noticed in Beaumont I saw your news article the other day about water leaks, I think you had 237 water leaks so they are having some problems and they need help," Robert Nichols, Texas State Senator District 3, said.
Texas leaders are recognizing the water worries that seem to be plaguing not just Southeast Texas, but the entire state.
"The number I had with leaks in all the other cities combined is 136 billion gallons a year just lost," Nichols said.
Nichols says the issues stem from aging pipes lingering under the ground.
"A lot of that stuff was put in 50, 70, 80 years ago and stuff rust and it breaks," he said.
Now the Texas Water Development board is offering a solution, but the voters will have to say yes.
"It would provide and allow the water development board this money to go into assistance whether it be low interest loans or grants," Nichols said.
But it doesn't come without some rules. 25 percent of the fund must be used to increase the state's water supply.
Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick says it's needed.
"The state of Texas has a significant increase in population every year we're in need of further water resources," he said.
If it pass on Nov. 7, city and municipal leaders will have to apply for those dollars.
"I'm sure it will be like most grants where they have a grading process and try and meet the needs of the most significant," Branick said.
Senator Nichols says one fourth of the Texas Water Fund would also go into rural areas with a population of 150-thousand or less.
If Proposition 6 passes, it will go into effect January 1, 2024.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.