TX Supreme Court: Wording for drainage fee on Houston ballot confusing

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The city of Houston should have made it clear that a 2010 ballot proposition would lead to a drainage fee. That's according to the Texas Supreme Court.

The justices ruled voters might have been misled because the amendment to fund a drainage project did not mention a fee.

The Supreme Court reversed an appeals court decision and remanded the case back to the trial court for further proceedings.

Mayor Annise Parker issued a statement saying the city is reviewing its options:

"This is but one step in the ongoing legal process. It does not change the City's ability to continue with the program that has resulted in millions of dollars of drainage and street improvements throughout Houston since its implementation. Of course, we, respectfully, disagree with the Court's decision and are reviewing our options, including filing a Motion for Rehearing. If we do not file for rehearing, the case will simply be remanded to the trial court, where the City will continue its vigorous defense."