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El Paso Appeals Court Declares Water Fee an Illegal Tax Again

KVIA•Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 4:30 AM•Rishi Oza

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AI Summary

The Texas 8th Court of Appeals has upheld a lower court's ruling that the City of El Paso's $6 franchise fee on water bills is an illegal tax. This fee, introduced in 2015, was intended to cover the costs associated with city rights-of-way but was found to generate revenue instead. Joe Pickett, a former state representative, initiated the lawsuit after noticing a significant increase in his water bill and receiving no answers from city officials. The court's decision could lead to refunds for all residents affected by the fee, which has generated nearly $14 million annually for the city. Pickett plans to pursue further legal action regarding a related fee on water bills.

Key Details: • The appeals court ruled on June 9, 2026, affirming the fee's illegality. • The franchise fee has increased from $1.10 in 2014 to $6 in recent years. • Residents could be entitled to refunds for the illegal fee. • Pickett plans to file a second lawsuit regarding another franchise fee on water bills.

city-council lawsuit tax water-bills franchise-fee

People & Organizations

El PasoCity of El PasoJoe Pickett

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