Committed to Transparency
What is Public Information?
All information that is written, produced, collected, assembled, or maintained under law or ordinance or in connection with the transaction of official business, by or for the Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB), is public information and is available to the public, unless excepted from disclosure.
If you need assistance regarding Public Information Requests for BPUB information, contact (956) 983-6262 or send questions via email to openrecords@brownsville-pub.com.
Know more about submitting a Public Information Request, the Records Access & Security Policy, and the Request for Public Records form in the resources below.
What is a Public Information Request?
A Public Information Request is any written request asking for copies of or access to records containing information related to the transaction of official BPUB business. For reference, see more information on the Texas Public Information Act.
How do I File a Public Information Request?
To file a Public Information Request under the Texas Public Information Act, you must submit your request in writing. Your request can be made by delivering a personal letter in person, by fax, by e-mail, or by using the Request for Public Records Form available on this website.
What types of records are covered by the Texas Public Information Act?
The Act covers public information contained in records of all forms, including electronic records and emails.
Where can I submit a written request for Public Information?
Brownsville PUB Officer for Public Information P. O. Box 3270, Brownsville, TX 78523-3270 1425 Robinhood Drive, Brownsville, Texas 78521 Fax Number: (956) 214-4012 Email address: openrecords@brownsville-pub.com
Who is the official BPUB Officer for Public Information?
The official BPUB Officer for Public Information is the General Manager & CEO. Following Resolution No. 2025-008 (see resources below), the position of Records, Information & Policies Manager is now designated as the Records Management Officer and serves as the Officer for Public Information. For assistance regarding Public Information Requests for BPUB information, contact (956) 983-6262 or send questions via email to openrecords@brownsville-pub.com.
How long does BPUB have to respond to a Public Information Request?
BPUB produces records subject to a Request as soon as possible under the circumstances, and otherwise in accordance with the Act. Subject to the provisions of the Act, BPUB may also require additional time to produce requested information if it is not readily available. Finally, when requesting an Attorney General opinion before producing records, BPUB generally must notify the Attorney General on or before the tenth day of receipt of a Request.
Is a telephone call sufficient as an official Public Information Request?
No. To be considered an "official" Public Information Request, the request must be in writing. However, in some cases, a person may call for information public in nature that may be communicated over the phone.
Will I be charged for Copies of Public Information?
The Texas Public Information Act provides for charges for copies of and access to public information. Any charges or costs associated with providing information will be billed to the requestor in accordance with Texas Administrative Code, Title 1, Part 3, Chapter 70.
Are there any exceptions to disclosure under the Public Information Act?
Yes, the Act outlines several exceptions, including confidential information, certain personnel information, and certain information related to litigation or law enforcement. BPUB is also subject to Texas Utilities Code Chapter 182, Subchapter B, Section 182.052, which outlines that Government-operated utilities are generally prohibited from disclosing customers' personal information, utility usage data, or billing information.
How is commercially sensitive information protected?
BPUB protects commercially sensitive information through Resolution 2023-0522-(IC02), approved May 22, 2023, which defines six categories of "competitive matters" exempt from public disclosure under Texas Government Code §552.133, including financial information, purchasing contracts, business operations data, generation/system operations information, customer data, and advanced metering system information. This framework allows BPUB to maintain its competitive position while complying with Texas public information laws. See the full resolution in the resources below.