The Port Arthur City Council meeting on August 7, 2025, focused on the approval of a resolution for engineering and construction management services related to the Port Acres subdivision drainage improvement project. The council discussed a professional services agreement with Arsenal Wilson and Co LLC, amounting to $266,850, funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

The project, which has faced delays, was initially set with a 395-day completion timeline mandated by FEMA. However, city officials acknowledged that the project could not be completed within this timeframe. Recently, the council approved a time extension of 455 days to allow for the project's completion. The new contract will reduce the on-site construction management hours to 20 per week, with city staff assisting in the remaining oversight.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about the project's design and the necessity for change orders. Council member Doucette expressed apprehension regarding repeated design issues and the implications of multiple change orders, which he believes may stem from poor initial designs. He emphasized the importance of effective engineering to avoid unnecessary costs and complications.

City officials responded by explaining that some redesigns were necessary due to the discovery of previously unknown petrochemical pipelines, which required abatement. However, they noted that adjustments to the project design would ultimately reduce costs and bring the project back in line with the original budget.

The council's discussions highlighted the complexities involved in managing large-scale infrastructure projects and the ongoing challenges of coordinating with federal agencies like FEMA. The next steps include finalizing the construction management contract and addressing the design concerns raised by council members.