Erosion, silting, and flooding are important concerns in the maintenance of the City's surface drainage and storm sewer systems. Currently, maintenance operations are performed as necessary or when a potential problem is identified. The City purchased a new backhoe in 1998, and man-hours spent on this activity have increased since the purchase of this equipment. Proposed drainage improvements include installing underground storm drains, curb inlet structures, and drainage outfall structures. It would also include making improvements to earthen channels, causing utilities to be relocated.
Municipalities can finance drainage improvements in existing developed areas by several methods.
Harker Heights has many demands placed on revenues generated by taxes. Current needs are being unmet because of revenue short falls. This allows a City to make drainage improvements in an area and then assess property owners within the affected area. Most districts charge a monthly fee collected on the water bill to pay for costs. This is usually a long-term debt, to be paid by taxes, and generally requires a bond election by State law.