Texas Border Business
Brownsville, Texas – The City of Brownsville and Milwhite, Inc. have resolved the litigation between them that started in February 2024. Milwhite, the specialty minerals making company, will cease all operations at its current location, 5487 South Padre Island Highway, in Brownsville, effective November 27, 2024. The company’s operation was negatively impacting residents nearby.
“The ceasing of operations at Milwhite, Inc. marks a significant step towards the assurance that standards that keep Brownsville a safe and healthy place for all residents are upheld,” said Mayor John Cowen, Jr., from the City of Brownsville. “I am pleased that Milwhite kept open lines of communication with the City from the start – helping us ensure a positive outcome for the community.”
“As soon as we, at the City of Brownsville, were informed that residents who live on Rey Jaime Street and the surrounding areas were having health and property issues due to the operation of Milwhite, we jumped into action to mitigate the issues and ensure the safety of residents,” said Linda C. Macias, City Commissioner District 2, who represents the residents in the area.
“The resolution of this litigation addresses long lasting concerns and also sets a precedent for compliance and cooperation that we expect as we continue to protect our neighborhoods and the quality of our Brownsville community,” said Helen Ramirez, ICMA-CM, AICP. “I would like to recognize the leadership of our Mayor and City Commission, our City Attorney’s Office, and Planning and Redevelopment Department for your proactivity, both technical and through enforcement, that has resulted in an improved outcome for all.”
In February, the City of Brownsville filed the lawsuit against Milwhite, Inc. after it was reported that the company’s operation was releasing a thick powder into the air. The powder covered multiple properties, including homes, vehicles, plants, grass, and was even causing health issues with nearby residents. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality then followed suit, taking legal action against the company for violations of the Texas Clean Air Act, which required it to cease its operations.
Once the terms are met in November and as part of the resolution, there will be no monetary exchanges that will occur, allowing both the City and Milwhite to avoid the further expenses and uncertainties of continued civil legal proceedings.
The City extends its gratitude to Milwhite for their willingness to align their operations with City regulations, ensuring that public health and safety remain a top priority.
