Proposition 4 Passes: What It Means for Water Infrastructure in Lakemont and Across Texas
When Texas voters cast their ballots on November 4, 2025, they didn’t just weigh in on constitutional amendments—they helped chart the course for the future of water infrastructure across the state. Among the measures passed, Proposition 4 (Prop 4) received overwhelming support, setting in motion a long-term commitment to invest in the essential water, wastewater, and flood management systems that Texans rely on daily—including right here in Lakemont.
At its core, Prop 4 dedicates a portion of future sales tax revenue to the Texas Water Fund. Beginning in fiscal year 2028, the state will transfer up to $1 billion per year for 20 years—provided that annual state sales tax revenues exceed $46.5 billion. This provision will be in effect through August 31, 2047, and marks a generational investment to meet Texas’ growing water infrastructure needs.
What Is the Texas Water Fund?
The Texas Water Fund was first created by voters in 2023 through Proposition 6 and is administered by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB). With the passage of Prop 4, the fund now receives a dedicated and sustainable stream of revenue to support critical infrastructure projects across the state.
This expansion enhances the fund’s ability to provide low-cost, flexible financing for everything from water supply and wastewater treatment to flood mitigation. The funding is designed to help communities overcome the financial hurdles that often delay or prevent major infrastructure improvements.
The Texas Water Association (TWA), an organization representing cities, river authorities, water districts, flood and drainage agencies, and others across the state, hailed the passage of Prop 4 as a landmark moment.
“At a time when Texas is experiencing unprecedented levels of population growth and weather extremes like drought and flood, dedicated funding is the most important tool available to address the looming water challenges and rising costs for ratepayers across the state,” said Stacey Allison Steinbach, Executive Director of the TWA.
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What This Means for Lakemont and Communities Like It
For residents in Lakemont, the passage of Prop 4 translates into new opportunities to strengthen aging water systems, prepare for extreme weather, and maintain affordable rates for services. Because the TWDB is required to prioritize funding for projects in rural areas and municipalities with populations under 150,000, smaller communities stand to benefit significantly.
Examples of qualifying projects include:
- Replacing or rehabilitating deteriorating pipes or treatment facilities
- Developing new water sources through desalination or aquifer storage
- Reducing water loss and promoting conservation
- Enhancing flood control infrastructure
These investments support both public health and long-term economic growth.
As Steinbach emphasized, “Prop 4 is a strong first step toward addressing the more than $200 billion in water infrastructure investments needed over the next 50 years”.
When Will Funding Be Available?
Though the constitutional change takes effect in September 2027, the first potential transfer of funds to the Texas Water Fund is anticipated in late fiscal year 2028, provided revenue conditions and legislative appropriations are met. Financial assistance programs could begin distributing funds as early as fall 2029.
This staged timeline ensures transparency and accountability, giving communities and water districts time to identify their needs and prepare strong funding applications.
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Why It Matters Now
Texas is expected to grow dramatically in the coming decades. The state’s population is projected to increase 53% between 2030 and 2080—from 34.2 million to more than 52 million. This growth places tremendous pressure on existing infrastructure, particularly in areas prone to drought, flooding, or both.
Prop 4 is a proactive step to address these challenges before they become full-blown crises. It reflects an understanding that reliable water infrastructure isn’t just a local issue—it’s a statewide priority that affects quality of life, economic opportunity, and environmental health.
To learn more about how the Texas Water Fund will be implemented and how it could benefit communities like Lakemont, visit the Texas Water Development Board at twdb.texas.gov.
With the approval of Proposition 4, Texas communities are better equipped than ever to secure a sustainable, resilient water future—for today’s residents and for generations to come.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
