On Thursday, April 16, Bridgestone MUD hosted its first-ever State of the District Town Hall at the Bridgestone MUD Operations & Water Education. The inaugural event provided an opportunity for residents to learn more about District plans, finances, and infrastructure needs, and engage in conversation by asking questions and sharing feedback.
The meeting featured presentations from Board President Johnny Pack, along with Executive Vice President and General Manager Megan Bradley, financial advisor John Howell, engineer Ryan Schilhab, and attorney Jon Polley. Together, they walked through the District’s history, financial outlook, infrastructure priorities, and the factors shaping recent decisions.
Board President Johnny Pack addresses the community
Why Rates Are Changing
A major focus of the evening was the District’s recent utility rate adjustment—the first in 20 years. The change follows a comprehensive rate study completed by the Board and its consulting team.
The updated structure was designed to keep the impact as low as possible for residents who use less water, while ensuring fairness across all usage levels. District leaders emphasized that the adjustment was made carefully and with a focus on long-term financial stability and maintaining reliable service.
The Rate Study Committee spent more than three months working through different scenarios before presenting its recommendation to the Board.
Investing in the Community
Presenters also highlighted Bridgestone Park, a major community investment that cost approximately $21 million to construct. The park was funded entirely in cash rather than through bonds, helping avoid additional long-term debt. Now in its second year, the park has quickly become a central gathering place for residents, with ongoing events, amenities, and community programming.
Ryan Schilhab, engineer, details District infrastructure maintenance and projects
Planning for a 50-Year-Old District
The Town Hall also addressed the District’s 50-year history. As an established community, Bridgestone MUD continues to invest heavily in maintaining and replacing aging infrastructure to ensure reliable water and wastewater service.
The panelists noted that this ongoing cycle of maintenance and rehabilitation is essential to supporting both current residents and future growth over the next 50 years.
Security Services
Residents also received an update on District security services. Residential customers are now assessed $3 per month per home to support Harris County Constable Precinct 4 services in the community.
Previously, the District subsidized the full cost of security. However, due to rising labor costs and a desire to maintain consistent service levels, the Board elected to pass a small portion of that expense to the residents.
Speaker at a podium addresses an audience during the Bridgestone MUD State of the District meeting. Panelists sit on stage next to a presentation screen and flags.
Looking Ahead
District leaders closed the meeting by reinforcing their commitment to responsible planning, strong infrastructure investment, and maintaining high-quality services for residents.
As Bridgestone MUD moves forward, the focus remains on balancing today’s needs with long-term sustainability—ensuring the community remains strong for the next 50 years and beyond.